The Patterson Family Foundation funds the James Patterson Teacher Education Scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students who are studying education and are committed to teaching careers. The scholarship covers tuition and related expenses. Recipients are selected based on their potential to become leaders in education.
Patterson, author of the best-selling Alex Cross and Women's Murder Club novels, first funded scholarships in the university's Reich College of Education in June 2012.
For the Patterson Scholars, this scholarship has turned a dream of going to college into a reality. We are honored to have the Patterson Scholars as a part of the Reich College of Education’s Appalachian Community of Education Scholars program (ACES). Learn more about how to apply for this and other scholarships at App State.
Meet these Patterson Scholars who plan to become tomorrow's teachers:
Harry Albritton
Harry Albritton is an music education major from Farmville, North Carolina. He is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2026.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I toured the campus and it felt like home.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My teacher inspiration is Liza Knight. I really admire the way she was able to connect with her students and connect her students to the course.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“My “teachosophy” is there is always a way.”
Brook Lynn Boyd
Brook Lynn Boyd is an elementary education major from Mount Pleasant, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2025.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I chose App State because of the community and shared love you can feel on campus and in Boone, North Carolina. I knew from the moment I stepped foot in Boone that I belonged here because I could see the best parts of myself in the people around me. Also, you can't beat the beauty of the mountains and being so close to the Blue Ridge Parkway!”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My teacher inspiration was a man named Michael Landers. Mr. Landers was my high school English teacher, a coach, a mentor, and, above all, a passionate advocate for both his students and his profession. There was never a day that I didn’t feel supported and valued in his classroom. He made a conscious effort to get to know his students as individuals, seeing us as more than just pupils, and he fostered a strong sense of community. Equally important, he was deeply committed to the quality of education we received. I remember one time when he brought a heat gun into class and measured the temperature every hour because our classroom would get unbearably hot. His efforts and the data he gathered ultimately proved that the room wasn’t conducive to learning, and as a result, we were given a new, more comfortable space. This demonstrated both his care for his students and his dedication to advocating for their needs.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“Be the kind of teacher and mentor that fabricates the love of education in your students!”
Madison Coulter
Madison Coulter is an elementary education major from Charlotte, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2025.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I chose Appalachian State University because it's where I knew I could become the best teacher I could be. My first experience on campus was as a kid, watching my cousin play football in the stadium. The welcoming atmosphere and amazing view drew me in and made me love Boone. When it was time to pick a college, I researched the top teaching programs and App State was known to provide multiple internship opportunities and professional developments in their program. With its history as a teaching college, it felt like the perfect place for me. Choosing App State was the best decision I made because I feel like I have found my new home.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My mother will always be my greatest inspiration as a teacher. Growing up, I watched her handle the many demands of the job. She brought creativity to her classroom and made each lesson engaging and meaningful. What stood out most was how much she cared for her students and their families. She is truly beloved by them and is constantly going the extra mile to connect with them. She is the type of teacher who shows up to their games, visits them in the hospital when they're sick, and remembers little things that make each child feel valued. It is clear to anyone that observes her that she cares about her students in a way that is rare. Her creativity and compassion are what make her my inspiration to become an amazing teacher.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student has the opportunity to succeed when provided with a supportive, flexible, and engaging learning environment.”
