Donor: Family & Friends of Todd Swift
Available to: Miss Texas' Teen delegates
Scholarship Amount: $350
Application Deadline: June 1, 2026
Scholarship Qualifications & About:
The Living the Dream Scholarship was established in loving memory of Todd Swift, a devoted husband, father, and unwavering optimist whose signature phrase, “living the dream,” became a reflection of the gratitude, joy, and positivity he carried through every season of life. Donated by the immediate and extended family of Todd Swift, this scholarship honors a contestant who exemplifies Todd’s spirit: someone who uplifts those around her, passionately pursues her goals, and approaches life with resilience, authenticity, and a glass-half-full mindset.
This educational scholarship, created to honor 16 years since Todd’s passing, will award $1,100 in total to support two deserving contestants’ academic and professional journey. Scholarship recipients will be thoughtfully selected by Todd Swift’s immediate and extended family, including his wife, children, sister, cousins, and aunt, who are honored to continue his legacy through this family-funded scholarship.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit heartfelt, original responses that reflect their true voice and personal experiences, as authenticity will be deeply valued throughout the selection process.
Application Requirements
Social Media Submission:
Applicants must post and submit an original social media post made to Instagram (photo, video, or reel) that reflects what “living the dream” looks like in their everyday life.
Requirements:
-One public post on Instagram
-A thoughtful caption explaining what “living the dream” means to you personally
-Showcase how you pursue your dreams, overcome challenges, and uplift others
-Use #LivingTheDream2026 on your post
Ideas:
1. “A Day in My Dream” - Show what living your dream looks like through your daily passions, goals, and purpose.
2. “Living the Dream Through Kindness” - Highlight acts of kindness or service that show how you uplift others. (Todd often bought coffees for strangers and dropped donuts off at firehouses, it's what we do annually in his honor!)
3. “Turning Challenges Into Purpose.” - Share how you’ve overcome obstacles with positivity and perseverance.
The more personal, heartfelt, and authentic your submission, the stronger your application will be.
*Please share your post below via a public link to your Instagram post or a public link to the video via Dropbox or Google Drive. Please submit your link to your video in the submission box below.