Persons eligible to receive this scholarship are North Carolina residents pursuing educational and professional goals through enrollment at Wake or Durham Technical Community College in order to obtain an associate degree, diploma, or certificate that will further their education and/or advance their careers.
Preference is given to students who identify as members of a racial or ethnic minority group, who demonstrate financial need, and who seek educational advancement as a means of overcoming advanced circumstances. In honor of Raj’s character, additional preference is given to students who exhibit perseverance, authenticity, leadership, and a desire to do good for others. Non-traditional students are encouraged to apply.
The family of Raj Mehta established the scholarship in memory of Raj, who passed away in March 2020.
Raj was a student at Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering. He was a man of many talents, excelling academically and pursuing many hobbies and passions. Raj was a second-degree Karate black belt, expert drummer, a star on the Duke Bhangra team and an active member of the Camp Kesem community. His friends and family knew him as a fitness expert, car enthusiast and a technology wiz.
Raj was everyone’s friend. Whether he met someone briefly or knew them since childhood, he had the ability to effortlessly connect with people. His smile was contagious. He was there to party with his friends and pick them up when they were feeling low.
Social justice was always on his mind and he aspired to use technology to make the world a more just and equitable place.
He leaves a lasting impact across the community. He is dearly missed by his friends and family.