Gabriella “Gigi” Gandiaga
Gigi Gandiaga is an elementary education major from Mint Hill, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2026.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I’ve lived in Charlotte my whole life and I’ve always loved driving through the mountains. We would go on road trips to the mountains every fall, so I wanted to look at colleges around the area. That’s when I fell in love with Appalachian State University. I’ve always had a hard time fitting in. I grew up a black child in a white family, and I never knew my place within either race. I always thought I had to fit in with one just to be able to be a part of something. I remember taking a tour of App State with my middle school, and I felt accepted immediately. Some people looked just like me in college, black women thriving. It was a new feeling that the younger me hadn’t felt. When I was in grade 13 in a Middle College program through the Central Piedmont Community College, I saw friends go to school all over the states. Two went to App State. When I visited, I found the atmosphere welcoming and loving. For me, that was something I yearned for outside of family. Yes, I wanted to go to App State for the education program, but I also wanted to go for the community. I know if I went here, I would make friends that would last a lifetime. I am finally able to tell the younger me that I belong.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“When I walked into my sixth grade English class, I saw a beautiful black woman writing on the board. Her name was Ms. White. I remember writing an essay about never having a mentor who looked like me. After she graded my assignment she commented on the submissions box: ‘Maybe you never had a mentor growing up, but I hope to be someone that will help you realize your potential.’ Having a teacher who looked like me welcome me into class daily gave me a new sense of belonging. Ms. White motivated me to step up and become a teacher for students who look like me. I hope to give children a teacher who looks like them and welcomes them into class. I want to show them anything is possible if they put their minds to it.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“Everyone is unique and needs stimulating environments to be able to learn.”
Amelia Hicks
Amelia Hicks is an elementary education major from Greensboro, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2027.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I chose Appalachian State University because of the opportunities education majors have, including the ACES Program and Appalachian Educators. Compared to any other school, App State had the warmest, most inviting education building, and I could see myself calling it App Home. The mountains have always been pretty for me, and I knew I would also have fun in the outdoor opportunities.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“All of my elementary teachers for their kindness, energy, attitude, creativity, and hearts that always put their students first.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“Have compassion at the core of teaching. Create an inclusive, equitable classroom that welcomes all students. Be energetic, confident, and engage students. Use creativity to teach in unique ways, and always remember the reason I wanted to become a teacher: to help make a positive impact on kids' lives.”
Kiley Honsinger
Kiley Honsinger is an art education major from Wilmington, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2027.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I chose Appalachian State for its diversity and welcoming community. I knew I would gain a lot attending this school from the opportunities I saw in the clubs, professors, and programs.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My teacher inspiration is my elementary school art teacher, Ms.Waldkirk. She made me look forward to coming to school everyday, her assignment’s were always engaging and fun.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that inspiration drives growth. Whether in the classroom or beyond, my goal is to spark creativity and cultivate mindfulness in my students.”
Sophia Ordonez
Sophia Ordonez is an elementary education major from Southport, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2025.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I chose Appalachian because I fell in love with the community and environment here. Students and teachers are so welcoming and made me feel like I belonged from the first moment I walked on campus. Also, being a member of the ACES program led me to choose Appalachian. I was honored to be a part of a program where I can create relationships with other education majors and have opportunities to advance my leadership skills. ACES has already made such a positive impact on my college experience, and I am so grateful to be a part of it.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My teacher inspiration is my mom, who is a school social worker. Although she is not a teacher, growing up watching her work with children inspired me to pursue a career as a teacher. As a social worker, she spent most of her time working with children that had family issues, behavior problems, and bad attendance. I always admired the way she searches for the best in the students she works with. She always recognizes their full potential and does everything she can to push them to be their best. She never gives up on her students, she pushes them until the day they graduate. As a teacher, I hope that I will have the patience and compassion to do the same.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“‘Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish on its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.’ -Albert Einstein”
Alice Paschall
Alice Paschall is an art education major from Charlotte, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in 2027.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I chose Appalachian State University for many wonderful reasons. Having spent summers in Boone, I developed a deep affection for the area, and when searching for a college, I looked for a well-rounded institution. Appalachian's exceptional teaching and art education programs stand out, especially since many schools lack such offerings. The breathtaking mountains, rivers, and local shops enhance its appeal, alongside the strong sense of community on campus. I appreciate that Appalachian feels like a close-knit group, it is the perfect balance between a large university atmosphere and personal connections.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My inspiration as a teacher is my high school art teacher, Mr. Gillette. He has been more than just an educator; he has been a mentor and a true friend. I began taking art classes in my junior year, and Mr. Gillette took a chance on me by allowing me to skip two art classes to enroll in AP Art the following year. We have faced similar challenges in life, and he consistently offers the best advice and encouragement during tough times.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“I believe every student is unique, and my goal is to create an inclusive environment that values their distinct strengths and encourages active participation in their learning. I also want to foster a collaborative classroom atmosphere where I promote teamwork and communication, helping students develop empathy and respect for diverse viewpoints.”
