Being Part of a Family, But Also Making an Impact

After a near-deadly car accident in her first year of college, Josie Ledbeter discovered what is truly important to her – impacting others’ lives.

“In my opinion, I feel success is being able to look back on life, knowing that you brought good to the world and a brighter future for others,” Josie said.

Josie, a deserving and grateful scholarship recipient, is pursuing a degree in communication studies. She is also studying to receive a Teaching English as a Second Language certificate. She has studied abroad in Mazatlán, Mexico to improve her Spanish since her dream is to work with students from Central and South America.

While Josie keeps busy with her studies and earning her spot on the dean’s list, she also fills her time with volunteer opportunities around the community.

Josie volunteers with EWU’s Asia University America Program, meeting with exchange students to help them adjust to the new culture and language. She’s found this to be a rewarding experience that has taught her about other cultures. During 2017 fall quarter alone, Josie dedicated more than 40 hours of her time to volunteering.

Josie has expressed deep gratitude to the donors of her scholarship. She said they are not only investing in her future, but her future students’ lives as well.

“Earning a scholarship is such an honor that I take to heart, knowing there are generous people investing in the lives of students like myself!”