By Shannon Dale
When his family and friends reflect on his legacy, 2001 drama and education alumnus, Michael Armstrong is often remembered for his dedication to building, strengthening, and nurturing his community. He was a beloved educator, advocate, and supporter of the children he taught.
“Michael had a heart for people and was empathetic and supportive. He wanted people to find their joy in small, everyday ways or in huge, life-changing measures - and he was there for it all. He believed in people and shared his smile, laugh, and encouraging words freely,” shares Tiffany Armstrong, 1999 alumna and Michael’s wife.
As a first-generation student, Armstrong dove into his UNC Asheville experience with the same enthusiasm and curiosity that he later applied to his career as an educator. He was active throughout his UNC Asheville community, using his ample creativity in theatre productions and supporting his fellow students as a resident assistant. It was through the Teaching Fellows Program that Armstrong was able to attend UNC Asheville in the first place and it was in that program that he deepened his passion for teaching.
“Michael was always there to help other students,” shares Brenda Hopper, professor emerita Teaching Fellows Program Director, and Armstrong’s former education professor. “He was so supportive and kind, lifting up other students who were struggling to find their place on campus or in the broader community.”
As a teacher, Armstrong carried this same compassion and support into his work with his students. One of the highlights of his career was the creation of College Bound Day. While serving as the principal of Bugg Elementary School in Raleigh, North Carolina, he knew he had a large population of students who would one day be first-generation college students. For many of those students, attending college was not a topic of conversation at home.
Through the College Bound program, Armstrong built a culture that celebrated higher education. The school was decorated with flags outside of each classroom noting the year those students would one day graduate from college and discussions of college were incorporated into the curriculum. Each year, students from North Carolina universities would join Bug Elementary students for College Bound Day to teach them about college and encourage them to one day attend. `
Armstrong generously gave to so many. It is in this spirit that his family and friends came together to establish the Michael Armstrong Memorial Scholarship after his passing in May 2019. Through his scholarship, first-generation students are able to thrive in their UNC Asheville experience and focus on reaching graduation without financial burden.
The impact that Michael made at UNC Asheville, in the Asheville community, and throughout the country was clear in the outpouring of support this summer. Within a few weeks of the launch of the Michael Armstrong Memorial Scholarship Crowdfunding Campaign, the UNC Asheville community generously gave more than $50,000, endowing the scholarship and far exceeding the initial $25,000 goal.
"The support back from the community to endow this scholarship speaks volumes about Michael’s impact and I hope it inspires others as it has inspired me to spread joy and encouragement each and every day," says Tiffany.
UNC Asheville awarded the first scholarship this fall to first-year student Hannah VanGorder. Like many first-generation students, paying for college was a source of anxiety.
“This scholarship support means the absolute world to me. One of my biggest fears
coming into college was being in student debt for decades after graduation. The stress of paying for college has been lifted off of my shoulders and for that, I am so grateful,” shares VanGorder.
The Armstrong Memorial Scholarship also serves to inspire others to serve their communities just like Armstrong.
“Being awarded a scholarship that was established by a UNC Asheville alumni family makes it feel even more special. I hope I can give back in the same way in the future!” says VanGorder.
To learn more about the Michael Armstrong Memorial Scholarship and to join our community in support of this important scholarship, visit unca.edu/michaelarmstrong.
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