Paige Johnson, a sophomore at the University of Evansville (UE), has been named a “Realizing the Dream” recipient by Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI). Made possible by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., this scholarship program annually recognizes 30 first-generation college students from ICI’s private, non-profit colleges and universities. Students are selected for the $3,000 award for outstanding achievement during their freshman year as they successfully advance toward completing their bachelor’s degrees.
“Being a first-generation college student is important to me, because I am doing what my family has been dreaming about for generations,” said Johnson. “By going to school, I am securing a future for myself and further generations.”
Each recipient was also given the opportunity to recognize an influential educator in their life. Johnson recognized Kyle Brasher, an English and history teacher at Gibson Southern High School in Fort Branch. “He really inspired me to attend college and pursue the field I am studying now,” she said. “Mr. Brasher taught me how society functions through both history and literature.”
The program historically honored recipients, their families and influential educators at an annual event. However, due to the current pandemic, organizers created individual videos of each student describing what it means to them to be a first-generation college student and thanking the influential educator they have chosen to honor. Videos can be found at icindiana.org/rtd.
“Thanks to the continued support of Lilly Endowment, we get the opportunity to hear the inspiring stories of these first-generation students and the impact local educators have had on their drive to succeed academically,” ICI President & CEO David W. Wantz said. “Especially during these challenging times, these scholarship awards will provide critical support for these young people who are dreaming of future success.”
In addition to the students’ scholarship awards, the influential educators also receive $1,000 in professional development grants.
