Adrian Clark

Winning this scholarship is an honor for me. I'm grateful to have the opportunity to have applied, and more grateful for the opportunity to lessen out of pocket costs for school, so that I can focus on succeeding academically, and reaching my goal of becoming a lawyer. I am incredibly appreciative!!! Thank you for believing in me.

Itai Hershko

I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for selecting me as a recipient of the Joieful Connections Scholarship. I am truly honored to be one of the five winners, and I’m incredibly thankful for your generous support. This scholarship means so much more than financial assistance—it is a powerful affirmation of my potential and dreams. As a student with a developmental disability, it’s not always easy to navigate the path toward higher education. Your belief in me reminds me that my goals are valid and achievable, and that there is a caring community cheering me on. The $5,000 award will significantly ease the burden of college expenses and allow me to focus on my studies, personal growth, and future aspirations. Most importantly, it reinforces my determination to pursue my education with pride, resilience, and hope. Thank you for advocating for students of all abilities and for creating opportunities that help us thrive. I hope to one day pay it forward and inspire others, just as you have inspired me.

Jace Stringer

Wow, I cannot even begin to tell you how much it means to me to be selected for this award. Going away to college is by far one of the most scariest times in my life, in part due to the cost of attendance. This award is the most significant gift of my lifetime and I promise to do big things to ensure the lives of people who experience disabilities only continues to improve. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for selecting me. Sincerely, Jace Stringer

Tali Rauner

Dear Joieful Connections Scholarship Committee, I am writing this note filled with immense gratitude and joy to express my deepest thanks for selecting me as the recipient of the Joieful Connections Scholarship. Your belief in my potential and support have inspired me beyond words. The financial burden of pursuing my education has been a constant worry for me and my family. With this scholarship, I can now focus on my studies and make the most of every opportunity that comes my way. I am truly humbled and honored to be chosen amongst a pool of exceptional candidates. Thank you for believing in my dreams and supporting my aspirations. I promise to use this opportunity to its fullest, making a positive impact on my community and beyond. Your generosity has opened doors for me, and I will strive to prove myself worthy of your trust. Once again, I am incredibly grateful for this scholarship and the impact it will have on my future. Thank you for making a difference in my life. With heartfelt appreciation,

Mackenzie Bowman

Becoming a winner for the Joieful Connections Scholarship would be a helpful extension of assistance that I am very grateful to even be considered for. One thing that brings me great joy is to see how people with mental and nerve disabilities help each other out. It is quite common, thankfully, to see this unique brand of kindness. I like helping others who are nurodivergent or disabled like me cope with their world and all of it's complicated rules, because I would like the same. Thank you for extending your kindness in a similar fashion, and helping those with disorders like mine achieve their goals and celebrate their passions. Your work is much appreciated. Many thanks,

Kristopher Allgaier

Just being a finalist feels like a win to me. Living in a world where people like me are looked down on, having my aspirations be validated with a “near-win” IS a win! Hooray me! I wish the best of the best to everyone who applied and especially the winner!