Granier named recipient of Robert C. Menezes, Sr. Memorial Community Scholarship

Ms. Alyse Katherine Granier was named the recipient of the 2006 Robert C. Menezes, Sr., Memorial Community Scholarship Thursday night, May 18, at Hahnville High School's graduation ceremony held in the John A. Alario Center in Westwego, Louisiana.

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 in 1975.

"Ms. Granier is truly deserving of this award not only in being an excellent student but for her character and contributions to her family and community," said Doris Menezes, widow of the late principal and coach, who made the presentation of the award at Thursday's graduation ceremony. "Ms. Granier chose to help other in her family and the community while being a dedicated scholar and student leader. She excelled where others in similar circumstances would have been discouraged. She is an inspiration to young and old alike. We are honored to award this scholarship to such a gifted young lady. We are pleased to become part of her continuing education as she attends college."

Alyse Granier graduated magna cum laude, was chosen Student of the Year, was selected to the Superintendent's List, was honored as Who's Who among American High School Students. She received the Dow Scholastic Achievement Award and was featured in the Times Picayune Senior Salute. She was a member of the National Honor Society, serving as its president, and the Beta Club. She served as Editor of the Yearbook, placed first in the Social Studies Fair, and was invited to participate in the National Youth Leadership Forum.

Ms. Granier was a cheerleader for four years, being selected as Captain and All-Star, and served on the Monsanto Community Advisory Panel. She mentored displaced students and was a volunteer for Head Start, the German Coast Farmer's Market, Toys for Tots, Christmas Carolers, and blood drives. She participated in the New Generation Forum, Cox Education Plugged In, Catholic Youth Organization, the Interact Club and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She was also a member of the Homecoming Court, was chosen St. Charles Parish Farm Bureau Queen, and the Louisiana Catfish Queen.

She is the daughter of Jill Granier of Des Allemands. Alyse plans to attend Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama, where she is a scholarship recipient, and pursue a degree in Communications.