Dear Centenary Donors, 

My name is Teri Johnson, and I am heading into my senior year at Centenary College. Majoring in communications and art, I have the aspiration to do both community relations and graphic design for a professional sports franchise. Over these last four year at Centenary, my life has significantly changed, both in small and large ways. A lot of this positive change is thanks to you.  

Six years ago, I walked onto Centenary’s campus to tour the school and softball facilities with one of my older sisters. I remember asking questions and listening to the staff and tour guides as if the tour were for me. I didn’t know it then, but that tour ended up being for me after all. I left Shreveport that day knowing that, for me, no other place would compare to Centenary. And then, I spent the next four years of high school trying to figure out how I could make my dream of attending the school come true.  

Flash forward to my senior year of high school. I was invited to scholars’ weekend. A few short weeks later, I was notified that I had received, not only a scholarship, but one that would change my life in more ways than I could understand in that moment. The money that (you) the donors have given me, has ensured that I can go to school without wondering how debt will affect my future. It has eased the financial burden of my future family. It has made sure that I will never have to compromise the value of my education for the sake of saving money. Even if there is a monetary value on it, for me, what you have given me cannot be measured.  

Since accepting my scholarship and enrolling at Centenary, I have maintained a 4.0 GPA while being involved in 4 clubs, student ambassadors, orientation mentors, and varsity softball (my freshman year). I have also received two ADDY Awards for my design work on campus and self-published two books. Then, after hanging up my softball cleats, I was able to apply and interview for an internship for the NAHL Shreveport Mudbugs. Since starting with the team in 2019, I have been promoted to the Director of Social Media and Marketing, designing billboards, merchandise, and graphics; being the sports media liaison and team photographer; and driving the Zamboni and much more! The team has trusted me with so much, and that has given me a wide resume, along with years of unforgettable experience and memories, that I can use moving forward in my life and career. My goal upon graduation is to begin working in graphic design/communications/or public relations for an NHL or MLB team. The Mudbugs and Centenary have both helped me grow in ways that I am certain will help me get there.  

I would like to end my small letter by saying thank you, knowing that no thank you could ever capture the immense amount of gratitude that I feel for each of you. Regardless of that, I still feel as if it is the least I can do. So… 

Thank you,  
Teri Johnson  
Senior- Communications: New Media Design