The Vanguard 2027 Baylor Bright Scholars

Article written by Vanguard Senior, Cappy Starr

It is with great honor that Vanguard College Preparatory School announces the graduation this spring of two Bright Scholar recipients, Ellen and Cynthia Weaver. With equally outstanding reputations as students, both Ellen and Cynthia were named Bright Scholars in 2021, following their time at Lake Air Montessori Magnet School. The Baylor Bright Scholarship program awards a rising 7th grader with a full tuition scholarship to Vanguard for 6 years.  

Six years ago, Ellen and Cynthia Weaver were the top two scholarship candidates out of fifteen. Now, they have brought their standings to Vanguard as the top two students out of fifty two. Embodying Vanguard’s values of community, rigor, and a passion for learning, the Weaver twins have excelled both inside and outside of the classroom.

Reflecting on her time at Vanguard, Ellen describes her love for Vanguard and its “tight-knit community built around a shared love of learning". Ellen also comments on the academic nature of Vanguard: “Even in a rigorous environment, our teachers promote collaboration rather than competition, and my classmates are always willing to help each other succeed". Ellen hopes that in college she will find an environment similar to Vanguard “where dedicated teachers lead thoughtful discussions and genuinely curious students learn from one another!"

Expressing appreciation for Vanguard, Cynthia states the following: “Thanks to accommodating teachers, coaches, and administration, I have been able to take all the rigorous courses I want while also balancing my running sports with electives like Mock Trial". Aside from her extracurriculars, Cynthia has loved taking AP Art History with Mrs. Ferretter. She has applied her learning outside of the classroom: “Taking art history not only gave me a view into other cultures around the world, but it also helped me appreciate and understand art whenever I encounter it in museums".

The Bright Scholarship has not only allowed Ellen and Cynthia to flourish as students but also to contribute to Vanguard in extensive ways.

Between Ellen’s substantial contributions to Student Council, Cynthia’s involvement in athletics, and both of their success in Mock Trial, the Weaver twins have enhanced the Vanguard community and will continue to evolve as student leaders throughout their future endeavors.

They are the only twins to win this prestigious scholarship and now they are both top of their class. Congratulations to the Weaver Family. They are the daughters of William and Katherine Weaver. William is the Baylor Director of Great Texts and Professor of Literature.

To apply for the 2027-2028 Baylor Bright Scholarship Program, or inquire about admission and tuition assistance, contact Chelsa Ressetar at
chelsa_ressetar@vanguard.org
or call 254-772-8111