Rooted in Grit, Growing in Purpose: Swana Heyward’s Story
Dreams and Determination
Some stories begin with a dream. Others begin with determination. For Swana Heyward, it started with both. Raised in Ingleside, Texas, Swana grew up hearing her parents’ stories of perseverance: how they worked their way to become first-generation college graduates. They taught her that education isn’t handed to you. It’s earned through hard work, gratitude, and faith.
That lesson became her life's compass.
A Deeper Calling
At Ingleside High School, Swana did not just excel, she led. As National Honor Society President, class treasurer, varsity athlete, and volunteer, she learned that leadership is rooted in service. Whether managing the sidelines for the Lady Mustang basketball team, volunteering at local tournaments, or wrapping gifts for children at Driscoll Chrildren’s Hospital, she showed up with a heart for others and inspired those around her.
Behind the trophies and titles is a deeper calling. Watching her father devote his life to helping others as a professional counselor opened her eyes to the power of compassion. When she saw classmates struggle with anxiety and depression, she knew she wanted to make a difference, not from a distance, but from the heart.
A Bridge Between Generations
Now, Swana is preparing to study Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin with dreams of becoming a mental-health professional. A path shaped by empathy, she is guided by the belief that healing begins with hope.
Her story reflects the mission of the Frazier Family Foundation: to uplift futures built on courage, compassion, and community.
Swana is a bridge between generations, carrying her parents’ sacrifices forward while lighting the way for those who will follow.
When belief meets opportunity, the future grows brighter for everyone. Learn more about our scholars and the Frazier Family Foundation’s mission to open doors for tomorrow’s leaders at https://www.frazierff.org/news.
