Cares Campaign Scholars
Meet Our Inaugural Cares Scholars
These four individuals are the first chapter of the Cares Campaign, local talent from the Greater Gaston community and the first of many healthcare professionals the CaroMont Health Foundation is committed to supporting through the Cares Scholarship. Their dedication and promise represent the next generation of healthcare providers for our region.
Donna Burnett | Medical Assisting
Donna Burnett is a graduate of Gaston College's Medical Assisting program who made a mid-career transition after 30 years in accounting, inspired by a desire to serve others. She earned a 3.778 GPA, NTHS induction and a third-place SkillsUSA finish before earning her CMA (AAMA) credential and joining South Point Family Practice - Stanley, where she focuses on patient education and women's health. A Dean's List senior at Appalachian State University, Donna will graduate this fall with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science and holds membership in both the Tri-Alpha Honor Society and Omega Nu Lambda. Her long-term goal is to grow into a practice manager or leadership role in support of high-quality patient care at CaroMont.
Eevie Johnson | Radiologic Technology
Eevie Johnson is a Cleveland Community College student pursuing a career in healthcare, guided by a lifelong commitment to service and a desire to improve the lives of those around her. A 2017 valedictorian of Cherryville High School and Magna Cum Laude graduate of Appalachian State University, she brings academic excellence and years of meaningful community involvement to her new path, from volunteering at CaroMont Health in high school to serving on F.A.R.M. Cafe's Board of Directors, traveling to Honduras to help build a school and rising to Membership Coordinator at Sally's YMCA. Inspired by the strong healthcare women in her family, Eevie is committed to carrying that legacy of compassion and service forward in her own career.
Eli Johnson | Medical Assisting
Eli Johnson is a graduate of Gaston College's Medical Assisting program, earning his Associate of Applied Science degree and Certified Medical Assistant (CMA-AAMA) credential, with a passion for serving others, particularly older adult populations. Beginning as a volunteer at CaroMont Health and Courtland Terrace in 2022, he earned recognition as a second-place SkillsUSA finisher, NTHS inductee, Tulip Award winner and Employee of the Month before passing his licensing exam and joining CaroMont Urgent Care - Stanley. Currently pursuing his bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership and Learning at Appalachian State University, Eli's long-term goal is to educate the next generation of medical assistants and contribute to CaroMont's organizational education department.
Sara Scoggins | Nursing
Sara Scoggins is a Gaston College nursing student whose path to healthcare was shaped by years of personal medical experiences and a lifelong drive to care for others. After careers in cosmetology and mortgage origination left her unfulfilled, a chance conversation with a nurse-client led her back to school, where she has maintained a 4.0 GPA, earned President's List honors and served as Vice President of the Pre-Healthcare Club. Sara brings academic excellence, resilience and genuine compassion to her pursuit of nursing, driven by a deep belief that every patient deserves the kind of care that truly makes a difference.