Ambitious Students and Unique Scholarship Opportunities

This week, we honored the Class of 2012’s valedictorians and salutatorians at our annual Scholars Banquet, and I just could not be more pleased with the level of talent I saw there.

I spoke briefly with salutatorian George Smith Jr., who will graduate with a pilot’s license as well as a high school diploma from Sterling High School next week. And two of our valedictorians—Davion Antwine (Furr HS) and Chiquita Davis (DeVry AA@CLC)—are graduating this spring after completing their course requirements an entire year early.

Now, earning a high school diploma in only three years is a considerable feat in and of itself, but to do so at the top of their respective classes makes it particularly impressive—and my hat is off to them.

Another thing I noticed is the sheer variety of scholarships our students are finding to finance their college ambitions.

For instance, Kalyn Mayer (Waltrip HS) received a scholarship from the Congress of Houston Teachers, something only available to children of members, while Juana Martinez (HAIS) received a scholarship from the Simmons Foundation through a similar program at The Redstone Companies.

Other seniors received scholarships from the Gee Family Association, the Haraldson Foundation, the TPC Group (formerly Texas Petrochemicals), the National Consolidated Licensed Beverage Association, the Pan American Round Table of Houston, and the Chinese Professional Club of Houston—a total of more than $145 million as of Monday.

A lot of people are familiar with the scholarships offered by the Houston Endowment and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, but these students are broadening their horizons to scope out less obvious options—and frankly, I admire their resourcefulness.

The ability to find alternative solutions is a trait that will serve them well throughout their lives, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these industrious students.