Higher ed foundation awards Owens scholarship

MARBLE FALLS — The Hill Country Higher Education Foundation has awarded the Jerry Owens Memorial Scholarship to Sylvia Villarreal of Granite Shoals.

The scholarship, named for late foundation board member Jerry Owens, was funded by Ben and C.J. Gammill, John and Barbara Racz, Hunter and Elaine Henry, Tom and Sandy Shaw and Suzanne Owens.

Foundation officials said Villarreal possesses exceptional character traits, has consistently good grades and gives back to the community. 

As a paraprofessional with the Marble Falls Independent School District, Villarreal serves Highland Lakes Elementary School in support of the classroom teaching staff.  Beginning in the field of childhood education through her work with Head Start, she said her aim has been to complete a bachelor’s degree in education.  

Officials said the Texas Tech Teacher Education program will provide a means for her to obtain a bachelor of multidisciplinary studies degree, along with a teacher certification with an English as a second language specialization.

Villarreal and her husband Marco have four children.  

“The call from the Foundation was received at just the right time,” she said. “I was beginning to wonder how our family was going to do it. At the time when I started to put my goals behind those of the children, this support came through. The kids are very proud of me, and now see education as their top priority.” 

Initially begun by community higher education advocates, the Higher Education Foundatioin has held various fundraisers since 2002.  

Funds raised through golf-tournaments, sponsored trips to Las Vegas, auctions and events have been a primary focus through the years

Residents interested in helping a local student with higher education needs or who would like to volunteer are asked to call (512) 755-5270. 

Courtesy photo