Gainesville, FL (February 15, 2021) – University of Florida student Makeela Hawkins 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. Hawkins is one of eight recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.
In her personal narrative, Makeela explained that she was inspired to become a teacher by her family of educators. “I used to play teacher as a child and was a peer tutor in middle school. Loving to use my creativity and innovation to help others understand concepts, I chose education as a career because I enjoy seeing children succeed. I am resilient and determined and refuse to quit until I know that my students fully understand a topic and can teach it back to me. I believe my purpose on this Earth is to serve as a teacher.”
“Makeela’s drive, passion and dedication really inspired the committee,” remarked Nancy Larson. “She has proven that she will prevail and be a great 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.