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Making A Difference Scholarship
Featured Scholarship Recipients
Deona Davis
2023 Recipient
UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA:
Bachelor of Science in Education
Atlanta John Marshall School of Law: Juris Doctor
Reflection:
Reflecting on the impact of the Witherite’s scholarship on my academic journey, one word cannot encapsulate the profound influence it has had on me. I remember when Ms. Witherite presented our awards at my high school. She encouraged those interested in law to reach out to her and promise her support. Ms. Witherite has been true to her word, going above and beyond to guide me. Thanks to her generosity, I’ve had the opportunity to witness a deposition at her firm—an experience that would have been out of reach without her belief in my abilities.
Coming from a community with limited resources for guidance and mentorship, the support I’ve received from Ms. Witherite and her team has been transformative. Their belief in me has not only opened doors but has instilled in me a greater sense of confidence and determination as I pursue my ambitions in law.
Receiving the scholarship has profoundly impacted my educational journey by providing significant financial relief, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my studies without the constant worry of tuition fees and other expenses. This financial support has not only alleviated the burden of potential student debt but has also enabled me to pursue opportunities such as internships and research projects that enrich my academic experience. Additionally, the scholarship has validated my hard work and dedication, motivating me to strive for excellence and furthering my ambition to achieve my long-term career goals.
McKenzie Howard
2020 Recipient
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT DALLAS:
Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience
TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE:
Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology
Reflection:
McKenzie Howard, a 2020 “Making a Difference” Scholarship recipient, earned her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2024. Now working as a Recovery Tech at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Transplant Services Center, with aspirations of advancing to a full-time role. The scholarship has supported her pursuit of postgraduate certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
During her time at UTD, McKenzie actively participated in women’s basketball from 2020-2022 and competed in the accredited “Big Idea” competition, one of North Texas’s largest entrepreneurship events. This event highlights top undergraduate and graduate students who pitch innovative ideas to a panel of judges and peers. The “Making a Difference” Scholarship has also provided the opportunity to expand her professional development with certifications in ARRT and BMET.
Laurent Shumbusha
2018 Recipient
TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY:
Bachelor & Master of Criminology and Criminal Justice
TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE:
Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology
Reflection:
Laurent Shumbusha, a 2018 “Making a Difference” Scholarship recipient graduated with both his bachelor’s and master’s in criminology and criminal justice from Texas Christian University. Currently, Laurent is pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology at Tarrant County College, with plans to join the Air Force as an officer. He will take the AFOQT in December 2024 to qualify for cyber warfare training in 2026. Learn more about how the “Making a Difference” Scholarship has significantly affected Laurent’s educational and career goals.
“I just graduated from TCU with a master’s degree, and I am looking toward joining the Air Force as an officer. This will take about 2 years, so I don’t want to sit on the sideline waiting. That is why I decided to continue my education in those two years at TCC.”
The ‘Making a Difference’ Scholarship truly has made a difference in my life. Starting in 2018, it has provided funds that allowed me to purchase essential dorm materials and school supplies, ensuring a smooth transition into university life. During my pursuit of a master’s degree, the continued financial support from the scholarship was instrumental in lowering my student loan burden enabling me to focus more on my studies and less on financial stress. This scholarship has truly been a cornerstone in my academic journey, providing both immediate and long-term benefits.
