Scholarship Established for RichmondCC Students in Technology Based Programs

March 26, 2026 – Students at Richmond Community College enrolled in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Software & Web Development and Mechatronics Engineering Technology degree programs now have access to a new scholarship.

The Steed Foundation Scholarship Supporting Data & Technology will provide financial support to RichmondCC students in Richmond County interested in pursuing challenging degrees in data and technology-based fields.

Richmond County native Dr. Teneka Steed established the scholarship with the RichmondCC Foundation. She is a research scientist and founder of Willene Agency, a research firm that provides scientific research, statistical analysis and data management services to government agencies, corporations and nonprofit organizations. She earned four degrees by the age of 28, including a Ph.D. in Educational Research, Measurement, and Evaluation from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

“I chose to invest in a scholarship at Richmond Community College because access to education should never be limited by financial barriers especially with the rising cost of college today,” Steed said. “As a 2001 graduate of Richmond Senior High School, giving back to my hometown has always been important to me. As a former NASA Statistician, I know firsthand how skills in numbers, data and technology can open doors, and I want students from Richmond County to have those same opportunities.”

The Steed Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2016, supports college and career development opportunities for youth primarily in Richmond County. The foundation has provided scholarships to Richmond Senior High School graduates and hosted after-school programs focused on career exploration, college preparation and personal development. 

“The RichmondCC Foundation is so grateful for Dr. Steed choosing us as the institution to establish this generous scholarship. I could not agree more that one's zip code should not determine anything other than where the mail is delivered,” said Dr. Wendy Kelly Jordan, Associate Vice President for Development. “STEM careers are not just buzzwords; they are trajectories to success, personal fulfillment and access to high-demand careers. Many thanks to Dr. Teneka Steed and the Steed Foundation for valuing her connection to Richmond County and providing this opportunity for our students.”

Information about applying for scholarships at RichmondCC can be found on the College’s website at www.richmondcc.edu/scholarships. In order to be eligible for scholarships at RichmondCC, students must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For more information, call (910) 410-1700.