Monica Old Elk-East

The Cybrix Group, Inc. 4/16/2025 Dear Scholarship Committee:  Thank you very much for this generous award. I am writing to express my gratitude and convey how incredibly thankful I am for the wonderful opportunity to apply for this scholarship. After learning about Master Sergeant James T. Godwin’s inspirational story, I felt empowered to share some stories about my influential grandfather. Writing this essay and honoring my grandfather for serving the United States has been a healing experience. My grandfather retired from the U.S. Marine Corps as a Master Sergeant and proudly held his head high. He sparked my admiration and respect for the Armed Forces and broadened my awareness of the Marine Corps culture. My grandfather inspired me to enlist in the U.S. Army and give back to my community. He also nurtured my love of learning and encouraged me to strive for greater achievements. My grandfather taught me the importance of learning something new each day. I am deeply grateful for this scholarship, which has allowed me to embrace the loving memories of my grandfather. I appreciate your support and belief in my efforts to further my education. Scholarships alleviate students' financial burdens, allowing them to focus on their studies. I am immensely thankful that this scholarship has given me peace of mind in pursuing an MBA. The James T. Godwin Memorial Scholarship will assist me with my educational expenses and help maintain my livelihood as I focus on my studies. I aim to continue giving back to my community while pursuing my educational endeavors. I know this support is an investment in my future, for which I am truly grateful.  I sincerely appreciate this scholarship award! Thank you so much, Monica R. Old Elk - East

William Johnson

Dear Scholarship Committee, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your generosity and support. With the rising cost of college and the growing challenge of simply keeping up with everyday living expenses, every dollar truly means the world to me. Your investment in my future not only lightens my financial burden but also lifts a huge weight off my family's shoulders. This scholarship is more than financial aid—it’s a reminder that people believe in my dreams and want to see me succeed. I’m determined to make the most of this opportunity and give back to others the same way you’ve given to me. Thank you for helping me get one step closer to making a difference. With sincere thanks, William Johnson

Emilia Castaneda

Dear Cybrix Group, Inc. and the Family of James T. Godwin, I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for being selected as a recipient of the James T. Godwin Memorial Scholarship. I am truly honored to help carry on Mr. Godwin’s legacy through this scholarship and through the storytelling shared across generations in my family — stories preserved and passed along in the same spirit that Mr. Godwin shared his own. Both of my grandfathers were surprised and excited to learn that I received this scholarship and that they played a role in my essay. They were especially touched to know that I remembered their personal stories and held onto them. This was the first scholarship I received after applying to eighty-four, and your generosity has already become a meaningful part of my story and my journey. Knowing that this scholarship honors someone who valued his family and served our country makes it even more meaningful to me. When my dad’s parents attended my high school graduation, we visited my soon-to-be home, UNC-Wilmington, for the day. Nearby is the USS North Carolina (BB-55), a battleship turned museum, which I was able to tour with my grandfather, who served on a Navy destroyer. As we moved through the ship, the setting brought his stories to life. He eagerly explained the purpose of each room and pointed out fascinating details of life at sea. The joy he felt sharing that part of his Navy experience with me was truly palpable. Please know that I am deeply grateful for your kindness and belief in my potential. I look forward to paying this generosity forward as I continue my journey, and I hope to honor Mr. Godwin in all my future endeavors. Thank you again. Sincerely, Emilia Castaneda

Brayden Tester

Dear Scholarship Committee, I want to sincerely thank you for selecting me as a finalist for the James T. Godwin Memorial Scholarship. It is a true honor to be considered for an award that reflects such a meaningful legacy. I deeply appreciate the opportunity and your recognition of my academic and personal efforts. Thank you again for your time and consideration. Warm regards, Brayden Tester