THIBODAUX – In memory of Robyn Adele Ford, a Nicholls State University education student who passed away this week after a battle with cancer, the Nicholls College of Education has joined Ford’s family in establishing a memorial scholarship for high-achieving students who have also contended with the disease.
“Words do not suffice in describing Robyn,” Dr. Elizabeth Block, assistant professor of teacher education, said. “She was a young woman of intelligence, beauty, strength, wisdom, laughter and grace. Robyn entered Nicholls knowing she wanted to teach young children. As a PK-3 major she demonstrated a natural talent in teaching children. She was unparalleled as a teacher candidate, but it was her spirit that truly distinguished her from others. She taught us about living life with joy and dying with grace. Following is a profound quote that Robyn shared last week: ‘I want to teach everyone that you can smile until the end.’”
Dr. David Boudreaux, vice president for institutional advancement, said he is honored to “work with a faculty that is so caring and so tuned in to their students. For them to join together to establish a scholarship in this manner is an indication of just how special they are, and how special this student was. My staff and I take great inspiration from all who were involved.”
To be eligible for the scholarship, a student must be a teacher education major; a full time student at Nicholls; maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better; demonstrate financial need; submit a letter demonstrating how he or she embodies the personal attributes of Ford in his or her professional aspirations; and have had his or her life touched by cancer, either as a survivor or as one who is currently battling the disease. Members of the Robyn Adele Ford Scholarship Fund will select the recipient based on these criteria.
The award shall first be established as an “in-and-out” scholarship, with the Nicholls Friends of Education depositing and raising funds each semester. Later, the family or Friends of Education may elect to convert the scholarship to a permanently endowed status.
For additional information, call the Office of Financial Aid at (985) 448-4048, or go to www.nicholls.edu/finaid/.
