Meet the Two Ten Class of 2026

This spring, 33 Two Ten Scholars graduated from colleges and universities across the country and stepped into the next chapter of their lives. 

The Class of 2026 reflects the breadth and strength of the footwear community. Twenty graduates were employee scholars, representing companies including Skechers, Designer Brands Inc., Caleres, New Balance, Shoe Carnival, Birkenstock, and more. Together, these scholars pursued degrees in fields ranging from fashion design and marketing to business, communications, nursing, engineering, and data science. 

Perhaps most notably, 15 graduates were the first in their families to attend college, a milestone that speaks not only to their own determination, but to the impact education can have for future generations. 

Here’s a glance at the Two Ten Scholar graduates by the numbers:  

Congratulations to the Two Ten Class of 2026. We are proud to celebrate your achievements and excited to see the impact you'll make in the years ahead! 

GRADUATE SPOTLIGHTS

Name: Ludnie Toussaint 
School/University: Nova Southeastern University 
Major: Nursing 
Industry Connection: Employee, DBI 
Next Steps: Preparing for the NCLEX examination, the final step toward obtaining nursing licensure and beginning practice as a registered nurse.

“This scholarship has helped me and my family tremendously ... I am forever grateful to the donors, to the people that have helped me get this scholarship, and to my managers that told me about it ... This scholarship is amazing and I hope it can continue for others as well." Watch More

Name: Joanna Ezzard
School/University: Virginia Commonwealth University
Major: Marketing 
Industry Connection: Employee, Foot Locker
Next Steps: Working towards a Masters in Data Analytics 

“At VCU, I served as a resident assistant, was Vice President of Black Minds Matter, an organization that supports mental health initiatives for students of color, and founded Ladies Leading Legacy, an organization that empowers women of color through mentorship, volunteering, and professional development. Beyond campus, I pursued modeling and pageantry, working with brands like Reebok and Google, and walking the runway at New York Fashion Week, all while remaining on the Dean’s List. I was able to accomplish so much because I had the support and freedom to fully invest in these opportunities.” 

Name: Kelly Pruss
School/University: Eastern Connecticut State University
Major: Double major in Data Science and Mathematics with a concentration in Actuarial Science, and a minor in Insurance 
Industry Connection: Employee, Famous Footwear 
Next Steps: Hoping to work in the insurance industry in either underwriting or actuarial work. 

“With the help from this scholarship, I was able to finish my education at Eastern Connecticut State University, where I received a B.S. in Mathematics. The scholarship helped me finish my degree, while accruing less debt. I wanted to thank all the donors who made this scholarship possible and those who chose me to be awarded the scholarship.”