Student Spotlight: Tyra Williams

St. Philip’s College respiratory care student, Tyra Williams, has become the first recipient in the history of the Respiratory Care Foundation of Texas (RCFT) to earn its prestigious grant two years in a row.

Tyra, who anticipates graduating in Fall 2025, was honored June 8, 2025, during the RCFT Celebration Dinner in Lubbock, where nearly 15 St. Philip’s faculty members and students attended in support. She received a $4,500 grant, taking first place in 2025 after placing second last year.

“It meant so much more to me to have support from my fellow students and faculty,” Tyra said. “It is always nice to receive an award or scholarship, but to have my second family present motivates me in a different way.”

Her winning application included a research paper on Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. Applicants must submit a recommendation from their program director, maintain a GPA of at least 3.5, and complete a research paper.

Tyra was motivated to pursue respiratory care after her son suffered from asthma and she witnessed the specialized care provided by a respiratory therapist.

“I knew I wanted to help people, I just didn’t know how,” she said. “Now, I know how to catch all the signs of his asthma.”

Since starting at St. Philip’s in Fall 2023, Tyra has been active on campus, serving as treasurer for the Respiratory Club, participating in Phi Theta Kappa, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and the Lambda Honor Society.

She said her two sons are her greatest motivation. “This grant will go directly towards a savings account for my two boys. I want to be able to offer them the head start I didn’t have,” Tyra said. “I do everything to help them succeed and set the example.”