Gabrielle Wallace speaks.
Douglas County Democratic Women announced scholarship awards to three Douglas High School students who will start college this fall.
In addition to consideration of academic achievement, community involvement, and financial need, Adaline Doerr, Isabella Flynn, and Gabrielle Wallace were required to write an essay drawing from the Democratic Credo. The three students were invited to read their essays at the June luncheon.
Doerr addressed the importance of healthy families in her essay. Among her many extracurricular activities, she has worked with elementary school children as a volunteer aide and mentor. Her essay honors her parents for creating a loving and stable home where she could grow and thrive.
“Their constant protection, love, and care provided me with a solid foundation. I believe I have an obligation to help others who are less fortunate.” Her essay ends with this statement: “In my capacity as a childcare worker, I enjoyed spreading joy and interacting with the toddlers and children. As a voter, I will continue supporting programs and legislators who promote and advocate (for) healthy families.”
Doerr will be attending Boise State University, and her interests include kinesiology and dental hygiene.
Flynn also wrote about the importance of families and the safety of children. As a volunteer at Gardnerville Elementary School, she observed all kinds of students with different home lives. “I get to see firsthand how kids benefit from instruction when their basic needs are met, and I witness the struggle that children who come from challenging homes experience,” she wrote. “The protection of children is essential to our nation’s growth. It is in our hands, we parents, we teachers, we students. What we do and how we say things affects children and their ability to learn and grow. I plan to fully use my skills to educate our children and provide equal opportunity for all.” Isabella will attend UNR and study speech pathology.
Wallace focused on the importance of a society where the civil rights of minorities are protected and where no one is denied the opportunity for a better life. Gabi’s family has had firsthand experience with discrimination as part of their immigrant experience, and she acknowledges their strength and influence in her essay.
“They have taught me that there are two essential components tantamount to immigration success in America: English language acquisition and education.” Thus, she sees the importance of bilingual education, and the need for more programs. “Bilingualism allows new citizens to access social connections, civic participation, job opportunities and education. States can empower these newest arrivals by providing bilingual education and support to underprivileged minorities.”
Gabrielle will attend Michigan State University and study marketing and finance.
Applications for 2024 scholarships will be distributed to high schools in the Fall.
DCDW meets monthly, usually the first Monday, for a luncheon and program. DCDW welcomes all Democrats and others interested. Information at https://dcdwomen.net/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DCDW.Nevada/
