Well on his way to securing a career creating websites, apps and software, Trevor Wooten says words can’t fully express his gratitude for the Kenneth R. & Phyllis P. Ross Endowed Scholarship he received from the Pitt Community College Foundation.
A second-year Information Technology: Computer Programming and Development major from Macclesfield, Wooten says the $1,000-Ross Scholarship “represents more than just monetary assistance” to help with tuition and fees during the 2024-25 academic year. “It symbolizes a belief in my potential and a shared commitment to investing in the future of students like me,” he says, before adding that the “award will not go to waste.”
Citing “ambition and focus” as his greatest strengths, Wooten says he has long been interested in working with computers and chose to enroll at Pitt because it aligned with his goal of pursuing a technology career.
“I wanted to not only dip my toe into programming but also go to a school with a good reputation of teaching their students,” he said. “Pitt Community College was a no-brainer for me, and I’m ecstatic about receiving this scholarship.”
The scholarship supporting Wooten’s pursuit of a college degree was established in 2012 through a $25,000-donation by longtime PCC supporters, Ken Ross, a retired N.C. Highway Patrolman, and his wife, Phyllis, a retired special education teacher. The Winterville couple created the award to help students in financial need, preferably those from their native Pitt County.
In addition to service as a Pitt County Commissioner and manager of the Pitt County American Legion Fair, Ken Ross was a PCC Foundation Board member for more than 23 years. He passed away Dec. 9, leaving Phyllis behind along with three children and six grandchildren.
But his memory lives on, thanks to his support of higher education.
Wooten says he is “immensely grateful” for the Ross’ generosity and the “incredible opportunity” it has given him to fulfill a dream.
“With this support, I am empowered to continue my educational journey with renewed vigor and determination,” Wooten says. “(The Ross’) investment in my education will not be taken lightly, and I pledge to utilize this opportunity to its fullest extent. I am committed to academic excellence, personal growth, and contributing positively to my community, both during my time at Pitt Community College and beyond.”