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The past year has been an exciting one for Breanne Elizabeth Lawrence. She graduated from Johnson City’s LBJ High School in May 2008, was one of three scholarship recipients from the Johnson City Community Education Foundation, and began to pursue her dreams of obtaining a higher education. Now, Breanne is about to complete her freshman year, studying communications at Schreiner University, a private liberal arts university in Kerrville.

“I chose Schreiner University because of its small class size,” Breanne said. “Growing up in a small learning environment in Johnson City helped me realize that I didn’t want to go somewhere huge and get lost in the crowd. I love Schreiner because the professors are genuinely interested in helping me succeed.”

After graduating from Schreiner University in a few years, Breanne said she hopes to work for a company as a public relations specialist or as a writer for a magazine or newspaper. She is thankful to have the opportunity to pursue her dreams.

“I am so grateful for the scholarship JCCEF awarded me,” Breanne said. “The scholarship helped make it possible for me to attend an expensive school without having to worry too much about so many loans. I’m sure my parents are thankful as well since they pay a lot of my tuition.”

Breanne’s parents, Loretta and Rex Hackett, are Johnson City residents. Mrs. Hackett works at Johnson City Bank. Mr. Hackett is employed with Ford Engineering in San Antonio.

“They weren’t surprised when I won the scholarship because they knew that if I tried my hardest and pushed myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible that I wouldn’t leave home empty handed. I am so thankful for their support,” Breanne explained.

Looking back on her successful high school career, Breanne said that she has many wonderful memories from LBJ High School. “If I had to pick my ultimate favorite memory, it would be when our varsity basketball team made it to playoffs last year – my senior year. We worked so hard all year and overcame so many stereotypes and adversity,” Breanne recalled. “We played our hearts out and it paid off. I am so thankful to have been a part of the team and I learned so much as a leader and how hard work can help you succeed.”

Breanne offered some words of wisdom to current LBJ High school juniors who will be eligible for a JCCEF scholarship next year.

“I would tell students to apply for as many scholarships as possible. That is the number one priority. No matter how tired you are of writing and re-writing your name, you have a tremendous chance to achieve something great,” Breanne advised. “Number two, I’d like to remind them that a scholarship isn’t always just about your grade point average or GPA. Remember to stay involved in school activities as well as community activities. Lastly, show who you truly are and don’t forget that a good first impression means everything. Oh, one more thing, always send a thank you note, even if you don’t win the scholarship. It shows your good character even if the scholarship judges didn’t think you were right for the award.”

The Johnson City Community Education Foundation is currently in the process of interviewing and assessing LBJ High School seniors who applied for this year’s scholarships. JCCEF will announce the 2009 scholarship recipients during graduation ceremonies next month. Breanne looks forward to congratulating this year’s recipients and encourages everyone to support the Foundation as it helps JCISD students pursue their dreams of higher education.

“I want Johnson City residents to know that I am trying hard and succeeding in college,” Breanne said. “Choosing to experience learning at a higher level was the best decision I’ve made in my life thus far. It truly is a blessing to have this opportunity and I am constantly thanking those who made it possible. I’d like to add that the individuals and businesses that donate to JCCEF are doing a wonderful thing by making this scholarship opportunity possible. Even in a small town, people have big dreams. The Johnson City Community Education Foundation and its donors help students remember to keep reaching for the stars.”

Donations to the Johnson City Community Education Fund are always welcome. Make checks payable to JCCEF and send them to the Foundation at PO Box 1248, Johnson City, TX 78636. JCCEF is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Donations are tax deductible as allowed by Federal law.

Writers note: The Johnson City Community Education Foundation is attempting to follow up on all five past JCCEF scholarship recipients to provide a “Where are they now?” update for the Johnson City community.