NCCU STUDENTS HONORED AS WHITE HOUSE HBCU SCHOLARS (777 hits)
Efhe Ikharo and Derrick Stanfield, junior and senior students respectively at North Carolina Central University (NCCU), were honored as 2021 HBCU Scholars by the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This prestigious recognition celebrates their exceptional academic achievements, extensive involvement in campus activities, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedicated civic engagement.
Efhe Ikharo, originally from Gambia, West Africa, is pursuing a degree in business administration at NCCU as a Cheatham-White Scholar. She has distinguished herself not only through academic excellence but also in leadership roles within the School of Business. Ikharo serves as the director of outreach and community engagement for the Dean’s Student Advisory Council and is a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor Society. Her commitment to community service is evident through volunteer work with Meals on Wheels of Durham and contributions to the Durham COVID-19 Task Force, where she assisted in research efforts to mitigate the pandemic's impact on the city and county. Ikharo aims to become a wealth management advisor, guiding clients in effectively growing and managing their assets.
Derrick Stanfield, a native of Durham, North Carolina, is pursuing dual majors in history and political science at NCCU. His academic journey has been complemented by significant professional experiences, including internships with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and the N.C. Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, where he contributed as a Marian Drane Graham Scholar of the UNC System. Stanfield's leadership at NCCU is extensive, ranging from his role as president of the Student Government Association to involvement in the McNair Scholars Program and NCCU's African American Male Initiative. His motivation stems from a deep commitment to community advancement and a desire to impact foreign policy through development economics. Stanfield plans to pursue a master's degree in development economics post-graduation, aiming for a career in foreign policy and potentially seeking political office in the future.
As White House HBCU Scholars, Ikharo and Stanfield attended the 2021 HBCU Week National Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. This conference provided opportunities for personal and professional growth through workshops focused on leadership development, entrepreneurship, and innovation. They engaged with fellow scholars from across the country, networked with nonprofit and business leaders, and participated in discussions aimed at identifying and addressing challenges faced by young professionals entering the workforce.
Upon their return to NCCU, Ikharo and Stanfield are expected to share their knowledge and experiences with their peers, enhancing engagement activities and serving as mentors and resources for fellow students. Their recognition as HBCU Scholars underscores NCCU's commitment to academic excellence, community service, and leadership development among its student body.
