Meet India Aiyana Lefft Wilkes, a new Clyburn Scholar in the Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College
ORANGEBURG, S.C. – South Carolina State University proudly announces the induction of India Aiyana Lefft Wilkes into the esteemed Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College as a Clyburn Scholar.
A recent graduate of Conway High School in Conway, South Carolina, and now a freshman at SC State majoring in computer science, Wilkes’ impressive background in academics, leadership, and community service positions her as an exemplary addition to the Honors College community.
“India truly exemplifies the foundational qualities we celebrate in the Clyburn Honors College: academic excellence, visionary leadership, and a profound commitment to service,” said Dr. William H. Whitaker Jr., Honors College dean. “Her achievements thus far reveal not only her dedication to personal growth but also her potential to make lasting, positive contributions to our community. We are thrilled to support and witness her journey as she continues to excel and inspire at South Carolina State University.”
Wilkes arrives at SC State with a record of academic excellence, having excelled in Honors, Advanced Placement, and dual enrollment courses at Horry-Georgetown Technical College. Her commitment to her studies earned her a consistent place on the Honor Roll and Principal’s List throughout high school, along with recognition as a Junior Marshal, which celebrates the top 20 students in her class.
Among her academic accolades are the AP Scholar Award, the Duke University TIP Scholar designation, and the SC Junior Scholar Merit Award.
A dedicated leader, Wilkes served in several prominent roles during her high school years, including Student Body secretary, representative on the Horry County Schools Superintendent Student Cabinet, and a member of the City of Conway Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council. Wilkes also attended the SC Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference (HOBY) as a representative and later as a junior counselor, mentoring fellow students in leadership and service. Her dedication to community service is evident through her involvement as a student athletic trainer and her volunteer efforts with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., where she contributed to community health fairs and college fairs. She has also volunteered with the Night to Shine Prom for adults with special needs.
Her high school accomplishments extended to extracurricular activities, where she demonstrated her commitment to both athletics and the arts. She captained the Conway High School Varsity Volleyball Team, participated in the All-County Honors Chorus, and was a representative on the Academic Team. Her active involvement in multiple honors societies, including the National Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and the English National Honors Society, highlights her passion for academic and personal growth.
As a Clyburn Scholar, Wilkes joins a select group of students committed to academic success, leadership, and service to the community. The Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College is honored to welcome her to South Carolina State University and looks forward to supporting her continued growth and achievements.