Meet the 2026-2027 Patterson Scholars
Each year, the James Patterson Teacher Education Scholarships, which are generously funded by the Patterson Family Foundation, support aspiring educators at the undergraduate and graduate levels. These scholarships cover tuition and related expenses, empowering students who are passionate about teaching and poised to become future leaders in education.
Best-selling author James Patterson, known for his Alex Cross and Women's Murder Club series, began supporting scholarships at Appalachian State University's Reich College of Education in June 2012. Since then, his commitment has helped transform the lives of countless students.
For Patterson Scholars, this opportunity has made the dream of attending college a reality. Learn more about how to apply for this and other scholarships at App State.
Get to know the 2026–2027 Patterson Scholars who are preparing to shape the classrooms of tomorrow:
Jordyn Brownlee
Jordyn Brownlee is an art education major from Huntersville, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2030.
Why did you choose App State?
I chose App State for its history as a teachers' college. The school has a long history of training great educators, and with it being close to home, it was an obvious choice for me. The Appalachian Community of Education Scholars program was also a part of my decision. I committed before I knew I got into ACES, but the ACES program is full of amazing opportunities that I knew would also help my future as an educator.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
My teacher inspiration is my junior and senior year high school art teacher, Mrs. Aranyi. Mrs. A was always the kindest and most understanding teacher I could ask for, and she was a part of my decision to go into teaching. I wanted a career where I could still appreciate and create art as well as being able to make a difference for people, but exactly what to do stumped me for a while. After a year in class with Mrs. Aranyi, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I have seen and felt the impact she has had on my life as well as her other students. She helped me through many tough times my senior year, and I could tell she genuinely cared about each and every one of her students. I want to be able to create a lasting positive impact on my students the same way she did hers.
What is your "teachosophy"?
I strive to create a classroom where I can inspire all of my students to express their creativity in some way, shape, or form. I think that everyone can be creative; it's not a trait or skill that you are born with but rather something you can nourish and develop over time. I believe it's especially important for children to have a way to express their creativity; this may not always be visual arts for students. I realize that it could be any type of performing art, writing, music, or even a sport, but there is creativity in everything that we do, and that is why it is so important to me. I want my classroom to be a place where students feel confident to experiment with their creativity and how they'd like to express it.
Elisa Deaner
Elisa Deaner is an elementary education major from Rocky Mount, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2030.
Why did you choose App State?
When I first toured App State, I immediately felt that this would be my home for the next four years. It was so clear that this university cared for its students and the environment around the campus. As someone going into elementary education, I wanted to be somewhere that not only helped me become a better student, but a place that impacted my soul and would influence the kind of teacher I hope to be one day. I was searching for a place that would give me a sense of belonging and challenge me academically, and App State gave me that feeling. I hope that when I look back on my experiences at App, I will be able to see the growth that I envision myself having and realize that choosing to come here was one of the best decisions I will ever make.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
My fifth-grade teacher is one of my biggest inspirations for becoming a teacher. She was one of the first teachers who made me feel genuinely confident in myself as a student. She made learning feel exciting and created a classroom where I felt comfortable being myself, asking questions, and making mistakes. I still remember how much I looked forward to being in her classroom and how she made each student feel like they mattered.
What is your "teachosophy"?
My teachosophy is that every student deserves to feel seen, supported, and capable of learning. I want my classroom to be a place where students feel comfortable making mistakes, asking questions, and being themselves. I also want to remember that every student comes into the classroom with a different background and different experiences, so teaching cannot be one-size-fits-all. My goal is to create a classroom where my students feel like they belong while also encouraging them to challenge themselves and discover what they are capable of.
Alexis English
Alexis English is an elementary education major from Lincolnton, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2029.
Why did you choose App State?
I chose App State because I love the mountains and cooler weather. It's been a dream of mine since middle school to be part of this community!
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
Mrs. Scism, my high school chemistry teacher, is my inspiration because she showed me how important it is to build genuine relationships with students and create a classroom where they feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them. I hope to bring her ability to make students feel seen, encouraged, and confident into my own classroom as an elementary teacher.
What is your "teachosophy"?
My “teachosophy” is to create a classroom where students feel safe being themselves, making mistakes, and growing.
Angel Gagnon
Angel Gagnon is an elementary education major from Belmont, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2029.
Why did you choose App State?
I chose App State for many reasons. I wanted to get the best education possible to become an educator myself, and after lots of research, I knew that App State would be the perfect place. I also love the community. App takes pride in its community engagement, and you can see that anywhere on campus. And of course, the obvious: I absolutely love the mountains.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
My teacher inspiration is the ACES coordinator, Paige Sturgill. She has been my biggest educator supporter here at App State and has done so much to help me learn and grow as a future teacher. She's given me and so many other ACES members so many opportunities to learn and gain experience before we go off into the field. She is also always available to talk if I ever need help with anything, easing my anxieties and helping me navigate college life.
