I am not defined by what broke me, but by how I chose to rebuild. I grew up learning that life doesn’t always follow the plan you set for it. My journey has been shaped by loss, resilience, and an unshakable belief that even in the hardest seasons, there is purpose to be found. From rebuilding my life after personal and professional setbacks to pursuing an Executive MBA while working full-time, every step has been fueled by the same passion: to turn challenges into opportunities, not just for myself, but for the communities I serve. I have faced moments that could have easily silenced my ambition. A difficult divorce, unexpected legal challenges, and professional obstacles left me at a crossroads: accept defeat or take ownership of my future. I chose the latter. I poured my energy into personal growth, finding clarity through honest self-reflection, and reclaiming my voice. Along the way, I discovered the power of education not only to transform my own circumstances but to create ripple effects in the lives of others. My professional journey has been rooted in public service, and I am committed to staying in the public sector because I believe it is where my skills can make the greatest impact. The decision to pursue an Executive MBA at Prairie View A&M University is more than a career move, it is a commitment to mastering the knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic thinking needed to become a controller and help shape responsible, transparent financial stewardship in government. Education has always been deeply personal to me. I was raised to value hard work and integrity, but I also know what it’s like to feel the odds stacked against you. When I felt overwhelmed, I reminded myself that resilience is built one choice at a time. Whether walking onto a golf course for the first time or walking into a classroom full of new faces, I’ve learned that growth often starts with being brave enough to be a beginner. My passions extend beyond career ambition. I am passionate about mentorship and believe in the importance of connecting with those who have walked the path before me. I hope to learn from experienced leaders in the public sector, not only to grow my own expertise but to pay it forward by mentoring others who may one day stand where I am now, on the edge of something bigger than themselves. This scholarship would not only help ease the financial burden of my education; it would be an investment in a leader determined to make meaningful change. I bring with me not just my academic goals, but the grit that comes from rebuilding after loss, the adaptability learned from navigating life’s unexpected turns, and the empathy born of knowing what it means to struggle and still stand tall. I have learned that success is not a straight line, it’s a series of decisions to keep moving forward even when the road is uncertain. I am ready to take what I have lived through, combine it with the knowledge I will gain through my Executive MBA, and create a future defined not by the challenges I faced, but by the difference I made because of them.

Higher education is more than just a degree, it’s a catalyst that will fuel every aspect of my future in business. As someone with over a decade of professional experience in management, budgeting, and leadership, I’ve learned that knowledge and practical experience must go hand in hand. Higher education will sharpen my business acumen, strengthen my leadership abilities, and open doors to new opportunities I wouldn’t otherwise access. My pursuit of an Executive MBA at Prairie View A&M University is a strategic step that aligns directly with my long-term vision of becoming a Vice President or Director, and eventually, Controller within a major organization. One of the most valuable outcomes of higher education is its ability to build critical thinking and strategic decision-making skills. In today’s fast paced business environment, it’s not enough to simply keep operations running smoothly. Leaders must be equipped to analyze data, anticipate financial challenges, and drive innovation while managing limited resources. Through my coursework in finance, operations, and business analytics, I will gain the advanced tools I need to make sound, data driven decisions that contribute to sustainable growth and profitability. These are the exact skills that will help me move from a Budget Specialist II role to senior executive leadership. Additionally, pursuing higher education will enhance my leadership presence. Effective leadership goes beyond managing tasks, it’s about inspiring people, building teams, and navigating change. In the classroom, I will engage with experienced professionals, professors, and peers from diverse industries, which will expand my perspective and help me develop a broader, global view of leadership. These interactions will refine how I lead under pressure, communicate across departments, and influence others toward shared goals. That’s especially important in the business world, where relationships, collaboration, and emotional intelligence are just as important as spreadsheets and numbers. Higher education also fuels my future by keeping me adaptable. As technology rapidly transforms the business landscape, from AI to data science to automation, staying relevant means staying educated. The Executive MBA program will expose me to emerging tools and trends, giving me a competitive edge in applying these innovations in real world business settings. It will also challenge me to think ahead, forecast industry shifts, and become a proactive rather than reactive leader. Another critical factor is access to networks and mentorship. Business success is often influenced by who you know and how you leverage your connections. Through Prairie View A&M University, I will gain access to alumni networks, faculty advisors, and industry leaders who can offer guidance, share opportunities, and provide support throughout my career. These relationships are invaluable, not just for career advancement, but for learning from others’ experiences and collaborating on future business ventures or initiatives. Finally, higher education helps fuel a deeper sense of purpose. My career isn’t only about personal success, it’s about impact. I want to use what I learn to create systems that work better for employees, support underserved communities, and contribute to a more equitable and efficient workplace culture. I’m especially passionate about supporting young professionals and creating pipelines for growth in communities like Crockett, Texas, where I grew up and began my community involvement through the Groves Educational Foundation. In short, higher education will equip me with the knowledge, credibility, and confidence to lead boldly in the business world. It will position me for executive roles, deepen my impact, and allow me to use business as a tool for problem solving and positive change. I’m not just earning a degree, but I’m investing in a future where I can lead with clarity, make informed decisions, and leave a lasting legacy.

