Jake Tallent vividly remembers the impact that the New Century Scholars program had on his life.
“It was an incredible opportunity for me,” said Tallent, who was inducted into the program in 2007 while he was in the seventh grade. “It opened doors that might not have been possible otherwise. Being able to do the volunteer aspect of New Century Scholars got me in touch with some really great people.”
Thanks in part to the solid educational foundation he received through the program, Tallent went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude from Southwestern with an associate degree in 2014. Along the way, he made the President’s and Dean’s lists numerous times.
These days, the Macon County native is living his dream as captain for a charter airline based in Asheville, and he returned to SCC’s Jackson Campus on Jan. 30 to speak to the newest group of New Century Scholars at their induction ceremony.
“I had so many people – teachers, the staff of New Century Scholars – who really supported what I wanted to do,” said Tallent, who also earned a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Conservation and Management from WCU in 2016. “I knew I wanted to do something outside. I always loved the outdoors. I also wanted to fly airplanes. My teachers and the New Century Scholars support team really helped me along the way, showing me the best path to take.”
Tallent is among the more than 2,500 students who’ve been inducted as New Century Scholars since the program was founded by the late Dr. Charlie McConnell, who was Jackson County Public Schools Superintendent at the time, and then-SCC President Dr. Barry Russell.
Deserving students are annually inducted in the seventh grade and receive resources and support as they navigate middle and high school – preparing for a successful experience in college without worrying about the financial aspect.
The New Century Scholars program is supported entirely by private donations and provides last-dollar tuition assistance.
“Every year, I’m struck by how many lives are being changed by this visionary program and the generosity of individuals and businesses in the communities we serve,” said Dr. Don Tomas, President of SCC. “It’s wonderful to shake the hands of these future Southwestern students as they walk across the same stage where they’ll one day soon receive their college degrees. Their future just got a lot brighter, and all of us at SCC are proud to be a part of it.”
In addition to working toward their high school diplomas, New Century Scholars are required to participate in community service activites that encourage leadership skills and explore potential future career options.
To support this program, donations may be made at SouthwesternCC.edu/Foundation or by check to New Century Scholars and sent to the SCC Foundation, 447 College Drive, Sylva, NC 28779.
