PAWS Creator
 "I know how hard it is to get in to a school, and I value the importance of higher education!" - Shannon Beaver founder of MEPSE, currently known as PAWS Shannon Beaver, who is now a graduate of Penn State Altoona with a BA in Letters, Arts and Sciences; is the founder of the P.A.W.S. program (formerly known as MEPSE). Due to her hardships in entering a post-secondary institute, the P.A.W.S (Perseverance, Ambition and the Will for Success) program was created to help low-income individuals pursue a post-secondary education. Shannon went to Dr. Dan Lago with an outline of her ideas, in hopes of building a program that would assist individuals in their pursuit to higher education. After 3 years of dedication, the program has helped 13 individuals successfully enter a post-secondary institute. Through her hard work and ambition, Shannon has been an inspiration to volunteers and participants of the program.
“Shannon,
The first thing we need to say is Thank you! You have given us the chance to improve our lives and the lives of our children when you opened us up to a world of opportunities. Due to your hardship in entering post secondary education, you wanted to help others and looking around you have successfully accomplished that goal. Your determination and dedication is what started MEPSE (currently known as P.A.W.S) and our hopes are that we can carry on with the same determination and dedication as you have shown. You have been a really great person to work with and we have learned a lot from you and believe me there was never a dull moment while you were guiding us. Between the outburst of laugher and mass confusion we all learned to stick together. We know, no matter what life deals you, you will go far and while you’re traveling the road to success, we will miss you but are not far behind. All are in great appreciation to you.”
Amanda Neff - P.A.W.S. project associate
Christina Frantz - P.A.W.S. project associate
|
