The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) celebrates its 2024 class of 150 FOSSI scholars! Since its inception, FOSSI has awarded over 740 exceptional high-school seniors $40,000 scholarships ($10,000 per year) to pursue preferred STEM degrees at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
See the video below for an inside look into how FOSSI is changing the lives of these amazing scholars.
Meet more of FOSSI’s 2024 class
Laia Mitchell: 2024 FOSSI Scholar Attending Alabama State University
Laia Mitchell is from Fayetteville, Georgia, and graduated from Fayette County High School. She is now a freshman at Alabama State University, where she is majoring in chemistry. Laia discovered her love for chemistry in eighth grade and deepened that passion in high school with the support of an inspiring teacher. She is excited to pursue a STEM career and hopes to inspire other young Black girls to explore the many opportunities the field offers.
Sumayah Muie: 2024 FOSSI Scholar Attending North Carolina A&T State University
Sumayah Muie is from Washington, DC, and graduated from McKinley Technology High School. She is now a freshman at North Carolina A&T State University, where she is majoring in mechanical engineering. Sumayah developed a passion for engineering at a young age and strengthened her skills through hands-on technical courses in high school. She has completed three engineering internships, including one with Acquired Data Solutions and another with NASA Rover. As the oldest of four siblings, Sumayah is driven to lead by example and pursue a career where she can make a meaningful impact. The FOSSI scholarship is helping her take the next step toward her dream.
Elijah Thomas: 2024 FOSSI Scholar Attending North Carolina A&T State University
Elijah Thomas is from Pearland, Texas, and graduated from Shadow Creek High School. He is currently a freshman at North Carolina A&T State University, majoring in mechanical engineering. Elijah’s passion for STEM grew through experiences with VEX Robotics, TSA competitions, and Project Lead the Way courses, where he worked on innovative projects like building prototypes for people with cerebral palsy. His involvement with NASA’s Space University further fueled his drive. Elijah aims to develop accessible, cost-effective machines that benefit people from all backgrounds. The FOSSI scholarship supports him as he pursues these goals and continues to adapt and grow through new challenges.
Anayah Walker: 2024 FOSSI Scholar Attending Howard University
Anayah Walker, also known as Nya, is from Long Beach, California, and graduated as valedictorian from Renaissance High School for the Arts. She is now a freshman at Howard University, majoring in mechanical engineering. Anayah’s passion for STEM grew from crocheting, where she applies math concepts like geometry and arithmetic progression to create patterns. She is excited to use math to solve real-world problems and hopes to work on sustainable technologies that reduce carbon emissions.
We invite companies not currently supporting FOSSI to build their pipeline of outstanding and diverse talent by supporting a FOSSI scholar. Learn more.
