Still, Caruth refused to slow down.
possible with talent, persistence, and the right support.
career, but the plan has always been to trust the process.”
“I definitely want to stay involved. Hopefully, one day I’ll be able to establish a scholarship,” Caruth shared. “It might take time, but I want to help build a real pipeline for students who want to break into motorsports.”
He soon caught the attention of NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity Driver Development Program, an initiative that gave him his breakthrough opportunity. “For me, it was my saving grace,” Caruth said. “It was my only shot to race.” From that moment forward, he hasn’t looked back, leveraging the platform to gain sponsorships, build his brand, and make history one lap at a time.
“Winning a NASCAR race and earning your degree in the same year is impressive,” said Brandon Thompson, NASCAR’s Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion. “Rajah sets a great example for what’s possible. We’re excited to see him continue to grow and contribute to the sport.”
He credits Winston-Salem State for helping shape both his professional and personal identity. “WSSU gave me more than just academic knowledge,” Caruth said. “It helped me grow into the kind of Black man who can carry himself with confidence in any professional setting, across the country and even the world.” Now, as an alumnus, he’s already looking ahead to how he can give back.
Despite his rapid rise, Caruth remains grounded and grateful.
“It still feels like I’m living in a dream,” he admitted. “It was definitely a surprise to accomplish all of this at this point in my
NASCAR officials say Caruth’s story is a testament to what’s
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