Going to college means opportunity, possibility, and the chance to break cycles that have limited families like mine for generations. As a minority student from a low‑income background, pursuing higher education is not something I take for granted. It represents years of perseverance, sacrifice, and belief in a future that is bigger than my circumstances. College is my pathway to building a life defined by purpose, stability, and impact. For me, going to college is about creating opportunities that did not always feel accessible. It is about stepping into spaces where people who look like me are often underrepresented and proving that I belong. It is about building a foundation strong enough to support my dreams and the dreams of those who will come after me. Higher education gives me the chance to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence I need to uplift my community and create meaningful change. I am majoring in Computer Engineering with a minor in Math because I want to use technology to solve real problems and expand access to opportunity. My education has already opened doors that once felt distant. I have earned the AWS Cloud Practitioner and AWS Solutions Architect Associate certifications outside of school, studying independently while balancing work and coursework. These accomplishments strengthened my technical foundation and showed me that I can achieve anything I commit myself to. Through my roles as a Teaching Assistant and Luddy Ambassador at Indiana University, I have learned how powerful education can be when it is paired with mentorship and support. I help students navigate challenging coursework, build confidence, and feel welcomed in academic spaces. I know what it feels like to doubt yourself, so I work hard to make sure others feel seen and encouraged. These experiences have shaped my desire to give back and to use my education to uplift others. I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers chapter next year. TORCH focuses on community service, outreach, and mentorship. In this role, I will lead initiatives that expose younger students to STEM, support local communities, and help Black students grow academically and professionally. This opportunity reflects the impact I want to make in the long term. I want to help students who come from backgrounds like mine see themselves in STEM and believe in their potential. My long‑term goal is to build a tech solutions company that supports minority- and immigrant-owned small businesses. Many entrepreneurs have the talent and drive to succeed, but lack access to digital tools. I want to provide affordable websites, branding, and technical support that help these businesses grow. When small businesses thrive, families gain stability, neighborhoods strengthen, and communities flourish. My education is the foundation that will allow me to build this future. Going to college means everything to me. It means breaking barriers, building generational opportunity, and creating a future defined by service and impact. Through my education, I hope to uplift my community, empower young students, and use technology to make the world more accessible and equitable. I am determined to accomplish these goals, and college is the key that makes them possible.

Selflessness, to me, means choosing to show up for others even when no one is watching. It means giving your time, your energy, and your care without expecting anything in return. I try to embody selflessness in the way I serve my community, support my family, and use my education to uplift others. My life has been shaped by people who helped me when they did not have to, and I want to carry that same spirit forward. One of the most meaningful examples of selflessness in my life comes from volunteering at senior homes during the fall season. I help with yard work, cleaning, and small tasks that many seniors can no longer do on their own. What stays with me most is the joy on their faces when they see someone willing to help. Some of them live alone, and a simple act like raking leaves or trimming branches becomes more than a chore. It becomes a moment of connection. It becomes a reminder that they are not forgotten. Spending time with them taught me that kindness does not need to be complicated. Sometimes it is as simple as showing up. I also embody selflessness through my involvement at my church. I volunteer at monthly breakfasts, help during the Lenten fish fry season, and serve as an usher. These roles taught me the importance of consistency and humility. Service is not always glamorous, but it is always meaningful. It has shaped my character and strengthened my desire to make a positive impact wherever I go. In college, I continue to serve others through my academic roles. As a Teaching Assistant, I help students navigate challenging coursework and build confidence in their abilities. I know what it feels like to struggle in a class, so I make sure students feel supported and encouraged. As a Luddy Ambassador, I help prospective students feel welcomed in academic spaces that can sometimes feel intimidating. I want them to know they belong, especially students who come from backgrounds like mine. I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers chapter at Indiana University. TORCH focuses on community service, outreach, and mentorship. In this role, I will lead initiatives that expose younger students to STEM and support local communities. This position reflects my commitment to lifting others as I grow and using my skills to create opportunities for people who may not always feel represented in technical fields. Selflessness also guides my long‑term goals. I hope to build a tech solutions company that supports minority owned and immigrant-owned small businesses. Many entrepreneurs have the talent to succeed but lack access to digital tools. I want to provide affordable websites, branding, and technical support that help these businesses grow. When small businesses thrive, families gain stability and communities strengthen. I embody selflessness by choosing to serve, to care, and to make a difference wherever I can. My goal is to continue living in a way that honors people like Michael Rudometkin, whose legacy reminds us that helping others is one of the most powerful ways to change the world.

