Eight Nacogdoches ISD musicians have received scholarships from Pilgrim’s to attend the Stephen F. Austin State University Summer Band Camp, thanks to a proposal written by band director Jessica White.
The scholarships ranged from $175 to $525 and will help cover the tuition, housing, and meals during the week-long camp. The annual camp, hosted by SFA’s School of Music, offers young musicians the opportunity to improve their skills, work with college-level instructors, and perform in a final showcase concert.
White, who organized the scholarship effort, expressed gratitude for Pilgrims’ support. “I want to sincerely thank Pilgrim’s for their generous donation that made these scholarships possible,” White said. “Because of their support, eight Nac ISD students will have the opportunity to attend SFA’s summer band camp – an experience that can truly be life-changing.
This year’s scholarship recipients are:
Ja’Kai O’Bryant (sixth grade), Katie Rose Lathan (seventh grade), Berenice Mendoza (eighth grade), Omar Colin (eighth grade), Abraham Jasso (10th grade), Lilianna Hernandez (10th grade), Shelby Mejia (10th grade), and Emmanuel Vera (12th grade).
These musicians were selected based on their dedication to music and commitment to improving their craft, White said. For many of them, this will be their first experience on a college campus and at the SFA Band Camp.
“Band camp not only helps students grow as musicians by challenging them and exposing them to new techniques and instructors, but it also builds their confidence, independence, and teamwork,” said White. “It's an environment where they can be inspired, make lifelong memories, and realize just how far their dedication to music can take them.”
Pilgrim’s, a long standing supporter of educational and extracurricular programs in Nacogdoches, emphasized its commitment to investing in local youth and the company’s ongoing commitment to education and youth development.
The band camp will take place this summer at SFA in Nacogdoches, drawing hundreds of young musicians from across Texas.
For these eight students, the week at camp promises not only musical enrichment but also a summer experience they won’t soon forget, White said.
Ja’Kai O’Bryant
Berenice Mendoza
Omar Colin
Shelby Mejia
Abraham Jasso
Katie Rose Lathan
Lilianna Hernandez
Emmanuel Vera