Kaitlynn Williams and Tawnee Hicks are recognized with the prestigious Ken Heil Memorial Scholarship, an award honoring students whose resilience, dedication and academic potential shine brightly.
Though their paths to San Juan College are vastly different, one shaped by relocation and uncertainty, the other by a bold leap across 3,000 miles, their stories intersect through a shared determination to build meaningful futures through education.
From First-Generation Uncertainty to Academic Confidence
After moving from Kentucky to New Mexico for her father’s job, Kaitlynn stepped into college unsure of where to begin. As a first-generation student, the transition felt overwhelming.
“I had no idea what I was doing,” she said with a laugh. That changed when she discovered TRIO, a student support program at SJC dedicated to helping students achieve academic success and personal growth. TRIO provided the guidance she didn’t know she needed.
Now 21 years old, Kaitlynn is a full-time honors student, a dedicated employee working two jobs and a proud cat mom. Her advisor, whom she credits for having her back during her most uncertain moments, helped her uncover her passion for geology. Her coursework ignited a lifelong love for science and exploration.
With newfound clarity, Kaitlynn plans to pursue a bachelor’s and possibly a master’s degree. Her ultimate goal is to return to TRIO as an advisor and support future first-gen students. “I know how hard it is not to have someone to guide you,” she said.
The scholarship has already lifted a significant weight. Paying for college entirely on her own, Kaitlynn now knows she can afford next semester. Her funds covered tuition, books and lab coats, critical resources she no longer has to worry about.
A Journey from Alaska to a New Sense of Belonging
For Tawnee Hicks, the road to SJC began nearly 3,000 miles away in a small Alaskan community. Seeking warmth, new opportunities and a fresh start, she relocated to New Mexico.
At SJC, Tawnee found a supportive learning environment unlike anything she had experienced before. She is currently pursuing an associate degree in biology and plans to transfer to Fort Lewis College next year to complete her bachelor’s in Environmental Science.
Her passion is rooted in her identity. As an Alaska Native, Tawnee hopes to stay connected to the land and the traditional ecological knowledge passed down through generations. “A lot of what I study feels like a love letter to my culture,” she said. “And it’s been really cool learning about other Indigenous cultures along the way.”
Like many students, Tawnee has battled self-doubt. Receiving the Ken Heil Scholarship shifted her perspective. “I kept asking, ‘Why me?’ I never believed I deserved college or scholarships. It still blows my mind.”
The scholarship did more than cover the cost of books; it inspired confidence. Confidence to apply for more opportunities. Confidence to build relationships with professors. Confidence to see her place in academic spaces she once thought were out of reach.
One memorable moment was the scholarship luncheon, where she enjoyed enchiladas alongside faculty and donors. Tawnee spoke with deep gratitude for the donor family. “I’m sad I never got to meet the donor, but it means so much that his family thought I was deserving. It won’t go to waste.”
Scholarships That Change Lives
Kaitlynn and Tawnee’s journeys reflect the profound impact scholarships have on students. These awards do more than reduce financial stress: they build confidence, open doors and affirm that students’ dreams are worth investing in.
The Ken Heil Scholarship is one example of how donor generosity transforms lives. When you support student scholarships at San Juan College, you help create pathways to opportunity for students just like Kaitlynn and Tawnee.
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