Two local students each received $2,000 scholarships funded by AdvanSix to support the next generation of science and engineering professionals. Kevin Lin and Nevaeh Ricks were selected for their academic achievement and passion for pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
The AdvanSix STEM Scholarships were formally presented by AdvanSix during a special scholarship award ceremony in Hopewell hosted by John Randolph Foundation who administers the program.
“We believe talent is everywhere and opportunities should be too,” Rachel Jones, vice president, public affairs and sustainability with AdvanSix, said. “Through these scholarships, we recognize outstanding local students working hard to overcome adversity and taking their next step in STEM. Kevin and Nevaeh represent the future of our industry and our community, and we’re proud to support them on their journey.”
Kevin Lin, a Prince George High School student, is also a dual enrollment student and attends Richard Bland College. At Virginia Tech, his course of study will be Engineering.
Where does Kevin see himself in 20 years? He plans to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical or materials engineering from a technical institute such as Virginia Tech. He is interested in a profession that allows him to be hands-on with his work and lets him have hands-on designing and creating motors and components.
Nevaeh Ricks, a Thomas Dale High School student, is also a dual enrollment student and attends Brightpoint Community College. At Old Dominion University, her course of study will be Biological and Biomedical Sciences.
Where does Nevaeh see herself in 20 years? Her goal is to obtain a bachelor’s in biology and a master’s degree to enjoy a career as a physician’s assistant.
The AdvanSix STEM Scholarship is open to students from Hopewell, Petersburg, Colonial Heights, Prince George, Chesterfield and surrounding areas. It provides financial assistance for tuition, books and housing to students attending accredited colleges or universities, either full or part-time.
To qualify, students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA and submit an online application with supporting materials, including transcripts, FAFSA information and recommendation letters.
“We are grateful to AdvanSix for their continued investment in our community’s young people,” Kevin Foster, Executive Director of John Randolph Foundation, said. “Their support through the STEM scholarship program not only eases the financial burden of higher education but also empowers students to pursue their passions and become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.”
Applications for next year’s scholarship open in fall 2025 and can be submitted through johnrandolphfoundation.org.
Kristi K. Higgins aka The Social Butterfly, an award-winning columnist, is the trending topics and food Q&A reporter at The Progress-Index voted the 2022 Tri-Cities Best of the Best Social Media Personality. Have a news tip on local trends or businesses? Contact Kristi (she, her) at khiggins@progress-index.com, follow @KHiggins_PI on X and@socialbutterflykristi on Instagram. 
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