By Jordan Favors | Howard Payne University’s rising juniors have a unique academic opportunity that emphasizes civic engagement and leadership thanks to the Sumners Foundation.
The Sumners Foundation offers a scholarship that includes invitations to events, such as intensive policy weekends and leadership seminars, featuring some of the world’s most notable leaders. Additionally, Sumners Scholars receive $7,500 per semester for four semesters.
Monica Garza, a current Sumners Scholar, stated that the scholarship has been a blessing for her.
“The Sumners Foundation has given my family financial stability for the remainder of my college career,” said Garza.
Howard Payne hosted a Sumners Social event on Jan. 17 to encourage students to apply for this scholarship program.
Garza enjoyed talking with students at the social and encouraging them to apply when eligible.
“There was a pretty big turnout which is awesome. I got to talk to a certain student who is also an Elementary Education major, and I was able to encourage her,” said Garza.
Garza suggested that all rising juniors should apply because the opportunities as a Sumners Scholar can allow students to become successful in many ways.
“I was hesitant to apply, and I felt intimidated by the other candidates because they were phenomenal students and people. Now, I am a Sumners Scholar, and I can share my experiences with other students and show them that anything is possible if you try and put your heart into it,” said Garza.
The Sumners Foundation’s mission is “to encourage the study, teaching, and research into the science and art of self-government, to the end that the American People may understand the fundamental principles of democracy and be guided thereby in shaping governmental policies.”
If you’d like to take advantage of this highly competitive and richly rewarding scholarship program you can contact Shannon Sims for more information. Additionally, scholarship applications are due Feb. 12.