Hahnville senior receives scholarship

Ms. Brandi Soigner was named the recipient of the 2012 Robert C. Menezes, Sr. Memorial Community Scholarship Tuesday night, April 24, at Hahnville High School’s awards ceremony.

The $5,000 scholarship is awarded to a student who has demonstrated leadership abilities, academic achievement, and contributions to the local community. The scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior selected by the school and is in memory of Bob Menezes, who was coach and later principal of Hahnville High School for twenty years until his death from cancer in 1975.

"Ms. Soigner is a truly exceptional student and leader. She represents the qualities of a student Hahnville High School produces," said Karen Russo, Hahnville’s Chair of the Scholarship Committee which made the selection. "Brandi is self-motivated, conscientious and excels in all she does. She takes pride in herself, her school and her community."

Brandi Soignier graduated summa cum laude, was selected to the Superintendent’s List, and was named a National Merit Finalist. She was a member of the National Honor Society, the Beta Club, and the Spanish Honor Society, serving as President. Ms. Soignier was a member of Science Olympiad and served as a Kickoff Mentor being selected for her leadership abilities.

Ms. Soignier was chosen for the prestigious Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Award as well as WWL-TV’s "A+ Athlete" Award. She was team captain of the volleyball and soccer team and was a 2nd Team All-District selection. She earned the Louisiana Student Achievement Award and the President’s Award for Academic Excellence. Brandi also finds time to serve the community. She volunteers at the local animal shelter and participates in blood drives for transplant patients.

Ms. Soignier is the daughter of Fernie and Sue Soignier of Luling. Brandi plans to attend the University of Alabama and major in Engineering.