Meet the 2021 RecSports Scholarship Recipients
Congratulations to the 2021 recipients and our sincerest thanks to all the benefactors for their generous donations and support of the Student Employee Scholarship Program. These hardworking student employees went through a rigorous application process and nomination committee in order to earn their respective scholarships.
Brooks Ford
Mark L. Hart, Jr. Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Sports Management
At RecSports: Program Assistant — Outdoor Satellites
Beyond Team RecSports: NIRSA Student Member, Longhorn Run 2021 Student Committee
Hometown: Round Rock, Texas
“During my tenure as a student employee with Recreational Sports, I have been fortunate to experience ample opportunities that have helped me showcase and develop my leadership capabilities.”
What others have to say about Brooks: “Brooks’ impact on collegiate recreation is going to be profound, and to have the opportunity to work with him at the early stages of that career is an experience I will cherish forever. He will leave the OutFIELDer team in such a better place than when he joined it, due in large part to his efforts to set the foundation for our team’s future success.” — Ross Rodriguez, Senior Assistant Director for Outdoor Satellites and Instructional Program
Ivan Villegas
Mark L. Hart, Jr. Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Junior, Mathematics
At RecSports: Building Coordinator — Outdoor Satellites
Beyond Team RecSports: UTeach Program Student Ambassador, Math and Science Teachers for Tomorrow (MASTT), Texas Infinites
Hometown: Laredo, Texas
“I have been able to apply what I have learned during my time with RecSports to my time in the classroom preparing to become a future STEM Educator. With RecSports, I learned how to communicate effectively with people much more
experienced than me, whether that be through their time in the professional world or simply ahead a couple of years in school.”
What others have to say about Ivan: “Ivan is a joy to work with. His positivity and encouragement for his teammates are infectious, and his ability to mentor our next generation of student-leader is a skill that comes naturally to him and has served us well in many ways. Ivan has served RecSports in a variety of capacities and has helped to introduce RecSports to new generations of Longhorns that will further enhance his legacy long after his time on the Forty Acres comes to an end.” — Ross Rodriguez, Senior Assistant Director for Outdoor Satellites and Instructional Program
Brooks Johnson
Thomas W. Dison Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, International Relations & Global Studies
At RecSports: Building Coordinator — Gregory Gymnasium
Beyond Team RecSports: University Leadership Network, Discovery Scholars Program Mentor
Hometown: San Francisco, California
“I am grateful for the gradual amassing of skills and competencies I have earned during my time as an employee of RecSports, and it is clear that they have left an imprint on me, a lasting imprint which I will carry into my future — professional and personal.”
What others have to say about Brooks: “Brooks is the definition of teamwork. He is willing to assist staff in any way he can. Although he is a Building Coordinator, he is always willing to pick up Activity Supervisor shifts to help people. He is welcoming to new employees and wants everyone to feel part of the team. His positive attitude on shift can be contagious. We have been lucky to have him on staff during this difficult and challenging semester.” —Bridget Tasker, Senior Assistant Director for Gregory Gym
Tessa Galloso
Thomas W. Dison Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Advanced Human Development and Family Sciences
At RecSports: Program Assistant — Gregory Gymnasium
Hometown: McAllen, Texas
“In its entirety, my time at RecSports has allowed me to solidify my definition of the leader that I hope to continuously work on becoming: Someone who challenges, listens, supports, and trusts themselves while providing space and guidance for others to do the same.”
What others have to say about Tessa: “Tessa is hardworking, determined, and self-motivated. Throughout the semester, we relied on her to help with any of our scheduling needs — whether it was building the semester schedule or finding last-minute substitutes for shifts. She is extremely reliable. You know a task will be completed efficiently if you give it to her. I am proud of her ability to balance her job responsibilities with her academic work. I know she will make a powerful impact wherever she decides to go after she graduates.” — Bridget Tasker, Senior Assistant Director for Gregory Gym
Krusha Patel
John M. Childs Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Neuroscience
At RecSports: Intramural Sports Official and Program Assistant
Beyond Team RecSports: Health Occupation Students of America, Freshman Research Initiative
Hometown: Mansfield, Texas
“As a member of the Intramural Sports staff, I learned skills that allowed me to be proactive rather than reactive and recognize when a situation was headed in this direction.”
What others have to say about Krusha: “Krusha is what makes our job special. One of Krusha’s greatest assets is her ability to learn from others and more importantly, from herself. Her openness to learn and better herself has turned her into the person she is today. Watching Krusha develop and utilize all she has learned over these past few years has been the highlight of my career.” — Joe Wise, Assistant Director for Intramural Sports
Randdy Barrera
Sylvie and Gary Crum Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Iberian & Latin American Languages & Cultures
At RecSports: Program Assistant — Sport Clubs
Beyond Team RecSports: Longhorn Run 2021 Campus Outreach Coordinator
Hometown: Brownsville, Texas
“Working for RecSports has provided me with opportunities to better my collaboration and teamwork skills overall. The many teamwork efforts that I have experienced and collaborations I have completed with others will be of great benefit to my future career, post-graduation. My employment at RecSports has made me believe that teamwork does make the dream work.”
