Keira Roup of Rock Port, Missouri, has been selected as a recipient of the 2026-27 Anne Lowe Scholarship awarded by Christian Record Services, Inc., an international nonprofit organization serving people who are blind or have low vision. The scholarship recognizes college students who demonstrate academic achievement, strong citizenship, and determination in pursuing higher education.

“Keira exemplifies the determination and commitment that the Anne Lowe Scholarship was created to support,” said Dexter Thomas, president of Christian Record Services. “We are honored to invest in students who are working hard to achieve their educational and career aspirations.”

Roup’s life has been shaped by leadership, responsibility, and a desire to help others in her small community. Growing up in Rock Port, she has been supported by relationships that encouraged her to stay involved, work hard, and give back. Those experiences have helped shape her character and strengthened her commitment to serving others.

Throughout high school, Roup has been involved in a wide range of sports, student organizations, and leadership roles. She earned varsity letters in cheer, dance, and golf all four years, played volleyball during her freshman and sophomore years, and later served as team manager when changes in her eyesight made playing more difficult.

Roup has also developed as a leader through organizations such as FCCLA, FBLA, Jays for Jesus, National Honor Society, Student Council, and Peer Counselors. She served as FCCLA chapter president for two years after holding other officer positions, as FBLA historian, as the Student Council representative for National Honor Society, and as vice president of Peer Counselors. She has maintained high grades, earned a place on the high honor roll, and received the Good School Citizenship Award.

Outside the classroom, Roup gained practical experience through work and volunteer roles. She spent three summers at the Rock Port City Pool, where she served in several capacities, including lifeguard, concession stand manager, and pool management. She also taught private swimming lessons to children, strengthening her skills in communication, teaching, and child safety. In addition, she has babysat children ranging from infants to age 10, building patience and responsibility.

Community service has been an important part of Roup’s life. She has served through Bible Explorers at church, Meals on Wheels, Second Harvest food distribution, No Hunger Summer, kindergarten tutoring, youth cheer and dance camp, concession stands, the Blue Jay Shop, and elementary game scoring. At First Lutheran Church of Rock Port, she has been actively involved throughout her life and served as an acolyte for four years.

These experiences have helped shape Roup’s primary interest: working with and supporting children. She plans to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she will major in Child, Youth, and Family Studies with the goal of becoming a Child Life Specialist. The career path reflects her desire to use her passion for children to make a positive difference in their lives and in the lives of their families.