The impact I want to make begins with the belief that every young person deserves access to opportunity, guidance, and a community that believes in them. My education is giving me the tools to build that future, and my experiences have shaped a vision centered on empowerment, representation, and service. I want to use my degree in Computer Engineering to uplift underserved communities, expand access to technology, and create pathways for students who may not always see themselves represented in STEM. Growing up, I learned the importance of service through my church and my family. Volunteering at monthly breakfasts, helping during the Lenten fish fry season, and supporting elderly community members taught me that kindness and consistency can change lives. These experiences shaped my understanding of leadership. It is not about titles. It is about showing up, caring deeply, and using your gifts to help others. That foundation continues to guide me today. My education has opened doors that I once only imagined. At Indiana University, I serve as a Teaching Assistant and Luddy Ambassador, helping students navigate challenging coursework and feel welcomed in academic spaces. I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers chapter next year. TORCH focuses on outreach, mentorship, and community service. In this role, I will lead initiatives that expose younger students to STEM, support local communities, and help Black students grow academically and professionally. This work reflects the kind of impact I want to make in the long term. I am inspired by people like Sloane Stephens, who reached the highest levels of her sport while staying grounded in service. Her commitment to uplifting youth reminds me that success means little if you do not use it to elevate others. I am also inspired by my family, especially my aunt, whose small food business I helped bring online by building her website and digital presence. Seeing how technology transformed her business showed me how powerful digital tools can be when placed in the hands of people who simply need access and support. My vision is to build a tech solutions company that supports minority owned and immigrant-owned small businesses. Many entrepreneurs have the talent and drive to succeed, but lack the digital resources needed to compete in an increasingly online world. With my education, my AWS Cloud Practitioner and AWS Solutions Architect certifications, and my passion for community empowerment, I want to create affordable digital tools, branding, and technical support that help these businesses grow. When small businesses thrive, families gain stability, neighborhoods strengthen, and communities flourish. Beyond entrepreneurship, I want to mentor young students who come from backgrounds like mine. Representation matters. I want to show students that they belong in STEM, that their ideas are valuable, and that their dreams are possible. Through NSBE, community outreach, and future mentorship programs, I plan to use my experiences to guide the next generation of diverse technologists. The impact I want to make is rooted in service, shaped by the people who inspire me, and strengthened by the education I am pursuing. I want to build a future where technology empowers communities, where young people feel supported, and where opportunity is accessible to everyone. My education is the foundation of that future, and I am determined to use it to create meaningful, lasting change.

You should consider me for this scholarship because I have worked hard to excel academically, serve my community, and build a future grounded in ambition, integrity, and purpose. Higher education has opened doors for me, but it has also come with significant financial challenges. As a low‑income student who balances school, work, and service, I have learned to persevere through difficulty while staying committed to my goals. This scholarship would help me continue my education without carrying an overwhelming financial burden and would allow me to stay focused on the impact I want to make. Academically, I have pushed myself to excel in a rigorous and demanding field. I am a Computer Engineering major and Math minor at Indiana University, where I have maintained strong grades while taking challenging courses in programming, systems, circuits, and engineering fundamentals. My academic accomplishments reflect not only my work ethic but also my determination to build a STEM career that uplifts others. I am proud of the progress I have made, and I am committed to continuing that growth. Beyond my coursework, I decided to broaden my technical knowledge by earning two industry‑recognized certifications: the AWS Cloud Practitioner and AWS Solutions Architect Associate. I completed both credentials outside of school, studying independently while managing my academic responsibilities and work schedule. Preparing for these exams required discipline, late nights, and a strong commitment to mastering cloud architecture, security, and scalable systems. Earning these certifications strengthened my understanding of modern computing and demonstrated my ability to learn complex material independently. They also reflect my drive to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field and my desire to bring advanced technical skills back to my community. My extracurricular involvement also reflects my dedication to leadership and service. I serve as a Teaching Assistant, helping students navigate difficult coursework and build confidence in their abilities. This role has strengthened my communication skills and taught me how to support students who may feel overwhelmed or unsure of themselves. I also serve as a Luddy Ambassador, representing my school and helping prospective students feel welcome and informed as they explore STEM opportunities. These roles allow me to guide others, share my experiences, and create a sense of belonging for students who may feel uncertain about their place in higher education. One of my most meaningful accomplishments is being selected as the upcoming TORCH Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers chapter at Indiana University. TORCH stands for Technical Outreach and Community Help, and the role focuses on service, mentorship, and STEM outreach. I will lead initiatives that expose younger students to engineering, support local communities, and create opportunities for Black students to grow academically and professionally. This position reflects my commitment to lifting others as I climb and using my skills to make a positive impact. It also aligns with my long‑term goal of increasing representation in STEM and helping students from underrepresented backgrounds see themselves in technical fields. Outside of campus, I volunteer regularly at my church, helping with monthly breakfasts, Lenten fish fry events, and ushering. I also volunteer in elderly homes during the fall, assisting seniors with yard work and spending time with them. These experiences have taught me humility, compassion, and the importance of showing up for others. Service has always been a part of my life, and it continues to shape the kind of leader I want to become. Financial need is a significant part of my story. I come from a low‑income background, and I have always balanced school with work to support myself and my family. College expenses such as tuition, housing, food, textbooks, and technology fees pose real barriers to staying focused on academics. Even with financial aid, the cost of higher education remains overwhelming. Scholarships like this one make a tremendous difference. They allow students like me to continue pursuing higher education without sacrificing stability or opportunity. They also allow me to dedicate more time to my studies, leadership roles, and service commitments instead of worrying about how I will cover basic expenses. My future goals reflect the values that have guided me throughout my life. I hope to build a tech solutions company that supports minority owned and immigrant-owned small businesses. I have already seen the impact this work can have. When I helped my aunt create a website and digital presence for her food business, I saw how technology can open doors for people who simply need access and guidance. With the right tools, small businesses can grow, families can gain stability, and communities can thrive. I want to expand that impact by providing affordable digital resources, mentorship, and technical support to entrepreneurs who deserve to be seen and supported. I hope you will consider me for this scholarship because I am committed to excellence, service, and creating meaningful change. With your support, I can continue building a future in which I use my education and technical skills to uplift my community, support small businesses, mentor young students, and become a leader who serves with purpose.

