Meeting February 3rd, 2026

Momentum Scholars Program 

Samantha Gathright has worked in a variety of capacities in the education sector for the last 17 years. She started out in the K-12 setting as a Site Director with Communities In Schools for 11 years in Alvin ISD before transitioning to higher education. From 2019 to 2025, she worked in the Office of Institutional Advancement at College of the Mainland before landing her dream job as Momentum Program Manager at Brazosport College last November. Samantha has obtained a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in Victim Services Management, both from Sam Houston State University. This year, Samantha will celebrate her 20th anniversary with her husband Billy, with whom she shares two boys, Hunter (18) and Hayden (14), and three spoiled dogs. She is passionate about the transformative power of education and the impact it can have on a person, a family, and the greater community. 

Dr. Gracie Pequeño is the Dean of Adult Education and Transition Initiatives at Brazosport College in Lake Jackson, Texas. She joined the college in 2018 after more than a decade in social services, where she supported individuals and families navigating barriers to education and opportunity. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Houston–Clear Lake, a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Houston, and a Doctorate of Education in Leadership from Spalding University. She is also a Licensed Master Social Worker. Gracie’s commitment to service began early as President of Interact in high school, where the Angleton Rotarians became mentors and role models who helped shape her pathway, relationships she still values today. She is a proud mom of two: a son who recently graduated from LSU and now coaches at B-Wood, and a nine-year-old daughter who keeps her grounded and inspired. She believes deeply in Rotary’s mission of service above self, and in the power of mentors who are willing to go the extra mile to change a young person’s life.