Kenzie Cummings

2021 "Pass the Torch" Scholarship Finalist

“She taught me that hard work does pay off. Ms. Smith poured hours among hours into coaching me and showing me if I just pushed myself, what all that I could achieve. She built that confidence into me.”

Kenzie Cummings was a shy, timid girl when she first encountered Ms. Smith. The advisor of the school’s DECA club, a group dedicated to creating leaders and entrepreneurs, Ms. Smith persuaded Kenzie to join the club and compete in the marketing division. Under Ms. Smith’s mentorship, Kenzie not only flourished at DECA, but metamorphosed into a self-assured, capable young woman. Kenzie now aspires to have this same transformative effect on her students as a teacher in her hometown.

Here is Kenzie's story about Mrs. Smith, the teacher who inspired her.

Want to hear the stories of the other nine finalists? Visit our 2021 Scholarship Finalists page.

Thinking of applying to this year's program? Learn more on our Teachers Test Prep "Pass the Torch" Teacher Scholarships page.