Bishop Ron O. Beazer Sr. Scholarship

Community service is not just a graduation requirement for me; it's been a deeply rewarding and transformative experience. It offers an immediate sense of fulfillment and connects me with individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds that I might never have encountered otherwise. Being hands-on within my community has allowed me to make a tangible difference in people’s lives, the results of which reaffirmed my commitment to building a compassionate community. My journey began at Project PLASE, a homeless shelter in Baltimore, where I discovered some of the most resilient and talented individuals I have ever met. Through organizing food drives and simply being present, I became a small beacon of hope in their day-to-day lives, as they did for mine. These experiences have grounded me in reality, teaching me invaluable lessons about empathy and resilience, while significantly shifting my perspective on life. It is heartbreaking to see so many lives affected by factors like mental illness, substance abuse, and chronic illnesses—elements beyond their control that have derailed their lives. One story in particular has stuck with me. On my first day at the shelter, I met a trans woman who had once owned a thriving hair business. Her talent transformed her clients, making them feel powerful and confident. She empowered fellow women through hair, each of them leaving her chair a new person. Tragically, her life took a drastic turn when she was diagnosed with cancer. Despite her eventual recovery with chemotherapy, the lack of family support and overwhelming medical bills forced her into homelessness. Her story resonated with me deeply, particularly as my maternal great-grandmother also battled cancer. The thought that such circumstances could touch anyone’s life—including my own—serves as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. In addition to my work at Project PLASE, I have volunteered at Our Daily Bread Employment Center’s cafeteria, where I served hot meals to those in need. I have also contributed my time to local community gardens, striving to improve access to fresh and healthy foods within my community since grocery stores are so few are far between. My dedication to addressing these disparities led me to participate in the Johns Hopkins CARES Symposium, where I had the honor of moderating and presenting my research on the links between health disparities and the historical racism that Baltimore has experienced since its establishment. This opportunity solidified my resolve to advocate for systemic change. Moreover, my commitment to community service extends to our youth. Collaborating with BIOEYES, I serve as a mentor and teaching assistant for middle school students at Highlandtown and Mt. Royal Middle Schools — Mt. Royal, which is my old middle school. Together, we engage in hands-on science workshops, nurturing curiosity and a love for learning among the next generation. As I look toward my future, I am determined to play an active role in fostering an inclusive, supportive, and compassionate community. With my passion for public health, I aim to become a Nurse Case Manager, addressing health disparities in Baltimore through the healthcare system. Inspired by the legacy of Bishop Ron O. Beazer Sr. and his unwavering commitment to improving lives, I am driven to cultivate connections, share experiences, and collaborate not only within my immediate community but throughout all of Baltimore. This scholarship will aid in my journey to further my education and continue my mission toward creating meaningful change here in Baltimore.

"Allow me to assist you," my mom kindly offered to the stranger—an elderly woman struggling to load her groceries into her car. Despite the woman's initial refusal, my mom persisted, saying, "I don't mind at all." The woman's beaming smile in response resonated deeply with me. In that instant, my heart matched the smile, for this seemingly small act was a testament to my mom's unwavering willingness to aid anyone in need. While it may have been a modest gesture, it was at home where the values of community and helping others were instilled in me. As I reflect on why community service is essential, I am compelled to delve into the journey that led me to actively contribute to its betterment and explore my deep-rooted connections within my community. One of my earliest ventures involved collaborating with a local hospital for a coat drive initiative. While most were excitedly planning gift exchanges, I opted to use my resources to buy coats for those in need. Hand-selecting each coat, I envisioned the smiles they would bring and the warmth they would provide during colder months. Engaging in the distribution process was more than just a task; it was an opportunity to impact lives directly and to offer warmth and support where it was needed most. I had the privilege of collaborating with a local food pantry that provides aid to families and individuals facing crises in Baltimore City. This experience opened my eyes to the realities of food insecurity and ignited a more profound sense of empathy. As I helped prepare baskets filled with essentials, I recognized the value of dignified assistance – knowing that a simple act could alleviate burdens and inspire hope. My involvement in Habitat for Humanity's Restore and Reuse program was another avenue through which I contributed to the community's well-being. Assisting customers in finding needed items, pricing and packaging donations, and ensuring an organized store environment became integral parts of my routine. This experience taught me the significance of resourcefulness and sustainability. By extending the life of donated goods, we reduced waste and provided affordable options for those seeking everyday products. My dedication extended to working with middle school kids from public and private schools. By volunteering my time and knowledge, I sought to empower young minds to navigate the world of academia. Guiding them in subjects like math, I witnessed their growth and development. This experience reiterated that community is about interconnection and mutual support. Through these experiences, I've learned that community is a two-way street. The more I invest, the more I receive – not in material gains but in the bonds forged, lessons learned, and growth. Looking ahead, I am inspired to continue this journey of community commitment while also pursuing my goals to become a chemical engineer. As I aspire to play an active role in shaping a community that is inclusive, supportive, and driven by compassion, I also envision utilizing my engineering knowledge to create innovative solutions that address real-world challenges my community faces. My journey has solidified my belief in the transformative power of community connections. Just as Bishop Ron O. Beazer Sr. dedicated his life to improving the lives of others, I'm driven to continue fostering these connections, sharing experiences, and working hand in hand with my community to shape a brighter, more promising future for all. Through unity, empathy, and determination, I can contribute meaningfully to my community, positively impact the world, and ultimately create a scholarship to help others reach once unattainable heights.