Inaugural Kick scholarship awarded to TWU nursing major

June 2, 2026 ― DENTON ― An incoming Texas Woman’s University student has been awarded the inaugural $15,000 Merrilee Alexander Kick Scholarship, which supports alumni of Momentous Institute’s nationally acclaimed elementary laboratory school for children in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade.

The student, Yesenia Avila, graduated this May from Dallas ISD’s Trinity Garza Early College High School and earned an associate’s degree through a dual enrollment program with Dallas College. Avila will enroll this fall at Texas Woman’s and major in nursing.

“The $15,000 Merrilee Kick Scholarship to TWU is truly a blessing for Momentous School alumni,” said Momentous School Principal Andy Hagman. “Financial considerations pose a formidable barrier to our students' entry into college, and this generous scholarship makes a fantastic education at TWU accessible. We are extremely grateful for our students to have this opportunity.”

Avila was drawn to nursing after experiences supporting her mother through significant health challenges. That early exposure sparked her interest in healthcare and inspired a desire to provide compassionate care for others.

While in high school, Avila was founder and captain of the Garza Rebels Dance Team, a member of the school’s Media Club and volunteer for the Bi-National Health Fair.

The scholarship was funded by Kick, a Texas Woman’s alumna and beverage entrepreneur. It is awarded to qualifying alumni of Momentous Institute who later go on to enroll at Texas Woman’s. In 2024, Kick made a record $30 million gift to TWU in support of the Merrilee Alexander Kick College of Business and Entrepreneurship.

“We are grateful for Merrilee’s continuing support of the university and its students ― and I am particularly thrilled to welcome Yesenia as this scholarship’s first recipient,” said TWU Chancellor Carine Feyten. “Merrilee shares Texas Woman’s commitment to delivering an exceptional experience to students and ensuring their success.”