Ethan Venable
Ethan Venable is an English, secondary education major from Mt. Airy, North Carolina. He is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2026.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“In school I would look above my teachers' desks to see at their awards. I noticed that my favorite teachers had an award from Appalachian State University. As I got older I realized that this is where they got their teaching degree and license from. These teachers made me want to come to school everyday. I want to do the same for my future students so I know that Appalachian is the right place for me.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My teacher inspiration is Bryan Hayes. He was my AP Calculus teacher. I never enjoyed math too much but Mr. Hayes made math fun. He turned random numbers and letters into pieces of a puzzle. I started loving solving these puzzles and learning more about math. While I won't be teaching math I do want to make learning fun for my future students which is why I have a lot to learn from Mr. Hayes. I want to be like him when I grow up as a teacher.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“As teachers we need to promote lifelong education by making learning fun and engaging.”
Faith E. Waelz
Faith E. Waelz is an elementary education major from Bessemer City, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2027.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“When I met so many people in the College of Education just as passionate about teaching as I was, I knew this was were I was meant to be.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“Growing up, I struggled in school and dreaded going. It wasn’t until my fifth-grade teacher realized I had potential and pushed me as a student. She was patient but firm, and with her help, I found a love for math and science. She set expectations for me that no one else had and honestly believed in what I could achieve. I came to understand that, despite the difficulties of school, it could be exciting with the appropriate tools and support. At the end of the year, I did really well on my EOGs, an accomplishment I’m still proud of today. My fifth-grade teacher transformed what others saw as a behavioral issue and lack of interest into a passion for learning that inspired me.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“As a teacher, I want to inspire a love for learning and a sense of confidence in each student that will allow them to use their knowledge and push past their perceived limits. I plan on using hands-on activities to develop critical thinking skills and integrating community service projects into the classroom for real-world applications. My goal is to produce a wide variety of creative problem solvers ready to share their unique skills and talents within their communities.”
Madeline Whisenant
Madeline Whisenant is an elementary education major from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2028.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I was always told that Appalachian State was the best school for education majors. I did my research and sure enough, they were. When I came to tour the campus, I noticed how many opportunities they offered, how nice the students were and comfort I felt while being on campus.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My teacher inspiration is most definitely my Advanced History teacher my junior year of high school. I loved how he taught and interacted with his students. He was always so kind and understanding and did his best to accommodate others. He was also always in a good mood and spread positivity throughout the school.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“I believe every student has the right to a quality education. Teachers are here to facilitate the need to learn and be a beacon of light for their students both academically and in times of struggle. I hope to be the teacher that makes an impact on her students and connects with them on a deeper level.”
Isabelle “Izzy” Zellner
Izzy Zellner is an elementary education major from Mason, Ohio. She is anticipated to graduate in Spring 2027.
Why did you choose Appalachian?
“I chose Appalachian because it felt like the home. The staff and students are all incredibly kind and welcoming and have been from the start. You truly feel like there are multiple people who are looking out for you and who want the best for you and your education here at App State.”
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
“My teacher inspiration is my mom. She does everything so carefully and intentionally, especially building relationships with her students and fellow staff members. She always puts her best foot forward and I can tell how much joy the teaching profession gives her nd see how she passes that onto others.”
What is your "teachosophy"?
“My ‘teachosophy’ is centered around the idea that we need to teach the whole student. We are not only teaching them content, we are teaching them the very skills of how to learn and be a productive part of society. Teachers have an incredibly important job and we are constantly contributing to students' self esteems and view of their capabilities. Every student deserves a great education and to be cared for. Relationships are one of the msot important things in life, and building those starts in a classroom.”
Patterson Scholarship recipients
