Words carry immense power. They have the power to break people down, bring someone to tears or enact social changes. However, there is one word that reigns supreme – “yes” – three letters strung together that can alter a person’s life.
The Education Foundation of Harris County (EFHC) celebrated a dozen high school Class of 2026 graduates who were recently awarded scholarships that will support their nontraditional educational paths, whether that be attending trade school, enrolling in community college with plans to transfer or completing a certification/licensure program. In total, EFHC awarded $30,000 in scholarships to graduates from nine high schools representing six school districts.
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During the ceremony on July 23, Aixa Andrade was among several honorees who became emotional when presented with an EFHC Scholarship. The moment marked the culmination of hard work and determination throughout a period of struggle in her life.
“Receiving this scholarship fills me with gratitude, because it means my hard work is seen and my dreams have room to grow,” she said.
Andrade lost her grandmother during her freshman year at North Shore High School in the Galena Park Independent School District and described feeling like she lost a piece of herself. Soon after, she watched a cancer diagnosis almost fell her father.
She maintained her honors and pre-advanced placement academic standing as hospital visits became the new normal, and accumulating medical bills put a financial strain on her family. When Andrade attempted to start working to help support her three siblings, her father pushed back.
“He would say, ‘Mija, you have all your life to work, preserve your youth and education while you still have the chance. I work with my hands so you can work with your mind. Break the cycle,’” an emotional Andrade said.
Her father was the loudest person in the room as Andrade was awarded the $2,500 scholarship. She recently earned her associate’s degree and welding certifications from San Jacinto Community College – North Campus. Andrade plans to continue her welding education and start a career that will allow her to support her family while building her own future.
The scholarships represented “yes” to an opportunity, “yes” to believing in someone’s potential and “yes” to a future that seemed just out of reach for twelve students. One small word that has become the beginning of their next chapter.