Throughout my life, I have faced numerous health challenges, but one of the most profound obstacles I encountered was the ongoing battle with multiple medical conditions, including a pacemaker implanted at just eight months old. From that early age, I lived with a pacemaker due to a variety of heart issues, including VSD (ventricular septal defect) blocks, a hole in my heart, murmurs, scoliosis, and thyroid issues, among others. My medical journey was long and often difficult, but it was during these challenging times that I relied most on my faith to overcome the obstacles that seemed insurmountable. There was a particular moment in my life, just before I was set to attend college, that tested my faith like never before. My doctors informed me that after years of living with a pacemaker, I would have to undergo a critical procedure to determine whether I could safely have it removed. The thought of having it removed was both exhilarating and terrifying. The pacemaker had been a constant presence in my life for so long, and I wasn’t sure how my body would respond without it. The procedure, and its potential for failure, loomed over me as a huge source of anxiety and fear. During this time of uncertainty, I turned to my faith for strength. I prayed consistently, seeking peace and guidance from God. I sought support from my church community, leaning on their prayers and counsel to help me find the courage to face the unknown. I found comfort in the words of Scripture, reminding myself that "with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26). The Bible served as a source of hope, as it reassured me that no matter the outcome, I was not alone and that God's plan for my life was greater than my circumstances. In addition to praying and seeking comfort from my faith, I also reflected on women like Nabi Nicole's example of dedication and strength in her faith. I would think of those who live a life like her life with a sense of purpose and determination, always encouraging others to trust in God's plan. Nabi's unwavering faith and love for others served as a powerful reminder that even in moments of hardship, faith could provide the strength to overcome anything. The procedure was a success. After years of living with a pacemaker, I was able to have it removed and was blessed with a healthy heart. My doctors were amazed by the results, and I could feel a profound sense of peace knowing that I had made it through the storm. That moment marked a turning point in my life—one where I not only saw the power of faith but also experienced firsthand the transformation that belief can bring. This experience of overcoming medical challenges with the help of my faith has been a guiding force in my life. It has taught me the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when things seem uncertain. It has given me the resilience to face future obstacles with the knowledge that faith will always provide the strength I need to overcome them. As I continue my education and career, I plan to carry this lesson with me, knowing that challenges are a part of life, but faith will guide me through them. Just as Nabi Nicole shared her faith and inspired others, I hope to use my own experiences to uplift and encourage others, knowing that faith is the foundation that can help us all overcome life's greatest challenges.

During my academic journey, I had the opportunity to demonstrate leadership in a variety of settings, but one of the most impactful experiences occurred while I served as the Programming Chair for the Greater Hartford Chapter of the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA). As a leader, my role was to coordinate community-focused programs that would engage and empower members. However, the position came with challenges that tested my organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Through this experience, I learned valuable lessons that I plan to apply throughout my career. One of the key challenges I faced in this role was ensuring that the programs were not only meaningful but also accessible and engaging for a diverse group of members. Our chapter’s goal was to provide valuable resources and networking opportunities to underrepresented professionals in the insurance industry, and that required creating initiatives that resonated with a broad range of people. The diversity of our membership meant that different members had varying needs, experiences, and expectations, making it difficult to design programs that would appeal to everyone. To address this, I employed a collaborative approach to leadership. I engaged with members to understand their needs and used their feedback to shape our programs. I also worked closely with my team to ensure that every initiative was well-executed, from recruiting speakers for professional development sessions to organizing networking events. The strategies I used emphasized communication, inclusivity, and flexibility, allowing us to create initiatives that were both impactful and well-attended. One particular program that I’m proud of was a financial literacy seminar for young professionals, which aimed to provide essential knowledge about managing personal finances and building wealth. The event was designed to empower individuals to take control of their financial futures and build confidence in making sound financial decisions. Despite initial challenges with attendance, we were able to turn the event into a success by leveraging the power of social media to spread the word and collaborating with local businesses to offer sponsorships and incentives. The seminar received positive feedback from participants, many of whom felt that the information they gained would directly impact their personal and professional lives. The impact of this experience was twofold. On one hand, I was able to see firsthand how effective leadership can bring about tangible change in a community. On the other hand, I also learned the importance of resilience and adaptability. As a leader, I had to navigate through obstacles such as limited resources and varying stakeholder interests. Yet, the experience taught me how to remain focused on our ultimate goal and stay flexible in my approach to problem-solving. I also learned how to motivate and inspire a team to work towards a common vision, which was critical in achieving the success of our programs. As I continue my career in business analytics, I plan to apply the leadership skills I developed during my time with NAAIA to make a positive difference in the field. In particular, I aim to use data-driven insights to address challenges in underrepresented communities, just as I did when creating programs for NAAIA. By applying my skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving, I hope to foster inclusive and impactful initiatives that empower individuals and create lasting change in both my industry and community. In conclusion, the leadership experiences I gained through my work with NAAIA have shaped the way I approach challenges and opportunities in my academic and professional journey. I’m excited to continue building upon these skills and using them to make a meaningful impact as I move forward in my career.

