WS Chronicle

Winston-Salem State University students accepted into the inaugural cohort of the NASCAR Campus Lab program held their first on-campus event, “Race You to the Yard: A NASCAR Experience,” on March 26 in the Breezeway. 

The goal of “Race You to the Yard” was to bring an energetic and exciting atmosphere to campus, offering a fun break from the day with NASCAR-themed activities and games.  

Students had the opportunity to try out racing simulations, win exciting prizes and vibe to great music.  

“It’s the perfect chance to socialize, compete and just enjoy a good time with friends,” said Juana Ramirez, a Campus Lab member. 

Ramirez is among 14 students selected for NASCAR’s Campus Lab at WSSU. NASCAR announced last fall expansion of the program to WSSU, making it the first university in North Carolina to offer the program. In addition to providing Campus Lab students with hands-on experience in motorsports through exposure, career opportunities and mentorship, students get real-world experience developing a marketing activation, such as “Race You to the Yard.” 

This event was solely organized by the Campus Lab students with guidance from NASCAR Campus Labs program coordinators Caryn Grant, Iman Harris, Freddie Harris and Dr. Clay Harshaw, motorsports management program director at WSSU. 

WSSU students selected for the inaugural Campus Lab are: Nile Thaxton, Bryson Banks, DeAndre Mays, Zoriah Henderson, Juana Ramirez Manriquez, Julian Murray, Amarion Willis, Curtonia Lawrence, Keren Kasongo, Ciel Miller, Angelo Lanford, Aaron Hocutt, Taylor Williams and Trinity Pratt.