About this Event
Join us for the Grow with Google Scholarship Recognition Celebration honoring over 50 Westwood High School students, along with two staff members and one parent, who have been awarded scholarships through the Grow with Google program in partnership with Communities In Schools (CIS) Memphis.
This celebration recognizes the 2026 Westwood High School First CTE Grow with Google Cohort—Westwood juniors and seniors enrolled for 2025 who are building college and career readiness through online Google certificate pathways, including:
• Project Management
• Digital Marketing & E-commerce
• Data Analytics
• IT Support
• UX Design
• Cybersecurity
Grow with Google is an online college and workforce readiness initiative that provides access to professional certificates, paid learning experiences, and career exploration opportunities—preparing students and families for success in today’s digital economy.
Come celebrate student achievement, first-of-its-kind milestones, and the power of community partnerships supporting Westwood High School scholars.
Agenda
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Registration
Info: - Guests arrive and check in
- Light music and networking
🕑: 10:15 AM - 10:25 AM
Opening Prayer
Host: Pastor Melvin Watkins
Info: Pastor Melvin Watkins will open the event with an inspiring prayer, setting a positive and uplifting tone for the scholarship recognition celebration.
🕑: 10:25 AM - 10:45 AM
Welcome & Event Overview
Host: Laquita D Wright
Info: LaQuita Wright leads the Karen Hearts Foundation as President & Executive Director and serves as a U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship Ambassador. She will welcome attendees, provide the event overview, and guide the program, highlighting the achievements of the 2026 Westwood High School First CTE Grow with Google Cohort.
Patrick Jenkins, Director & Vice President and fellow Apprenticeship Ambassador, brings expertise in workforce development, project management, and student career readiness. He will co-present with LaQuita, celebrate scholar achievements, and discuss opportunities for professional growth and community partnerships.
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Principal Welcome & Motivation
Host: Principal - Dr Trenton Watson
Info: The Principal of Westwood High School will welcome students, families, and guests, sharing encouraging words to motivate scholars as they begin their Grow with Google journey.
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Student Scholar Spotlight
Info: Toryon Walter, a senior at Westwood High School, will share a motivational perspective as a current scholar, inspiring peers with their experience and vision for college and career readiness.
Anijah Thomas Embry, a senior scholar, will speak about personal achievements, dedication, and goals, highlighting the impact of the Grow with Google program on her educational journey.
🕑: 11:15 AM - 11:25 AM
Parents Success Stories
Info: Families will share her success story, discussing the significance of family, perseverance, and how the scholarship supports student and family advancement.
🕑: 11:25 AM - 12:00 PM
Scholar Recognition & Awarding Scholarships
Info: All scholars from the 2026 Westwood High School First CTE Grow with Google Cohort will be recognized for their enrollment and accomplishments across six Google Career Certificate pathways.
In addition to student recognition, a Westwood High School teacher scholarship recipient will be honored and invited to speak, sharing their experience enrolling in the Grow with Google program and the impact of continued learning on educators and students.
Special scholarships will also be awarded to staff members and a parent recipient, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning and family engagement in college and career readiness.
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Catered Meal & Networking
Info: Scholars will enjoy a catered meal, while other attendees can enjoy refreshments. This is an opportunity to network with government officials, partners, and community leaders, and reflect on the celebration of success.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
620 Parkrose Rd, 620 Parkrose Road, Memphis, United States
USD 0.00












