By Miles Beasley, Junior, Communications – Broadcast

Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) has named Marbella Alvarenga the first recipient of the Presidential Scholarship from the Early College program. As part of the scholarship, Alvarenga will continue her studies at SAU this fall, majoring in Business Management.

“Awarding the Presidential Scholarship is part of our commitment to student success,” said SAU President Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail. “Ms. Alvarenga is part of the next generation of leaders, and, as with all of our students, we want to provide them with the resources that set them up for success.”

The Early College Program at SAU began in 2012 and now consists of nearly 150 students enrolled at the Wake Young Men’s Leadership Academy and the Wake Young Women’s Leadership Academy. The program is host to a junior and senior class who are dually enrolled in high school classes and college courses while on campus. Student internships are also offered as part of the program.

“I am honored to be a recipient of the Presidential Scholarship,” said Alvarenga. “I’m the first in my family to attend college and this scholarship provides me with a great opportunity to further my education at Saint Augustine’s.”

Alvarenga is an SAU Cycling team member and an intern with the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)-accredited SAU School of Business, Management, & Technology.

“Ms. Alvarenga is leading the way for SAU students,” said Dr. Reginald Towns, SAU’s Early College Liaison. “We know her success will inspire others.”

Click here to learn more about Wake Young Women’s Leadership Academy’s Early College Program at SAU.

Click here to learn more about Marbella Alvarenga.