0 Five future Houghton students sitting on large inflatable chair at Accepted Students Day.

Alumna to Ambassador: A Turning Point to Houghton

July 31, 2024

Long before Bailey Lewis considered college, Dr. Coreena Weaver ’84, a distinguished pediatrician, member of Houghton’s Board of Trustees and Alumni Ambassador, came to know her as the family doctor. When Bailey expressed interest in music education, Dr. Weaver seized the opportunity to share her Houghton experience.

Initially, Bailey was apprehensive. She knew of Houghton from her uncle but had some concerns about the University’s rural location. She had already chosen to attend another college this fall. Having known Bailey and her family for years, Dr. Weaver recognized her potential. Bailey was not just an excellent student; she was an exceptional individual who would thrive in the Houghton experience. Dr. Weaver recounted her own Houghton journey—the rigorous academics, the nurturing community and the transformative impact. Dr. Weaver encouraged Bailey to take a second look at Houghton.

Dr. Weaver’s advocacy didn’t stop there. She reached out to admissions, ensuring Bailey connected with professors from Houghton’s Greatbatch School of Music. As an alumna and board member, Dr. Weaver knew of the Alumni Ambassador program and the opportunity to award an Alumni Ambassador Scholarship to encourage students like Bailey to apply to Houghton.

Alumna Coreena Weaver.

I am grateful each day for the equipping and foundations that a Houghton University education and experience gave me to allow me to pursue my dream of becoming a physician. In the current era of ever-increasing costs of higher education, often students and parents are accepting less costly college options. My support of the Student Scholarship Fund and as an alumni ambassador helps “fill the gap” for those students in need who desire a Houghton University experience and degree.

Dr. Coreena Weaver ’84

For Bailey, Dr. Weaver’s encouragement proved pivotal to her college decision.

“I really enjoyed sitting in on a music theory class and seeing the students and professor interact and the overall classroom environment,” said Bailey of her campus visit. Following these experiences, Bailey found a new home at Houghton and decided to become a Highlander. “I chose Houghton because of its tight-knit community as well as strong educational program.”

Sharing your Houghton story, like Dr. Weaver, can prove to be a deciding factor in a future Highlander’s college search. As an Alumni Ambassador, you can encourage students to pursue a Christ-centered, academically excellent education and award them a $500 Alumni Ambassador Scholarship. Learn more and sign up to become an ambassador for Houghton.

Incoming Houghton student Bailey Lewis holding sign that reads Future Highlander.
Houghton accepted students standing on bleachers with Luckey.

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