 | Though his military childhood presented challenges, Justin Kidd now realizes the life lessons he learned along the way. “My experiences taught me much about perseverance, tenacity, determination, interpersonal relationships, and diversity. Most importantly, my military upbringing taught me to appreciate the freedoms we enjoy as U.S. citizens, the many who sacrificed to afford us such freedoms, and a strong sense of duty.” With the assistance of a $3,000 Jackson Casey Fund/ ThanksUSA scholarship, this proud Air Force dependent is continuing undergraduate studies as an Honors College student at James Madison University. |
| Majoring in Kinesiology, Justin plans to earn a medical degree and specialize in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. "I feel not only motivated but also inspired to study kinesiology, earn my professional degree, and share the expertise that I gain with those who need aid." To complement his studies, Justin is a member of the JMU Honors Fraternity, the Pre-Physical Therapy and Pre-Medical Societies, and is a Human Physiology Teaching Assistant. In the fall of 2016, he will serve as an Honors 100 First Year Seminar Teaching Assistant, mentoring Honors College freshmen. In addition to his studies, Justin serves on the Philanthropy Committee of the Pre-Med Association. He has raised funds for Special Olympics, participated in Relay for Life, and distributed food to needy families in the community. Justin also enjoys sharing his school spirit as a JMU musician. An enthusiastic member of the Marching Royal Dukes, Justin performed during every football game, marched in the Harrisonburg holiday parade, and traveled to numerous locations to entertain and inspire. Justin and his band mates make sure that JMU's annual high school band competition, Parade of Champions, runs smoothly and he hopes to be a Marching Royal Dukes drill instructor in the upcoming academic year. |
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| “I am honored and humbled to be a recipient of the Jackson Casey Fund/ThanksUSA scholarship. You are allowing students like myself the opportunity to succeed in our endeavors during a significant time in our lives. What you have done, and continue to do, deserves more than a simple ‘thanks.’ I will go beyond by using your donation to continue my education, become a master in my field, use my expertise to provide aid to others, and leave a legacy of my own. Thank you so much.” |
