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American University Student Sarata Gumaneh Named Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar

    awarded scholarship for studying elementary education

    Washington D.C. (April 23, 2024) –  American University student Sarata Gumaneh has been named a Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar and awarded a $1500 scholarship in recognition of her inspiring leadership, personal narrative, and academic achievement.

    The Nancy Larson Foundation proudly supports students across the country majoring in elementary education by awarding scholarships to deserving students each year. Gumaneh is one of nine recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.

    In her personal narrative, Sarata explained, “My journey toward becoming a teacher was significantly influenced by a life-changing experience when I was 12 years old. During a two-month stay in Koina, Gambia, visiting family, I realized the true value of the free education I received in the USA. None of my relatives in Gambia had access to education due to its high cost. By the time I left Gambia, I had the heartwarming experience of teaching many of my cousins how to write their names. Witnessing their happiness and eagerness to learn left a profound impact on me. This experience shaped my perspective on education and reinforced my commitment to become a teacher.”

    “Sarata’s personal story about her time in Gambia was such a good reminder of how important it is to not just get an education but to have access to an education,” remarked Nancy Larson. “She truly sees this importance and how life changing it can be. She will definitely carry this through to her students and be a force in changing lives.”  

    Larson, an author,  former teacher, and curriculum director, has dedicated her life to advancing elementary education. Nancy Larson® Science K–5 programs are classroom-tested and 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.

    About Nancy Larson Foundation

    The Nancy Larson Foundation, founded in 2006 in Old Lyme, CT, awards prospective elementary educators scholarships to encourage and support their education. For more information, visit www.nancylarsonfoundation.org