Chicago, IL (February 15, 2021) – Loyola University student Patricia Valbuena 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. Valbuena is one of eight recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.
In her personal narrative Valbuena shared, “My parents sacrificed all they knew to travel to an unknown country from the Philippines to give me a better life. They helped me excel in school. As a teacher, I want to instill this mentality in my own students. My parents did their best to decrease the education disadvantage that I possessed as an immigrant and first-generation college student. I am dedicated to providing high-quality education to my future students. My experience as a student and student teacher has provided me with various strategies to teach students with different learning styles and needs.”
“Patricia’s life experiences and commitment to education and educating others impressed us,” remarked Nancy Larson. “She has proven that she is very dedicated and will be a great role model and teacher.”
Larson, a former teacher and curriculum director, has dedicated her life to advancing elementary education. Nancy Larson Science K–5 programs are classroom-tested and 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.