Other Student Highlights

Our Students: Marchelle Kavena

As an upcoming graduating senior from the University of Arizona (U of A), Marchelle "Katie" Kavena, a member of the Depngyam (Greasewood) Clan from the village of Bacavi, shared her educational journey with the HEEF.

When Katie began her academic career, she stated, "I began with a different major and didn't do so well in the courses. Therefore, I decided to change my major to something that was significantly more interesting and exciting to me." Katie knew that she wanted to pursue a profession in the health sciences field because of her interest in the human body and its natural resistance to bacteria, thus choosing to study Speech, Language and Hearing sciences, because that was a part of the body that, "I did not know much about."

As a student at the U of A, Katie found that although school was not only academically challenging but socially as well. However, through the financial support that she received from the HTGSP, Katie stated, "I was able to not only purchase necessary textbooks and supplies, I was also able to join clubs such as Women In Science and Engineering, National Student Speech-Language and Hearing Association, Project SOAR, a mentoring program as well as intramural basketball and pay the necessary membership fees."

With education being very important to both her and her parents, Katie added that she does plan to continue her education by obtaining Doctorate of Audiology and would, "One day have a private practice as an Audiologist, as well as work on the Hopi Reservation serving the Hopi community." My parents advised me that, "No matter what I do, I will always have to work hard to succeed and that learning never stops, even after you obtain multiple degrees."

Katie expressed her thanks to HEEF donors sharing, "The support they give is tremendous and greatly appreciated. Their support is a great help and has allowed me to pursue my education. It is great to know that there are people out there, who I don't know or may not know me, who support me, what I am doing and what I am want to do in the future. Thank you so much for all your support!!!"

Katie will be receiving her Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences in May 2008. She is the daughter of Dr. Cedric and Karen Kavena. Dr. Kavena is the current HEEF Vice President and along with his wife Karen are avid supporters of the HEEF.