How do you make it onto the court at an Indiana Pacers game? Hard work, determination and perseverance.
Just ask Emily Tapia.
The 8th grader, who attends Shepherd Community Center’s afterschool program, recently received the Abrams Academic Achievement Award from the Pacers. Emily and other students were honored at halftime of the Pacers game against the Houston Rockets on March 4.
The organization notes that the award, named after team ophthalmologist Dr. John Abrams, recognizes “students who have overcome obstacles, excelled in academics and deserve positive reinforcement for their dedication.”
“Emily was selected because she has displayed strengths in conflict resolution, especially with people who are close to her,” Brandon Lindsay, who helps lead Shepherd’s afterschool program, said. “She is curious and not afraid to ask questions. It took her a few minutes to grasp that she actually had won the award and that it wasn’t a joke. She was very excited at the news.”
In addition to recognition on the court, Emily received four tickets to the game, a pregame dinner at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, an achievement certificate, a Pacers swag bag and a surprise gift.
Emily was a student at Shepherd Academy from preschool through second grade and attended the afterschool program through fourth grade. She returned to the afterschool program during the current school year.
“Since reconnecting with Shepherd, she has been growing in her faith in Christ,” Lindsay said. “She’s also making new friends as well as reconnecting with old ones from her elementary years.”
