Raul Fonseca

Dear PILC, I want to express my sincere appreciation for selecting me as the recipient of the Ray Aplin Memorial Scholarship. Receiving this award truly means a lot to me, and I’m glad to have learned about Ray Aplin through this scholarship. The support you’re providing helps lift a significant financial weight off my shoulders, making it possible for me to stay focused on my studies and develop my welding skills. This encouragement is invaluable, especially as I work toward my dream of building a successful career in welding within pipelines or refineries. One of my biggest goals is to retire my parents someday—a milestone that motivates me every day to work hard and excel in my craft. Your commitment to empowering students with disabilities to pursue independence really resonates with me. Knowing that you believe in my potential inspires me to keep pushing forward, and I hope to make a meaningful impact in my field and community just as you are. Thank you for your generosity and for investing in my future. Your support is opening doors for me, and I hope to honor this opportunity by giving my very best. Thank you, Raul Fonseca

Ryen Jennings

Dear PILC, I’m truly grateful to be chosen as the recipient of the Ray Aplin Memorial Scholarship. Knowing this scholarship was created to help students with disabilities pursue higher education means so much to me, especially since I’ve faced my own medical challenges. I’m honored to carry on Ray Aplin’s legacy through this scholarship. Your support eases the financial challenges I face and allows me to focus completely on my studies. Because of your generosity, I can continue pursuing my dream of becoming a scientist. My experiences with multiple strokes and a heart transplant when I was younger sparked my passion for neuroscience. Last year, a psychology class made me even more excited to learn about the brain and inspired my goal to help others who have suffered strokes. I truly admire your commitment to empowering people with disabilities to live independently and pursue their goals. Your belief in accessibility and inclusion motivates me to work even harder, not only for myself but also for others who may face similar obstacles. Thank you for your kindness and for making a real difference in my life and education. Thank you, Ryen Jennings