July 16, 2024 - A recent Smithson Valley High School graduate, Briana Crosby, was surprised Monday morning with a personal visit from Texas State Senator Donna Campbell, M.D. who arrived in front of her home with a police escort, flowers and a special announcement.
Crosby was named the recipient of this year’s Texas Armed Services Scholarship from Senate District 25, which encompasses seven counties.
“We had a lot of applicants, but you outshined all of them,” Senator Campbell said. “I personally feel that the best type of leader is a servant leader, and that helped you stand out. You had servant leadership in your nomination.”
The 18-year-old who plans to attend Tarleton State University this fall to study nursing was visibly moved by the surprise and accepted the award with tears in her eyes and hugs for everyone. The scholarship provides $15,000 per year for up to 150 hours.
“Receiving this scholarship means more than I can say,” Crosby said. “My dad is past retirement age, but he’s still working to get me through college. With this scholarship, he’s able to retire after 54 years of working. I’m so grateful, because it means I can go to college without having to worry about not being able to afford it.”
She plans to commission into the United States Air Force after completing her college degree and follow in the footsteps of her father and her godparents who all served in the Air Force.
“I’m adopted from China, and I have been given so many opportunities here,” explains Briana. “I feel like serving in the military is my way of giving back to the country that has given me so much.”
She began attending Comal ISD as a 10th-grade student at SVHS and was involved in the NJROTC program, was a member of the National Honor Society and completed certified clinical medical assistant (CCMA) classes in the health science career program. She received three certifications including EKG, phlebotomy and medical assistant.
“I’ve been able to both be a leader and have servant-leadership qualities through my NJROTC unit as well as the NHS chapter,” Crosby said. “Through both, I’ve been able to participate in community service that’s built up my love for serving the community around me.”
Congratulations!
Photo Descriptions
-Recent Smithson Valley High School graduate Briana Crosby received the Texas Armed Service Scholarship from Senate District 25.
-Pictured from left is School Resource Officer and Comal County Sheriff’s Deputy Robert Martinez, Texas State Senator Donna Campbell, M.D., Briana Crosby, Ed Crosby, Sun Crosby and School Resource Officer and Comal County Sheriff’s Deputy Thomas Longoria.
-School Resource Officer and Comal ISD Sheriff’s Deputy Robert Martinez pictured with recent Comal ISD graduate Briana Crosby.
-Recent Smithson Valley High School graduate Briana Crosby hugs Texas State Senator Donna Campbell, M.D. after receiving the Texas Armed Service Scholarship from Senate District 25.
-Texas State Senator Donna Campbell, M.D., surprised recent Smithson Valley High School graduate Briana Crosby and her parents, Ed and Sun Crosby.