Spring Branch ISD Featured News

In a surprise scholarship announcement that left her speechless, Madison Lybarger, a senior at Westchester Academy for International Studies (WAIS), was awarded the C. Jackson Grayson Scholarship Award in the amount of $100,000 from the American Productivity & Quality Center (APQC).

Representatives from APQC, WAIS administrators, as well as Madison’s mother, grandmother and gymnastics coaches were in on the surprise and were present to celebrate this achievement.

This is one of four prestigious scholarships APQC is giving to graduating seniors in the Houston area this school year. Though focused primarily on financial need, this scholarship aims to support students who demonstrate excellent leadership skills throughout their school careers. In addition to this scholarship, Madison will have the opportunity to have a paid summer internship, mentorship and skill development with APQC.

“We’re looking to award these life-changing scholarships to those with a drive to succeed but who do not have a financial path forward to make that a reality,” noted Ashley White, executive director of human resources at APQC and head of the scholarship initiative.

Described as a well-rounded student, Madison maintains a 4.0 GPA and excels in school. Outside the classroom, she works part-time and is also dedicated to gymnastics, even spending some of her free time working with younger gymnastics students at her gym.

“Madison represents all that we want to see from our students at WAIS. It’s been a pleasure as a school community to have been a part of her development since sixth grade when she began here,” shared WAIS Principal Valerie Hernandez. “Pursuing her goals academically, serving her community and excelling in an active lifestyle through gymnastics is the trifecta we love to see in our students. She is an amazing young lady!”

Madison has plans to attend the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, Texas and will compete on its acrobatics and tumbling team.

Spring Branch ISD and WAIS are extremely proud of Madison and wish her all the best as she embarks on her T-2-4 journey!

See KHOU coverage of the scholarship surprise.

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