I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, advocate for greater access to both school meals, and substance abuse & mental health resources. I was afforded the opportunity to earn a degree after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. Entering school at forty, I wanted to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator. Working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed to elicit lasting, positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing. We as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026: B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student: MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026; B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual Master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student; MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

I am a non-traditional student, mother to a teenaged son, wife of a terminally ill spouse, School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, and overall advocate for greater access to both school meals and substance abuse and mental health resources. It took me over twenty-two years after graduating high school to be able to attend college in pursuit of a degree, only having the opportunity after losing everything I had established due to divorce and subsequent bankruptcy. I entered school at forty-years-old wanting to complete one associate degree in criminal justice, never realizing the impact my husband would have on my educational journey. The one associate degree that began my journey in 2020 has now morphed into three associate degrees, three professional certifications, and three undergraduate degrees which will be completed in May 2026: B.A. in Political Science, B.S. in Public Health, and a B.S. in Psychology. It also includes the dual master’s degrees I began this past fall 2025 as an early entry graduate student: MPH with a Health Policy concentration, and M.S. in Health Informatics and Analytics. None of which would be possible without the financial support I have received from federal financial aid and scholarships such as this. Ultimately, I am working towards a Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI), a feat that until recently, would have never been an option for me. Seeing the biased treatment received by my spouse due to his terminal illness has been a motivating factor in why I continue my education. Public policy is at the forefront of individuals receiving the resources necessary to live healthy, productive lives. Without motivated individuals to advocate for real policy change within our government, those deemed unworthy will continue to suffer. Our current system is set up to perpetually cycle through those struggling, not addressing the root causes of why there is struggle. My current educational path is leading me more towards the role of advocate and healthcare educator, opposed to being limited as a medical healthcare provider. Especially working in my position within the public school system, it is evident that change is desperately needed in order to elicit lasting positive change. As a School Nutrition Specialist, I see firsthand the effect proper nutrition has on students. I also see what a deficit in proper nutrition can do to students, families, and communities, both physically and mentally. While I understand that there are numerous factors that contribute to an individual’s overall health and mental wellbeing, we as a society are not doing enough to ensure the weakest among us are cared for. I continue my journey for those individuals. The ones forgotten, ignored, and tossed aside. Change has to begin somewhere. I choose to be a part of that change.

One of the most influential decisions that I have made during my professional working career was to leave the corporate management training environment that I had known for over twenty-five years and take a position within the local school district as a cafeteria manager. This major shift in my employment also correlated with my decision to go to college after an equally long absence from formal education, having been denied the opportunity until I was forty, divorced, bankrupt, and at a low point in my own life’s journey. What began as an interest in just earning one associate’s degree, has now grown to an ultimate goal of earning my Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI). It is such a surreal notion that, as a non-traditional student, I am still the first in my family to even attend college. A feat thought impossible until I took a blind chance back in August 2020. Since entering into higher education back in August of 2020, I have earned three separate associate degrees, four professional certifications, am almost through with three separate undergraduate degrees (B.A. in Political Science August 2024, B.S. in Psychology December 2025, and B.S. Public Health May 2026), two minors (Criminal Justice, Cognitive Science), and begin my Master’s in Public Health this August 2025. All of this being driven by the desire to help those that may not have the resources and/or opportunities to be successful in their own lives. Substance use/abuse and mental health are the forefront of my endeavors, looking to find the connection between thalamic development and the development of addictive behaviors later in life. I am actively pursuing my certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) too, where I can help those struggling to make sense of their situations and circumstances. My husband, the continued catalyst for my educational pursuit, was diagnosed in 2020 as terminally ill due to his own struggles with alcohol and addiction. It was because of him that I was able to see the stigma, biases, and general ignorance of others, especially in the medical field in relation to mental health and addictions. This is one of my motivators in why I continue to pursue higher education. No one should ever feel or be put into a position where they are treated as less than. Last August I was selected as an Area Health Education Scholar (AHEC) where I was introduced to my current internship location, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics Charlotte. I am able to see firsthand the need for pediatric mental health educators and clinicians, especially in relation to Autism testing, diagnosis, and quality of life attainment. Within the school system, I have become a strong advocate for universal free meals, seeing the immediate mental health impact on students when they are provided with nutritious breakfast and lunch daily at no cost. Although I work closely with high school students each day, understanding the importance of supporting elementary and middle school aged students is not forgotten. Brain development is at a critical stage during the K-12 years. Helping to remove some of the barriers our nation’s students face, educate others on good nutritional habits, and be a supportive resource for all is what continues to drive my educational pursuits.