What is your "teachosophy"?
I think as an educator, my "teachosophy" will be the same as my philosophy now, and that is, do what you can and don't stress about what you can't control. I've heard from so many that while teaching is very rewarding, it can also be stressful. So I plan to try not to worry as much about the things I can't control, both in and out of the classroom. I also want to teach this to my students. I think a lot of pressure can be put on them at such a young age, so I want my classroom to be a relaxing environment where they feel comfortable and free to make mistakes.
Gabriella “Gigi” Gandiaga
Gigi Gandiaga is an elementary education major from Mint Hill, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Fall 2026.
Why did you choose App State?
I’ve lived in Charlotte my whole life, and I’ve always loved driving through the mountains. We would take road trips to the mountains every fall, so I wanted to explore colleges in the area. That’s when I fell in love with App State.
I’ve always had a hard time fitting in. I grew up as 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 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 Central Piedmont Community College, I saw friends go to school all over the state. 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 seventh-grade science class, I was dreading what was to come. I never enjoyed science. I thought it was one of the most boring subjects in school. However, little did I know how I would learn to love science.
Every other day, I would have this class for 75 minutes, and within that time, we would engage in activities, group work, readings, and discussions that all developed my then-newfound love for science.
This class was the first class in which I got a good grade. I wasn’t a bad student; I was just unmotivated. Yet, regardless of my lack of motivation in my other classes, I was always motivated in his. The teacher worked with me when I had missing assignments or low test grades. I swam 14 to 20 hours a week after school, which would impact my ability to complete my work on time and to my full potential. Knowing this, my teacher would give me opportunities to make up my work, and while he had high expectations, he would make sure that there wasn’t too much pressure.
I’ll never forget this class. The warm atmosphere with the skylight and music made learning relaxing. Mr. Balay was the best, and I can’t wait to teach science as well. I strive to be half the teacher he was for me.
What is your "teachosophy"?
Every child deserves an equal and quality education, regardless of their background, and should feel comfortable learning.
Amelia Hicks
Amelia Hicks is an elementary education major from Greensboro, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2027.
Why did you choose App State?
I chose App State because from the minute I stepped into the Reich College of Education to the second I got accepted, I knew there truly was no community like the Reich College of Education. The walls were filled with student work, the rooms embodied passion, and the resources and staff members encouraged me. App State is where I saw myself growing as a leader, educator, and person. It was a place where I felt supported, inspired, and excited to become the teacher I have always wanted to be.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
Mrs. Huff is my teacher inspiration. All these years later, I still remember the impact she had on me. She was an advocate and supporter who focused on building a positive classroom community centered around belonging. She made me feel seen, supported, and valued as a student. I hope to carry the same grace, resilience, and passion that she showed me into my own classroom and the students I will teach.
What is your "teachosophy"?
My teaching philosophy centers on creating a classroom where every student feels a strong sense of belonging through intentional communication, stability, and equity. I believe students thrive when they experience clear expectations, consistent routines, meaningful relationships, and support that is responsive to their individual needs. My goal is to create a calm, inclusive, and supportive environment where every student feels valued, respected, and confident in their ability to succeed.
Briana Legg
Briana Legg is a history/social studies education major from Grasonville, Maryland. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2030.
Why did you choose App State?
I love the mountains, and after living on the water my whole life, it was time for a change.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
My teacher academy pathway teacher in high school, Mrs. Valenti, is my inspiration. This is because all of her students adore her and respond to her methods in a positive way.
Emery Morrison
Emery Morrison is a middle grades education major from Willard, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2028.
Why did you choose App State?
I chose to attend App State because it immediately felt like a place where I could grow, belong, and become the kind of educator I want to be. The campus has a warmth to it, people genuinely care, opportunities are everywhere, and the community feels connected in a way that's hard to describe but easy to feel. App State offered the perfect blend of academic challenge, supportive mentors, and a culture that celebrates individuality and purpose. It's a place where I knew I could chase my dreams and become part of something bigger than myself.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
My teacher inspiration will always be my kindergarten teacher, Mr. Murphy. I remember all of my teachers from elementary and middle school. But to remember my first ever teacher and to remember him on a level that impacts you is truly profound. He was a part-time magician and used that to spark creativity and imagination in us kids. We watched Peep in the Big Wide World to remember to slow down and stay kind. He would push us on the swing set and say, "You see that fence? You won't jump over it; you'll circle the moon and come back." I hold these words in my heart with a different meaning: that my dreams will take me to the moon, and someone back home is always cheering me on. I can confidently say, without Mr. Murphy, I wouldn't be a teacher; without his heart for people, I wouldn't be in this profession. My ultimate goal is to be as gentle, kind, passionate, and even as weird as Mr. Murphy was.