The most important thing I want to build is a future where technology becomes a tool for empowerment rather than a barrier. I want to build a career, a company, and a community presence that all work together to uplift people who often feel overlooked. For me, “building” is not just about creating something physical. It is about creating opportunity, stability, and hope for the people around me. As a Computer Engineering major, I am learning how to build systems, software, and digital tools that solve real problems. But the future I want to build goes far beyond technical skills. I want to create a tech solutions company that supports minority owned and immigrant-owned small businesses. Growing up, I saw how many talented entrepreneurs struggled because they lacked access to digital resources. When I helped my aunt create a website and online presence for her food business, I saw how technology could transform a small operation into something sustainable. That experience showed me that building a future in tech means building pathways for others. I also want to build a stronger sense of community through service and mentorship. I volunteer at my church, serve as a Teaching Assistant, and support prospective students as a Luddy Ambassador. I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers chapter next year. This role focuses on outreach, service, and helping younger students gain exposure to STEM. Through these experiences, I am building relationships, confidence, and opportunities for people who may not always feel represented in academic or technical spaces. The future I want to build is one where young Black students see themselves in STEM and feel supported in pursuing their goals. I want to mentor students who come from backgrounds like mine and show them that their dreams are possible. I want to build programs, workshops, and community events that make STEM accessible and exciting. By combining my technical skills with my passion for service, I can create a future where more students feel empowered to aim higher. Building my future also means building myself. I am working to become a leader who serves with integrity, compassion, and purpose. Higher education is giving me the knowledge and experience I need to grow into that person. It is teaching me how to think critically, solve problems, and approach challenges with resilience. What I want to build will not only shape my own life. It will strengthen my community, support small businesses, and open doors for the next generation. That is the future I am committed to creating, one step at a time.

Faith plays a central role in my life. It guides my decisions, shapes my character, and gives me strength during moments when I feel overwhelmed or uncertain. My faith has taught me to lead with compassion, to serve others with humility, and to trust that every challenge I face has a purpose. It has also shaped my academic journey and my future goals. I would not be the person I am today without the foundation that faith has given me. Growing up in the church taught me the importance of service and community. I volunteer at monthly breakfasts, help during the Lenten fish fry season, and serve as an usher. These experiences taught me that leadership begins with showing up, being dependable, and caring for people in simple but meaningful ways. My faith taught me that service is not about recognition. It is about being a vessel for kindness and support. That belief has carried into every part of my life, including my academic goals. Faith has also helped me stay grounded during difficult times. Coming from a low‑income background means that pursuing higher education has not always felt easy or guaranteed. There were moments when I questioned whether I could balance school, work, and family responsibilities. In those moments, prayer gave me clarity and peace. My faith reminded me that God does not place dreams in our hearts without also giving us the strength to pursue them. That belief pushed me to keep going, even when the path felt heavy. My academic goals are rooted in purpose. I am studying Computer Engineering because I want to use technology to uplift underserved communities. I want to build a tech solutions company that supports minority owned and immigrant-owned small businesses. I have already seen the impact this work can have. When I helped my aunt create a website and digital presence for her food business, I saw how technology can open doors for people who simply need access and guidance. My faith teaches me to use my gifts to serve others, and my education equips me to do so on a larger scale. Faith has also shaped the way I lead. I serve as a Teaching Assistant and Luddy Ambassador at Indiana University, helping students navigate challenging coursework and feel welcome in academic spaces. I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers chapter next year. This role focuses on community service, outreach, and mentorship. It reflects the values my faith instilled in me: integrity, compassion, and a commitment to lifting others as I grow. While faith has been my foundation, I have also been pushed toward higher education by the people who believe in me. My family has always encouraged me to pursue excellence and to use education to build a better future. My professors and mentors have supported me, challenged me, and reminded me that I belong in STEM. My community has shown me the importance of giving back and being a leader who serves with honesty and heart. I want my life to reflect the same values that Patricia Lindsey Jackson and Eva Mae Jackson embodied. I want to lead with integrity, uplift others through education and service, and use my faith as a guiding force in everything I do. Higher education will allow me to expand my impact, strengthen my skills, and continue building a future where I can serve my community with purpose and compassion.

I believe that making a positive impact on the world begins with the way you choose to show up for others. Throughout my life, I have learned that service is not defined by grand gestures, but by the consistent willingness to help, to listen, and to care. My goal is to build a future where I can use my education, leadership, and compassion to uplift the people around me and create opportunities for those who are often overlooked. My commitment to service began in my church community. I volunteer at monthly breakfasts, help during the Lenten fish fry season, and serve as an usher. These experiences taught me the importance of humility and consistency. I learned that small acts of kindness can make someone feel seen and valued. I also volunteer in elderly homes during the fall, helping seniors with yard work and spending time with them. The gratitude they express reminds me that service is about restoring dignity and offering support where it is needed most. As I entered college, my desire to make an impact grew stronger. I became a Teaching Assistant to help students navigate challenging coursework and build confidence in their abilities. I also serve as a Luddy Ambassador, supporting prospective students and helping them feel welcome in academic spaces that can sometimes feel intimidating. These roles have allowed me to guide others, share my experiences, and create a sense of belonging for students who may feel uncertain about their place in higher education. I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers chapter at Indiana University for the upcoming school year. This role focuses on community service, outreach, and mentorship. I will lead initiatives that expose younger students to STEM fields, support local communities, and create opportunities for Black students to grow academically and professionally. This position reflects the kind of leader I strive to be, someone who lifts others as they climb and uses their skills to open doors for the next generation. In the future, I hope to use my degree in Computer Engineering to build a tech solutions company that supports minority owned and immigrant-owned small businesses. I have already seen the impact technology can have through helping my aunt create a website and digital presence for her food business. With the right tools, small businesses can grow, families can gain stability, and communities can thrive. I want to expand that impact by providing affordable digital resources, mentorship, and technical support to entrepreneurs who simply need access and guidance. Ultimately, I plan to make a positive impact by combining service, technology, and community empowerment. I want to create pathways for others, support those who feel unseen, and use my education to build a future where compassion and opportunity go hand in hand. That is the legacy I hope to create, and the reason I am committed to giving back wherever I go.

