Northeast High Senior Awarded $40,000 BigFuture Scholarship in Surprise Ceremony

A senior at Northeast High School recently received a significant surprise during a school assembly, as announced by Anne Arundel County Public Schools.

 Zhane Wiggins was under the impression she was attending a routine senior meeting regarding college scholarship opportunities when College Board officials unexpectedly revealed that she had been awarded a $40,000 BigFuture Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes students who have completed essential college and career planning steps.

Zhane expressed her astonishment, stating, "I'm so shocked. I was not expecting it at all. When she said my name, I just completely froze." Her mother, Lakeshia Major, was also present, under the impression she was there to watch her daughter perform with the cheerleading team.

Zhane is an active member of the AVID program, the Human Performance Signature Program, and the cheerleading team. She intends to pursue a career in physical therapy and currently holds an internship. Among the universities she is considering are the University of Maryland, Texas A&M, North Carolina A&T, James Madison University, and the University of Central Florida. Elizabeth Parker, Northeast AVID Site Coordinator, commended Zhane, remarking, "Zhane is a well-deserving student who has thrived in the AVID program throughout high school. Her positive attitude is contagious and will carry her far in the future."

Amy Reitz, Senior Vice President of BigFuture, added, "BigFuture Scholarships celebrate students who are taking the steps they need to own their futures. We want to help more students like Zhane navigate the path toward a great career and the education to make it a reality." BigFuture is a complimentary online resource designed to assist students with career exploration, college planning, and financial aid. Since 2019, College Board has distributed over $23 million in scholarships to more than 24,000 students. Related: AACPS Video

Students from the classes of 2026 and 2027 can find additional information at www.bigfuture.org.

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