Bright Minds, the Cousin family, and Jack & Jill of America are proud to support the college journey of Gretchen Halsey, a 2024 Howard Community College graduate! Gretchen was a recipient of the 2024 Dr. Sydney L. Cousin Memorial Scholarship, awarded to an outstanding Howard Community College graduate who is committed to becoming a public school educator or administrator.
Learn about Gretchen’s college experiences in her own words below.
Name: Gretchen Halsey
College attended: Howard Community College
What college will you attend: Towson University
What is your major: Education
What does the Dr. Sydney L. Cousin Scholarship mean to you?
Similar to Dr. Cousin, my dedication to education is not limited to the confines of a curriculum; it extends far beyond the four walls of the classroom. Receiving this scholarship is not just a financial aid; it’s a beacon of hope that will illuminate the path towards achieving my goals in public education. With this support, I will be able to further my education, gain invaluable insights and experiences. Every opportunity afforded to me through this scholarship will be a stepping stone towards realizing my dream.
Describe your post-college goals/dreams?
One of my core goals is to implement personalized learning strategies tailored to the individual needs of each student. By understanding their unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations, I aim to cultivate a supportive learning environment where every learner feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. It’s a vision rooted in empathy, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized learners, guiding them through the labyrinth of adversity towards a brighter future.
What is one piece of advice you have for future “older/seasoned” students graduating from Howard Community College?
Always be reminded that it’s not the challenges you face that define us but how we choose to overcome them! My journey is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others.
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To learn more about establishing a scholarship with Bright Minds, view our scholarship planning guide. Contributions to the Sydney L. Cousin Memorial Scholarship can be made via our website HERE, or by check to the Bright Minds Foundation, 10910 Clarksville Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042. Please designate Sydney Cousin in the comment field or memo line.
About Bright Minds Foundation
Bright Minds Foundation is the Howard County public schools education foundation. We work to ensure each child in Howard County has access to the education, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed at school and in life. We do this by bringing together community support for programs and initiatives that increase education access, equity, and innovation. Bright Minds programs respond to the urgent and ongoing needs of children in four areas: digital inclusion and access to learning, literacy & kindergarten readiness, college access, and teacher support & classroom innovation. To learn more and contribute, please visit brightmindsfoundation.org/donate.
