She was born with genu valgum, commonly known as knock knees, and underwent a guided growth surgery that placed two plates in her knees to correct the condition.
“The procedure made a tremendous difference in my mobility and confidence,” said Adreianna. “Shriners took care of my medical needs, and now, through the Crawford Scholarship, they’ve helped lift the financial burden of college too.”
At Shriners Children’s Texas, support for patients extends far beyond medical care. One impactful way this commitment continues is through the Crawford Trust Fund Scholarship, which provides educational assistance to qualifying former patients of Shriners Children’s Texas who are attending college in Texas. More than just a scholarship, the program reflects an ongoing investment in each patient’s future success.
The scholarship is administered by a committee that meets annually to select recipients and determine the amount and extent of the assistance each will receive. Awards are distributed on a per-semester basis, with funds available each fall and spring semester once proof of academic progress is submitted. As long as eligibility requirements are met, funding continues through each recipient’s graduation, making it a reliable source of support throughout their college journey.
Shriners didn’t just treat my condition, they invested in my future.
Today, Adreianna is entering her senior year at the University of Texas at Austin, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in government with a minor in the business and analytics of sports. She plans to attend law school after graduation to become an entertainment and sports attorney. Outside the classroom, she is active as a student video specialist for the UT football program – a role that has taken her behind the scenes of major sporting events like the 2023 Big 12 Championship and the 2025 Peach Bowl.
“Coming from a low-income background, being able to pursue my undergraduate degree without the burden of student debt is something I will never take for granted,” Adreianna said. “Shriners didn’t just treat my condition, they invested in my future.”
For Marja Sealey, school services coordinator at Shriners Children’s Texas, that kind of long-term impact is what makes the Crawford Trust Fund Scholarship so meaningful.
“As the school service coordinator, it is my job to provide our patients with the tools to return to school and be as successful as possible,” Sealey said. “Overseeing the Crawford Trust Fund Scholarship is the perfect opportunity for me to assist our patients as they move on to higher education. This scholarship helps ease the financial strain of paying for college and assists those who might not otherwise be able to afford it.”
Through programs like the Crawford Scholarship, Shriners Children’s Texas continues to support patients in every phase of their journey in life. If you are a senior in high school this school year, please be on the lookout for an email about the Crawford Scholarship this coming spring.
Adreianna films a football game as a student video specialist for the University of Texas.
Adreianna celebrates after a University of Texas football game.
Adreianna stands on the field at a University of Texas football game.
