Mallory Peschiera

I am incredibly grateful to be selected as a winner! As a senior nursing student and a mother of two young children, this scholarship significantly eases my financial burden and allows me to focus more on my studies and my family. As a Spanish-speaking Black woman in STEM, I am passionate about serving my community by providing culturally competent care and improving healthcare access for underserved populations. Your support brings me closer to achieving this goal, and I am excited about the impact I can make as a registered nurse in North Carolina. Thank you for your generosity and belief in my potential!

Dawn Walker Lindley

To the Sikora Drake scholarship committee, A simple thank you for being selected as a recipient of this scholarship funding cannot even begin to express my gratitude for being chosen. The impact of this amazing opportunity will not go unrecognized or unappreciated. It is because of funding like this that I am able to continue my educational journey, helping to impact others less fortunate and in times of need. I know that my studies have already had impact on not just myself but those around me. One great example is the high school principal where I work has already committed to, and enrolled in her own continuing mental health education after a conversation we had regarding family patterns and changing generational maladaptive behavior peaked her own curiosity and willingness to invest further in students. While I am no "expert" by any means, seeing people gain a different perspective on the human condition is exactly the path I chose to lead. Thank you so much for allowing me to continue further in my studies. Although we are all small individually, nothing we do is insignificant. We each have the ability to impact the world for the better, one breath at a time. Dawn Walker Lindley

Jada Sinanan

Thank you so much for this opportunity! I am going through my college admission's process and winning this award helps me so much. I wish nothing but the best for you and your family:)

Riley Syrocki-Autery

Thank you so much for the opportunity! I appreciate the support you give all of us students to succeed.

Samantha Luna

Thank you for the opportunity to be awarded a finalist!