Meet the 2026 Anthony Blackman Scholar

Celebrating Achievement: Evan Faulkner Receives the 

2026 Anthony Blackman Scholarship

Evan Faulkner has been selected by the NC Tennis Foundation to receive the 2026 Anthony Blackman Scholars College Scholarship, an honor recognizing his commitment to academic growth, athletic excellence, leadership, and service to others. A dedicated tennis player and active community volunteer, Evan has built a strong record of achievement both on and off the court.

Evan has been a member of the Enloe High School tennis team and has represented Ebony Racquet Club in Raleigh since 2021. His accomplishments include helping his Junior Team Tennis teams earn state and bronze-level honors, as well as being named Most Valuable Player for the 2024 Ebony Huskies and the 2025 Ebony Wolves. In 2023, he received the 14S Ebony Grizzlys Coaches Award, which recognized his respect for teammates and competitors, pride in representing his club, and commitment to responsibility and integrity.

Through tennis, Evan has learned lessons that extend far beyond competition. The sport has strengthened his time management, teamwork, conflict resolution, and perseverance—skills he has applied in school, athletics, and everyday life. 

“I am not going to accept defeat when things get tough; I am going to do what I can to conquer the challenge,” Evan said.

That mindset has helped Evan balance grades, clubs, sports, and service while preparing for the next chapter of his education. This fall, he will attend North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where he will continue building on the discipline and leadership he has developed through tennis and academics.

Evan’s commitment to serving others is equally strong. Since ninth grade, he has volunteered with Watts Chapel Missionary Baptist Church through AWANA, participated in holiday programs at a senior living facility where he has brought encouragement to residents. He has volunteered with The Lost Sheep organization, and with the 100 Black Men of the Triangle East during the annual MLK Day of Service at the North Carolina Food Bank.

Evan’s dedication to excellence in the classroom, on the tennis court, and in the community reflects a young man prepared to meet future challenges with purpose and determination.