J.D.M Legacy of Excellence Scholarship Fund

Joshua DeShawn Millender an African American male was born prematurely, and was diagnosed at the age of two with a physical impairment, Spastic Cerebral Palsy - left hemiplegia a condition that affects the muscular and neurological systems. Later learned to have a speech impediment. Joshua developed and thrived despite his physical limitations, through myriads of health issues, as he quickly learned to maneuver with his dominant side. Joshua was introduced to Christ and accepted Christ as his Savior at the age of eight. He was assured at a young age that God had His hand on him, and prayers that was embedded in him surrounded him. He was a quick learner, avid listener and attributed it to God’s love and care for him specifically. He knew there was an anointing on his life and was destined for greatness. He became a prayer warrior at a very young age praying not only for himself but also others. He knew there was an anointing on his life and he was destined for greatness. Importantly, Joshua was on a mission to bring many people into the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Joshua's life was relatively uncomplicated until the age of 13, when he experienced his first unpredictable epileptic seizure. His life changed forever. He was now dealing with a physical impairment along with epileptic seizures, surgeries after surgery, and other health challenges. Thus, looking at him one would not notice or know the extent of his health condition. Instead, they became amazed at the knowledge he possessed. Joshua was an exceptionally intelligent young man both academically and spiritually, with an indelible spirit. He stood tall in his ideas and dedication to excellence which exceeded his structure. Students and instructors were easily endeared to him due to his joviality and eagerness to learn. He made friends rather quickly due to his affinity with video games, wrestling, basketball, and NFL football. Joshua would engage others in deeper topics of discussion - Politics, Biblical scriptures, beliefs, and teachings of Jesus Christ. There was not a question that could be asked that Joshua did not have an answer. Joshua could hold his own in many conversations regardless of the topic. He would always delve deep into his thoughts and would speak from a place of intelligence, encouraging others to do the same. When brainstorming with his peers he was able to captivate their attention on him because of the knowledge he possessed. You can say he was a “ smart people person” He had the ability to turn any discussion or challenge into a step-by-step guide toward success. His life had a tendency to surprise him with curveballs. Despite experiencing a second epileptic seizure three months after the first seizure, Joshua maintained a positive attitude and lived his life like a normal individual. He never allowed his disability, or the sudden health issues to change his mindset. He approached everything that was happening with grace and bravery. His days were filled with school, doctor appointments, and therapy but he made sure to include time with his family, friends, church, and most of all God. While Joshua may have had ongoing health challenges, he was one of the strongest, most brilliant individuals one could meet. He would always quote Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Though Joshua faced many health challenges, his cognitive skills did not suffer as a result. Joshua embraced his independence as a young scholar and acquired leadership and advocacy skills for himself and others with limitations - disabilities. Yet, over the years without question, he found himself experiencing countless obstacles, physical challenges,s, disappointments, adversity, and medical setbacks that motivated him to continue to pursue excellence in all aspects of his life. It was clear to him in every choice or decision he made would determine the person he would become. In his nineteen years of life as a student and believer in Jesus Christ, he demonstrated a great example of a scholar, a leader, an individual with character and integrity. He considered himself a great scholar by striving for excellence aiming to be the best at - everything he set his mind to do, determined to reach his true potential as an African American male with a physical impairment. God used him mightily in every aspect of his life! Things were not always easy for Joshua. At the early start of his educational journey, he experienced bullying. However, when he was given the opportunity to share his story about his disability, he was treated as a normal individual. Joshua refused to allow the actions others to determine his destiny. In every educational and social setting, he shared his story in hopes to educate, as he set forth to make a difference. Thus, Joshua was homeschooled as a virtual learner from seventh grade through high school. During his junior year of high school, he began visiting universities and found several that struck his interest. In his senior year of high school, he applied to several colleges - universities and was accepted to all of them. Though his mother struggled with the distances of many of the universities, Joshua steered toward Azusa Pacific University - APU. His final decision was made in the latter part of his senior year. Joshua used his disability and health challenges as a motivation to pursue Excellence. A 3.7 GPA or higher - honor student throughout his educational journey. Later, going to college at Azusa Pacific University - Honors College, on a Presidential Scholarship and academic scholarships, pursuing a double major degree in Psychology/ Honors Humanities, and making the Dean's list both semesters of his first year at APU. APU is where Joshua gained his independence and advocacy skills for himself. Thus, Joshua was not able to fulfill his dream of becoming a School Psychologist /advocate for students with disabilities. On January 10th, 2024 at the start of his second year of college, in his dorm room at APU Joshua unexpectedly suffered another epileptic seizure and passed away. Even though his stay on the campus at APU was short-lived, God used him mightily on that campus. Though his passing was unexpected, he left a lasting impact on those he encountered by empowering them to pursue “Excellence” with determination, dedication, hard work, and resilience. His legacy will live on through the J.D. M Legacy of Excellence Foundation.