What others have to say about Randdy: “Randdy is the man of many hats for the Sport Club program. In 3+ years, Randdy has dedicated himself to support the administration of clubs in the office and on the fields, and he even participates as a club volleyball player, too! He is humble, flexible and a true servant leader.” — Chad Zimmerman, Senior Assistant Director for Sport Clubs
Johnnie Greenhill
Charles & Carolyn Spence, James & Kathryn (Spence) Nance, and William (Spence) & Edith Nance Endowed Scholarship Honoring Michael Monsoor
In the classroom: Senior, Finance
At RecSports: Program Assistant — Sport Clubs
Beyond Team RecSports: Undergraduate Real Estate Society
Hometown: Keller, Texas
“My employment with RecSports started as a simple part-time job but has slowly transitioned into one of the most rewarding ventures of my career and has positioned me well for future growth after graduation. The opportunity to make a difference in an organization with the utmost support from professional staff enticed a strong work ethic and encouraged creative thinking.”
What others have to say about Johnnie: “Just about every dollar raised and spent by sport clubs since early 2019 has crossed Johnnie’s review. His attention to detail and reliability are second to none! Johnnie has improved our ability to analyze sport club financial trends and his work will live on to help our program for years to come.” — Chad Zimmerman, Senior Assistant Director for Sport Clubs
Regan Kohut
DeDe and Joe Bill Watkins Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Junior, Advertising
At RecSports: Building Coordinator — Gregory Gym
Beyond Team RecSports: Texas Media & Analytics, Texas Lonestars
Hometown: Del Rio, Texas
“Working with RecSports throughout my college career has been a very rewarding opportunity for which I am extremely grateful. This has been more than just a job but rather an experience where I have forged lifelong friendships, gained valuable life and professional skills, and learned to feel more at home on the Forty Acres.”
What others have to say about Regan: “I can’t think of a conversation with Regan that hasn’t made me laugh. She is enjoyable to work with, and I appreciate the professionalism she brings to the role. She is confident in addressing difficult and challenging situations. If you need an honest answer, Regan is the person to ask. I am excited to be able to work with her again next year.” — Bridget Tasker, Senior Assistant Director for Gregory Gym
Jenab Camara
Bill Patman Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Linguistics and French
At RecSports: Accounting Assistant
Beyond Team RecSports: UT Department of Linguistics Undergraduate Researcher
Hometown: Mesquite, Texas
“My journey with RecSports has really prepared me for my future career by giving me the opportunity to develop communication skills that are essential for my future.”
What others have to say about Jenab: “Jenab has proven to be one of our most well-rounded, versatile student employees. She has contributed to all facets of the customer service experience to include cashier, clerical accounting, and clerical programs. Jenab has proven to be a team player and helped shape the way we virtually train new student employees. She provides a fresh perspective of doing old tasks in a new way. Jenab always accepts new responsibilities with a positive attitude and a smile!” — Lisa Sova, Accounting Office Manager
Kyarah Rogers
Kenneth Ford Family Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Junior, Biology
At RecSports: Group Fitness Instructor,Program Assistant for Fitness & Wellness
Beyond Team RecSports: Alpha Epsilon Delta, Children’s Surgical Global Outreach Program
Hometown: Conroe, Texas
“I believe that the Fitness & Wellness department as a whole is a leader in the UT community. It is an inclusive organization that supports the physical and emotional well-being of everyone who is involved, offers opportunities for people to implement healthy behaviors, and is always looking for ways to improve. I am confident that the interpersonal skills I have developed from working in RecSports will stay with me as I tackle the journey to and through physical therapy school.”
What others have to say about Kyarah: “Kyarah is truly beyond her years both personally and professionally. She brings light, wisdom and a hard work ethic to everything she does and helps those around her to be the best versions of themselves.” —CieCie Leonard, Assistant Director for Fitness & Wellness
Jacob Hernandez
Phi Gamma Delta Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Biochemistry
At RecSports: Program Assistant — Outdoor Satellites
Beyond Team RecSports: American Medical Student Association, Texas Wesley
Hometown: Victoria, Texas
“Whether it’s working to safely operate during a pandemic, or managing a facility where more than 2,000 people are present, my experience with Recreational Sports has taught me how to not only be a leader to others, but how to be a leader to myself. The growth I experienced would not have been possible without Recreational Sports.”
What others have to say about Jacob: “Jacob is one of those individuals you are thankful you get to work with and be a part of their journey. His approach to our team, his desire to see our team succeed, and his enthusiasm for all things sport-related permeate to the core of what the OutFIELDer team culture is. Because of his efforts, our team is made up of people who care about the work they do, and the purpose behind which we do it.”
