By: Briana Mercado
This year’s Sam Lieberman Award for Student Scholarship goes to Rebecca Taylor.
“Rebecca Taylor is a successful non-traditional student who already sustains two careers as CFO and co-founder of a tech company and yoga teacher trainer,” reads her nomination form, filled out by her English Professor Courtney Danforth. “After her son left for UNR, Rebecca returns to college via Pell aid. During her time at CSN, Rebecca has been active in Student Leadership Academy and is presently The Secretary for ASCSN.”
Rebecca said she was humbled.
“While I feel surprised, I also know that I deserve it,” she said. “I worked so hard in my 2 years here at CSN. It is truly validating to be recognized in this way. My mom would be proud.”
In a world where perseverance and dedication often go unrecognized, it is crucial to pause and celebrate the stories of triumph that inspire us all. Rebecca’s journey at CSN is nothing short of remarkable. Despite facing personal challenges, including battling through post-chemo recovery, she emerges victorious, proving that with unwavering determination, anything is possible.
Her academic excellence not only highlights but also underscores the transformative power of education. For her, obtaining a degree at CSN isn’t just about earning a piece of paper; it’s about rebuilding her strength, both physically and mentally.
“My primary reason for enrolling at CSN was to challenge my brain, especially post-chemo,” Rebecca said. “Learning new things creates new neural pathways and improves cognitive functioning. By setting an achievable goal with a deadline, even if challenging, there would be an end in sight.”
Rebecca’s advice to future students resonates deeply with her own journey. She emphasized the importance of self-discipline, consistency, and self-care. “Self-discipline is essential for success,” she said. “This includes steady consistent effort. Prioritize sleep and healthy eating. Our brains are part of our physical bodies, and if we take care of them, they will, in turn, take care of us.”
As Rebecca looks ahead to the next chapter of her academic and professional journey, her story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of education. With her unwavering determination and commitment to excellence, there’s no doubt that Rebecca will continue to inspire and uplift those around her, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Today, we congratulate Rebecca Taylor on her remarkable achievements and wish her continued success in all her future endeavors. May her story serve as a beacon of hope for those facing adversity and a reminder that with perseverance and dedication, anything is possible. Cheers to you, Rebecca, for being an inspiration to us all!
Nevada Regents’ Scholar Award (Sam Lieberman Regents’ Award for Student Scholarship)
