(PRWEB) November 13, 2013
Vista College is proud to announce that its student Larry Clifton of Beaumont has been awarded the newly created 2013 Career Colleges & Schools of Texas (CCST) Scholarship Award out of a 45 applicants from across the state of Texas. Clifton, the only recipient of this new scholarship award, was recognized at the 2013 CCST Annual Conference at Horseshoe Bay in October.
Scholarship nominations were submitted to CCST by faculty and staff from career colleges and schools in Texas and reviewed and selected by a committee of career school owners and directors. Nominations were selected based on the compelling nature of the applicant’s story and the commitment of the student.
“Mr. Clifton's story, which demonstrates his tremendous dedication and strong work ethic, was warmly received and lauded by nearly 300 CCST Annual Conference attendees who also congratulated him on his academic accomplishments,” said Jerry Valdez, a scholarship committee member. “We know that Mr. Clifton will be successful in the future and make an incredible impact on the community."
Clifton, a resident of Beaumont, is the ninth of 11 children, born and raised in San Augustine, Texas. He has three siblings who also currently reside in Beaumont. Clifton is enrolled in the Business Management, Associate of Applied Science Program at the Vista College Beaumont campus. He currently has a 4.0 GPA and is expected to graduate in July 2014. In addition to maintaining an outstanding academic record, Clifton has overcome difficult obstacles along the way.
“I have grown tired of working dead end jobs in which I’m successful, but due to a lack of education, I have been overlooked for promotions,” added Clifton. “I was so happy to be selected for this scholarship. This couldn’t have happened at a better time as I have been falling behind on my bills due to getting my daughter, who was recently diagnosed with juvenile diabetes, the medical supplies she needed. Just knowing someone has recognized my hard work and efforts to make a better future for my loved ones, has also given me motivation to keep pushing toward my goals.”
Clifton’s goals for the future include managing an established business focused in the area of sales for a few years or longer if there is room for growth. Eventually he would like to own his own business. He currently works as a driver delivering produce to restaurants in the Beaumont area as well as Louisiana. Additionally he stocks the merchandise, maintains inventory, and is known for his excellent customer service. In his free time, Clifton is a referee of Peewee Little League Football on Saturdays. He is also a member of the ManPower Group, a support group in neighborhoods created to help other men become better role models, husbands and fathers.
“Vista College could not be more proud of Larry Clifton,” said Amy Bradberry, Business Instructor. “Vista College works hard to change lives like Larry’s at all of our campuses every day. He is a shining star and a perfect example of how someone can overcome difficult situations and take control of their future. Larry has proven he has the will and drive to be successful, and we have no doubt that he has a bright future ahead.”
Vista College offers a wide variety of career training programs throughout Texas, New Mexico, and online. Each career program is staffed with industry experts and leading professionals, ensuring students an affordable, quality education that will help them pursue successful careers in their chosen fields. Financial aid is available to those that qualify. Graduates may also benefit from Vista’s career services assistance, including resume preparation and interview coaching.
Those interested in a new and exciting career path should contact Vista College admissions in Beaumont today at 409-234-7098.