Jefferson, TX — In a surprise ceremony at Jefferson High School, I’Tasia Rainge, a recent graduate, was awarded Texas Woman’s University’s (TWU) most prestigious scholarship, the Texas Woman’s Chancellor’s Endowed Scholarship. This significant scholarship, valued at approximately $60,000, covers tuition, fees, and other expenses for four years.
The announcement was made in front of an audience of 300 fellow students during a school assembly on May 17. Rainge was unaware of the impending award or the presence of TWU representatives, making the moment even more memorable.
Javier Flores, TWU’s Vice President for Enrollment Management, presented the award. He praised Rainge’s dedication to leadership and service, qualities that align closely with the values of TWU. In addition to the financial support, TWU Chancellor Carine Feyten will mentor Rainge throughout her university journey.
Rainge plans to enroll at TWU in the fall of 2024 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing, with aspirations of becoming a traveling pediatric nurse practitioner. Her decision is deeply influenced by her mother’s career as a Certified Nurses’ Aide and her experiences growing up in a single-parent household.
During her time at Jefferson High School, Rainge demonstrated exceptional academic and extracurricular achievements. She held leadership roles as president of the National Honor Society, Student Council, Health Occupations Students of America, and her junior and senior classes. Additionally, she was an active member of the Student Health Advisory Committee and the National Technical Honors Society, and served as the flute section leader in the school band.
Rainge’s commitment to service is evident through her volunteer work, which includes delivering Christmas gifts to disadvantaged children, creating and distributing blankets to nursing homes and animal shelters, and providing food and clothing to the homeless. Academically, she maintained a 4.28 GPA at Jefferson High School and a 3.9 GPA through the dual credit program with Panola College.
The Texas Woman’s Chancellor’s Endowed Scholarship is awarded annually to a Texas high school graduate who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and service. Rainge’s impressive record and dedication to her community made her a standout candidate for this honor.
Reflecting on her motivations, Rainge credited her mother for inspiring her career path in healthcare. In her application to TWU, she wrote, “My mom really shaped me into the person I am today… My whole life I’ve gotten to watch my mom work and experience the compassion and care she shows to her patients. That made me realize that I want a career in healthcare and that I wanted to help people, specifically babies, in need.”
Rainge’s story is a testament to the impact of hard work, dedication, and service, and she looks forward to continuing her education and making a difference in the healthcare field.
