2023 Otis Scholars

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Sponsored by Otis, this scholarship is awarded to high-achieving undergraduate Black students who are enrolled in an accredited four-year college pursuing a degree in business, engineering, technology or related majors.

This scholarship is open to rising sophomores.

Wagar Ahmed

College/University: Howard University
Major: Business
Award: 2023 Otis Scholarship

Wagar Ahmed is an International Business Major from New Jersey at Howard University. Throughout her career she has worked at a number of jobs since she was 14 developing a sense of professional maturity. She is also involved with Community Service organizations on campus such as the Muslim Student Association and Junior Residential Assistance. She currently is an intern with Project Destined, a Commercial Real Estate Organization by Cedric Bobo. She’s hoping to learn more about numerous paths and opportunities in business disciplines. She loves to play lacrosse and read political fiction books in her free time.

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Alisa Drake

College/University: Howard University
Major: Marketing
Award: 2023 Otis Scholarship

Alisa Drake is an honors marketing major from Maryland at Howard University. She is a social media manager for the non-profit SOUL Programs and owns her own mixed media art business by the name of ukiyo creation. On campus, she is currently the head of the social media team for the honors program, and she is involved heavily with the American Marketing Association. This past summer she interned with the Department of Homeland Security where she created a website used by the entire internal workforce. She currently maintains her 4.0 GPA whilst doing multiple internships throughout the semester. She is currently doing the Goldman Sachs Market Madness competition. Most people would describe her as a person who makes others feel comfortable and this trait is something that would definitely make Alisa successful in the business world.

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Erika Igarashi-Cummings

College/University: Norfolk State University
Major: Civil Engineering
Award: 2023 Otis Scholarship

Erika currently attends Norfolk State University and is studying Construction Management Engineering Technology. With a background and passion for construction trades and the critical thinking of engineering principles. Erika wants to continue a career that includes aspects from both fields to become a civil engineer. Erika is often described as ambitious, open-minded, and strategic by her peers. Erika loves being a part of change and using her voice to improve anything that she chooses. With past experiences of being a two-sport varsity captain in soccer and cheer, and vice-president of National Society of Black Engineers in high school, she has learned patience and flexibility throughout her experience. Current positions like class senator, and programming chair for the Association of Builders and Contractors, Erika has learned the importance of networking, willingness, and time management.

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Natalya Jones

College/University: Pennsylvannia State University
Major: Architecture
Award: 2023 Otis Scholarship

Natalya Jones, a student at Hampton University, is pursuing a degree in architecture. Alongside her academic pursuits, Natalya has gained valuable employment experience in various fields. Natalya has worked at Sheetz Inc., where she developed important skills and gained practical knowledge in a professional setting. Additionally, she has dedicated her time to teaching children in S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning experiences during the summer at Fisk University. Natalya received the Heritage Memorial Award from the Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc. Epsilon Omega Chapter. This award is a testament to her dedication and contributions to the community. Moreover, she has also been awarded a merit scholarship from Hampton University, highlighting her academic excellence and commitment to her studies.

Leslie Koffi

College/University: University of Kansas
Major: Architecture
Award: 2023 Otis Scholarship

Leslie Koffi is an architecture major at the University of Kansas, minoring in Business Administration. Leslie is interested in using modern technology to bridge the affordable housing gap in gentrified communities. On campus, Leslie is an active member of the National Society of Black Engineers and serves as President of G.E.M.S, empowering and encouraging black women to break barriers of societal norms and utilize their gifts to create lasting contributions to the world. Raised in Denver, CO, Leslie enjoys spending time with her younger siblings, going to the gym, appreciating black culture and music, and refining her coding and UX design skills.

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Nathan Morlu

College/University: Georgia Institute of Technology
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Award: 2023 Otis Scholarship

Nathan Morlu is currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology. In addition to his academic pursuits, Nathan has actively involved himself in Scouts and Wrestling, showcasing his commitment to personal growth, leadership, and community service. Nathan has been dedicated to the Boy Scouts of America program, holding several leadership positions such as Chaplain's Aide, Senior Patrol Leader, and Troop Guide. During his time in high school, Nathan dedicated himself to the wrestling team, where he competed as a varsity member. His commitment extended beyond competing, as he also supported the team during tournaments and continues to contribute as an alumnus. Nathan's diverse range of extracurricular activities has not only enhanced his character but also shaped him into a capable student who is prepared to make a difference through his studies in mechanical engineering.

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