Elijah Nathaniel Bowser: Wingate University —Julia’s Learning (Dawn Ridgway Memorial Scholarship Award)

Elijah Nathaniel Bowser is starting his second year at Wingate University – Julia’s Learning. He is focused on building his independence through life skills training with a special emphasis on art and music. Elijah is proud of the progress he has made and is excited to continue growing both on campus and in the community.

Elijah’s mom shares, “Moving into his dorm was one of Elijah’s favorite moments. His roommate helped him arrange his bed and textbooks, and they found the perfect spot for his prized silver ‘W’ keychain—a daily reminder that he is part of something bigger.” His cozy dorm room is decorated with family photos and overlooks a lively campus courtyard. Every morning, Elijah wakes up to the sounds of students cycling to class and the distant hum of the library coffee machine, excited for the day’s opportunities.

Elijah’s daily routine includes hands-on lessons in the Julia’s Learning kitchen lab, where he’s learned to order groceries online, budget for ingredients, and prepare simple meals. His mom fondly recalls, “One day, Elijah made a crumble-topped dessert all by himself. He measured the flour, stirred the oats, and proudly enjoyed the slice with a friend—savoring not just the sweetness, but the satisfaction of having made it himself.”

He also practices budgeting skills like balancing a checkbook and reading bank statements. “What once seemed impossible now feels manageable,” she says, describing how his confidence has grown with each new skill mastered.

Between classes, Elijah is learning to navigate campus and the community. He practices using public transportation and has become comfortable picking up packages from the campus Amazon locker by scanning QR codes on his phone. His mom explains, “Elijah waves at friendly passersby and has learned to advocate for himself when he needs assistance.”

Elijah is also becoming familiar with important campus spots like the laundry room, library, and gym, where he attends adaptive fitness classes weekly to strengthen both body and mind.

Known for his broad smile and kind heart, Elijah enjoys basketball, yoga, Zumba, and reading with others. He is proud of the independence he’s building and the supportive community he’s found at Wingate.

We are so proud of you, Elijah, and excited to watch you continue to grow and shine!