Serving Western NC Graduates
Attending College
Should be an Equal Opportunity
Each year, thousands of high school students receive scholarships and awards for exceptional academic achievement – and rightfully so. However, certain achievers are rarely recognized for their efforts, as they choose to overcome challenges – trials, tribulations, and, at times, tragedy – in their lives. They RISE UP and remove all of the excuses so they may focus on finishing strong.
These students go the EXTRA MILE to substantially improve or consistently maintain their high level of academic and extracurricular performance, yet they are rarely recognized by scholarship organizations because of their delayed start or the obstacles they have overcome.
Celebrating Students
Who Have Overcome
Since 2013, the Extra Mile Award recognizes the senior who has demonstrated an outstanding combination of perseverance through adversity and academic excellence through their high school career. The winner receives a one-time $500 scholarship.
Each of these students has demonstrated an unrivaled combination of courage, perseverance and academic prowess and has amazing potential to make a significant impact in this world.
The Extra Mile Scholarship is proudly part of Go the Extra Mile Today, a designated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to empowering youth and breaking down barriers to success. Founded with the mission to provide essential resources and opportunities, Go the Extra Mile Today houses impactful initiatives like the Extra Mile Scholarship and the Extra Mile Shoe Fund, all aimed at helping young people overcome adversity and achieve their full potential.
Through community collaboration, donor support, and a focus on action-driven results, Go the Extra Mile Today ensures that every contribution helps open doors for the next generation. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, we rely on the generosity of people like you to continue making a difference in the lives of students who need it most.
Learn more about our mission and how you can get involved today!
Hi,
I'm Steven Aft
I am the proud founder of the Extra Mile Award Scholarship program. As a successful business owner in western North Carolina since 2011, my passion is to serve those who desire to be the best version of themselves. Through the Extra Mile Award Scholarship program, I have been fortunate to meet some amazing individuals who have chosen a life path towards success, prosperity, and purpose despite personal hardship. The magnitude of what each of these students has persevered through brings those who know them a great sense of humility, empathy, and inspiration. Their resiliency is nothing short of awe inspiring. Being there to support them in reaching their future endeavors is one of my life purposes — it fulfills me.
Assisting students in accessing and achieving in academia since 2011.
Alumnus Perspective
Personal Journeys (Written)
Megan (Shields) Brown
Class of 2016
The first steps after high school in 2016 included completing my associate's degree through TCCC, which was vital for me to save money while furthering my education. I applied for the State Farm Extra Mile Scholarship in hopes this would complete the goal of saving money; it did much more than just that.
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About Megan's
Personal Journey
Personal Journeys (Video)
Charlton Buchanan
Class of 2013
Ian Evans
Class of 2013
Rachel Cox
Class of 2014
Anna (Crisp) Wilkes
Class of 2014
Katie Anderson
Class of 2015
Kara Dudley
Class of 2017
Victoria Beck
Class of 2017
Jordan Phillips
Class of 2021
Sarah Gibby
Class of 2022
