Isabella Evangelista named Baxter-Bryan Scholar for 2024-25

Isabella Evangelista of Duluth, Georgia, was named Brenau's 2024-25 Baxter-Bryan Scholarship recipient. Evangelista was recognized among her peers and classmates at Honors Convocation on Thursday, April 18.

"It feels unreal," the junior biology major said. Evangelista had heard about the scholarship and focused on her grades in hopes of winning the prestigious award.

"Anything is possible when you work for it," Evangelista said. "You just have to put in the work, even if it means staying up late studying, or not going out with your friends. It's totally worth it."

A rising senior in The Women's College has been named a Baxter-Bryan Scholar each year since 1990. The award was established by Joe W. Baxter, who named the scholarship for his sister and Brenau alumna, Carfax Baxter, and friend, Morris Bryan Jr.

The Sidney O. Smith Jr. Scholarship was presented to the Baxter-Bryan runner-up Imani Tornes.

"Receiving this award is not just an honor, it is a reflection of the generous support that has helped to shape my dedication and perseverance in college so far," Tornes said. "This award is a reminder that hard work and determination can open doors to endless opportunities, and I am grateful for the support that has empowered me to pursue my academic goals."

Four other Women's College students were awarded the Provost's Scholarship: Sasha Baker, Egypt Byrd, Erin Delaney, and Sarah DeLay. The Provost Scholarship is awarded to the finalists for the Baxter-Bryan award.

Other prestigious scholarships announced include:

• Mary Mildred Sullivan Award: Junior Cailyn Rhodes
• Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award: Junior Bladimir Rodrigues
• Women's Leadership Colloquium Scholarship: Junior Raven Winder and Sophomore Kristina Radovic
• Halberg Award: Senior Jasmin Mitchell
• Spirit of Brenau Award: Junior India Williams

Each department presented individual awards to students.

Faculty awards were announced following the student recognition. Associate Professor of Anatomy & Genetics Dr. Greg Marshall was named the Ann Austin Johnston Award recipient for 2024, and Assistant Professor of Art & Design Huy Chu was honored with the Vulcan Award. Professor of Occupational Therapy Dr. Irma Alverado and Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy Dr. Amanda Buono were named Outstanding Part-Time Faculty.

Assistant Vice President and Dean of The Women's College Dr. Debra Dobkins also announced the inaugural members of the Senior Leadership Society. Based on a previous secret society at Brenau, the group aims to recognize exceptional rising seniors who are devoted to Brenau. The 2024-25 Senior Leadership Society consists of Erin Delaney, Sarah DeLay, Shaloom Delgado, Calli Edens, Lily Hart and Tivona Myles.

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