Meet the Newest Smith-Hutson Scholars
![Newest Smith-Hutson Scholars](/today%40sam/heritage-online/spring-2022/images/newest-smith-hutson-scholars-good-crop.png)
Meet a few of SHSU’s newest and brightest ’21-’22 Bearkats, joining the campus community with the distinguished title of Smith-Hutson Scholars.
![Portrait of Brianna Reyes](/today%40sam/images2/2021/brianna-reyes.jpg)
Brianna Reyes
Dayton, Texas
Education & Composite Science
Becoming a Smith-Hutson scholar has completely changed my perspective on the future by giving me something to look forward to. This opportunity not only funds my education, but it also offers a family and a home away from home. I’m excited to change lives in my future career as a science teacher, and as a friend, sister and proud Smith-Hutson scholar.
![Portrait of Maci Wingfield](/today%40sam/images2/2021/macy-winfield.jpg)
Maci Wingfield
Kirbyville, Texas
Business
A great education is a privilege some can't access, and it shouldn't be taken for granted. I would love to use this education opportunity to accomplish all of my goals and then, help others through their college experience, like the Smith-Hutson program is doing for me.
![Portrait of Thomas Chambers Jr.](/today%40sam/images2/2021/thomas-chambers.jpg)
Thomas Chambers Jr.
Hubbard, Texas
Communication Studies
I’m most excited to be a part of the Smith-Hutson community. I know this group will help me make friends that will make my college experience so much better. The biggest aspect that made Sam stand apart from others was the campus. I visited several other universities, and they fell short compared to Sam.
![Portrait of Karen Garcia](/today%40sam/images2/2021/karen-garcia.jpg)
Karen Carreon Garcia
Giddings, Texas
Public Health
Being a part of this program has allowed me to see that I can attend a four-year university. During high school, I thought this would not be possible financially since my twin sister and I were going to enter this new chapter together. SHSU gave me the feeling of being a part of a family community, which is something that was important to me when looking at different campuses.
![Portrait of Sofia Pereira](/today%40sam/images2/2021/sofia-pereira.jpg)
Sofia Pereira
Houston, Texas
Pre-Nursing
This opportunity has definitely changed my perspective of the future. I have a brighter outlook on what I’m capable of achieving. It has provided me with a fueled ambition aimed towards becoming a more diligent version of myself. I look forward to attending campus events, exploring organizations, and taking part in volunteer activities.
![Portrait of Angelica Ricks](/today%40sam/images2/2021/angelica-ricks.jpg)
Angelica Ricks
La Porte, Texas
History and Education
I am more confident because I can see that going to college is affordable and I can get it done. I am looking forward to setting my own path and making decisions that are right for me and my future.
![Portrait of Heidi Parra](/today%40sam/images2/2021/heidi-parra.jpg)
Heidi Parra
Houston, Texas
History
I set my mind to become a Smith-Hutson scholar and now that I am one, my hope for a better future has gone through the roof. I realize I have what it takes to achieve my goals. I'm looking forward to making long, lasting connections that will help me grow professionally and as a person.
![Portrait of Kara Fleming](/today%40sam/images2/2021/kara-fleming.jpg)
Kara Fleming
Georgetown, Texas
Education
I am incredibly grateful for everything the Smith-Hutson program has given me! It has opened so many opportunities. Without it, I likely wouldn’t have been able to attend SHSU. Now, I hope to graduate and start my career without having to worry about student loan debt, which will make it so much easier to support myself.