Maribel Gonzalez has been awarded a scholarship from Walgreens and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK).

The $250 scholarship is designated to cover the cost of the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam fee.

The Walgreens Pharmacy Technician Certification Scholarship recognizes Allied Health or Pharmacy Technician students who intend to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification exam.

Gonzalez is one of 18 students selected to receive this award.

She graduated from Wayne Community College’s Pharmacy Technology program in May and is eligible to take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam® that is administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board.

“I feel so grateful and honored to have been selected for this scholarship,” said Gonzalez. She said the award has relieved some of her financial pressure and is motivating her to get certified.

Gonzalez had previously completed WCC’s Nurse Aide course and earned her certification in that specialty. She hopes to return to WCC to continue her education and earn a nursing degree.

She is employed at Wayne UNC Health Care.

“We are excited about the opportunity to partner with Walgreens to offer career opportunities and scholarships to these students,” said Dr. Monica Marlowe, executive director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation.

“Certification exam costs often create a financial barrier for students that hinders their ability to enter the workforce. We are grateful to Walgreens for addressing these challenges and providing a pathway to great career opportunities,” Marlowe said.

The scholarship application is open year-round, and winners are selected twice a year, in the spring and the fall. Up to 50 awards are given each year.