Charlene K. Howard Chogo Scholarship

Women’s empowerment has always been personal to me. Growing up, I watched my mother’s closest friend, Charlene K. Howard, pour into the lives of others with compassion and also with purpose. Even as a little girl, I truly admired the way she made people feel valued and she would always encourage other people. Although I did not fully understand it back then, she showed me what it looked like to lead by example and to just serve others. Today, I work hard to carry that same spirit with me by uplifting and also empowering the next generation of young women. Throughout my time at Florida State University, I have intentionally sought out opportunities to mentor and encourage others. As the previous Vice President of the organization My Soul Sister, I worked closely with high school girls through weekly mentorship sessions which helped with their academic success and overall personal growth. I also served as an Elder in SISTUHS INC. where I mentored younger members as they navigated college. These experiences have taught me that empowering women starts with encouragement, and just simply reminding someone that they are capable of more than they even realize. My commitment to women’s empowerment extends beyond mentorship. As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, I have learned the importance of serving my community and uplifting those around me. Being a current Florida State Cheerleader and now coaching cheerleading teams at a local high school has also given me the chance to pour into young girls every day. No matter what role I’m in, my goal is always the same, to encourage young women to believe in themselves and reach their fullest potential. As I begin graduate school in Sport Management, I want to continue creating opportunities for women in athletics and leadership. Whether my path leads me to become a sports psychologist or a sports agent, I want to be able to advocate for female athletes and make sure they receive the support and opportunities they deserve. Receiving the Charlene K. Howard Chogo Scholarship would be very meaningful because it honors a woman whose example shaped my own understanding of service and empowerment. It would also allow me to continue her legacy by becoming the same source of encouragement and inspiration for young girls that she was for me. I hope that years from now, another young girl will be able to say that I made her feel just as seen, encouraged, and capable as Charlene made me feel.