–Six DFW College-Bound Students Surprised with $10,000
Scholarships–
DALLAS – May 5, 2021 – The 2021
NFL Draft may be over, however, six DFW student-athletes received a big
surprise to kickstart their college careers yesterday as they were each presented
with $10,000 scholarships from Reliant and Dallas Cowboys Linebacker Jaylon
Smith. The new program, Star Scholars powered by Reliant,
is a collaborative effort between the electricity provider and the Dallas
Cowboys that recognizes deserving student-athletes for their leadership,
determination and commitment to athletics, academics and the community.
The
debut class of scholarship recipients featured students from Arlington ISD and Dallas
ISD that participate in baseball, soccer, football, track, basketball, softball
and wrestling, with most students playing multiple sports. The college-bound students
were nominated in secret by teachers, mentors and coaches to recognize their
achievements, including maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA.
“Reliant
is excited to join with our longtime partners, the Dallas Cowboys, to launch this
new scholarship program designed to celebrate local youth who are making an
impact in the classroom, on the field and in their communities,” said Andrea
Russell, vice president of Reliant. “We admire the determination and hard work of
each of these amazing young people as they successfully navigated a challenging
year while preparing for their college careers. We know their futures are
bright!”
The
2021 Star Scholars include:
- Mackenzie Amaya, senior at Woodrow Wilson High School, participates in
softball, basketball and cross country. She is passionate about academics and
will be a first-generation college student. Mackenzie participates in Dallas
ISD’s Leaders in Training program and volunteers for numerous organizations,
including Jubilee Park, Meals on Wheels, Austin Street Shelter and a local
mentorship program.
- Kennedi Arceneaux, senior at James Bowie High School,
is a long
jumper and sprinter and is in the top 5% of her class. Kennedi is enrolled in
AP and dual credit classes. As track team captain, Kennedi leads by example and
is a team player. She has received many honors and awards for her athletic
achievements in track and field and volleyball. Kennedi also volunteers for
numerous organizations in her community.
- Rodney Bethany, senior at W. H. Adamson High School, participates in
football and wrestling. As a junior, he made it to state in wrestling. Rodney
is a well-respected leader of the football team. Since his freshman year, he
earned the respect of those younger and older, all because of the way he carries
himself and how focused he is on doing his part. His coaches admire his
discipline, hard work and commitment to academics.
- Anna Lewis, senior at Lamar High School, is a three-year
starter in varsity soccer and has maintained a 4.0 GPA for the duration of her
high school career. She is committed to academics and is enrolled in many AP
and dual credit classes. Anna has a positive attitude and leads by example. She
is a member of HOSA and the National Honor Society and has attended the 2018
STARS Chemistry and 2019 STARS Physics Summer Camps.
- Jayleen Record, senior at James Madison High School, is ranked in the top
10 of his senior class. He continues to impress his peers and teachers with his
academic leadership. Jayleen, who recently signed with Southern Methodist
University to play football, was an All-State performer as a junior and an
All-District performer for three consecutive years. Jayleen maintains a positive
attitude and always exemplifies character and discipline.
- Noah Sample, senior at W. T. White High School, is a 2nd team
All-District football wide-receiver and baseball outfielder. He is an excellent
athlete and scholar, who exhibits courage and a selfless mindset. Noah leads
Fellowship of Christian Athletes as team captain. He is also a church youth
group leader and volunteer for the Special Olympics. Noah was recently accepted
into the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets.
The
students were selected by five judges: Charlotte Jones, Dallas Cowboys
Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer; Jaylon Smith, Dallas Cowboys
Linebacker; Darren Woodson, Dallas Cowboys Legend; Bill Jones, Dallas Cowboys
Broadcasting and CBS 11 Sports; and Leanne Schneider, Reliant Director of
Community Marketing.
In
addition to the surprise scholarship check presentations totaling $60,000 at
The Star in Frisco, students, families and nominators enjoyed a memorable
experience with athletic activities, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Rowdy the
mascot, Rhythm & Blue Drumline and more. Click here for more information
about the program.
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About
Reliant, an NRG company
Reliant
powers, protects and simplifies life by bringing electricity, security and
related services to homes and businesses across Texas. Serving customers and
the community is at the core of what we do, and the company is recognized
nationally for outstanding customer experience. Reliant is part of NRG, a
Fortune 500 company that creates value by generating electricity and providing
energy solutions to more than 3.5 million residential and commercial customers
across the U.S. and Canada. NRG’s competitive residential electricity business,
which includes Reliant, is one of the largest in the country. For more
information about Reliant, visit reliant.com and connect
with Reliant on Facebook at facebook.com/reliantenergy and Twitter or
Instagram @reliantenergy. PUCT Certificate #10007.
Media Contact:
Megan Talley
713-537-2160
Megan.Talley@reliant.com