Gaston Student Recognized with Prestigious National Scholarship
Carolina Servin Leon, a student at Gaston College, has been awarded the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. Servin Leon is one of 90 high-achieving community college students from across the nation selected to receive this highly competitive scholarship, which aims for Cooke Scholars to complete their undergraduate educations with as little debt as possible.
A proud first-generation college student, Servin Leon has consistently demonstrated perseverance, leadership, and academic excellence at Gaston College. During her time at school, Servin Leon has thrived in rigorous STEM coursework, conducted and presented original research, and committed countless volunteer hours, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She is also part of Gaston College’s SPARC Scholars program, a member of the Math Club and Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society, and has been on the President’s List every semester.
“When I found out I had won the scholarship, I was in shock—I kept rereading the message to make sure it was real,” said Servin Leon, scholarship recipient. “This award represents freedom: the chance to fully focus on my studies in forensic biology without the constant weight of financial stress. I am truly grateful to my family, the supportive staff at Gaston College, and the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation for turning hard work into opportunities for students like me.”
While nearly 80% of community college students aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree, only 16% reach that goal within six years. The scholarship makes this goal more attainable for selected students by providing last-dollar funding of up to $55,000 per year for up to three years and eases the financial burden of completing a four-year degree. Beyond funding, Cooke Scholars receive personalized advising to guide their academic and professional journeys. Scholars also gain access to a nationwide network of more than 3,400 Cooke Scholars and Alumni, along with opportunities for internships, study abroad, and graduate school support, ensuring they have every tool needed to thrive beyond community college.
“We are incredibly proud of Ms. Servin Leon for her outstanding achievement in securing this scholarship. Her dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence exemplify the values we hope to instill in all our students at Gaston College,” said Dr. John Hauser, President at Gaston College. “We look forward to seeing her continued growth and contributions to our community.”
Servin Leon was one of over 1,600 applications from community colleges across the nation. Applicants were evaluated based on their academic achievement, unmet financial need, persistence, and leadership qualities.