Sustainability is no longer a secondary consideration, it must be a strategic priority, especially in fields like finance and public service where decisions directly impact communities, infrastructure, and future generations. As a finance professional working in the public sector, I believe sustainability should be embedded in the way we manage budgets, evaluate vendors, plan capital projects, and make policy decisions. Every dollar we spend should reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term value, not just short-term savings. In my role as a Budget Specialist II, I see how financial systems drive the choices organizations make. Budgets shape behavior. When sustainability is not factored into financial planning, we risk investing in solutions that may be cheaper today but more costly environmentally and economically tomorrow. That’s why it's critical to fund projects that prioritize energy efficiency, reduce waste, and promote environmentally responsible practices. As I pursue my Executive MBA at Prairie View A&M University, my goal is to move into a Controller role for the State of Texas. In that leadership position, I want to champion sustainable budgeting at the state level by promoting green procurement, energy-conscious project funding, and eco-friendly technology upgrades across departments. I also aim to implement sustainability metrics into financial reports, helping decision makers understand not just the cost, but the environmental footprint of every initiative. Sustainability in finance isn’t just about avoiding harm, but it’s about creating lasting value. From selecting paperless systems to supporting low-emission fleet replacements, there are countless ways government finance leaders can reduce impact while maintaining efficiency. I plan to encourage interdepartmental partnerships that bring finance, facilities, and sustainability teams together to align priorities and stretch limited resources toward long-term goals. Beyond my professional duties, I also hope to build a community sports and leadership facility in my hometown of Crockett, Texas. This facility will be designed with sustainability in mind, from energy efficient lighting to water conservation and waste reduction systems. I want to show young people that community development and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. If we’re going to talk about leadership, we have to model it, and that includes caring for the world we’re leaving behind. Sustainability is a collective responsibility, but it requires intentional leadership. Leaders who are not only aware of the urgency of environmental issues, but who are also positioned to take action within systems that affect real change. I’m committed to being one of those leaders. I intend to bridge the gap between policy, finance, and environmental impact by embedding sustainability into every layer of decision-making. Whether it’s through responsible budgeting, eco-conscious procurement, or advocating for green infrastructure, I will use my voice and my position to drive policies that support both fiscal responsibility and environmental resilience. My goal is to lead by example, to show that sustainability and financial strategy are not opposing forces, but powerful allies when aligned with purpose. In the years ahead, I see myself helping institutions, communities, and young leaders recognize that protecting the environment isn’t an extra, it’s essential. Through innovation, collaboration, and values driven leadership, I plan to help shape a future that is not only financially sound but also environmentally sustainable for generations to come.

When I think about what I want to build, I think beyond brick and mortar, I think about legacy. I want to build opportunity. I want to build confidence in young people who don’t know how powerful they are yet. And most of all, I want to build something that outlasts me. One of my long-term goals is to build a community sports and leadership facility in my hometown of Crockett, Texas. Growing up in a small town, sports gave me discipline, structure, and purpose. It kept me focused when distractions were all around. As a student-athlete, I learned time management, teamwork, and the importance of showing up for myself and others. That foundation helped shape the woman I am today. But I know not every young person in Crockett has the same access or support I did. Too many kids, especially young girls, don’t feel seen, supported, or encouraged to dream big. I want to change that. This facility will be more than a place to play sports; it will be a space for mentorship, career exploration, college readiness, and leadership development. It will be a safe haven where kids can learn to believe in themselves. This vision aligns closely with what I’m building professionally. As I pursue my Executive MBA at Prairie View A&M University, my goal is to grow into a Controller role for the State of Texas. That means I’ll be responsible for managing large budgets, making strategic decisions, and leading with integrity. Every lesson I’m learning now, whether it’s financial management or organizational leadership, will be applied to both my professional role and the facility I plan to bring to life. Building this space is about giving back. It’s about creating access and exposure for young people who may not see many options beyond their current surroundings. I want them to see what’s possible, not just through my words, but through my actions. By building a career rooted in leadership and a facility rooted in community, I’m also building something deeper: a cycle of empowerment that continues long after I’ve handed off the keys.