Attending higher education is more than a personal goal for me. It is a pathway that allows me to break cycles, create opportunities, and build a future that my family has worked tirelessly to make possible. Coming from a low‑income background means that every step I take in my education carries weight. It represents sacrifice, perseverance, and the belief that I can achieve more than what my circumstances might suggest. Higher education is the bridge between where I started and the impact I hope to make in the world. Growing up, I learned early that financial limitations shape the choices many students have to make. I have always balanced school, work, and service, not because it was optional, but because it was necessary. I have worked multiple jobs to support myself and my family, and I have consistently volunteered at my church and in my community. These experiences taught me responsibility, discipline, and empathy. They also taught me that education is one of the few tools that can truly transform a person’s trajectory. Pursuing my degree at Indiana University has allowed me to grow academically and professionally, but it has also shown me how much more I want to accomplish. As a Computer Engineering major and Math minor, I am building the technical foundation I need to create solutions that uplift underserved communities. Technology has the power to close gaps in access, opportunity, and economic mobility. I want to be part of the generation that uses STEM not only to innovate, but to empower. My involvement on campus reflects this commitment. As a Teaching Assistant, I support students who are navigating challenging coursework and often feel overwhelmed. As a Luddy Ambassador, I help prospective students envision themselves in spaces where they may not see many people who look like them. I was also selected to serve as the TORCH Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers chapter next year. In this role, I will lead service initiatives, organize outreach events, and help younger students gain exposure to STEM fields. These positions allow me to give back in meaningful ways that align with my purpose. Higher education will allow me to take these efforts even further. My long‑term goal is to build a tech solutions company that supports minority- and immigrant-owned small businesses. I have already taken steps toward this by helping my aunt create a website and digital presence for her food business. That experience showed me how powerful technology can be when placed in the hands of people who simply need access and guidance. With the right tools, small businesses can grow, families can gain stability, and communities can thrive. Beyond entrepreneurship, I want to mentor young students who come from backgrounds like mine. Representation matters, and I want to be someone who shows others that they belong in STEM, that their dreams are valid, and that their circumstances do not define their potential. Education will give me the knowledge, credibility, and platform to do that effectively. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of pursuing my degree. It would allow me to stay focused on my academic goals, my leadership roles, and my commitment to service. Most importantly, it would help me continue building a future where I can uplift others, create opportunities, and make a lasting impact on the communities that shaped me.

I want to pursue a career in STEM because technology has always represented to me the possibility to solve problems, innovate, and create opportunities for people who have historically been excluded from them. As a Black student in engineering, I am deeply aware of the disparities that exist in STEM fields. We make up only a small percentage of the workforce, not because of a lack of talent or ambition, but because of systemic barriers that limit access, exposure, and support. My goal is to be part of the generation that changes that narrative. My passion for STEM began with curiosity. I was the kid who wanted to understand how things worked, who took apart devices just to put them back together, and who found joy in solving problems others found frustrating. As I grew older, that curiosity evolved into purpose. I realized that technology is not just about circuits or code, it is about people. It is about using innovation to make life easier, more efficient, and more equitable. That understanding is what drives me to pursue a degree in Computer Engineering and to build a career where I can use technology to uplift my community. My involvement in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) has played a major role in shaping that purpose. NSBE gave me a community of peers who look like me, think like me, and share the same determination to break barriers in STEM. I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH (Technical Outreach and Community Help) Chair for my chapter next year, a role focused on organizing service events, leading STEM outreach, and helping younger Black students gain exposure to engineering. This position means a great deal to me because it reflects the heart of NSBE’s mission: “to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.” Beyond NSBE, I have used my technical skills to support small businesses and families in my community. One of my most meaningful projects was helping my aunt build a website and digital presence for her food business. That experience showed me how powerful technology can be when placed in the hands of people who simply need access and support. It also reinforced my desire to build a tech‑solutions company in the future, one that provides affordable digital tools, branding, and technical assistance to minority‑owned and immigrant‑owned businesses. With my STEM degree, I hope to uplift my community by expanding access to technology, mentorship, and opportunity. I want to create pathways for young Black students to enter STEM fields, support small businesses through digital innovation, and use my platform to advocate for equity in tech spaces. Pursuing STEM is not just about my career; it is about lifting others as I climb, just as this scholarship encourages.

Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy is one of service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others. Although I never met him, the values he embodied have shaped my own understanding of what it means to lead, to serve, and to stand for something greater than yourself. As an African American student navigating higher education and working to uplift my community, I see his legacy reflected in the responsibilities I carry, the service I give, and the vision I hold for addressing the challenges facing the African diaspora in the United States. My personal journey has been shaped by service from a young age. Volunteering at my Catholic church, serving monthly breakfasts, helping with Lenten fish fry events, and supporting parishioners as an usher taught me that leadership begins with humility. I also volunteer in elderly homes during the fall, clearing leaves and helping seniors who can no longer manage the physical labor themselves. What seems like a simple task becomes something much deeper when you see the relief and gratitude on their faces. Those moments taught me that service is not about recognition; it is about restoring dignity, offering support, and reminding people that they are not alone. These experiences mirror the spirit of Sgt. Ware’s life. He served not for applause, but because he believed in protecting and uplifting others. His bravery was not only in battle, but in the way he lived with purpose, compassion, and a commitment to community. That example inspires me to lead with intention in every space I enter. At Indiana University, I serve as a Teaching Assistant and Luddy Ambassador, helping students navigate challenging coursework and feel welcomed in academic spaces where many of us are underrepresented. I was also selected to serve as the TORCH (Technical Outreach and Community Help) Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) chapter for the upcoming school year. In this role, I will lead service initiatives, organize outreach programs, and help younger Black students gain exposure to STEM fields. This position is deeply meaningful to me because it allows me to directly address one of the most persistent challenges facing the African diaspora: access. Access to education. Access to mentorship. Access to opportunity. Access to representation. These gaps are not accidental; they are the result of historical inequities, systemic barriers, and policies that have disproportionately limited the advancement of Black communities. To honor Sgt. Ware’s legacy, I believe we must confront these challenges with both community‑driven action and policy‑driven reform. One of the most critical reforms needed is expanding equitable access to STEM and IT education for African American youth. This includes increasing funding for schools in predominantly Black neighborhoods, expanding after‑school STEM programs, and creating partnerships between universities, nonprofits, and tech companies to provide mentorship, internships, and early exposure. Education is a powerful equalizer, but only when access is fair. Another essential reform is strengthening mental health support within the African diaspora. Many Black families carry generational trauma, face economic instability, or experience discrimination that affects mental well‑being. Increasing culturally competent mental health services, funding community‑based counseling programs, and integrating mental health education into schools would create healthier, more resilient communities. Economic empowerment is also crucial. Policies that support Black‑owned businesses, such as grants, low‑interest loans, and technical assistance, can help close the racial wealth gap. As someone who hopes to build a tech‑solutions company that supports minority‑owned businesses, I see firsthand how transformative economic opportunity can be. Driving meaningful reform requires collaboration across multiple sectors, because no single institution can address these challenges alone. Local and state governments must play a central role by enacting equitable funding policies and supporting economic initiatives that directly benefit Black communities. Educational institutions from K–12 schools to major universities also have a responsibility to expand outreach, mentorship, and early-exposure programs that help African American students enter fields such as STEM and IT. Community‑based nonprofits and grassroots organizations provide culturally grounded support systems that understand the lived realities of Black families, and their work must be strengthened through partnerships with Black professionals and alumni networks who can mentor and uplift the next generation. Businesses and technology companies must invest in internships, apprenticeships, and community partnerships that create real pathways into high‑demand careers. And faith‑based institutions, which have long served as pillars of stability and empowerment within the African diaspora, must remain active partners in advocating for justice, supporting families, and mobilizing communities. Together, these stakeholders form the ecosystem needed to create lasting change. When each group brings its strengths to the table, we can build policies and programs that honor Sgt. Ware’s legacy of service and sacrifice while addressing the systemic challenges that continue to impact African Americans today. His legacy reminds me that leadership is not about position; it is about purpose. It is about using your gifts to uplift others, even when the work is difficult. It is about standing firm in your values, even when the world feels uncertain. And it is about believing that service consistent, compassionate, and courageous can change lives. I hope to carry that legacy forward through my service, my leadership, and my future career. I want to be someone who opens doors, builds opportunities, and strengthens the communities that raised me. That is how I plan to honor Sgt. Ware’s memory: by serving with heart, leading with purpose, and working toward a future where every member of the African diaspora has the opportunity to thrive.

What makes me a leader is the way I consistently, intentionally, and with genuine desire show up for others. Leadership, to me, is not defined by titles or recognition. It is defined by character, service, and the willingness to take responsibility even when no one is watching. I’ve learned that real leadership is rooted in empathy, humility, and the courage to step forward when others hesitate. My leadership journey began with small acts of service. Volunteering at my Catholic church, serving monthly breakfasts, helping with Lenten fish fry events, and serving as an usher taught me the importance of being dependable. These experiences showed me that leadership often looks like simple, steady acts of kindness: refilling a plate, greeting someone warmly, or helping a family feel welcomed. Over time, I realized that people naturally turned to me because they knew I would show up, follow through, and care. That trust is something I never take lightly. My leadership continued to grow on campus. As a Teaching Assistant, I support students who are navigating challenging coursework, many of whom feel overwhelmed or unsure of themselves. I’ve learned how to break down complex concepts, encourage students who doubt their abilities, and create an environment where people feel comfortable asking for help. As a Luddy Ambassador, I represent my school with pride and help prospective students envision a future for themselves at Indiana University. These roles have strengthened my communication skills, patience, and ability to connect with people from all backgrounds. One of the most meaningful leadership opportunities I’ve earned is being selected to serve as the TORCH (Technical Outreach and Community Help) Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) chapter at Indiana University for the upcoming school year. This role reflects the kind of leader I strive to be, someone who uses their skills to create opportunities for others. As TORCH Chair, I will organize service events, lead outreach initiatives, and help younger students gain exposure to STEM fields. Being trusted with this responsibility means a great deal to me because it aligns with my belief that leadership is about opening doors, not guarding them. Leadership has also shown up in my personal life. As someone who has faced challenges and responsibilities at a young age, I’ve learned resilience, discipline, and the importance of staying grounded. These experiences have shaped me into someone who leads with compassion rather than ego, and with purpose rather than pressure. What truly makes me a leader is my commitment to lifting others as I climb. I lead by example, by service, and by showing people that they matter. I believe leadership is measured not by how far you go, but by how many people you bring with you. That is the kind of leader I am today, and the kind I will continue striving to become.

