Tammarra Letbetter

To the Barnaby-Murphy Scholarship Committee, Donors, and Supporters: I am incredibly honored and grateful to be selected as a recipient of the Barnaby-Murphy Scholarship. As a first-generation, Afro-Caribbean woman pursuing a doctoral degree in Counselor Education and Supervision, this award means more than financial support—it is an affirmation of my purpose, my voice, and my journey. Mental health has not only shaped my career but my life. As someone who grew up in a low-income household where mental health was often overlooked, I understand the importance of culturally competent care—especially for communities that have been historically underserved. Through this scholarship, I feel seen. You have invested in a future where representation in healthcare isn't just important—it's transformational. Your generosity helps lighten the financial load as I continue working full-time while completing my doctoral studies. But even more than that, it reminds me that there are people and organizations who believe in the value of lived experience, cultural identity, and community healing. It’s this kind of support that keeps me going—on the hard days, the long nights, and through every step toward my goal of opening trauma-informed wellness centers and training future counselors of color. To everyone who contributed—Nicole, Allison, Nadia, Kedesha, Avory, Deborah & Jean Luc, Keisha, Jeffrey, Jason, Makieya—thank you. Your kindness, encouragement, and belief in students like me are making a difference. I carry your support with pride and promise to continue doing the work that uplifts, advocates, and heals. With heartfelt gratitude, Tammarra Letbetter