Goodnight Spotlight: Ashton Sumpter

With a relentless drive and a mind geared towards innovation, Ashton Sumpter ‘26 stands out as a determined Goodnight Scholar and Industrial and Systems Engineering major at North Carolina State University. From the vibrant passion for athletics to the intricate world of photography and filmography he now embraces, Ashton has always sought to excel and push the boundaries of his potential.

In our latest Goodnight Scholars Spotlight, we explore the multifaceted life of Ashton Sumpter, a young man whose life is as rich and varied as the fields he studies. Born into a world filled with challenges, from natural disasters to global pandemics, Ashton discovered a passion for engineering as a means to enact change and help communities in crisis.

Join us as we uncover Ashton’s inspiring journey to NC State, where he channels his competitive spirit and creative eye into a pursuit of engineering excellence, all while giving back to his community and embracing a future where technology and human compassion converge to create a better world.

A Name with a Legacy

Behind his name lies a connection to history, with a middle name inspired by the ancient Roman emperor, Marcus Aurelius, perhaps hinting at his leadership potential and philosophical outlook. Notably, Ashton is semi-ambidextrous, a trait that symbolizes his adaptability and capability to handle multiple facets of life.

The Call to Engineering

Ashton’s journey into Industrial and Systems Engineering was not just a choice but a calling. Witnessing the devastating impacts of hurricanes and pandemics during his formative years, he was driven by a desire to make a tangible difference. At NCSU, he realized that his major could be pivotal in enhancing healthcare and emergency response systems. Industrial engineers, like Ashton aspires to be, are the silent warriors optimizing processes and resources to save lives and rebuild communities in crisis.

Finding a Community in The Goodnight Scholars

The Goodnight Scholars Program has been a cornerstone of Ashton’s academic and personal development. It’s a community where he feels at home, surrounded by a tapestry of students from diverse backgrounds. Here, Ashton has found both a sense of identity and a springboard for opportunities. Whether it’s casual interactions in the lounge or engaging in professional networking, the program has equipped him with the tools to succeed beyond the university walls.

Service at the Core

Ashton’s commitment to his community is unwavering. During the hardest of times, he stepped forward to volunteer at shelters, organize supply drives, and assist in COVID-19 vaccination efforts in Pembroke, NC. His service extends to his indigenous roots as he actively participates in the Powwow committee, aiming to give back to his heritage through community engagement.

Engagement Outside the Classroom

Beyond his academic pursuits, Ashton is deeply involved in extracurriculars. He is a member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), the Native American Student Association (NASA), a Goodnight Program Ambassador, and even finds time to play on the Goodnight Intramural Soccer team, showcasing his leadership and teamwork skills.

Envisioning a Future of Efficiency

Looking ahead, Ashton envisions a future where healthcare systems operate with machine-like precision, where patient care is swift, and emergency responses are executed with clockwork efficiency. He dreams of harnessing the power of data analytics to develop predictive models that can revolutionize decision-making in healthcare and disaster management.

Ashton Sumpter stands as a testament to the potential of the youth of today — a beacon of hope and a harbinger of change. His story is just beginning, and the world waits with bated breath for the impact he will undoubtedly make.