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Lisa Eshun-Wilson Wins Grinnell College Scholarship!

Lisa came to New Designs when she was in seventh grade and has since shown excellence through hard work and her efforts have paid off. Congratulations Lisa.

“New Designs Charter Schools is pleased to announce that Senior Lisa Eshun-Wilson has received a $140,000 scholarship award from Grinnell College in Iowa. This prestigious full tuition and expenses offer comes after a rigorous application and interview process. A student at New Designs since the 7th grade, Lisa has grown and become a bright and shining exemplar of what academic excellence and integrity can do. As a college student Lisa will study the sciences and prepare for medical school where she plans to pursue studies in Neuroscience and Cognitive Mechanics. A volunteer at LAC+USC Healthcare Network, cheerleader, and ASB Treasurer, Lisa has become a beacon of hope for all NDCS learning community members who aspire to achieve greatness. New Designs congratulates Lisa, her sister Franceen, mother Ms. Wilson and her father and celebrates the achievements of this outstanding young lady. In a brief and supportive statement, Dr. Yaw says, “this is life changing… and a huge accomplishment… that comes as a result of talent, effort, and opportunity!" NDCS credits the efforts of the family, the faculty, and the hard work of the Fulfillment Fund through which Lisa has received support from a mentor.”
—Mr. Sata, Director of School Operations

Q & A Time with Lisa:
Mr. Sata: How has New Designs influenced your achievements and shaped who you are?
Lisa: “Intelligence plus character—this is the goal of education.” When reading these inspiring words of the great Martin Luther King Jr., I was instantly reminded of the vision of New Designs. This college preparatory school has made an incredible journey, beginning as an underdeveloped, campus-less amalgamation of administrators, teachers, and students with nothing but a dream. With little to no resources, we became one of the best schools with some of the best scores in the city. Out of one man’s aspiration to make a difference in his community, a school built on the ideals of creativity, innovation, and cooperation has emerged. Dr. Yaw gave students searching for an opportunity to reach their goals through education the support necessary to do just that; students like me. New Designs is a school that cares about more than just getting good grades, it is a community that prepares its students for the rigors and demanding situations of the real world. During the past six years, New Designs has been incessantly molding me into the person I am today. Commitment to your work, commitment to your community, and commitment to your growth—New Designs has opened my eyes to the world, which I now feel prepared and excited to become a part of-- not only to assimilate, but also to change.

Mr. Sata: Who inspired you to study the sciences?
Lisa: Ms. Anitha, my 7th grade Biology teacher, is the reason for my love of science. She constantly inspired me to pursue the field of science. Her support and genuine interest in my development as a student sparked the beginning of my love for learning. The encouragement that radiated through her smile inspired me to go beyond what was asked of me. Throughout my life I’ve faced hardships within my family and within myself, but school became my escape. Diving deep into the equations of Algebra 2 or crafting essays of imaginable possibilities became passions of mine; passions I knew would one day open doors for my future, doors leading to scholarships and college entrance letters in the mail.

Mr. Sata: What is your advice to other NDCS students?
Lisa: My advice to other students is to see learning as a fun and engaging opportunity, rather than as a chore. Whether it’s reading, dancing, or speaking in public, your interests can lead to success and prosperity. Sometimes all you need is a little push in the right direction—New Designs will get you there.
Love, Lisa.