UC Honors College Student Tapped as First Avashia Fellow
CHARLESTON, WV — 8/5/2025 — Maliah McCann-Coles learned she had been named the first-ever recipient of the Honors College’s Avashia Fellowship, she was stunned.
“I was flabbergasted,” said the double major in Political Science and Management. “I had gotten to know the Avashias and their unique story, and I felt a deep connection with their journey. Being recognized for my hard work in relation to them is such an honor.”
The prestigious new fellowship includes a $2,000 award and the opportunity to serve as a mentor within UC’s Honors College—a role she plans to embrace wholeheartedly.
“I look forward to mentoring new students,” she said. “Mentorship is so beneficial when you’re an incoming freshman. I’m grateful for the guidance I received, which nurtured me not only academically but also helped me grow and evolve as a person.”
As McCann-Coles continues her journey, she carries both deep gratitude and a desire to pay it forward.
“Their belief in students like me changes lives,” she said. “I’m proud to be part of that legacy—and I’m excited to pass it on to the next generation of student leaders.”
About the Avashia Fellowship
The Avashia Fellowship celebrates the intersection of academic excellence, community commitment, and leadership potential. Each year, it will recognize one exceptional Honors College student who embodies these values—the same principles that have guided the Avashia family’s philanthropic journey.
Dr. Bipin Avashia, a retired occupational medicine physician, and his late wife Rita, a UC MBA alumna, have long supported educational and community initiatives. Their generosity has transformed the Honors College experience—funding not only the new Honors Fellow Award, but also student research, conference travel, visiting scholars, and other enrichment opportunities.
“Engaging with students in the Honors College is a gift,” said Dr. Kara Fisher, Honors College Director and Assistant Professor of Political Science. “We’re learning together and making a shared impact in our community. We continue to develop the Honors program to help students find their story and grow their passion. We’re sincerely grateful for the Avashia’s gift that allows us to extend this opportunity for our students.”
About the University of Charleston Honors College
The Honors College at the University of Charleston is an unduplicated experiential space for intellectually curious, high-achieving students selected for their academic excellence, leadership potential, and community engagement.