Brenau Scholars epitomize what it means to be leaders at the Women’s College. Katherine Davis of Melbourne, Florida, grew up with the best role model of a female leader that molded her entire outlook on life and what she wanted to do with it.

“My mother is the most supportive and influential person in my life,” she says. “When I slack off or procrastinate, she is always there to straighten me out. She is kind, loving, encouraging and supportive. She has always supported my dream of performing in theater and encourages me to be my very best. She has taught me to give 110 percent of my energy and focus at everything I do. I cannot say enough about how much I love my mom. She is what has shaped me into the person that I am today.”

Davis, who previously attended Southern Catholic College, is a sophomore musical theater major and a member of the Gainesville Theatre Alliance and Alpha Chi Omega. Originally drawn to Brenau because of GTA’s well-known prestige and bevy of talent, she’s prepared to put that “110 percent of energy and focus” to good use in the theater. She’s begun doing so, as she played the role of Babette in GTA’s fall production of Beauty and the Beast.

Davis gives back to her local community through the arts. She estimates giving 5,000-plus hours of community service through performance at her local community theater in Florida, and she was an assistant dance teacher for a year and half for children ages 3-7.

Davis aims to perform professionally in regional theaters, repertory theaters, on cruise ships or in theme parks once she graduates. Hoping to build up her resume, her ultimate aspiration is to move to New York City. Being a Brenau Scholar is her first step to fulfilling that dream.

“I am completely humbled and honored that I was even considered,” she said. “With this scholarship I can pursue a full four years of college without worrying about my parents having to pay a large burden. I am so thankful that I was presented this opportunity, and I am so excited and proud to be able to represent Brenau academically, ethically and artistically.”