Nacogdoches, Texas — Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) has announced that nine of its students have been selected for competitive and prestigious scholarships that will support their study abroad programs, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.
“These scholarships help make international experiences accessible to our students and give them the opportunity to not only explore new cultures and perspectives but also grow academically and personally,” said Heather Catton, director of SFA’s Office of International Programs. “Furthermore, their experiences abroad will enrich our campus community and hopefully encourage other students to follow in their steps.”
Among the recipients is Kimberly Birrer, a graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in Forestry, who has been awarded a $12,500 David L. Boren Fellowship through the National Security Education Program. The fellowship will allow Birrer to conduct research in Brasília, Brazil.
“This funding opens an incredible opportunity for me not only to learn Portuguese but to be completely immersed in Brazilian culture as I collaborate on research work with colleagues in the lab and field,” Birrer said. “I hope to contribute to our shared learning as we study insect communities, the scientific process, Portuguese and scientific English. This will put me one step closer to my ultimate career goals—to contribute to large-scale, collaborative conservation projects that transcend physical, political and cultural barriers.”
Two additional recipients, Emily Bautista-Moran, a sophomore majoring in international and intercultural communication, and Andrea Horton, a junior nursing major, will travel to Bahia, Brazil, as part of a faculty-led study abroad program. Bautista-Moran was awarded $3,000, while Horton received $6,000 to support their international experiences.
“Participating in a study abroad program means more to me than simply traveling – it represents a chance to grow personally, academically and professionally,” said Horton. “As someone who has always dreamed of studying abroad but faced financial limitations, this opportunity allows me to break those barriers and immerse myself in a new culture, language and healthcare system that will expand my perspective as a nursing student.”
The university commended the scholarship winners for their academic dedication and ambition, emphasizing the broader impact such global engagement has on both personal development and the university community.
