06/08/2026
Incoming TWU nursing student Yesenia Avila has been named the first recipient of the $15,000 Merrilee Alexander Kick Scholarship, awarded to alumni of the Momentous Institute. Avila is a graduate of Dallas ISD's Trinity Garza Early College High School, and earned an associate degree through Dallas College while in high school and will begin her nursing studies at TWU this fall.
Avila's interest in nursing was inspired by helping care for her mother during significant health challenges, motivating her to pursue a career focused on compassionate patient care. In high school, she founded and captained the Garza Rebels Dance Team, participated in the Media Club and volunteered at the Bi-National Health Fair.
âWe are grateful for Merrileeâs continuing support of the university and its students â and I am particularly thrilled to welcome Yesenia as this scholarshipâs first recipient,â said TWU Chancellor Carine Feyten. âMerrilee shares Texas Womanâs commitment to delivering an exceptional experience to students and ensuring their success.â
The Momentous Institute, is a nationally acclaimed elementary laboratory school for children in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. The scholarship was funded by Kick, a Texas Womanâs alumna and beverage entrepreneur. It is awarded to qualifying alumni of Momentous Institute who later go on to enroll at Texas Womanâs.