Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter Awards $2,000 in Scholarships to Three Outstanding Local Students

Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated has awarded $2,000 in scholarships to three outstanding young women from Asheville and Buncombe County.

The 2026 scholarship recipients, Kyleah Lee, Selah Simpson, and Xzaniyla Williams-Wilson were selected in recognition of their academic achievements, leadership, community involvement, and commitment to pursuing higher education.

For more than eight decades, Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter has worked to uplift the Asheville community through educational initiatives, community service, and programs designed to empower individuals and families. The chapter’s annual scholarship program reflects its continuing commitment to investing in young people and helping them pursue their educational and professional aspirations.

Kyleah Lee — $1,000 Scholarship Recipient

A graduate of Enka High School, Kyleah Lee received the chapter’s $1,000 scholarship in recognition of her outstanding academic accomplishments and commitment to community involvement. Her dedication to uplifting others and making a positive difference in her community led to her volunteer service with Black Wall Street initiatives and Veterans Restoration Quarters in Asheville.

Kyleah graduated with an impressive 4.2 GPA and participated in several extracurricular and service organizations, including Key Club and the National Honor Society. She also demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community engagement through her involvement with Luv-Lee Naturals.

Kyleah has been accepted by Howard University in Washington, DC, and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro, North Carolina. These accomplishments reflect her academic preparation, determination, and promising future.

Selah Simpson — $500 Scholarship Recipient

Selah Simpson, a graduate of Asheville High School, received a $500 scholarship and is now attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. An accomplished scholar with an impressive 4.5 GPA, Selah distinguished herself through academic achievement, student leadership, advocacy, and community engagement.

During high school, she served as President of the Black Student Union, a leader in the Racial Equity Ambassadors Program, and Communications Officer for the National Math Honor Society. She also demonstrated exceptional public speaking and critical thinking skills through her involvement in Speech and Debate, earning recognition as a 2024 North Carolina State Champion and national qualifier.

Her commitment to improving educational opportunities for young people was evident through her work with the Racial Equity Ambassadors Program, where she helped develop initiatives promoting student voice, identity, leadership, and belonging. And beyond the classroom, Selah volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, provided academic tutoring, and supported community health initiatives. Her experiences also include a clinical internship with Appalachian Mountain Community Health Centers, where she gained valuable exposure to healthcare professions.

Selah’s accomplishments demonstrate her dedication to scholarship, advocacy, and creating meaningful change in her community.

Xzaniyla Williams-Wilson — $500 Scholarship Recipient

Xzaniyla Williams-Wilson, a graduate of the School of Inquiry and Life Sciences in Asheville, received a $500 scholarship and is attending North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro.

During her high school years, Xzaniyla demonstrated determination, leadership, school involvement, and a heart for community service. She served as President of the Black Student Union, Vice President of Student Government during her senior year, and Captain of the cheerleading team. Her extracurricular involvement also included track and field, HOSA–Future Health Professionals, and MedLife, reflecting her diverse interests and dedication to personal growth.

Xzaniyla has also engaged in hands-on, compassionate voluntarism, including preparing food boxes and serving meals to individuals experiencing homelessness. Her leadership experiences and commitment to helping others reflect the values of service, responsibility, and perseverance that Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter seeks to encourage in young scholars.

Investing in Education and the Next Generation

Chartered on March 31, 1940, Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter has served Asheville and western North Carolina for more than 86 years through programs emphasizing education, leadership, scholarship, service, and community empowerment.

The chapter’s annual scholarship initiative supports graduating high school seniors from Asheville, Buncombe, Madison, Henderson, and Transylvania counties who demonstrate academic promise and a commitment to making a positive difference.

“Education opens doors to opportunity, but it also prepares young people to become leaders, problem-solvers, and agents of change,” said Dr. Terry M. Bellamy, President of Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter. “We are extremely proud of Kyleah, Selah, and Xzaniyla. Their accomplishments remind us why investing in our young people matters. We hope these scholarships not only provide financial assistance but also encourage each recipient to continue striving for excellence, serving others, and reaching her fullest potential.”

The chapter extends special appreciation to its Scholarship Committee, chaired by Soror Raynetta Waters, with committee members Sorors Katrice Goodrum, Vernell Wood, Brenda Wilkerson, and Kenesha Smith, for their dedication to reviewing applications, recognizing student achievement, and supporting this important educational initiative.

As these three remarkable young women continue their academic journeys, Gamma Gamma Omega Chapter celebrates their achievements and looks forward to hearing about their future accomplishments.

Congratulations to Kyleah Lee, Selah Simpson, and Xzaniyla Williams-Wilson!