The NC Life Sciences Organization (NCLifeSci), the North Carolina Community College System, and the NC Community Colleges Foundation announced the six recipients of the 2026-2027 Samuel M. Taylor Memorial Life Sciences Scholarship on September 18, 2026, recognizing community college students preparing for careers in the state’s life sciences industry. This year’s scholars represent six community colleges and a range of life sciences pathways — biotechnology, bioprocess manufacturing, bioanalytical laboratory technology, clinical research, and facility maintenance technology. NCLifeSci President Laura Gunter said: “Sam Taylor was deeply committed to building a strong life sciences industry in North Carolina and creating opportunities for North Carolinians to benefit from careers in the field. It is especially meaningful to see that commitment continue through these scholarships. This year’s six recipients represent the determination, talent and diverse perspectives that will help shape the future of our industry, and we are proud to support them as they pursue their education and prepare to contribute to North Carolina’s life sciences workforce.”
Meet the 2026-2027 Scholars
- Christina L. Green — Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, Biotechnology
- Marisa Phisayavong-McNellie — Johnston Community College, Biotechnology–Bioprocess Manufacturing Technology
- Sandy M. Creech — Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, Biotechnology–Bioprocess Manufacturing Technology
- Khalik Austin Weaver — Wilson Community College, Biotechnology–Bioanalytical Laboratory Technology
- Gina M. Dixon — Durham Technical Community College, Clinical Research Associate
- Taylor C. Joostema — Wake Technical Community College, Facility Maintenance Technology
The students were recognized September 16, 2026 at the NCLifeSci Annual Meeting, and were selected not only for their academic pursuits but for their determination to build life sciences careers while balancing the many responsibilities of pursuing a college education.
Honoring a Founder’s Legacy
The scholarship is named for Sam Taylor, a founder and first president of NCLifeSci who led the organization for more than 25 years and was instrumental in establishing NCBioImpact, a collaborative training program supporting biopharmaceutical manufacturing growth and workforce preparation in North Carolina. The scholarship fund itself was established with the NC Community Colleges Foundation through contributions from companies, organizations, and individuals who wanted to honor Taylor’s legacy and support students in eligible associate degree programs. Eligible programs include Clinical Research Associate, Facility Maintenance Technology, Biotechnology–Bioanalytical Laboratory Technology, and Biotechnology–Bioprocess Manufacturing Technology — all directly connected to the workforce needs of the state’s life sciences industry.
Building Pathways From Education to Employment
For students balancing work, family, and other responsibilities, financial support can make a meaningful difference in their ability to persist in and complete their programs. NCLifeSci frames the scholarship as one example of how partnerships between North Carolina’s life sciences industry and its community colleges can create stronger pathways from education to employment, while honoring the legacy of leaders like Taylor who worked to build those connections. NCLifeSci and the NC Community Colleges Foundation say they’re proud to support the six students as they prepare for the next chapter of their careers.