— Ross Rodriguez, Senior Assistant Director for Outdoor Satellites and Instructional Program
Cam La
Delta Tau Delta Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Nutrition
At RecSports: Building Coordinator — Gregory Gymnasium
Beyond Team RecSports: Austin Young Adult Division, Texas Healthy Habits
Hometown: Houston, Texas
“They say that your college years are the most transformative time to discover yourself. I have discovered from my time at Gregory Gym that a leader should not feel burdened by their inadequacies like I was in the past, but rather be motivated to learn as much as I can so that I am no longer lacking in my skills.”
What others have to say about Cam: “Despite a demanding academic career, Cam has been part of the RecSports team for several years. She is knowledgeable about the position. She truly enjoys working at Gregory Gym and meeting her coworkers. I know staff always felt welcomed when Cam was on shift. We will miss her outgoing, positive personality.” — Bridget Tasker, Senior Assistant Director for Gregory Gym
Morgan Ermenio
Bill Frisbie Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Sport Management
At RecSports: Lead Nike Student Assistant
Beyond Team RecSports: Texas Darlins
Hometown: Flower Mound, Texas
“With this being my first role in the industry that I want a career in, I learned all of the ins and outs of events, marketing, being professional, and being a leader. I am feeling more confident in my abilities as I head into the real world following graduation. Through this job with RecSports, I have strengthened my industry skills, and am eager to continue learning and developing those
skills through other positions.”
What others have to say about Morgan: “Morgan’s bright energy and uplifting attitude never go unnoticed, especially during high-stress and fast-paced environments such as producing events. I am constantly inspired by Morgan’s thoughtfulness while leading others and her willingness to always take on the next challenge.” — Kari Terry, Assistant Director for Corporate Partners
Ilene Gresham
Robert G. Childress Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Biology
At RecSports: Intramural Sports Supervisor
Beyond Team RecSports: Rodriguez Elementary School Mentorship Leader
Hometown: Porter, Texas
“I have learned many valuable skills during my time working for Recreational Sports, but teamwork and collaborating with my coworkers has greatly improved since I have started.”
What others have to say about Ilene: “Consistent excellence is what comes to mind when reflecting on Ilene’s work ethic and contributions to the Intramural Sports program. She is always at the top of her game and the perfect model for all employees to emulate.” — Joe Wise, Assistant Director for Intramural Sports
Cassie Chen
Acacia Fraternity Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Government
At RecSports: Program Assistant — Recreational Sports Center
Beyond Team RecSports: United States Foreign Service Internship Program and Minority Women Pursuing Law
“As I reflect back on the two years I’ve spent as a RecSports employee, I am thankful for all of the useful skills I picked up, all of which will undoubtedly prepare me for my future career.”
What others have to say about Cassie: “Cassie is one of the most reliable staff members I have had the pleasure to work with. Her attention to detail and engaging personality make her a “go-to” employee for all of our Activity Supervisors and Building Coordinators. In her role as a Program Assistant, she has excelled and brought a level of confidence that has kept the Indoor Satellites team working at a high level during this difficult year.” — E.J. Patterson, Associate Director for Facilities
Sydney Chapa
Susan and Mark Baletka Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Senior, Human Development and Family Sciences
At RecSports: Intramural Sports Program Assistant and Sport Manager
Hometown: Wichita Falls, Texas
“I would not be where I am today, having acquired the competencies of teamwork and leadership, without the guidance of the Intramural Sport Managers and Supervisors before me, who did the same thing I’m doing now for officials that will one day be in my position.”
What others have to say about Sydney: “Sydney’s attitude is a shining example of the character that we promote through Recreational Sports. It is not flawless, but it is bright and true. She has the ability to connect to so many different groups and bring them together to enjoy themselves through fellowship. She has a calming influence over the younger generation who would otherwise be shaken by the situations they encounter. She brings strength to the others working alongside her to resolve a question or problem, and she does all of this with a smile on her face.”
— Joe Wise, Assistant Director for Intramural Sports
Olivia Espinosa
Recreational Sports Endowed Scholarship
In the classroom: Junior, Nursing
At RecSports: Head Lifeguard — Gregory Gym Aquatic Complex
Beyond Team RecSports: UT Nursing Resolutions Committee, UT Nursing Students Association
Hometown: Tulsa, Oklahoma
“My positions as an Instructor and a Head Lifeguard within Recreational Sports have encouraged me to think critically, communicate effectively, and gain confidence in my skills as a first responder. Working for RecSports has provided me with an enriching opportunity and allowed me to grow into my role as a leader and future healthcare professional.”
What others have to say about Olivia: “Olivia is one of those students who set the ‘lifeguard expectations’ bar extremely high. She is dedicated, motivated, and positive no matter what environment she is in! From teaching lifeguard classes, being a headguard, and even getting into nursing school; Olivia has excelled at everything she has done. I am extremely lucky she will be here for a few more semesters, I don’t know what I would do without her!” — Samantha Caufield, Assistant Director for Aquatics
To learn more about the RecSports Scholarship Program, visit utrecsports.org/scholarships.
