Morgan Robertson
Most students at SHSU face some level of financial insecurity–but, fortunately, our alumni and external partners have proved generous, donating (literally) millions a year toward scholarships. And each year, University Advancement at SHSU brings together scholarship recipients and their donors for a celebratory lunch and this year, Michelle, Olivia and I were honored to attend.
Michelle and Olivia were recipients of the Andrew and Ila Martinez Memorial Scholarship in Public Service, granted by Russell Martinez (Associate Athletic Director and long-time friend to the LEAP Ambassadors) as well as Wayne and Andrea (Martinez) Scott. Olivia and Michelle were fortunate to already know Russell, but the lunch offered them a great opportunity to meet Mr. and Mrs. Scott. And for most of the scholarship recipients, this may be the only way they have a chance to meet and thank the donors.
I was honored to receive the Bertha Kirkley Scholarship from the Sam Houston Memorial Museum. The Museum Director, Derrick Birdsall, was on hand as the donor representative, and I have been fortunate to know Mr. Birdsall for some time.
For me, this scholarship was full circle. Bertha Kirkley, a history professor at SHSU, was instrumental in securing some of the land that now makes up the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, and she is also buried at Oakwood Cemetery–where I’ve done some volunteer work! Interestingly, the Museum grounds was one of the first sites I visited when touring SHSU, and the beauty and history of the Museum and its grounds were instrumental in getting me to SHSU.
There were many familiar faces in attendance that afternoon, and we had the chance to socialize a bit before lunch. Nancy Gaertner graciously joined me for a photo, and it is always nice to see her!
We were delighted to sit near Mac and Leanne Woodward and their scholarship recipient, Casey Bowers, an accounting major.
To kick off the luncheon, Matthew Bethea, Vice President of University Advancement, thanked all those who made such an event possible and reinforced the many reasons that make these relationships so important. With community members, SHSU alumni, and students alike joining forces to represent our university, we are building on top of a worldwide network of individuals dedicated to serving their communities.
President White took the stage and beamed with joy as she addressed the audience of students and donors alike.
With the support of the generous donors, scholarships totaling $6,000,000 were awarded to students in the 2023-2024 academic year. We are grateful we were among those who benefit from the generosity of alumni, faculty, and staff.
Sheri Robinson, SHSU Alum and CFO of Reynolds and Reynolds, also offered remarks, while announcing that her company has pledged $100,000 in scholarships for Bearkats.
As a senior this year, it is my last Scholarship Luncheon (as a recipient!), and I am very grateful for the generosity shown to me, not only in terms of financial donations, but also in terms of mentorship and friendships–not the least of which is Derrick Birdsall.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 