Brinkley-Lane Profile: Hayden Collier
Hayden Collier’s dream is to pursue his calling in ministry. He is excited about participating in campus ministries at East Carolina University, especially with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and FUSE, Ignite Church’s ministry program for college students.
The son of Brandie Long and David Collier, he is one of 20 freshmen entering ECU this fall as a Brinkley-Lane Scholar, the most prestigious undergraduate award program offered at the university. The four-year merit scholarship recognizes outstanding academic performance, commitment to community engagement and strong leadership skills.
“As a kid, I wanted to be a Pirate, and ECU has always been like a second home to me. However, what really made me choose ECU was the heart for service and the intentionality of the professors,” Collier said. “Serving others is something I pride myself on, and ECU’s motto ‘Servire’ comforted me knowing I could continue serving.”
Recipients receive a fully funded education, covering the cost of tuition, fees, room and board for both in-state and out-of-state students and unique high-impact experiences, as well as the ability to explore the world with a $5,000 study abroad stipend. Scholars benefit from access to an array of leadership opportunities, research with award-winning faculty and a robust alumni network.
“Being a Brinkley-Lane Scholar means I will be able to collaborate with amazing people around me to serve, equip and lead the people of eastern North Carolina and beyond,” Collier said.
“I was also worried that I would feel like just a number at whatever school I chose, but after shadowing an honors student for a day, I saw how much the professors really cared about their students, which sold me fully on ECU,” he said.
Outside of an impressive academic career — Collier is a member of the National Honor Society, is ranked 4th out of his class of 373 and has a 4.597 weighted GPA at South Central High School — he has volunteered with Opendoor Church, Habitat for Humanity and ECU Health. He has participated in the FCA and Christ Hope Church Youth Fellowship, and he also has kept active through varsity cross country and tennis.
While at ECU, in addition to campus ministries and service, Collier said he would like to play club tennis. He has not decided where he plans to study abroad through the scholar program, but he said he is leaning towards Italy, specifically Rome.
“I think it would be awesome to see Rome and learn more about its religious history,” he said.
This summer, Collier plans to complete an internship at Christ Hope Church and spend time with his longtime friends.
After completing his undergraduate degree, he wants to continue his education through graduate school and pursue a master’s degree in divinity and begin ministry work in a pastoral position.
“Serving others is something I pride myself on, and ECU’s motto ‘Servire’ comforted me knowing I could continue serving.”
High school: South Central High School
Intended majors: Religious studies & accounting
Current City: Winterville