The Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Sterling C. Robertson Chapter, Waco awarded 2025 Faith Academy of Freestone graduate Emilee Brewer a scholarship.

The chapter scholarship committee representative, Marsha Black, presented the $750 scholarship to Ms. Brewer during the chapter’s June 5 meeting in Waco. Mrs. Black is currently a teacher at Faith Academy of Freestone, Fairfield.

Ms. Brewer’s application essay was written on “The Texan Mindset” as follows: “Heritage – be proud of it for you will be its legacy. It’s your responsibility to carry on and learn your heritage. Otherwise, it will be lost.” – Kailin Gow.

“I am proud to be a Texan simply because it is my heritage and culture. When one thinks about what it means to be a Texan, they may think of a variety of identifiers – ranchers, cowboys, conservatives, small towns and of course, pride. Although these are accurate descriptions for many Texans, none of them are the reason that I am proud to be a Texan.

My pride is as elementary as tying shoelaces; Texans are respectful, kind and willing to help any individual or group, whether in state of beyond. Ever since my family came to Texas to help defend the Republic of Texas at the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, my ancestors have served their fellow Texans in various ways. From police officers and teachers, to pastors, public land surveyors, entrepreneurs, historians and even a Texas Ranger, my family has dedicated their lives to serving their fellow Texans for generations. Every generation has lived, fought, and served in Texas and for Texas. To me, “Texan” is not an adjective, it’s a way of life. It’s a mindset, philosophy, and heritage that is passed from generation to generation.

As a member of the next generation, I want to maintain the Texan mindset by helping others and making my ancestors proud. This legacy has deeply influenced my own values and aspirations. I plan to honor my family legacy of service by sharing the gospel of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and by helping athletes through a career in athletic training. I am grateful for all the Daughters of the Republic of Texas has done for me, and I am excited to continue this journey as a proud member of such a prestigious organization.”

Ms. Brewer plans to attend the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor this fall to pursue a career in athletic training. Ms. Brewer is the daughter of Ronnie and Hope Brewer and granddaughter of Kelly Tyus all of Fairfield.