A Packard Scholar Continues The Legacy
As a longtime and much beloved Baylor physics professor and Master Teacher, the late Dr. Robert Packard influenced the lives of generations of students both in and out of the classroom. He was known for his commitment to making complex ideas understood and for living out his Christian values. But Dr. Packard was so much more than just a professor. For more than 60 years, he and his wife, Joyce Hornaday Packard, B.A. '52, M.S.Ed. '57, worked as a team and claimed all Baylor students as if they were their own children.
Bob and Joyce Packard's lifetime of service resulted in lifelong friendships, drawing countless students into the Packard family. And through the generosity of many of these students along with an estate gift by the Packards themselves, the Packards will continue touching the lives of Baylor students for generations to come through the Robert G. and Joyce Hornaday Packard Endowed Scholarship Fund. Scholarship recipients are fondly known as "Packard Scholars."
OPENING DOORS
Recent graduate Elizabeth Drews credits the Packard scholarship for helping make possible her attendance at Baylor. The Nebraska native selected Baylor for its strength in the sciences and in preparing students for medical school. With a strong academic background and financial need, Elizabeth was hopeful Baylor would help her bridge the gap through scholarship support.
"I was honored to be chosen to receive the scholarship because I knew the applicant pool contained amazing students," she said. "I also felt grateful because I knew that any scholarships received lessened the burden on my parents."
SERVING OTHERS
An Honors Program student, Elizabeth majored in biology and minored in Spanish. Beyond rigorous academics, her Baylor experience affirmed and advanced her long-held calling - to improve the lives of the underserved as a physician.
"My faith compels me to care for underserved and 'the least of these' in my community," she said. "My Baylor experiences, both inside and outside of the classroom, have equipped me with the knowledge to enter the world ready and willing to improve the lives of my neighbors."
Elizabeth will attend Stritch School of Medicine at Loyola University Chicago beginning in August. Prepared by Baylor for this milestone along her journey, she is mindful of the generosity that provided a firm foundation for her progress.
"I know my success in the medical school application process was due to the outstanding education I received at Baylor as well as the unique leadership and service opportunities offered to me as a student," Elizabeth said.
"One day I hope to be able to provide financial gifts to support student scholarships since I know the positive effects that such assistance contributed to my life. I honestly cannot express how much the financial support of the Packard Endowed Scholars fund has meant to me. Because of this generous giving I am able to be a proud Baylor Bear."