What is your "teachosophy"?
My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and genuinely welcomed the moment they step into the classroom. I want each student to know they belong, not because they fit a mold, but because their unique background, strengths, and dreams enrich our community. My role is to create an environment that not only teaches science and social studies and hopefully sparks curiosity within my students but also allows students to feel included in every conversation, where barriers are replaced with opportunities. Whether a student dreams boldly or quietly, I want to give them every chance to chase those dreams with confidence, curiosity, and support.
Alice Paschall
Alice Paschall is an art education major from Charlotte, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2027.
Why did you choose App State?
I chose App State because I love how tight-knit the community is. I've also been so lucky to be involved in both the education and art colleges, which have introduced me to amazing professors and taught me so much.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
My teacher inspiration is my high school art teacher, Mr. Gillette. He taught me so much and grew me as an artist. He also cared for me on a deep personal level, and I knew I could go to him for anything.
What is your "teachosophy"?
To care for each student and help them grow in their art and studies, but most of all care for them just as people and love them where they are at.
Faith E. Waelz
Faith E. Waelz is an elementary education major from Bessemer City, North Carolina. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2027.
Why did you choose App State?
I chose App State because it instantly felt like home the moment I stepped onto campus during an open house in the spring of 2024. Having prayed for guidance on my college decision and financial support, my prayers were answered. Here at App State, I have been blessed to join a community that is deeply passionate about teaching and education.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
Growing up, I always had a hard time sitting still. I often got in trouble for leaving my seat or talking to other students during class. At home, I wasn’t much different and had no interest in doing homework, which took me hours longer than it did for my peers. I was always the last to finish a test and below grade level in reading. It wasn’t until third grade that I was able to be more attentive in class and complete work; however, I still hated going to school and fought against learning.
It wasn’t until my fifth-grade teacher, Mrs. Baird, realized I had a lot of 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. Once I realized that, though school was challenging, with the right tools and support, it was engaging. At the end of the year, I scored 5 on my Math EOG and 4 on my Reading, an accomplishment I’m still proud of today. My fifth-grade teacher took what I thought would be the worst experience in my life and turned it into one of the best, which still inspires me today. Mrs. Baird inspired a love for learning and a sense of confidence in each of her students that allowed us to use our knowledge and push past our perceived limits.
What is your "teachosophy"?
Educators possess the unique ability to ignite curiosity, instill a lifelong passion for knowledge, and make a lasting, constructive difference in the world's future. So my long-term career goals include living up to this standard. With a better understanding of youth development, current research in education, and the structure of our education systems, I would hope to push beyond the boundaries of the traditional classroom, setting my students up to be engaged, challenged, and successful. I want to create a classroom built on a growth mindset, where challenges and mistakes are embraced as learning opportunities so that students feel empowered to step outside their comfort zone and work hard to achieve their potential. My goal is to do my part to create what we truly need in our world: 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 expected to graduate in Spring 2028.
Why did you choose App State?
After deciding to be a teacher, I looked for the best education programs in the state. Not very many impressed me until I saw App State's. Not only did the program have a fantastic reputation, but so did the teachers produced by it.
The opportunities given to students were amazing, and I wanted to be a part of it. There seemed to be so much enrichment and encouragement from the College of Education at App State, several qualities I had always looked for in education. However, one of the most important aspects to me was the community and positive environment I found. During my initial tour of the campus, I felt connected and happy, two things I had not really felt in a school environment. Everyone was so wonderful and kind, making me feel as if I belonged.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
My AP U.S. History teacher was one of my main inspirations. He made class so engaging with his fun and positive personality, proving how much passion he had for what he taught. He openly cared so much about his students and really wanted us to do well. He made us all feel like we mattered.
What is your "teachosophy"?
Creativity is the gateway to learning and is essential in the classroom. Taking away a child's creativity is basically taking away their right to learn.
Isabelle “Izzy” Zellner
Izzy Zellner is an elementary education major from Mason, Ohio. She is expected to graduate in Spring 2027.
Why did you choose App State?
I chose App State because the education program here is known so well and I knew I would get the most out of my college experience here. From the start, everyone was so welcoming, and you can tell that all the professors genuinely want the best for their students and want to prepare us fully for our teaching careers.
Who is your teacher inspiration and why?
My teacher inspiration is my mom. She cares so deeply about her students, and I strive to have that relationship with my future students. She is so strong and smart and intentional about everything she does, and her passion for education is truly admirable.
What is your "teachosophy"?
My teachosophy is that leading with love and showing your students that you genuinely care about them and want what’s best for them is the best way to cultivate a positive learning environment.