Leah Collins knows what she wants to do in the future.

A Memorial High School senior, Collins is a student of construction technology and has garnered the attention of Flint Hills Resources for two years in a row. But this year’s recognition — along with that for seven of her classmates — earned them each a $1,500 scholarship.

“I love math and I love working with my hands,” Collins said after a recent ceremony, which took place at the Carl Parker Center on the Lamar State College Port Arthur campus.

She wants to attend Prairie View A&M, where she will major in mechanical engineering.

“I am so grateful,” Collins said of the scholarship. I am trying to get every financial aid I can. I appreciate it; everybody doesn’t get this opportunity.”

She is one of eight MHS students recognized at the ceremony. According to information from Flint Hills Resources, students must apply for the scholarship, be nominated by a teacher, selected by a panel at the school and, based on this and if their plans for the future include a “career in the fields of science, technology, engineering or math or a skills certification such as welding, construction technology or precision metal manufacturing,” they will be awarded $1,500 to go toward higher education.

John Spell, FHR site manager, encouraged the students in their future endeavors.

“Supporting young people to improve their lives through education is important to us. These students are leaders among their peers showing the skills to achieve their academic goals,” Spell said. “Congratulations to these exemplary students for their academic successes.

John Swanson, senior process engineer for Flint Hills Resources Houston, gave a humorous analogy for teamwork using the backdrop of an imaginary crazy sock factory. And in the story he brought in each of the scholarship recipients’ strengths; whether it is math, or leadership skills, construction or health related fields —showing that everyone has a role in teamwork.

The scholarship recipients include Sebastian Aguilar, Leah Collins, Juan Garza, Jakaila Neal, Jesus Gonzalez, Angelique Ramos, Jasmin Reyes and Julia Sion.

The 2019 FHR Honorary Students include Justice Bell, 10^th grade; Jaquan Lewis, 10^th grade; Jazmine Cabrera, 11^th grade; and Nam Hoang, 11^th grade.