Taylor Murphy: Arkansas State University (Casey Jane O’Brien Scholarship Award)

Taylor Murphy is starting her freshman year at Arkansas State University this fall, where she will study Animal Science and Theatre. She plans to work at a dog daycare during the day while performing with a local theatre in the evenings, and she also has a backup goal of working as a teacher assistant.

Taylor has attended the last four NDSC conventions, meeting Ruby at two of them. Each year, she leads a session for her peers, sharing her experiences and encouraging others. She also volunteers at the Orpheum Theatre in Memphis, combining her love of performance with community service.

In high school, Taylor received her CTE completer cord in Food and Nutrition. She’s also an accomplished dancer, enjoying ballet, jazz, and tap, and she loves spending her summers swimming. One of her proudest accomplishments is earning her driver’s license and enjoying the independence of driving herself.

This fall, Taylor is excited to dive into campus life, make new friends, and take the next step toward her goals!

Way to go, Taylor!