MAGNOLIA, Ark. - A Southern Arkansas University Hallman Scholarship has been awarded to Kenzie Cowan a woman from Foreman, Arkansas, who will begin studies this fall.
Kenzie, an honor student-athlete and graduate of Foreman High School, chose SAU on the strong reputation of its Science and Engineering Department.
"SAU reminds me of my hometown," she said. "Growing up in a small town truly gives me an understanding of SAU's motto, 'feels like home.'"
Kenzie said she has wanted a career in engineering for a long time, having citing her love over the years for Legos, robot kits and Lincoln Logs.
"I was always inventing, designing and building things. However, during high school and as I became more involved in the community, I realized that I also want to help people," she said. "That's when I decided to become either an occupational therapist or an optometrist."
She said these fields incorporate all her favorite classes and subjects in the sciences, and give her "an opportunity to study biochemistry, genetics and neuroscience."
Her mother, an occupational therapist, inspired her to study the sciences.
"She's always come home with a sense of accomplishment and reward by helping others," Kenzie said.
Having worn eyeglasses since a young age, Becky said she is thankful for doctors who have helped her to see clearly.
"I would be grateful for the opportunity to provide that same service to others."
(A second Hallman Scholarship was awarded to Mallory Bell of Rison.)