Craft Academy student gives back through 'Thank-A-Vet Project'
A student from the Craft Academy for Excellence in Science & Mathematics at Morehead State University honored military veterans through a community service project.
Craft Academy junior Breanna Cantrell recently completed the "Thank-A-Vet Project," a community service project honoring the 99 veterans at the Paul E. Patton East Kentucky Veterans Center in Hazard.
Created as part of Cantrell's involvement in the Rogers Scholars program, the project involved organizing and assembling care packages filled with comfort items and personal care supplies to serve as a small but meaningful reminder of appreciation for those who have served. Beyond meeting program-specific graduation requirements, the project reflects a broader tradition of students across Kentucky combining academic opportunity with real-world impact in their home communities.
Cantrell, who grew up in Cornettsville and attended Letcher County Central High School before enrolling in the Craft Academy, said the "Thank-A-Vet" quickly became more than just an academic assignment.
"I have always wanted to make a meaningful contribution to my rural, underserved community, and this project allowed me to do exactly that. The more I brainstormed ideas and began shaping the project, the more I realized the real impact it could have on the lives of local veterans," Cantrell said. "What started as a requirement quickly became something deeply personal—a chance to show appreciation, offer support, and create a moment of recognition for people who often go unnoticed. Seeing how much a simple act of gratitude could mean to someone is what ultimately drove me to complete this project with purpose and pride."
The "Thank-A-Vet" project taught Cantrell to take initiative, communicate with organizations, and follow a project from an idea to a meaningful outcome through planning, problem-solving, and persistence.
"Professionally, especially as someone who hopes to become a pediatric occupational therapist, this project strengthened my ability to connect with people, understand their needs, and offer support in a way that is thoughtful and personal. It showed me how small acts of care can make a real difference, and that mindset will guide me in any career focused on helping others," Cantrell said. "Completing this project gave me confidence in my ability to lead, serve, and create positive change, which will stay with me long after high school."
The Craft Academy for Excellence in Science & Mathematics is a dual-credit academy for academically exceptional Kentucky students. Craft Academy provides students with a postsecondary residential experience to complete their junior and senior years of high school by enrolling in college courses. The Craft Academy aims to meet the unique educational needs of the Commonwealth's academically gifted and talented high school juniors and seniors. The academic rigor of the Craft Academy challenges students to excel at their highest level through project-based STEM+X courses and hands-on learning experiences emphasizing innovation, design, creativity, and civic and regional engagement.
To learn more, visit the Craft Academy website, email craftacademy@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2093.
