Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar
Quincy, MA ( May 10, 2018 ) – Assumption College student Julianna Montminy has been named a Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar and awarded a $1000 scholarship in recognition of her inspiring personal narrative, excellent academic record and spirit of community service.
The Nancy Larson Foundation proudly supports students across the country majoring in elementary education by awarding scholarships to deserving students each year. Montminy is one of ten recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.
In her personal narrative, Julie explained why she was inspired to become a teacher. “It is hard to believe that I disliked school when I first started,” Julie said. “Yet this changed when I entered first grade. Ms. Julie Callahan was my first grade teacher and she quickly helped me adjust to her classroom environment. In her classroom I felt safe and cared for and when Ms. Callahan taught, she supported her students’ interests and believed wholeheartedly in each student’s ability to succeed. She took the time to foster community in her classroom that would set a precedent for relationships later in life.” Julie added, “It is because of Ms. Callahan’s belief in me and in all of her students that I want to teach children the value of laughter, the joy of reading and the success of spelling. When I was born, my father held me in his hand, and throughout life I’ve known the strength and comfort that comes with a helping hand. I want to be that helping hand, to share dedication, love, humor and strength with my students. I cannot imagine a more satisfying career.”
“Julie really moved our committee with her personal experience as a child learning with her favorite teacher Ms. Callahan. She is just the type of dedicated teacher we like to support,” said Nancy Larson.
Juniors, seniors and graduate students who have declared an elementary education major are invited to submit a personal narrative about why they want to teach, what personal experiences they have had that inspired them to teach and what will make them excellent teachers. Applicants are also asked to include community service activities and experiences they have had working with children.
Larson, a former teacher and curriculum director, has dedicated her life to advancing elementary education. Nancy Larson Science K–5 programs were developed because teachers needed a classroom-tested science program that would prepare children for upper-level science classes and careers in science. The program was written to provide in-depth science content in an easy-to-teach format.