Get to know 2025 HBCU Scholarship Winner Zion Fennell

As Zion Fennell contemplated college choices, she wanted the experience of an historically Black college or university, while staying close to her family.

A visit to Howard University in D.C. sealed the deal.
 

“I felt immersed in the culture of the university and incredibly comfortable,” Zion said. “I wanted to be in a city, especially since I grew up in the Lowcountry. Howard provided both for me.”
 

She is one of three recipients of a prestigious $40,000 scholarship, awarded annually through Norfolk Southern’s Thoroughbred Scholars program to students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and community engagement.
 

Zion, the child of Engineer Ben Fennell from Bluffton, South Carolina, will pursue a degree in psychology.
 

Since its launch in 2022, Thoroughbred Scholars has awarded $4.48 million across our 22-state network. This year, 100 students—children of our dedicated railroaders—who exemplify excellence in academics, leadership, and community service were awarded $10,000, in addition to the three exceptional scholarships. 
 

Stay tuned! We’ll soon have profiles on this year’s STEM and Community scholars.