I believe I deserve this scholarship because I don’t just want to earn a degree, I want to use it to make meaningful, measurable impact. My journey has been rooted in perseverance, service, and leadership. I'm not seeking this opportunity just for myself, but for everyone who looks like me, comes from where I come from, and needs to see what’s possible when education and purpose align. What gives me an advantage is my real world experience, my resilience, and my long-term vision. I bring over 15 years of management experience to the table, along with a deep understanding of financial operations and public service. In my current role as a Budget Specialist II, I oversee complex processes that require accuracy, discipline, and problem-solving under pressure. I’ve learned how to communicate across departments, manage compliance, and lead with integrity. My day-to-day work supports large scale decisions and impacts programs that serve students, faculty, and staff. But it’s not just about what I do, but it’s why I do it. I am pursuing an Executive MBA at Prairie View A&M University not only to sharpen my technical and strategic business skills, but also to elevate my career into a leadership role where I can have greater influence. My goal is to become a Controller for the State of Texas, a position that demands not just financial expertise but strong leadership, ethics, and a vision for inclusive progress. This degree is the bridge between where I am and where I’m headed. What gives me an edge is that I know how to balance the demands of full time work and graduate school. I know how to adapt, lead, and deliver under pressure. I’ve done it for years and I continue to do it because I believe in setting an example, especially for young African American women who are working through fear, self-doubt, or lack of opportunity. I’ve been in those shoes, and I’m committed to creating pathways for others who might think leadership isn’t for them. I want to be the one to say, “Yes, it is, and here’s how.” In the long run, I’m not just aiming for personal success. I’m building a legacy of service, from mentoring women in professional spaces to one day building a sports and leadership facility in my hometown of Crockett, Texas. Sports shaped my discipline and leadership growing up. I want to bring that same structure, confidence, and opportunity to youth in my community. This scholarship would provide critical financial support, allowing me to fully focus on my studies and maximize the opportunities within the program. It’s more than funding, it’s an investment in someone who is ready to lead, serve, and give back. I don’t view this as a competition. I see it as a responsibility. If chosen, I will carry this opportunity forward, not just as a student, but as a future leader committed to impact.

When I imagine myself living the life of my dreams, I see purpose, impact, and legacy. I see a life where I’ve not only achieved personal success, but I’ve used that success to open doors for others, especially for young African American women and the next generation of leaders coming out of small towns like mine. Professionally, I see myself as the Controller for the State of Texas, a trusted financial leader responsible for shaping budgets, making sound fiscal decisions, and leading teams with excellence and integrity. I want to be in a position where I influence large-scale systems that directly impact people’s lives, from education funding to public health programs. I see myself sitting at the table with lawmakers, advocating for transparency, equity, and policies that support underserved communities. This role wouldn’t just be about numbers; it would be about using my financial expertise and leadership to create long-term change. But success to me doesn’t stop at titles. Living the life of my dreams also means paying it forward. I’m especially passionate about mentoring African American women who have struggled with confidence or lacked opportunities. I know what it feels like to doubt your place in the room. I know how it feels to second guess your voice in spaces where you don’t see many people who look like you. And I also know the power of what can happen when someone believes in you. I want to be that person for others. I want to create mentorship programs, offer scholarships, and develop leadership workshops specifically for Black women, equipping them with the confidence, tools, and connections they need to thrive in professional spaces. Beyond career and mentorship, I dream of making a real impact back home in Crockett, Texas. It’s where I was raised. It’s where I played sports, built friendships, and learned the value of community. I want to build a state-of-the-art sports and community facility right in Crockett. A place where young people, especially girls, can play, train, learn, and dream bigger. Sports gave me structure, discipline, and a sense of purpose as a young woman. I want kids in Crockett to have access to those same opportunities, with mentors and programs that encourage their growth both on and off the court or field. In this dream life, I’m not doing it alone. I’m surrounded by a community of leaders, mentors, and young people who believe in the power of giving back. I imagine hosting annual conferences, back-to-school drives, career fairs, and community wellness events. I imagine walking through the sports center and seeing girls I once mentored now coaching, leading, and mentoring the next generation themselves. Living my dream life means honoring where I came from while using my education and experience to lift others as I climb. It means being financially secure, professionally respected, and spiritually grounded. It means knowing I used every gift I was given to make a difference. This dream life isn't about perfection, but it's about purpose. And every step I’m taking now, whether it’s pursuing my Executive MBA, managing budgets, mentoring others, or staying connected to my root, is bringing me closer to it.

