Student Success
Three Outstanding Students Named 2026-27 Scott Scholars
RALEIGH, N.C. (November 2, 2026) - Three outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and community involvement have been selected as Wake Tech’s 2026-27 Scott Scholars, earning one of the college’s highest student honors.
This year’s scholars, Alex Ortega-Saucedo, Brandon Norris and Lakiesha Hale, will each receive up to $5,000 to cover tuition, fees and books, as well as a laptop computer, summer internship placement, a mentor from senior administration and opportunities to participate in special projects and events. The merit-based Scott Scholarship provides leadership development opportunities for outstanding students in associate degree programs.
The newest Scott Scholars are all first-generation college students whose journeys reflect leadership, perseverance and a commitment to serving others.
For Alex Ortega-Saucedo, becoming a Scott Scholar represents another milestone in his commitment to service and leadership.
Ortega-Saucedo, who is pursuing an Associate in Science degree, has immersed himself in campus life. He serves as public information officer for Wake Tech’s Student Government Association, president of the Debate Club and treasurer of the Pathology Club. He also participates in Wake Tech’s unique STEM Academic Research and Training (START) program and volunteers with organizations including WakeMed and Urban Ministries of Wake County.
His passion for helping others has shaped his definition of leadership.
“We always hear the quote, ‘A dream is only a dream until you decide to make it real,’” Ortega-Saucedo said. “People everywhere have dreams that are just one small push away from becoming something real. To me, being a leader isn’t just about making your own dreams happen; it’s about inspiring others and giving them that final push that they might be lacking.”
Ortega-Saucedo sees being named a Scott Scholar as an opportunity to grow while helping others do the same.
“As a Scott Scholar, I’m not just working toward my own goals. I also try to spark something in others that they may not be able to see in themselves yet,” he said.
Brandon Norris, who is pursuing an Associate in Applied Science degree in Network Management, has built a career rooted in public service while furthering his education.
Norris serves as a sworn law enforcement officer and IT support specialist, combining his technology expertise with a dedication to helping others. His background also includes service as a firefighter and emergency responder, experiences that have strengthened his commitment to teamwork and community engagement.
For Norris, leadership is about collaboration and mutual support.
“Leadership is not just about giving direction, but about bringing people together and working alongside them to solve problems that may seem overwhelming,” he said.
Norris said the Scott Scholars program will help him continue developing the skills needed to serve others through both technology and public safety.
“This program would allow me to further develop my leadership skills, strengthen my ability to collaborate and continue building solutions that support those who rely on critical systems every day,” he said.
Lakiesha Hale, who is pursuing an Associate in Arts degree, balances college with her roles as a single mother of three and a health care professional. Her journey reflects determination, resilience and commitment to helping others.
An honors student who has earned recognition on both the President’s List and Dean’s List, Hale balances family responsibilities and academic achievement with community service. She advocates for individuals with disabilities and volunteers with organizations supporting people with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. She also serves as a praise and worship leader at her church.
Hale credits her success to perseverance, faith and a desire to make a positive impact on others.
“Leadership is about creating a vision that brings people together and motivates them to work toward a shared purpose, even when challenges seem overwhelming,” she said. “It requires resilience, consistency and the ability to inspire others through both actions and character.”
As a first-generation college student, Hale hopes her educational journey will inspire her children and others in her community to pursue their goals.
“I am committed to leading with purpose, integrity and perseverance,” Hale said. “I am determined to continue growing as a leader while making a meaningful impact within my community and beyond.”
The Scott Scholars program is named in honor of Wake Tech’s third president, Dr. Stephen C. Scott, who retired in 2018 after 15 years at the helm of the state’s largest community college. The program was established in 2012 with a $25,000 endowment from Wake Tech alumni Mark and Rachel Selisker. Its goal is to raise $1 million to support four Scott Scholars each academic year.
