• September 15, 2016

CHHS ’16 Grad Receives First District 98 STEM Scholarship, Pursues Physics at Texas A&M

CHHS ’16 Grad Receives First District 98 STEM Scholarship, Pursues Physics at Texas A&M

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Grapevine resident Bella Austin graduated from Colleyville Heritage High School last spring, and is set to begin her college career at Texas A&M University, with a major in physics.

In August, Rep. Capriglione met Bella at an office supply store where she was working when she thanked him for sending a congratulatory letter for her acceptance to the NASA High School Aerospace Scholar (HAS)program, where she spent a week at NASA working with their engineers and scientists to create a mission to Mars. She shared how the program has allowed her to attend Texas A&M to pursue a degree in physics.

After visiting with her for a few minutes, Rep. Capriglione was so impressed by her ambition that he decided he wanted to a create a special scholarship for students residing in District 98 that wish to pursue degrees in science, technology, engineering or math. Rep. Capriglione also has a degree in physics and is a member of the Innovation & Technology Caucus of the Texas House. He says “students like Bella are paving the way for our future. They will make important discoveries and have an incredible impact on our lives. I want to support students like her through the establishment of this scholarship.”

As a Colleyville Heritage Panther, Bella participated in organizations such as the chemistry club, National Honor Society, and the student advisory board. After teaching herself competitive swimming techniques by watching YouTube videos and practicing in her apartment complex pool, she became captain of her water polo team where she was recently named MVP, and was a member of the high school swim team all four years.

Bella Austin is an incredible young woman and is the inspiration for this scholarship. Students interested in receiving a 2017 District 98 STEM Scholarship should contact the district office for more information. Congratulations Bella and best of luck at Texas A&M University.

—Press Release from Rep. Capriglione’s Office

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