FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself
I am Ivy Hiner, a native of Houston, Texas, and a proud STEM advocate, scholar, athlete, and adventurer. I’m the 2024 valedictorian of Jack Yates High School, where I was active in several organizations and held multiple leadership roles. I had the honor of serving as Captain of both the 
Varsity Golf and Cheer Teams, Class Secretary, and Student Council Secretary. I also participated in programs like DiscoverU, the mobile Houston Food Bank, and the National Honor Society. Outside of school, I dedicated time to the Lambda Zeta Archonettes, the Society of Women Engineers, Pilgrim Church, and First Tee — all of which shaped my character and gave me a wide range of skills and experiences. However, it was my time with Texas 4-H that truly ignited my passion for STEM. Through 4-H, I was introduced to robotics, STEM research, and engineering competitions, which ultimately led me to choose industrial and systems engineering (ISE) as my major at North Carolina A&T State University. In my free time, I enjoy trying new foods, going to the movies, golfing, and spending time with family and friends.
FOSSI: Why is receiving the FOSSI scholarship important for you?
My passion for STEM and the journey to higher education come with financial challenges. As a Black woman from a low to middle-income family, receiving this scholarship was essential to achieving my educational and professional goals. North Carolina A&T State University, the top public HBCU, is my ideal choice for continuing my education, but it presents a significant financial challenge as an out-of-state student. This scholarship eased that burden, allowing me to focus on my studies and career without the added stress of financial concerns. The support from FOSSI also opens doors beyond academics, including internships, leadership development, and mentoring opportunities that will help shape my future success.
FOSSI: Fast forward – where do you see yourself in ten years?
By my late 20s, I will be a well-established engineer working for a company as either an industrial engineer or product engineer. At the same time, I see myself getting closer to launching my own engineering consulting firm with a global reach, helping companies find tailored solutions to their challenges. I will also be traveling across the country and around the world, experiencing new cultures with family and friends.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
- I have a food blog called @She8te on Instagram.
- I enjoy trying new foods from different cultures, which connects to my love of travel.
- So far, Asian cuisine is my favorite type of food.
- Last summer, I traveled to the Holy Land, Israel, through a congressional internship.
- I can play the flute and sew.
- During quarantine, I got really into sewing and started making satin-lined bonnets to sell.
If you’re a company interested in supporting outstanding, diverse STEM talent, learn how you can become a FOSSI sponsor and make a lasting impact.