Receiving this scholarship will allow me to focus fully on my studies without the added stress of financial barriers. Pursuing an Executive MBA at Prairie View A&M University is a major step in my academic and professional journey, and this support will give me the ability to access essential resources, such as textbooks, technology, and professional development opportunities, that are critical for success in an advanced business program. Higher education is a significant investment, but the knowledge, skills, and connections I will gain through this program will be invaluable as I work toward the next level of leadership. Financial assistance will relieve some of the financial pressure, giving me the flexibility to dedicate more time and energy to excelling academically. It will also allow me to participate in networking events and leadership opportunities that strengthen my ability to lead strategically and make informed financial decisions. My long-term career aspiration is to progress into a Director or Vice President role, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Controller. In these positions, I aim to leverage my extensive financial expertise, strong leadership experience, and strategic thinking abilities to drive operational efficiency and ensure robust fiscal management within an organization. I believe that effective leadership is rooted in a combination of technical skills and the ability to inspire teams, foster collaboration, and promote a culture of accountability. By focusing on financial analysis, risk management, and strategic planning, I plan to develop and implement initiatives that streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance overall organizational performance. Pursuing an Executive MBA is an essential part of my growth strategy. This advanced degree will provide me with a deeper understanding of advanced business concepts, leadership dynamics, and critical thinking skills necessary for high-level decision-making. The program will also expand my professional network and expose me to diverse perspectives, further enriching my capability to lead effectively in a complex business environment. This scholarship is not merely a form of financial assistance; it is a powerful affirmation of my potential to make a significant impact. It offers me the invaluable opportunity to grow as a leader, to serve as an inspiring role model for others who aspire to achieve similar goals, and to foster a positive change within my community and workplace. By easing the burden of financial stress, this scholarship empowers me to fully dedicate myself to my education, pursue my career ambitions, and leverage my knowledge to help others realize their dreams as well.

My major is Business Administration, and I chose this field because it aligns with both my passion and my long-term career goals. I believe education should not only open doors but also equip us with the tools to create meaningful change, and this major allows me to do exactly that. Receiving this scholarship will make a significant difference in my academic journey. It will help relieve the financial pressure that comes with pursuing higher education and allow me to focus more on my studies rather than worrying about costs. Every resource and opportunity I gain through this scholarship will go directly toward furthering my education, developing my skills, and ultimately achieving the professional goals I’ve set for myself. Investing in my education is an investment in my future, and I am committed to making the most of this opportunity not only for myself but also for the communities I plan to serve. This scholarship would help me stay on track, excel academically, and prepare to make a lasting impact in my field.

As a proud Executive MBA candidate at Prairie View A&M University, a historically Black institution rooted in excellence and legacy, I am inspired daily to think critically about how business can serve as a tool for social equity. Economic empowerment and business innovation are not just professional interests, they are my personal missions. I believe both are essential to uplifting underrepresented communities and driving systemic change that lasts. Growing up in Crockett, Texas, a small, rural town often overlooked in conversations about opportunity, I witnessed firsthand how limited access to resources and economic infrastructure can hinder even the most talented individuals. Yet, I also saw resilience, creativity, and untapped potential. These early experiences shaped my belief that business leaders have a duty to create pathways for those who’ve historically been excluded. Through my 15+ years in management and now in my current role as a Budget Specialist II, I’ve come to understand how vital financial literacy and equitable economic policy are to building generational wealth. Business innovation can be a transformative force: whether by designing inclusive financial tools, promoting supplier diversity, or launching community-led initiatives that support entrepreneurship. When underrepresented voices are brought to the table—not as tokens, but as decision-makers—real transformation happens. My career goals reflect my desire to be that decision-maker. I aim to become a Comptroller and, ultimately, a Director or Vice President in finance or business operations. These positions offer the influence and reach to shape organizational culture and investment in ways that promote equity. I want to lead initiatives that reinvest in communities like mine—supporting small businesses, enhancing financial access, and mentoring emerging leaders from underrepresented backgrounds. My time as a student-athlete at Jarvis Christian University taught me the value of discipline, strategic thinking, and leading by example. Academically, I was a Dean’s List recipient, and in my community work with the Groves Educational Foundation, I’ve seen how targeted outreach can inspire youth and support families. These experiences, coupled with the holistic and culturally affirming education I’m receiving at PVAMU, continue to reinforce my belief that business education—especially at an HBCU—can be a powerful engine for justice. An HBCU business scholarship would not only help support my academic journey, but also deepen my commitment to this vision. It would be a tangible investment in someone determined to give back through strategic leadership and socially responsible innovation. I am committed to using my skills to break down barriers, build bridges, and help ensure that future generations inherit more opportunities than the last. I don’t see business and social justice as separate paths—they are the same road. And I plan to walk it with purpose.