Auburn, AL (July 30, 2026) – Auburn University student Quinn O’Brien 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. O’Brien is one of seven recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.
In her personal narrative Quinn explained, “My inspiration to become a teacher was Mrs. Khan. She taught me perseverance when I got stuck or struggled and taught me new strategies. She never let me quit and I grew in her classroom. I want to be that teacher for my students. I plan to lead with love, acceptance, and support. I will make sure my students are able to persevere through their hardships, making sure to keep pushing them until they grow and learn. I want to be the teacher that my students look back on fondly and think about how much they grew in my classroom.”
“Quinn’s desire to apply her experiences to help others from a place of understanding, compassion, and support will form the foundation of a wonderful career in education,” remarked Nancy Larson. “She has the qualities to be a great teacher, a mentor, and a leader.”
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 elementary educator majors scholarships to encourage and support their education. For more information, visit www.nancylarsonfoundation.org.