The Hogg Foundation for Mental Health has awarded two $5,000 scholarships in honor of Stephany June Bryan.
Who was Stephany?
Stephany June Bryan was a beloved Senior Program Officer and Consumer & Family Liaison at the foundation for over 12 years, until her untimely passing from COVID-19. She brought much insight, transparency, and humor to the work of the foundation and to everything she touched. Even with her many gifts and contributions, as a life-long learner, Stephany still wanted to complete her college degree. Stephany started her formal education at Southwest Texas with a scholarship in music. When life got in the way, Stephany spent years caring for loved ones with mental health challenges while striving to achieve her own wellness and recovery. Stephany spent over 20 years fighting for equitable services, supports, and systems change for those historically denied a seat at the table. One of Stephany’s favorite educational events was the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference, where she was involved since its inception.
Selection Criteria
To honor Stephany’s passions and personal goals, these scholarships will be awarded based on the following criteria and preferences:
- Lived experience with a mental health challenge and/or caring for a person with a mental health challenge.
- Financial impact of living with a mental health challenge and/ or caring for a person with a mental health challenge and the need for financial support to advance education/training.
- Impact of living as a person of color.
- Preference for a person residing in central Texas.
- Verification of enrollment for education/training.
Scholarship Recipients
In honor of Stephany’s passions and goals, the Hogg Foundation has awarded the following scholarships.
Crystal Rhodes
Crystal Rhodes, a student pursuing a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling, is one of two 2023 recipients of the Stephany June Bryan: Bold Spirit of Achievement Scholarship Award. As she continues her studies, the award will enable Rhodes to pay off her graduate school balance and work toward licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Read our interview with Crystal.
Keneisha Johnson
Keneisha is a student pursuing an Associate of Arts degree in Biblical Studies, is one of two 2022 recipients of the Stephany June Bryan Bold Spirit of Achievement Scholarship. The award will allow Johnson to continue her studies by covering the cost of her 2022 summer and fall tuition. Read our interview with Keneisha.
Elliott Niblack
Elliott Niblack, a student pursuing statewide certification as a Mental Health Peer Specialist (MHPS), was selected as the second Stephany June Bryan: Bold Spirit of Achievement Scholarship recipient. As he continues his studies, the award will provide Niblack with access to reliable transportation as well as mental health and wellness services – resources essential to his success in the MHPS program. Learn more about Elliott.