Stephan L. Wolley Memorial Scholarship

My name is RJ Kluck, and I am a 21-year-old high school graduate of 2021. I completed my high school education through homeschooling and currently, I am an undergraduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Participating in higher education prepares ambitious people for the workforce by gaining deeper knowledge and practical real-life experience. One of my primary reasons for pursuing college is to gain valuable experiences as a young person that will set the foundation for greater opportunities in my future adult life. Growing up on a small farm in central Wisconsin made me dream about going to college while pursuing things that are greater than myself. While my ultimate dream is to own a business one day, my current focus revolves around creating a strong foundation of financial literacy as a young person. In honor of Stephan Laurence Wolley's story, I aim to cultivate my future health and motivation through healthy habits. I strongly believe that a healthy community relies on residents who embrace healthy habits and strive for ambitious goals through sports and hobbies. During my time in middle and high school, I played football for Wausau Area Home Educators. Despite transitioning away from sports since then, I have maintained my health by engaging in regular activity on the farm and at my local gym. Stephan was fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in sports while inspiring others. Unlike many young people, he utilized his athletic abilities to excel in both his academic and competitive pursuits. Even though we lost Stephan, his legacy continues to inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps. I completed my two-year degree in business management in December of 2023 through Northcentral Technical College and was accepted at the UWSP to attempt the four-year business administration degree with 73 transferrable credits. NTC not only broadened my career aspirations but also developed my character. To enhance my university experience, I will continue working at People's State Bank as a Personal Banker during my time in school. This will actively apply my academic knowledge while contributing to real-world situations. After I graduate, I envision returning to my hometown and beginning my career path by seeking an administrative position in the insurance industry to gain financial stability and reasonable benefits and then I will later pursue a position related to finance and advising. I will strive to apply the skills acquired through my educational and professional background to make an impact in my community. As I gain experience and financial stability, I will pursue employment that holds political aspects. I hope my potential civic endeavors will influence the consideration of ideas that will engage my community in activities that reflect moral and ethical values. My proactive steps going forward include building my career at People's State Bank, qualifying and applying for more scholarships, mentally preparing for my future classes, and continuing to serve in my community which will enhance my morals and values while consistently supporting the people around me. As my dreams become reality, my never-ending goal remains the same - to honor God in everything I do. Guided by my faith, I am committed to fostering a sense of unity, compassion, and understanding to those around me. I believe that love, kindness, and empathy have the power to create a ripple effect, positively impacting the lives of individuals and communities. Stephan L. Wolley's story greatly impacted me and I want to share his legacy with others. As for my career, I strive to exemplify these principles while contributing to society. To all the readers and kind donors, thank you for your support.

I am Adem Byrdsell, the founder of Byrd Basketball Foundation, a non-profit organization, with a mission to promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and achievement in young boys. I am also a college freshman who loves basketball. I conceived this Foundation to help underprivileged boys, who like myself, love the game, but don’t have access to the trainers and equipment to fully develop their skills. From personal experience living in Liberia, West Africa, for 10 years, I’ve met and played with many talented boys who simply don’t have the opportunities to truly excel in this sport. The Foundation planned to host its first community event, an intensive boys’ basketball camp in Liberia. The camp was initially planned for December 2021. On November 21, 2021, I was in a bad car accident, and hospitalized for 17 days, the first 6 in ICU. I was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury, a C5 spinal fracture, severely bruised lungs, and two rib fractures. For the first 5 days, a ventilator was my lifeline as my body fought to heal itself with the help of an amazing team of medical practitioners, including my doctors, nurses, and therapists. Surviving my accident continues to make me much more grateful for the life I am living. I was given a second chance, a chance that many people who have been in accidents as severe as mine were not fortunate to receive. Today I am on my way to a full recovery, only by the Grace of God. I am running track and playing basketball at full intensity. This experience has made me more determined to not only elevate my game, but also share my story and tell underprivileged boys, who love the game, that they can overcome any obstacle with hope, faith, and a healthy body, some of the traits that helped me to heal as miraculously as I did. With my second chance, I also learned the importance of giving back. I was determined to not only host the first camp but build it into a program combining healthy living and sports. The camp was held from June 27-July 2nd, in Monrovia, Liberia. Initially planned for twelve campers, we expanded to 24 campers daily, and with a fundraising campaign that raised more than 100% of the cost, we accommodated everyone. There was no cost to campers! A second camp is planned for December 2023. I aim to be the change I want to see in young athletes who may not have the chance to harness their athletic abilities because of hardships and setbacks. I want to be able to change someone's life, even if in a minute way. I believe my accident propelled a work ethic that set forth my burning desire to be the reason someone overcomes their own battles, much like I did. It’s critical to know that there is always opportunity in misfortune. My goal is to work in the US and Liberia as a Sports Medicine Doctor, advancing the profession and mentoring young people. I am unable to afford to attend the College of Charleston, without financial aid. My parents do not have the funds to pay the estimated $40,000 I need exclusive of the merit and need-based scholarships I’ve currently been awarded. They also do not want me to amass a large financial burden as a result of student loans. I know I have the drive and determination to thrive, and I am putting in hours of work applying for scholarships so that money won’t be a hindering factor to my success. I am thankful for the opportunity to apply for your scholarship.