The academy, which will begin in summer 2007, will admitapproximately 25 rising sophomores each summer. Theyear-round program will combine three intensive four-weeksummer residential experiences at Elon University with avariety of academic and enrichment activities throughout theschool year.
Edna Noiles and her five sisters were raised in AlamanceCounty and attended Elon. She is a 1944 Elon alumna. TheNoiles’ $220,000 lead gift is in line with their beliefthat early intervention is the key to improving education andgiving bright young learners the best start possible.
“There is so much excitement in learning when you havethe opportunity–young kids are naturally curious,”said Doug Noiles. “So we’re reaching out whereverwe can. By supporting the Elon Academy, we’re showingpeople that education can be better. It is my hope to see arelated local effort directed toward K-5, because theseyounger children are the most open and eager to learn.”
“We believe a good education is a child’sbirthright, and what binds us together now is thatrecognition,” said Edna Noiles. “History showsthat the solution to problems frequently starts locally.Responding to the need to educate children through the ElonAcademy gives us a sense of being a part of something largerthan ourselves. We are encouraged and energized and are happyto be part of it.”
Nan Perkins, vice president for institutional advancement,said the Noiles are making a gift that will open doors forstudents who otherwise might not consider college as anoption. “Their commitment to education and to futuregenerations of students is embodied in this generousgift,” Perkins said.
Elon has received more than 400 requests for applicationsfrom rising sophomores at Cummings, Eastern Alamance, Graham,Southern Alamance, Western Alamance and Williams highschools, says Deborah Long, associate professor of educationand faculty administrative fellow who is directing theacademy’s creation. Eligible students must have adesire to succeed, be willing to commit to the three-yearprogram, demonstrate academic promise, have no history ofdisciplinary problems, and demonstrate financial need or haveno family history of college attendance. The first class ofstudents will be selected in March.