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Portrait of Leanda Dornellien

Honor Society® member

Leanda Dornellien

Maintenance Supervisor at Texas Department of Criminal Justice

  • University of Houston-Downtown
  • public administration
  • Class of 2024
  • Katy, Texas

Member since December 2022

About

First, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the committee team of Honor Society, for assisting students like myself in such educational and scholarship endeavors. I am a 51-year-old female, originally from the island of Saint Lucia, and currently a United States Citizen. I believed that America is the land of opportunities, however, my journey in construction and the technology industry began 27 years ago. I am the first of ten, and in many cases, the second mom to my siblings. I was forced to give up my dreams so that they may live theirs. I came from humble beginnings, where my dad's number one accomplishment was his ability to provide us with shoes to attend an elementary education. shoes to attend an elementary education.
I have always been fascinated with learning, even when I have been deprived of the initial opportunity. I do not believe that my struggles defined who I am. We are unable to change what is, however, we can surely influence what is to be. I am here today, not asking for sympathy, but pleading for empathy. My entire life, nothing has come easy. My entire educational journey has been a struggle, especially financially.
I believe in the access granted through higher learning and I am confident that winning is in my DNA.
I have always been passionate about using my hands and importantly understanding the complexities of anything technically related. I represent every little girl with a dream. I stand with every woman, contributing and excelling in a male-dominated industry. I have been passed over for roles, that I have been more than qualified for and capable of fulfilling. I have trained the best in the field because I represent the very best in the field.

Education

  • University of Houston-Downtown

    Batchelor of Arts and Science in Applied Administration

    2022 – 2024

  • Lone Star College system

    Associates of Arts

    2019 – 2022

  • Sir Arthur Lewis Community College

    Electrical Installation Certification

    2005 – 2007

  • Sir Arthur Lewis Community College

    Refrigeration and Air Condition Certification

    1999 – 2001

Honors and awards

  • AGC Houston (2018)

    Excellence In Leadership Scholarship

  • AGC Houston (2019)

    Excellence In Leadership Scholarship

  • AGC Houston (2020)

    Excellence In Leadership Scholarship

Goals and interests

Career goal

To add to my 27 years of comprehensive technical expertise, I have decided to strategically pursue a bachelor’s degree in Applied Administration at the University of Houston downtown. I am currently contributing to the industry as a technical professional and maintenance supervisor, employed by the Texas Department of criminal justice. I am very enthusiastic about my continued leadership and impact in the field. I believe that just as I have paved the way for my siblings through sacrifice, I am committed to carrying the burden and responsibility for many other women wanting to serve in technical and Leadership roles. Life has taught me maturity through experiences. HVAC, Refrigeration, Electrical, and Engineering are my world. I am simply seeking an opportunity to now live my life by receiving some much-deserving financial assistance through Scholarships.

Graduate school interests

My educational pursuits are noble and long coming. It is directed to aid in my commitment to providing a more efficient and effective service to one of the best Agencies in the world, the Texas Department of criminal justice. Today, I am asking for the opportunity to bridge the gap between experience and education. I do not want to be a victim of economic distress, but rather serve as a leader, mentor, and change agent.
I remain optimistic and ready to take a prudent risk. I am willing to fail, so that I may celebrate progress, little wins, for big victories. I believe that a heartbeat equals life, but not the quality of life. I need this scholarship opportunity, to secure a better future and an improved quality of life.

Outside the classroom

Travelling, Meeting new people, Helping people, hiking, going to the beach, sponsoring kids and church activities, and listening to gospel music.

Experience

  • Maintenance Supervisor

    Texas Department of Criminal Justice

    Jul 2020 – Jan 2023

  • Building and HVAC Technician

    GRBCC

    Nov 2015 – Mar 2020

  • Maintenance Manager/Supervisor

    Royal St Lucia Police Force

    Jan 2012 – Jun 2015

  • Maintenance Supervisor

    Goddard Limited

    May 2009 – Dec 2013

  • Sandals Resorts St Lucia

    Apr 1995 – Dec 2008

Volunteering

  • Youth Group Leader

    Castries Evangelical Church

    Jul 2008 – Dec 2015

Additional information

  • University of Houston Downtown -