Miami’s Jaden Gilliam Thrives as a Cheatham-White Scholar at North Carolina A&T
Jaden Gilliam, a Cheatham-White Scholar at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (N.C. A&T), is making his mark as a first-year chemical engineering student. A graduate of Coral Reef Senior High School, Gilliam began his journey at N.C. A&T in August 2024 after earning a full-ride scholarship through the prestigious Cheatham-White Scholarship Program.
Gilliam, the son of Michael Gilliam Jr. and April Garrett, was an outstanding student in high school, graduating with a 4.4 GPA and ranking among the top of his class. His passion for chemistry and visual arts drives his academic ambitions, and he often channels his creativity into artwork when he’s not in the lab. His ultimate goal is to become a pharmaceutical scientist, developing groundbreaking medicines to improve lives.
In addition to his academic excellence, Gilliam gained valuable professional experience as an intern with Hip Rock Star Marketing throughout high school, where he developed skills in branding, business strategy, and problem-solving. His time with the company helped shape his strategic thinking—an asset as he navigates his rigorous engineering coursework.
The Cheatham-White Scholarship, established in 2018, is a fully funded, four-year award covering tuition, fees, housing, meals, textbooks, a laptop, supplies, travel, and personal expenses. It also provides four summers of fully funded enrichment opportunities, including international travel and study, preparing scholars for leadership roles in a global society.
Gilliam is among only 20 students nationwide selected for the 2024 cohort, representing some of the brightest young minds in the country.
“In recognition of the transformative work of Henry Cheatham and George White, African American leaders who championed civil rights, these scholars represent individuals who are passionate about advocacy and change for the greater good,” said Tonya Smith-Jackson, Ph.D., provost and executive vice chancellor for Academic Affairs.
As Jaden Gilliam continues his journey at N.C. A&T, he is poised to excel in the field of chemical engineering and leave a lasting impact on the world of pharmaceutical innovation.
