Boris Salvador moved to the United States at the age of seven with his mother who worked hard to support her family. Her hard work demonstrated determination to her son. In order to pay for college, an opportunity not afforded to his parents, Salvador worked countless shifts beginning at the age of sixteen. When he arrived at Appalachian, he knew immediately that he wanted to major in finance in the College of Business because he had witnessed his parents make precise budgets without any college preparation. After his step-father lost his job his sophomore year, Salvador was no longer able to afford college on his own, despite his job. Thanks to the financial support of the Dean's Club and guidance from Dean Randy Edwards, Salvador was able to stay in school. Additionally, he is involved in the Ambassador's Program at ASU, leading campus tours and welcoming new students.
"The Dean's Club certainly relieved some of the stress and pressure from a situation that was already difficult to deal with. This was a time when I have come to realize the amount of care, love and support that the Walker College of Business gives their students."
Kristin Wheeler is a first-generation college student and Dean's Club scholarship recipient. Kristin completed her undergraduate degree in accounting in just three years, while simultaneously working to pay for college. Currently enrolled in the Master of Accounting program, she has continued to succeed even after recently undergoing extensive heart surgery. Thanks to the gift from the Dean's Club, Kristin is able to work less hours and to focus on her health and school work.
"I thank you, scholarship donors, not only for your scholarships which helps us greatly when it comes to the monetary demands of attending college, but also for believing in us. On behalf of all students, we will to continue to show perseverance and academic excellence as we complete our last years at Appalachian. And students, we should cherish our days here now and appreciate everything that the Walker College of Business, including Dr. Norris, staff, faculty, alumni, donors, and many others is giving us. In the future, in the name of the Walker College of Business, we should lead by example. I truly hope to give back to students one day, as you all have given to me. Thank you all for your consideration, time, generosity and most importantly the motivation that your support has given me."
Brad Coniglio is a junior management major from Charlotte, North Carolina. Brad and his family moved to Charlotte as the economy hit bottom. Brad knew that paying for college would have to be his responsibility. With a goal of an education in mind, Brad attended Central Piedmont Community College to earn his associate's degree before transferring to Appalachian. He also worked 40 hours a week at Target and saved his money to put toward his education. Brad continues to work tirelessly in the Walker College of Business. He has recently completed the Executive Leadership Certificate and has become an active member of the Transfer Student Association, Supply Chain Club, Finance Student Association, and Phi Beta Lambda, an organization that focuses on professional and leadership development.
"Thank you so much for the opportunity to become a Walker College Dean's Club scholarship recipient. Having this platform of support from the WCOB has been a blessing for me, and has made my transition from transfer student to business major much easier and less stressful. I am truly grateful for all the wonderful opportunities that Appalachian has afforded me, and I thank the Lord every morning for allowing me to be a Mountaineer. I look forward to continuing to serve the WCOB in any way possible."
Mariah Breeze, a first-generation college student, had to gain her independence very early in life. She was left to pay for college on her own. In order to fund her education, she works part-time in the Financial Aid Office and in Food Services on campus. The Dean's Club scholarship allows Mariah to be more active on campus, and she is a new member of the Women of Walker Program, which accelerates professional development, personal growth, and leadership abilities for female business majors at Appalachian. Mariah is a frequent volunteer at the local Hospitality House and F.A.R.M. Cafe. She is incredibly grateful for her Dean's Club scholarship, and it is her hope to one day give back to a student through the Dean's Club.
"It is important to me to gain a degree to make something of myself and to prove to myself that I can do it. When I complete my degree, I will be one step closer to finding a promising career. Finding a job in a promising career will put me one step closer to being able to give back. I have had a lot of help along the way, and I am so grateful for it. I know that there are and will continue to be plenty of other students who need a little help to reach their goals and dreams, and I am determined to one day be able to give them that push that the Dean's Club is giving me. You have helped me tremendously!"