Oni Manns

Good morning, my name is Oni, and I want to sincerely thank you for selecting me as the recipient of the Joseph Joshua Searor Memorial Scholarship. It’s surreal because the award email came as I was looking through my emails this morning. I was dealing with a trigeminal flare, trying to manage my pain and emotions after a run, and just pushing through everything I’ve been carrying: school, parenting, finances, and chronic health challenges. Then I looked, and when I did, there it was, confirmation, encouragement, and light at a time I needed it. It’s not just about the financial support, though that means a lot. It’s about feeling seen. It’s about knowing the work I’m doing, the sacrifices, the path I’ve chosen; it all matters. As a non-traditional student working toward my DNP, this award helps me stay focused and affirms I’m moving in the right direction. I’m honored to receive a scholarship in Joseph Joshua Searor’s memory. Like him, I returned to school later in life, driven by purpose and passion for nursing. Thank you for helping me continue forward. I’m truly, deeply grateful. Thank you, Oni Manns

Dennis Pracht

Dear Searor, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for being chosen as a recipient of the Joseph Joshua Searor Memorial Scholarship. It’s truly an honor to receive this award, and I’m deeply moved to be part of Joseph’s enduring legacy, especially as someone who shares his passion for nursing and lifelong learning. This support comes at a pivotal point in my journey. As a U.S. Army veteran who survived an IED blast in Afghanistan, I’ve dedicated my life to transforming trauma into meaningful change. Your generosity allows me to continue my academic research in terrorism prevention and trauma-informed policy without the weight of financial barriers. I can focus more on developing innovative solutions that bridge mental health, national security, and public safety. I’m especially grateful to be recognized by a scholarship that celebrates Joseph’s courage to return to school and pursue a bold new vision for himself and his community. I’m honored to carry on Joseph Joshua Searor’s legacy through this scholarship and to strive, as he did, to become the best version of myself—both as a student and as a future practitioner. Your mission to make a daring leap possible for mid-career individuals like me is inspiring. I hope to honor Joseph’s memory by using my lived experiences and research to help create safer, more resilient communities for all. Thank you, Dennis Pracht

Porshia Mabine

Dear Searor, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for choosing me as a recipient of the Joseph Joshua Searor Memorial Scholarship. I feel truly honored and deeply moved to be recognized in this way, especially as someone who shares Joseph's passion for nursing and lifelong learning. I'm honored to carry on Joseph Joshua Searor's legacy through this scholarship. This generous support has a tremendous impact on my journey at Duke University, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and advocacy without being overwhelmed by financial concerns. It not only eases my burden, but also fuels my commitment to becoming a nurse who stands up for patients and empowers them to make informed decisions something that’s driven me ever since I lost my father to a stroke. With more than 15 years as a medical assistant, I know firsthand the power of compassionate, well-informed care, and this scholarship brings me closer to achieving my dream of making a difference as a nurse. Joseph’s story is especially inspiring to me as a mid career student taking the leap to advance my education, and I promise to honor his example by pursuing my goals with dedication and courage. Your family’s mission to support individuals who are bold enough to chase a new path truly inspires me. I look forward to the day when I can pay forward this generosity by uplifting and advocating for others in need. Thank you for your kindness and belief in my journey. Thank you, Porshia Mabine