The Dr Pepper Museum is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2024 Free Enterprise Institute Scholarship: Ethan Bonow from McLennan County and Michael Akinnibosun from Dallas County. Each recipient will receive a $5,000 scholarship to support their higher education pursuits.
“Both recipients exemplify resilience, determination, and visionary leadership within the business community,” said Joy Summar-Smith, Associate Director of the Dr Pepper Museum. “As entrepreneurs, the ability to seize opportunities, leverage resources, and navigate risks and setbacks is paramount, and both recipients have showcased these qualities throughout their entrepreneurial journeys.”
Ethan Bonow graduated from Classical Conversations Waco, demonstrating exceptional dedication both academically and in service. Ethan logged over 1,000 hours of volunteer work including disaster relief after Hurrican Harvey, Winter Storm Ida, and other natural disasters and his involvement in Sheperd’s Heart Mobile Food Distribution. Ethan’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his ventures, such as his car photography business and founding and co-owning Pine Hollow Christmas Lights with a client list of over 100 homes, four neighborhoods and Chick-Fil-A. He plans to attend Asbury University in Kentucky this fall, majoring in business administration and entrepreneurship.
“Thank you so much for awarding me with the scholarship,” said Bonow. ” It’s impossible to get across my honest gratitude, but I am truly thankful.”
Michael Akinnibosun graduated from Cedar Hill Collegiate High School and showcased exceptional academic and extracurricular achievements. He maintained a consistent A Honor Roll status and earned recognition as an AP Scholar. His involvement extended to the Business Professionals of America and various athletic activities and contributed to the Cedar Hill Food Pantry. Demonstrating entrepreneurial acumen, Michael successfully operated an online shoe resale business and a barbershop during his high school years. He will be pursuing his higher education at the University of Houston, majoring in Pre-Business and Marketing.
“It is an incredible honor to be recognized by such a prestigious organization, and I am truly thankful for the support and confidence the FEI Scholarship committee have placed in me,” said Akinnibosun. “I hope to make a meaningful impact in marketing and to honor the values and ideals that the FEI Dr Pepper Scholarship stands for.”
The Dr Pepper Museum’s Free Enterprise Institute awards a $5,000 college scholarship to one deserving student in McLennan County and one in Dallas County. These scholarships are granted to graduating high school seniors who plan to pursue further education in business, entrepreneurship, marketing, or a related field at an accredited college.
“As an educational resource with the mission of serving our community, we are honored to have the opportunity to hear the stories of these budding entrepreneurs and recognize their dedication and hard work,” said Summar-Smith. “It is a privilege to contribute to the early stages of their careers, and we eagerly anticipate them reaching their goals and therefore the positive impact they will undoubtedly have on the world.”
Congratulations to all 2023-2024 graduates!
About the Dr Pepper Museum
We educate, inspire, and entertain by sharing the stories of Dr Pepper and the soft drink industry. Housed in the historic Artesian Manufacturing & Bottling Company and Kellum-Rotan Buildings, the Museum is the largest cultural destination in Waco and the Original Home of Dr Pepper and the Dr Pepper Float. Over 200,000 visitors enjoy Museum experiences annually. A Museum visit experience includes over 35,000 square feet of exhibits, popular experiences including Make-A-Soda and Taste-A-Soda, handmade fountain drinks and a one-of-a-kind museum store. The Dr Pepper Museum is a nonprofit organization and is not owned or operated by Keurig Dr Pepper.