One of the most influential decisions that I have made during my professional working career was to leave the corporate management training environment that I had known for over twenty-five years and take a position within the local school district as a cafeteria manager. This major shift in my employment also correlated with my decision to go to college after an equally long absence from formal education, having been denied the opportunity until I was forty, divorced, bankrupt, and at a low point in my own life’s journey. What began as an interest in just earning one associate’s degree, has now grown to an ultimate goal of earning my Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI). It is such a surreal notion that, as a non-traditional student, I am still the first in my family to even attend college. A feat thought impossible until I took a blind chance back in August 2020. Since entering into higher education back in August of 2020, I have earned three separate associate degrees, four professional certifications, am almost through with three separate undergraduate degrees (B.A. in Political Science August 2024, B.S. in Psychology December 2025, and B.S. Public Health May 2026), two minors (Criminal Justice, Cognitive Science), and begin my Master’s in Public Health this August 2025. All of this being driven by the desire to help those that may not have the resources and/or opportunities to be successful in their own lives. Substance use/abuse and mental health are the forefront of my endeavors, looking to find the connection between thalamic development and the development of addictive behaviors later in life. I am actively pursuing my certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) too, where I can help those struggling to make sense of their situations and circumstances. My husband, the continued catalyst for my educational pursuit, was diagnosed in 2020 as terminally ill due to his own struggles with alcohol and addiction. It was because of him that I was able to see the stigma, biases, and general ignorance of others, especially in the medical field in relation to mental health and addictions. This is one of my motivators in why I continue to pursue higher education. No one should ever feel or be put into a position where they are treated as less than. Last August I was selected as an Area Health Education Scholar (AHEC) where I was introduced to my current internship location, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics Charlotte. I am able to see firsthand the need for pediatric mental health educators and clinicians, especially in relation to Autism testing, diagnosis, and quality of life attainment. Within the school system, I have become a strong advocate for universal free meals, seeing the immediate mental health impact on students when they are provided with nutritious breakfast and lunch daily at no cost. Although I work closely with high school students each day, understanding the importance of supporting elementary and middle school aged students is not forgotten. Brain development is at a critical stage during the K-12 years. Helping to remove some of the barriers our nation’s students face, educate others on good nutritional habits, and be a supportive resource for all is what continues to drive my educational pursuits.

One of the most influential decisions that I have made during my professional working career was to leave the corporate management training environment that I had known for over twenty-five years and take a position within the local school district as a cafeteria manager. This major shift in my employment also correlated with my decision to go to college after an equally long absence from formal education, having been denied the opportunity until I was forty, divorced, bankrupt, and at a low point in my own life’s journey. What began as an interest in just earning one associate’s degree, has now grown to an ultimate goal of earning my Ph.D. in psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI). It is such a surreal notion that, as a non-traditional student, I am still the first in my family to even attend college. A feat thought impossible until I took a blind chance back in August 2020. Since entering into higher education back in August of 2020, I have earned three separate associate degrees, four professional certifications, am almost through with three separate undergraduate degrees (B.A. in Political Science August 2024, B.S. in Psychology December 2025, and B.S. Public Health May 2026), two minors (Criminal Justice, Cognitive Science), and begin my Master’s in Public Health this August 2025. All of this being driven by the desire to help those that may not have the resources and/or opportunities to be successful in their own lives. Substance use/abuse and mental health are the forefront of my endeavors, looking to find the connection between thalamic development and the development of addictive behaviors later in life. I am actively pursuing my certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) too, where I can help those struggling to make sense of their situations and circumstances. My husband, the continued catalyst for my educational pursuit, was diagnosed in 2020 as terminally ill due to his own struggles with alcohol and addiction. It was because of him that I was able to see the stigma, biases, and general ignorance of others, especially in the medical field in relation to mental health and addictions. This is one of my motivators in why I continue to pursue higher education. No one should ever feel or be put into a position where they are treated as less than. Last August I was selected as an Area Health Education Scholar (AHEC) where I was introduced to my current internship location, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics Charlotte. I am able to see firsthand the need for pediatric mental health educators and clinicians, especially in relation to Autism testing, diagnosis, and quality of life attainment. Within the school system, I have become a strong advocate for universal free meals, seeing the immediate mental health impact on students when they are provided with nutritious breakfast and lunch daily at no cost. Although I work closely with high school students each day, understanding the importance of supporting elementary and middle school aged students is not forgotten. Brain development is at a critical stage during the K-12 years. Helping to remove some of the barriers our nation’s students face, educate others on good nutritional habits, and be a supportive resource for all is what continues to drive my educational pursuits.

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now.

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now.

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now.

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now.

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change, so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now.

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now.

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology (PNEI) since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now.

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendoimmunology since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendoimmunology since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now

I have been working towards a Ph.D. in Psychoneuroendoimmunology since the fall of 2020. It took me 22 years to be able to go to college, having to lose almost everything after a divorce and bankruptcy at the age of forty. I fell in love with the knowledge I was gaining and being able to find beauty in what most would consider not worth the time. As of right now, my studies are taking me deeper into understanding the human brain. A feat that until I began college, would have never thought twice about. My passion is understanding the disease of addiction, including substance abuse as my husband is terminally ill due to his own years of unchecked alcoholism. Being able to reach people, especially at the high school and adolescent age prior to them experiencing addiction is a life goal. Helping physicians, mental health providers, and communities understand the impact of early childhood trauma and how it plays a leading role into addictions even developing is the direction I am heading. They say knowledge is power, I choose to be the spark that helps ignite global social change so we stop needlessly losing our loved ones to their various vices. Currently, my work, schooling, and family keep me busy enough to not extend my time to extracurricular activities. Although my time is constricted at the moment, I am a Boy Scout Leader, having earned my Wood Badge, the highest leadership merit award they have. I have also taken the time to become a certified first responder for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. Currently, I am one of two individuals certified to administer Narcan at Independence High School if a student or otherwise presents with opioid overdose symptoms. As a full-time employee with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, a full-time student at both the University of North Carolina Charlotte and Central Piedmont Community College, and a full-time mother and caregiver, receiving this scholarship will help relieve the burden of cost for my educational expenses. I was just informed that I no longer qualify for financial aid as my husband’s miniscule Social Security Disability payments count toward my yearly eligibility income. I will not be able to continue my educational journey without the help and support of scholarships such as this. It took me twenty-two years after I graduated high school to be able to attend college. I was just accepted into the highly competitive upper division of the Bachelor of Science Public Health program at the University of North Carolina Charlotte, I refuse to quit now