2010-2011 Doug and Grace Laughlin Scholarship Winner: Mollie Newton
Mollie Newton has overcome multiple setbacks in her life. She attended eight different schools in three different states at a young age because of family migration. Despite the hardship in her life, Mollie has never let these extremely adverse situations bring her down. Instead, she chooses to be a stronger and better person.
“Through all of those trying times, I have learned to adapt to new situations and environments, grow stronger, remain diligent, and to take on challenges with integrity.” Mollie says.
Mollie flourished despite the challenges she has faced. She excelled in academics, sports and community service throughout her high school years. Mollie was on the Honor Roll for four successive years and tutored her peers after class. Mollie graduated with a 4.3 GPA and was ranked No. 4 out of 340 students.
In addition to an excellent academic performance, Mollie was also very active in extra-curricular activities. Some of the programs that she was involved in include Denver Public Schools High School Art Exhibits, Girl’s Varsity Gymnastics and National Honor Society. She earned the “Honored Athlete” status in her junior year and was elected co-president of the National Honor Society in her senior year.
Although Mollie struggled to financially support herself, she never forgot to give back to her community.
“I have learned that things such as emotion, a strong supportive family, friendship, and love are far more important than money.”
Mollie helped raise money for a disabled janitor at school, volunteered in the Food Bank of the Rockies and participated in a fundraising activity for Haiti. Through her family’s church, she donated Christmas gifts to impoverished children both across the world and locally through a program called Operation Christmas Child.
Going to college has always been one of Mollie’s dreams. However, the cost of attendance is a major obstacle for her. In order to save money and graduate faster, Mollie took classes at Arapahoe Community College and Seasoned Chef Cooking School.
“With this scholarship, I would look forward to pursuing my chosen career in the culinary field of baking and pastry arts. As a pastry chef/baker, I plan to move up through the ranks of the food world to eventually be able to own my own bakery, just as my great-grandfather did.”
Although Mollie was awarded a partial scholarship from Johnson and Wales University, the tuition is still too high for her to bear. Currently, she is earning her basic college credits from Metropolitan State College in Denver, Colorado before she transfers to Johnson and Wales University to compete culinary classes.
“Eventually I plan to help those who are even less fortunate than me because I know how they feel and I can potentially help them overcome their own obstacles.”
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The next scholarship winner could be you. Apply Now!
