The N.C. Department of Transportation announced today the distribution of more than $50,000 in scholarships to 21 students as part of the 2025 NCDOT Office of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions Transportation Scholarship Program.

“It’s an honor to invest in the future of these talented students,” said Christy Dunston, director of NCDOT’s Office of HBCU Outreach in a press release. “By awarding these scholarships, we’re not just supporting their education, but empowering the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation in the transportation industry.”

The Office of HBCU Outreach is dedicated to empowering the next generation of transportation leaders by offering $2,500 scholarships to students at North Carolina’s HBCUs and MSIs who are pursuing careers in transportation. One student also received a $700 scholarship from Southern Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, also known as SASHTO.

To qualify, students must be enrolled at one of the 11 HBCUs or three MSIs in North Carolina, have completed at least 24 credit hours and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5.

The application period ran through October and November, allowing eligible students to apply.

A selection committee, consisting of NCDOT and HBCU/MSI partners, reviewed applications based on personal essays, financial need, academic performance and recommendations.

This comprehensive selection process ensures recipients are academically strong and dedicated to making a meaningful contribution to the transportation industry.

Eligible students are also encouraged to explore internships, fellowships and permanent positions with NCDOT.

Anyone interested in applying for the 2025-2026 scholarship program should visit NCDOT’s HBCU/MSI Transportation Scholarship web page next fall or winter when the state agency posts a link to apply online.

A Fayetteville State University student, Antonio Denson, was recognized as a 2025 scholarship recipient.