Growing up as an underrepresented minority in the technology space, I learned early that access, exposure, and mentorship are not evenly distributed. My interest in technology began long before I understood what “information technology” really meant. I was the kid who took apart electronics just to see how they worked, who stayed after school to help classmates with computer issues, and who felt a sense of possibility every time I learned something new. But as I got older, I also realized how few people who looked like me were represented in the field. That gap didn’t discourage me; it motivated me. It made me want to become someone who not only succeeds in IT but also opens doors for others. Today, I am a Computer Engineering major at Indiana University with a deep interest in information technology, systems, and the ways technology can solve real problems for real people. What excites me most about IT is its combination of logic and creativity. I love the challenge of troubleshooting, the satisfaction of building something from scratch, and the impact that even small technical solutions can have on individuals and communities. Whether it’s networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, or software tools, IT gives me the chance to create, innovate, and empower. My involvement in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) has played a major role in shaping my journey. NSBE has given me a community of peers who share my passion for technology and my commitment to representation. It has also pushed me to grow as a leader. I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH (Technical Outreach and Community Help) Chair for my NSBE chapter for the upcoming school year. In this role, I will lead service initiatives, organize STEM outreach events, and help younger students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, gain exposure to technology. Being trusted with this position means a lot to me because it reflects both my dedication to service and my desire to help others access opportunities I didn’t always have. Outside of NSBE, I’ve gained hands‑on IT experience through personal projects and community involvement. I’ve helped troubleshoot devices for students, assisted family members with network setups, and built websites and digital materials for small businesses. One of my most meaningful projects was helping my aunt create a website and digital presence for her food business. It taught me how powerful technology can be when used to uplift small entrepreneurs who may not have the resources to compete in a digital world. My background has shaped me into someone who is driven, curious, and committed to using technology for good. I want to build a career in IT where I can innovate, solve problems, and mentor the next generation of minority technologists. This scholarship would not only support my education but also help me continue breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and proving that students like me belong in the future of technology.

My volunteer experience has shaped not only how I see my community, but also how I understand my responsibility within it. I’ve learned that service is not always about grand gestures or public recognition; often, it’s about the quiet, consistent acts of kindness that remind people they are valued. That belief has guided my involvement both on campus and in my hometown, and it continues to influence the kind of person and professional I hope to become. One of the most meaningful examples of my service has been volunteering at elderly homes during the fall season. Every year, I help clear leaves from the yards of seniors who are unable to do it themselves. What begins as a simple task, raking leaves, bagging them, and clearing walkways quickly becomes something deeper. Many of the residents come outside just to talk, to share stories, or simply to feel connected. I will never forget one woman who stepped onto her porch after we finished her yard. She looked around, smiled warmly, and said, “You don’t know how much this means to me.” That moment stayed with me. It reminded me that service is about dignity. It’s about showing people they are not forgotten, that their comfort and peace matter. Seeing the relief and joy on their faces makes every hour of work worth it. Beyond that, I volunteer at my Catholic church, serving monthly breakfasts, helping with Lenten fish fry events, and supporting parishioners as an usher. These experiences have grounded me in humility and consistency. They’ve taught me that leadership often shows up in the small things, refilling a plate, greeting someone at the door, or offering help before it’s asked for. In addition to my community volunteering, I was recently selected to serve as the TORCH (Technical Outreach and Community Help) Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) chapter at Indiana University for the upcoming school year. In this role, I will lead service initiatives, organize outreach events, and help our members give back to the Bloomington community. Being trusted with this position reinforces my commitment to showing up for others and creating opportunities for students to serve together. As I pursue a future career in communications and technology, I hope to use my platform to uplift others in the same spirit. Whether through digital media, storytelling, or community‑focused tech solutions, I want to amplify voices that often go unheard. My goal is to highlight local heroes, support small organizations, and raise awareness of causes that deserve recognition. I want to create content and build tools that empower people, veterans, seniors, small business owners, and underserved communities just as Jersey Johnny used his voice to uplift Indianapolis. Ultimately, I want my career to reflect the same values he embodied: kindness, service, and a commitment to helping others feel seen. That is the legacy I hope to build.

Creating a legacy, to me, means building something that outlives my time in the classroom and continues to impact people long after I graduate. My goal is to become an engineer‑entrepreneur who uses technology to solve real problems for small businesses and underserved communities. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of building solutions that help people grow, compete, and present themselves professionally, an experience I first had when I helped create a website and promotional materials for my aunt’s food business. That project showed me how powerful it is when technology meets community, and it sparked my desire to build a business centered on empowering others rather than just chasing profit. One day, I hope to create a tech‑solutions company that supports small businesses, especially minority‑owned and immigrant‑owned ones, by helping them with branding, digital presence, automation tools, and affordable technical support. Many talented entrepreneurs struggle not because they lack passion or work ethic, but because they lack access to the tools and knowledge that larger companies take for granted. I want my business to bridge that gap by giving people the tools, confidence, and visibility they need to succeed. My vision is to build a company that not only provides services but also educates business owners through workshops, mentorship, and resources so they can sustain their growth independently. Over time, I hope to build a network of entrepreneurs who support one another, reinvest in their communities, and serve as role models for the next generation. That is the legacy I want to build: a cycle of empowerment where my success helps others rise. I shine my light through service, consistency, and leadership. At Indiana University, I serve as a Teaching Assistant and Luddy Ambassador, helping students navigate challenging coursework and feel welcomed into the community. These roles have taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of meeting people where they are, whether that means staying late to explain a concept or sharing my own experiences to reassure a nervous first‑year student. Outside of campus, I volunteer at my Catholic church, serving monthly breakfasts, helping with Lenten fish fry events, and supporting parishioners as an usher. These experiences have grounded me in humility and reminded me that leadership often shows up in small, quiet acts of service that may never be publicly recognized. My light comes from my drive to uplift people, whether it’s students, families at church, or small business owners trying to build their dreams. Entrepreneurship, for me, isn’t just about creating a company; it’s about creating opportunity and dignity. It’s about using my skills to make someone else’s path a little easier and to open doors that were once closed. By combining my technical education, entrepreneurial vision, and commitment to service, I hope to build a legacy that reflects not just what I achieved but how many people I helped along the way. That is the light I plan to keep shining wherever I go.

