Victoria Schaaf Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar
Salem, OR (February 6, 2019) – George Fox University student Victoria Schaaf has been named a Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar and awarded a $1000 scholarship in recognition of her inspiring leadership, personal narrative, and academic achievement.
The Nancy Larson Foundation proudly supports students across the country majoring in elementary education by awarding scholarships to deserving students each year. Schaaf is one of ten recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.
In her personal narrative, Victoria explained how she created a career in youth ministry, mentoring young girls and empowering children to be leaders in their schools. “However,” she said, “a loud desire to teach remained in me through all these experiences. In January of 2017, I told my grandfather Ed Tillis that I wanted to become a teacher like him. He simply replied, ‘No, be a better one.’ I knew these words said much about his belief in me and my ability to be a great educator. This experience solidified my desire to become an educator. I am a lifelong learner and I believe now is the time to learn a new field and begin a new journey as a full-time elementary school teacher.”
“Victoria’s extensive community service as a youth minister caught the selection committee’s attention and impressed us,” remarked Nancy Larson. “She has proven that she will prevail and be a great teacher.”
Juniors, seniors, and graduate students who have declared an elementary education major are invited to submit a personal narrative about why they want to teach, what personal experiences they have had that inspired them to teach, and what will make them excellent teachers. Applicants are also asked to include community service activities and experiences they have had working with children.
Larson, a former teacher and curriculum director, has dedicated her life to advancing elementary education. Nancy Larson Science K–5 programs were developed because teachers needed a classroom-tested science program that would prepare children for upper-level science classes and careers in science. The program was written to provide in-depth science content in an easy-to-teach format.