As a child, I dreamed of becoming a teacher. I imagined standing in front of a classroom, inspiring students with lessons that would empower them to achieve greatness. I was fascinated by the way teachers could shape minds, nurture talents, and ignite passions. To me, being a teacher was not just about educating students—it was about being a positive influence and guiding others to find their path in life. Although my career aspirations have evolved over the years, the core values that drew me to teaching—serving others, fostering growth, and making a difference—have remained a constant in my journey. Today, I am not pursuing a traditional teaching career, but the essence of what inspired me as a child still guides my choices. I’m currently looking to pursue a Master of Science in Business Analytics, and while this field may seem distant from education at first glance, it aligns perfectly with my passion for creating opportunities for others and making a measurable impact on the world. Growing up, I was always drawn to leadership roles and helping others. Whether it was tutoring classmates or volunteering at local community centers, I enjoyed finding ways to make a difference in people’s lives. I loved watching someone’s face light up when they finally understood a difficult concept, and that sense of accomplishment drove me to keep helping. This desire to serve others eventually led me to understand that while teaching in a traditional classroom might not be my calling, I could still use my skills to mentor and support others in a different capacity. Today, I focus on community service and education in a more unconventional way. I am passionate about using data and technology to create solutions that help underserved communities. My work with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. has given me the opportunity to mentor young women and teach them leadership skills. I also organize educational programs and workshops aimed at empowering others to realize their potential. This blend of teaching, mentorship, and service keeps me connected to the vision I had as a child—to positively influence others and help them grow. In many ways, the business analytics field is an extension of my childhood dream. The skills I am learning—how to analyze, identify patterns, and use technology to solve problems—can be applied to education and community development. I hope to one day create data-driven programs that will help close achievement gaps in schools, offering personalized learning tools for students who need extra support. I believe that education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background, and I see analytics as a powerful tool for making that vision a reality. This scholarship would help me continue my education and pursue my goal of using data and technology to make a difference in education and community development. It would also allow me to honor Charles B. Brazelton’s legacy by actively working toward a safer, more supportive environment for those who need it most. Though my path has evolved from wanting to be a teacher to pursuing business analytics, the underlying mission to help others remains unchanged. My childhood dream of inspiring others through education is still very much alive—it just takes on a new form as I work to bridge the gap between technology and community service.

I chose to pursue a Master of Science in Business Analytics because of my passion for using data and technology to solve complex problems and create meaningful change, particularly in underserved communities. Growing up, I was fascinated by how technology could transform ideas into tangible solutions, and I wanted to use this power to make a difference. My field of study allows me to bridge the gap between raw data and actionable solutions, especially in areas such as education, where data can be used to improve outcomes for those facing systemic challenges. One of my core motivations is to address disparities in education. I aspire to open a tutoring service or school dedicated to underrepresented communities, where data-driven insights can shape personalized learning experiences. With a degree in Business Analytics, I can design programs that identify gaps in academic achievement and provide resources tailored to meet each student’s needs. By merging technology with education, I aim to empower the next generation to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. From a young age, I have learned the importance of resilience and perseverance. I was born with a heart condition that required me to have a pacemaker implanted when I was just eight months old. Having lived with a pacemaker for most of my life, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the importance of technology in overcoming life’s obstacles. It has been a constant reminder of my ability to adapt, overcome challenges, and keep pushing forward. This experience has shaped my desire to use technology to help others, particularly those who may feel they have been left behind by society. This scholarship, honoring Kayla Nicole Monk’s legacy, resonates with me deeply. Kayla’s passion for helping others and her vision for the future inspire me to pursue my own dreams with the same determination and resilience. Like her, I am driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact and use my skills to create positive change. This scholarship would not only help ease the financial burden of graduate school but also empower me to continue my community service work, where I’ve already seen the difference that mentorship, education, and support can make. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I balanced academics with leadership roles that allowed me to serve others. I mentored young women, hosted professional development workshops, and volunteered at local libraries to provide tutoring. These experiences showed me how small acts of service can create significant change. With a background in Business Analytics, I aim to leverage data to expand these efforts and make a larger, more measurable impact. This scholarship would help alleviate the financial burden of graduate school and enable me to continue my community service initiatives, where I have already witnessed the profound impact of mentorship and education. It would serve as a reminder of Kayla’s legacy and fuel my dedication to making a positive difference.Just as Kayla dreamed of changing the world through innovation, I am determined to use my education in Business Analytics to create meaningful opportunities for underserved communities. With this scholarship, I can take a crucial step toward making that dream a reality, honoring both my personal journey and Kayla’s vision of making a lasting impact.