What defines me most is the combination of ambition, responsibility, and a commitment to lifting others as I grow. I am a Computer Engineering major with a Mathematics minor at Indiana University, and throughout my time here, I’ve tried to model the same qualities that shaped Chris Swartz’s life: leadership, service, and a genuine desire to make a meaningful impact on the people around me. As a Teaching Assistant and Luddy Student Ambassador, I’ve learned how powerful it is to show up for others. Whether I’m helping prospective students feel at home on campus or breaking down difficult course concepts for classmates, I take pride in being someone people can rely on. These roles have strengthened my communication skills, my patience, and my belief that leadership is about service, not titles. I want to represent IU with integrity in every space I enter, just as Chris did during his time as a student‑athlete and throughout his career. In addition to my roles on campus, I volunteer at my Catholic church, where I serve monthly breakfasts, help with Lenten fish fry events, and serve as an usher. These experiences have grounded me in humility and consistency. Serving food, welcoming families, and supporting community gatherings has taught me that real leadership often looks like quiet service—being present, dependable, and willing to help wherever I’m needed. This work has shaped my character and deepened my commitment to giving back. My journey has also been shaped by responsibility. While pursuing a demanding major, I work multiple jobs to support myself and help my family during a period of transition. Covering my own housing and living expenses has taught me discipline, resilience, and gratitude. It has also fueled my drive to build a future where I can support my family, uplift others in my community, and create opportunities for people who come after me. Professionally, I aspire to become an engineer who uses technology to solve real problems and expand access for underrepresented communities in tech. I want to build a career defined not just by technical skill, but by mentorship, leadership, and impact qualities Chris embodied throughout his life. Long term, I hope to become the kind of alumnus who invests in future Hoosiers and helps open doors for students who share my background and determination. This scholarship would make a meaningful difference in my ability to stay fully engaged in my academic, ambassador, and teaching commitments. Easing my financial burden would allow me to focus more deeply on my coursework, pursue competitive internships, and continue serving the IU community without the constant pressure of balancing multiple jobs. It would bring me one step closer to achieving my goals and to becoming the kind of leader who lifts others as he climbs.

For me, going to college is more than just earning a degree; it is a way to honor the sacrifices my parents have made and to make them proud. Growing up in Nigeria, I saw firsthand how much effort my parents put into ensuring that my brothers and I had opportunities to succeed even when resources were limited. Their commitment taught me that education is not only a personal achievement but also a responsibility to those who believe in me. Pursuing higher education at Indiana University Bloomington is my way of showing them that their investment in me is worthwhile and that I am determined to make the most of this opportunity to build a meaningful future. Being the first child in my family adds another layer of responsibility to my college journey. My younger siblings and cousins look up to me, and I know that the choices I make set an example for them. My uncle often reminds me that as the eldest, the path I take will influence how the younger ones see their own futures. That motivates me to work harder because I want them to be proud of me and to see that discipline, education, and perseverance can open doors. College is not just about my success; it is about showing those who follow me that they can achieve more. College also represents independence. Leaving home and studying abroad has challenged me to manage my own life, from academics to finances, and to prepare myself for the responsibilities of my adulthood. It has shown me that independence is not just about living on my own, but about learning how to tackle problems without relying on others to solve them for me. Whether it's by balancing coursework with financial planning or adapting to a new environment, college has been a training ground for resilience and self-discipline. These lessons are preparing me for my future self, who will be able to face challenges head-on and find solutions. At the same time, college is a bridge between my personal goals and the impact I want to have on Nigeria. Growing up, I experienced the challenges of limited access to technology and infrastructure. Those experiences motivated me to pursue computer Engineering because I want to help build systems that make technology more accessible and reliable for Nigerians. My education is equipping me with the technical skills and problem-solving mindset to contribute to industries like fintech education and healthcare, where innovation can directly improve lives. Ultimately, going to college means building a foundation for both my own independence and my community's future. It is about making my parents proud, proving that their sacrifices were not in vain, and preparing myself to be a leader who can tackle problems and create opportunities. It is also about being the eldest child who sets the tone for my younger siblings and cousins, showing them that, with discipline and vision, they, too, can achieve great things. Through my education, I am not only shaping my future but also working toward a vision of a stronger, more innovative Nigeria.

When I was younger, my parents made a decision that I didn’t fully understand at the time, which was adding me as an authorized user under their credit card. Only later did I realize how valuable that step was in giving me a head start on building my credit history. It showed me that financial responsibility begins early and that the habits we form in youth can shape future opportunities. Building credit early is important to me because it builds trust, opens doors to opportunities like housing or loans, and lays the foundation for financial independence. I am pursuing a degree in computer engineering with a minor in mathematics at Indiana University Bloomington. Studying outside my home country has given me not only technical knowledge but also a broader perspective on how planning ahead, either academically or financially, can change someone’s trajectory. One way I've taken control of my financial future is by actively applying for scholarships. For me, scholarships are not just about funding education, but they are also a way to avoid unnecessary debt and stay focused on long-term goals. Choosing to reduce reliance on student loans is one of the smartest financial decisions I can make as a student, and it shows the discipline I want to carry into my future. As a child, I wanted to buy everything I saw without thinking about the consequences. Over time, I realized how quickly impulse spending can drain my resources. That lesson taught me the importance of budgeting and prioritizing needs over wants. Now I make sure to plan ahead and track my expenses, which has helped me stay on track financially while balancing the demands of being a student. Another smart money move I’ve made is committing to invest a portion of my income every month. Even as a student, I believe in the power of compounding and long-term growth. This habit has taught me discipline and patience, qualities that are essential not only in finance but also in life. What motivates me most is not just my own future but the impact I can have on other people. I often talk with my friends about the importance of having a credit card and using it responsibly to build credit. Sharing these lessons matters to me because financial literacy is often overlooked by many young people. My summer internship job at Andy Mohr Avon Nissan reinforced this point. I saw firsthand how credit scores affect people’s ability to purchase a car. With bad credit, customers faced high interest rates or couldn’t qualify at all. With good credit, they had access to lower rates and more options. That experience showed me how critical it is to build and protect credit early. Ultimately, my vision is to achieve financial independence while helping others see that it is possible, too. By building credit responsibly, investing consistently, applying for scholarships to avoid debt, and sharing what I’ve learned, I am preparing myself to take control of my financial future and to inspire others to do the same.

