When he opened the doors, he was shocked to see his classmates and representatives from Eastern Michigan University (EMU) waiting for him. Spencer was then presented with the EMU Presidential Scholarship, which covers tuition, and room and board for four years. One of 20 recipients, Spencer joins an exclusive club of Presidential Scholars at the school.
The award is EMU’s most prestigious for incoming first-year students, and lays out the path for Spencer to succeed in the school’s Honors College. Spencer is planning to major in cybersecurity with a minor in business. He said Taylor Prep and National Heritage Academies® (NHA) have helped him prepare for this next step.
“Taylor Prep and NHA have provided the tools and guidance my classmates and I needed to successfully transition into the collegiate world,” Spencer said. “From AP exam preparation to after-school clubs and tutoring, they’ve been adaptive and understanding of what students need to succeed and reach their full potential.”
Spencer added that receiving the scholarship will help him focus on his college experience, rather than stressing about financial burden.
“Students should be thinking about their classes and goals, not constantly worrying about how they will afford the next semester,” Spencer said. “The Presidential Scholarship helps reduce the financial stress I once had and allows me to fully focus on my education and future career, especially as I work toward building a path in cybersecurity.”
Dean of Instruction Jenna Ekulona said the whole school community was proud of Spencer for this accomplishment and were excited to be at the surprise ceremony. She added that Spencer already carries himself as a college student.
“He’s so mature and so respectful,” Ekulona said. “He’s the type of student where if he doesn’t get something right, he’s going to try until he does get it right. He’s just an all-around leader here at school.”
Spencer is active at Taylor Prep, participating in the National Honor Society and leading on the Senior Committee. Ekulona said he has been a reliable helping hand for her when planning senior activities.
Spencer has been an NHA student since first grade and is now on the precipice of college, equipped with a full ride and the knowledge and experience from his time at NHA schools.
Spencer will take plenty of Moral Focus™ lessons with him to Ypsilanti where he will put them into action. While an elementary and middle student at Metro Charter Academy and Taylor Exemplar Academy, he learned skills needed to overcome anything in his way.
“My favorite Moral Focus virtue is Perseverance,” Spencer said. “If you truly have the passion to fight for something you want, you’ll go through whatever it takes to get there. Moral Focus isn’t just a list of monthly words; it’s a set of characteristics that shape a person into someone respectful, engaging, and prepared for life as they continue to grow.”
While Spencer might not know what’s waiting for him at EMU, he’ll be ready to achieve thanks to his experience at NHA schools.
Congratulations, Adrian! Best of luck at EMU!
About Taylor Preparatory High School
Taylor Preparatory High School is a tuition-free, public charter school in Taylor, Michigan, serving students in ninth through 12th grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies (NHA®) network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through high school across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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