Scholarship Recipients

Christiana Parra
College of Professional Education

Christiana Parra, an educator for ten years, is pursuing a doctorate in reading education. She has served as a dual language teacher and emergent bilingual coordinator, focusing on bilingual students. Committed to educating the whole child, she values student voices as tools for empowerment, rooted in their cultural backgrounds and educational needs. Passionate about bilingual education, Christiana is grateful for the opportunity to further her studies and research through this scholarship.

Kiara Whitney
College of Nursing

Kiara Whitney, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, AGACNP-BC, a third-generation nurse, has over 14 years of nursing experience, is pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) at Texas Woman's, with an anticipated graduation in May 2025. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing and is dually certified as a nurse practitioner in family practice and adult-gerontology acute care. Kiara's DNP research project focuses on reducing 30-day readmission rates for gynecologic oncology patients. She is also involved in global healthcare initiatives, including medical missions to Guatemala, cancer outreach programs and advocating for healthcare policy to enhance patient outcomes and nursing excellence.

Jenny Reynolds
College of Health Sciences

Jenny Reynolds, MS, CCC-SLP, CLC, CNT, BCS-S, a speech-language pathologist, is an advanced clinical specialist in a Level IV NICU at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas. A board-certified swallowing specialist, neonatal therapist and lactation counselor, she is pursuing small-baby certification. Her research focuses on infant feeding, with studies presented at conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. Jenny is also earning a PhD in health studies at Texas Woman’s and serves on professional committees, including ASHA’s pediatric dysphagia strand. She contributes to the field through research, advocacy and teaching as an adjunct lecturer in Texas speech therapy graduate programs.

Savitha Sundar
College of Health Sciences — Occupational Therapy

Savitha Sundar, PhD, is a school-based occupational therapist who earned her doctorate from Texas Woman’s in December 2024. With over 15 years of experience in public schools, she specializes in supporting students with extensive needs in self-contained classrooms and focuses her research on bridging the gap between occupational therapy research and inclusive education practice. Savitha serves as partnerships officer for Changing Perspectives, teaches OTD students and mentors OT students through fieldwork. She also hosts the “Inclusive Occupations” podcast, sharing insights from educators, researchers and individuals with disabilities to foster inclusive learning communities for all. 

Bradaisea Ridge-Law
Merrilee Alexander Kick College of Business and Entrepreneurship

Bradaisea Ridge-Law, an MBA candidate at Texas Woman’s specializing in HR Management, has a strong background in business, finance and entrepreneurship. A first-generation college graduate, she has earned more than $85,000 in scholarships for academic excellence. Bradaisea works as a healthcare administrator, demonstrating attention to detail and problem-solving skills. As the founder of her own LLC, she is exploring opportunities in sports management, finance and healthcare to further her career.

Abi Rainey
College of Arts and Sciences

Abi Rainey is a mixed-media artist, illustrator and art educator from May, Texas. She earned a BFA in art education from Howard Payne University and is pursuing an MFA in visual arts at Texas Woman’s. With diverse teaching experience, Abi is passionate about fostering creativity in students and also runs a small business specializing in stationery and paper goods. Her artistic practice explores spirituality, faith and hope through autobiographical collage installations and artist books. After graduation, Abi plans to pursue a career in higher education and illustration while expanding her business.