Celebrating the Class of 2025

June 12, 2025

We are filled with pride as we celebrate the achievements of our students and community. This year, we’re excited to recognize 37 high school and college graduates in our enrolled programs from the Class of 2025. We’re also cheering on the more than 2,000 students who participated in our programs throughout the year, including many graduating seniors who received support through Game Plan: College. Their journeys are a powerful testament to what’s possible when students, families, and our community come together.

Get to know a few graduates and join us in congratulating our entire Class of 2025!

Nayeli graduated from Duke University with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a certificate in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. She’s gained experience through roles at Democracy North Carolina, Duke Wellness, Define America, Jumpstart, and several law firms. On campus, she’s been a leader in Lambda Theta Alpha and co-taught a course on local philanthropy. Nayeli began coming to the Emily K Center in the 8th grade and credits individualized advising with supporting her growth academically, professionally, and personally. One of her favorite memories is speaking (and cutting the ribbon with Coach K!) at the Center’s building expansion ceremony. Now, she’s studying for the LSAT, working toward paralegal certification.

What are you most excited for post-graduation? “I’m really looking forward to spending more time with my family and beginning this next chapter of my professional life.”

Alan has been involved with the Emily K Center since the first grade and recently graduated from Middle College High School. This fall, he’s headed to the Marine Corps, driven by a desire to travel and pursue a meaningful path. Outside of school and his retail job, he enjoys reading, puzzles, running, and great food. His favorite reads include Every Man Dies Alone and The Shadow of the Wind.

Best part about the Emily K Center? “The staff understand me, don’t pressure me to be 100% all the time, and help me to be my best.”

Kevin graduated from NC State University with a Mechanical Engineering degree. During undergrad, he was actively involved with the Society of Hispanic Engineers and BAJA Society of Automotive Engineers and worked a part-time job at Discount Tire. His journey with the Emily K Center started in the 3rd grade and he’s stayed connected ever since. One of his favorite memories is attending Spring Camp as a young Pioneer Scholars student. Post-graduation, Kevin will be joining Kilian Engineering as an MEP designer.

Best part about the Scholars on Campus program? “The support that Mr. Tommy, Ms. Kelsey, and Ms. Roma provide to all of us and the time they take out for us.”

Samiaya graduated from Northern High School and is heading to UNC Charlotte to study Fine Arts with a concentration in photography. She dreams of becoming a travel photojournalist and has already explored Japan and Europe on educational trips. Throughout high school, Samiaya was involved in volleyball, National Honor Society, student council, and photography. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys collecting vinyl records, thrifting, playing Dungeons and Dragons, and spending time with friends. Samiaya joined the Scholars to College program as a freshman and says the best part of the program has been support from staff.

Favorite Emily K Center memory? “Talking to people at Career Exploration Night and movie days at our end of year celebrations.”

Maira graduated from Jordan High School and is a leader in both her school and community. She served as a Student Ambassador with Game Plan: College, where she developed leadership skills, built strong friendships, and helped organize community events. Passionate about the arts and civic engagement, Maira has been a member of the Nasher Teen Council at Duke University and the Durham Cultural Advisory Board. At school, she been part of several clubs and organizations, including Brown Girl Book Club and the Spanish Honor Society. She plans to attend Brown University in the fall.

“Game Plan: College helped me with my Common Application, they have answered every single one of my many financial aid questions, and have kept me updated about opportunities at the Emily K Center.”

Scholars to College Class of 2025

Ahtziri – Durham Technical Community College
Alan – United States Marine Corps
Amy – University of NC Greensboro
Ashley – NC State University
Camila – University of NC Greensboro
Chidera – University of NC at Chapel Hill
Chris – University of NC Wilmington
Christopher – NC State University
Cindy – Duke University
Dulce – University of NC Greensboro
Elijah – Durham Technical Community College

Giovanni – Durham Technical Community College
Isaiah – Michigan State University
Jolette – University of NC at Chapel Hill
Katie – University of NC at Charlotte
Maria – NC State University
Marvin – University of Northwestern Ohio
Muslima – NC Central University
Oracio – University of NC Wilmington
Samiaya – University of NC at Charlotte

Scholars on Campus Class of 2025

Alicia – NC State University
Bryan – University of NC at Chapel Hill
Dayanara – Appalachian State University
De’Rishio – University of NC at Chapel Hill
Dylan – Queens University of Charlotte
Kaia – NC A&T State University
Karina – University of NC at Chapel Hill
Kevin – NC State University
Leonardo – NC State University

Leonel – Duke University
Lorenzo – University of NC at Charlotte
MaHogany – East Carolina University
Nayeli – Duke University
Neida – Appalachian State University
Ruben – University of NC Greensboro
Sage – Barnard College
Yasmin – Columbia University

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