Every day, I strive to live with a spirit of excellence by committing myself to meaningful actions that benefit others and contribute to my community. Excellence, to me, is not just about personal achievement but about lifting others as I climb and making a lasting impact through service. As a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, I’ve had countless opportunities to embody excellence and give back. One of my most meaningful contributions has been organizing service projects as part of our signature programs. For example, I spearheaded a community health fair in partnership with local organizations, offering free health screenings and resources to families in need. Seeing the relief on people’s faces as they accessed essential services reaffirmed my commitment to creating a healthier and more equitable world. Another initiative I’m particularly proud of is leading a literacy campaign for underserved students. Through the sorority’s Operation Big Book Bag program, I coordinated the donation of books, school supplies, and hygiene kits to local schools. Beyond the material contributions, we also engaged with students directly, fostering a love for learning and showing them they are valued and supported. Excellence, for me, also means mentoring the next generation of leaders. As part of our Rhoer Club programming, I work with young women to build confidence and develop leadership skills. Whether guiding them through workshops on public speaking or offering one-on-one advice, I aim to leave them feeling empowered to chase their dreams and serve their communities. Outside of Sigma Gamma Rho, I continue to exemplify excellence through professional and personal endeavors. As a Group Benefits Underwriter at The Hartford, I approach my work with dedication and precision, ensuring I contribute positively to my team and clients. I also find joy in hosting educational workshops, such as teaching young women the art of hosting professional events, blending mentorship with practical skills to set them up for success. Looking ahead, I am pursuing a Master of Science in Business Analytics, a path that reflects my desire to merge data-driven insights with community-focused solutions. My ultimate goal is to create a tutoring service or open a school for underrepresented communities, addressing educational inequities and fostering long-term success for students. Harriett Russell Carr’s legacy resonates deeply with me. Her unwavering commitment to service and excellence is a model I strive to follow daily. Through my actions, both big and small, I aim to honor her memory by making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

My name is Amayia Tiajha-Alicia Cordova, and I am a woman of color with a deep passion for education, mentorship, and creating equitable opportunities in underrepresented communities. As an upcoming Master of Business Analytics student at Fairfield University, I am committed to using my skills to drive meaningful change both professionally and personally. My journey has been fueled by a desire to uplift others while pursuing excellence in my own career, and I am proud to carry forward the legacy of inspiring leaders like Michele L. Durant. Throughout my life, I have recognized the transformative power of education and its ability to open doors that were previously inaccessible. Growing up, I often saw the barriers that women of color face in education and professional spaces, which motivated me to become a trailblazer in my field. I won't even touch how I was affected growing up with a pacemaker. I graduated with a double major in Mathematics and Healthcare Analysis, which laid the foundation for my career as a Group Benefits Underwriter. In this role, I have developed analytical solutions that help businesses and individuals manage risks, demonstrating how data can be a powerful tool for problem-solving and decision-making. Beyond my professional achievements, I am deeply involved in my community as a mentor and advocate. As the Programming Chair of the Greater Hartford Chapter of the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA), I have organized initiatives to empower individuals through professional development, networking, and education. These experiences have shown me the importance of representation and the impact of creating safe spaces where diverse voices can be heard and valued. Through mentorship, I have been able to guide others in navigating their educational and career paths, fostering a culture of support and resilience. My educational journey is driven by a vision to make a positive impact on the world. Pursuing a Master of Business Analytics allows me to harness the power of data to address systemic inequities and create innovative solutions. For example, I aspire to use analytics to improve access to education and resources for underrepresented communities, ensuring that more women of color have the opportunity to succeed without the burden of insurmountable debt. By focusing on data-driven strategies, I hope to advocate for policies and programs that close wage gaps, enhance mentorship opportunities, and promote leadership development for marginalized groups. Michele L. Durant’s story resonates deeply with me because it reflects the struggles and triumphs of women of color who have pursued education against all odds. Her dedication to learning and her unwavering belief in its importance inspire me to continue striving for excellence while lifting others along the way. This scholarship would not only alleviate some of the financial burdens of my education but also serve as a reminder of the power of community and support in achieving our goals. With this scholarship, I plan to deepen my impact by expanding mentorship programs for young women of color and developing initiatives that empower them to pursue leadership roles in STEM and business fields. I want to be a catalyst for change, breaking down barriers and creating pathways for others to thrive. By investing in my education and future, this scholarship will enable me to honor Michele L. Durant’s legacy by driving progress and equity in my community and beyond.