Scholar success story: Angela Paschal
July 22
Angela Paschal is an educator, scholar and single mother whose resilience while facing financial and personal challenges inspires admiration and respect from the First Things First committee and supporters.
Thanks to Arizona PBS’ early childhood educator scholarship program, supported by Arizona’s early childhood agency First Things First (FTF), Paschal completed a lifelong goal of earning her teaching degree. She graduated with a GPA of 3.87 with Honors-Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and an emphasis in Early Childhood Education, making the dean’s list on several occasions.
Paschal said to Arizona PBS, “There were moments when I honestly did not know how I was going to continue, yet because of your kindness, I was able to stay enrolled, complete my classes and keep moving toward my dream.”
As the first-generation graduate walked across the stage, Paschal not only carried her diploma but also carried deep gratitude in her heart, emphasizing how the scholarship staff’s encouragement made this moment possible.
“Your support was not just financial assistance, it was encouragement, hope, relief and a reminder that there are still people willing to believe in students during hard times. I truly do not have enough words to fully express how thankful I am for your support this spring. I did not reach this moment alone!,” Paschal explained.
The organization’s investment supported Paschal not only financially but also fueled her lifelong dream, inspiring her and reaffirming the meaningful impact of their kindness on her future.
Paschal’s message to Arizona PBS said, “Thank you for investing not only in my education, but in my future and in my life during a time I truly needed it. Your kindness made a lasting impact on me, and I will carry that gratitude forward for years to come.”
Supported by Arizona’s early childhood agency First Things First (FTF), Arizona PBS’ early childhood educator scholarship program offers scholarships to aspiring early childhood educators completing Child Development Associate (CDA) credentials, associate and bachelor’s degrees. Learn more about the program, and please share the transformative power of educational opportunities like the Early Childhood Educator Scholarship Program with aspiring educators in our community.