When I was in Secondary school in Nigeria, I remember struggling to access reliable internet to complete assignments. That experience showed me how much potential was being held back by the fact that students didn’t have the tools they needed. It was one of the moments that inspired me to be a Computer Engineer so I could one day help build systems that make technology accessible to all Nigerians. Today I am continuing that journey as a Computer Engineering student at Indiana University Bloomington, where I am also minoring in Mathematics. Studying outside my country has not only given me technical knowledge but also a broader perspective on how education and innovation can drive national development. My goal is to take what I am learning here and apply it to create opportunities, solve problems, and empower others in Nigeria. One area I’m most passionate about is technology development. Nigeria has a lot of potential in the digital space, most especially with the rise of fintech and online platforms, but then issues like security and accessibility remain. Through my studies, I am learning how to design systems, write efficient code, and analyze problems from different angles. In the future, I want to use these skills to help strengthen Nigeria's technology infrastructure. By building secure and reliable systems, I can contribute to industries that directly improve people's lives, such as financial services, education, and healthcare. My vision is to help make technology more inclusive so that more Nigerians can participate in the global economy. Another way I plan to give back is through mentorship and education. Serving as a teaching assistant and student ambassador has shown me how guidance can be in shaping someone’s confidence and career path. I want to be able to bring that same energy home by creating programs that introduce students in Nigeria to STEM fields and practice digital skills. By mentoring young people and providing hands-on opportunities, I hope to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. This is mainly important in Nigeria, where the youth make up a large portion of the population and where empowering them can drive long-term growth. One other thing I believe in is collaboration, which is key to creating sustainable change. My experiences in both academic and professional settings have taught me that progress happens when people work together with different backgrounds and perspectives. Looking ahead, I aspire to build partnerships in Nigeria with government agencies, private companies, and non-profits to ensure that technology and education reach communities across the country and not just urban centers. By fostering collaboration, I can help ensure that solutions are sustainable and inclusive. Ultimately, my vision is to contribute to a Nigeria that thrives in the digital age. Through my ongoing education at Indiana University and my future career, I want to help position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s knowledge economy. By combining technical expertise with mentorship[ and collaboration, I believe I can play a role in unlocking the potential of the youth and building a stronger, more innovative Nigeria.

Some of the most meaningful lessons I’ve learned didn’t come from a classroom; they came from standing behind a breakfast table at St. Malachy Catholic Church, greeting people with a smile and a plate of food. Whether I’m coordinating volunteers, ushering at Mass, or helping out at a Friday fish fry, my faith community has taught me that service is about showing up, staying consistent, and creating space for others to feel seen and supported. That’s where my journey of leadership began, and it’s the foundation of the work I hope to continue far beyond the church walls. One of the most consistent ways I serve is through our monthly parish breakfasts. Every first Sunday, we host a meal where donations go toward a different cause; sometimes it’s a local shelter, other times it’s youth programs or medical support. I help lead and coordinate the event with other young people from the church. We determine the setup, assign tasks, and ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s not just about serving food, it’s about creating a space where people feel welcome and where their small contributions can make a big difference. I’ll never forget one Sunday when a man quietly dropped a $1 bill into the donation jar. He looked up and said, “It’s not much, but I want to help.” That moment stuck with me. It reminded me that service isn’t about how much you give, it’s about giving what you can, with heart. That’s the kind of mindset I try to carry into everything I do. It’s also something my parents often talk about: “The more you give, the more you receive.” They explain it like this: when your hand is open, you’re ready to receive; but when it’s closed, what’s meant for you bounces away. That image has stayed with me. Beyond the breakfasts, I also volunteer during our Friday fish fry events throughout Lent. Whether I’m setting up tables, serving plates, or cleaning up afterward, I view it as another way to bring people together and embody the values of sacrifice and community. Each time I serve, I’m reminded that consistency and care, no matter the task, can make a meaningful difference. Another role I’ve taken on is serving as an usher at Mass. I arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to greet parishioners as they enter, help collect the offering, guide the flow of the communion procession, and ensure the church is clean and ready for the next service. It’s a quiet role, but it has taught me that even the smallest tasks, when done with intention, help create a space where people feel closer to God and to one another. All of these experiences have shaped my perspective on leadership and responsibility. I want to be someone people can count on, not just in church, but in life as well. That’s part of what drives me academically and personally. I’m currently pursuing an engineering degree, and my goal is to become a computer engineer who builds systems that actually help people, especially in communities that are often overlooked. This scholarship would lift a huge financial burden off my shoulders and allow me to continue focusing on what matters: growing, serving, and building a future where I can give back in even greater ways.