Six dedicated nursing students at Paris Junior College have been given a helping hand from the Roan Oak Masonic Lodge #860 of Garretts Bluff. The lodge generously granted £500 scholarships to Kelsey Evans, Crystal Fuller, Isaac Castillo, Leticia Hernandez, Jordan Martin, and Brenda Martinez, enabling them to pursue their dreams of becoming nurses.
The scholarships, presented by Worshipful Master Logan Thomas, Senior Deacon Pat Thomas, and Master of Ceremonies/Scholarship Committee Chair Alan Tapp, were a welcome relief for the recipients. “It allows me to cover costs for my nursing career,” shared Castillo, while Evans added, “Because of this scholarship, I am able to complete nursing school and still take care of my kids at home.”
Roan Oak Lodge #860, chartered through the Grand Lodge of Texas, AF&AM, organizes fundraising events like an annual Fish Fry and pancake breakfast to support causes like these scholarships. “The scholarship takes a big financial burden off and helps me further my education,” said Martinez, expressing her gratitude for the support.
In addition to the financial assistance, the students also received encouragement and praise from the members of the Roan Oak Lodge. Commenting on the initiative, Thomas stated, “This is fun, and it goes to a good cause and supports our community. It’s a privilege to do this every year.”
The impact of the scholarships extends beyond just financial assistance. Tamera Lewis, PJC’s Director of Nursing, expressed her appreciation for the Roan Oak Masonic Lodge’s longstanding support, calling it a “wonderful partnership that goes back a long way.”
The scholarships not only provide tangible aid for the students but also serve as a source of inspiration and motivation. Alan Tapp, the Scholarship Committee Chair, highlighted the pleasure of working with PJC and their nursing program, emphasizing the positive impact of the initiative.
For those interested in learning about scholarship opportunities at Paris Junior College, the Health Occupations Division can be reached at 903-782-0734. And for anyone considering supporting students like Evans, Fuller, Castillo, Hernandez, Martin, and Martinez, please contact the college at 903-782-0425.
The Roan Oak Masonic Lodge’s support for PJC nursing students is a testament to the power of community and the willingness to invest in the future. It’s a tale of generosity, hope, and determination – a tale that inspires others to support and champion aspiring nurses as they work towards making a difference in the healthcare industry.
