Arlington School & Family Magazine August/September 2015 | Page 11

Student Accomplishments

BHS Graduate Grows Her Future with
Agricultural Sciences
Shannon Cifuentes, 2015 Bowie
graduate, was awarded the
prestigious GROW award by the
Texas Department of Agriculture.
The award Gives Recognition for
Outstanding Work to middle and
high school students who demonstrate
leadership and excellence inside and
outside the classroom.
Agriculture Commissioner Sid
Miller states, “I have to tip my hat
to Shannon for earning this month’s
GROW award. Thanks to young
leaders like Shannon, the future of
Texas looks brighter than ever.”
Before transferring to Bowie High
School in the spring of her senior year,
Shannon was an active member of
Martin High School’s FFA program
with agricultural science teacher,
Kristen Clark. She received both the
Green Hand Degree for FFA and
the FFA State Pin in nursery and
landscaping. Shannon was involved
in numerous other extracurricular
activities while continuing to take
rigorous pre-AP and AP courses including the track and tennis teams, Cultural Club, Technology Club, Art Club and
National Honor Society. Serving her community is a priority for Shannon as well. She has volunteered for the Children’s
Miracle Network, Meals on Wheels and Red Cross.
“In honor of receiving this reward, I would like to thank the people who brought me here today,” Shannon said. “Without
the guidance of my close friend, Beatrice, I wouldn’t have discovered my passion for agriculture. Being involved in FFA has
broadened my knowledge about becoming a veterinarian and my future plans of having my own landscaping and nursery
business. When my team reached fifth place in the state at a FFA competition, I realized I could do anything through
determination. Getting involved in the National Honor Society and Key Club also helped build my understanding that
giving a helping hand to others can really change one’s day for the better. Lastly, I want to thank my family for their support
and motivation, as it has taught me to never give up no matter the circumstances. Through this, I have been able to create a
strong foundation for what the world of agriculture will bring me.”
Shannon is attending Texas A&M University on a Region Scholarship. She has plans to become a veterinarian and open
her own landscaping business. †

10 Arlington School & Family - August/September