I am serving as student ambassador for USD116 so that I can keep the board informed about the issues and concerns of the minority students within the district. The last few years there has been a lot of inconsistency because we have had five principals at the high school in the same number of years. Also, during this time, we had to navigate a worldwide health pandemic that forced us to remote school. This situation was new to all of us but emphasized how the needs of the least heard students were overlooked. The issues that have been made a priority in the district only benefit a few. Those who are struggling with homelessness, poverty, lack of food, parental guidance and support are forced to express their anger in ways that aren’t productive and challenging to the rest of the school community. Instead of talking about why these acts of violence continue to happen in the schools, I’m having conversations that lead to action to address how things have gotten this way and towards repairing ALL the students. To improve conditions at UHS, there must be improved two-way communication between school/district administration and the parents/students. I’m not saying this lack of communication is solely the responsibility of the administration, but it is important that the district take the first step. This first step must look different than any past attempts. I am accomplishing this by utilizing the sports, clubs and organizations within the school as a bridge to reach the parents that are not coming to the board, PTSA and curriculum meetings. One of the things I heard while growing up in the church is “you have to meet people where they are”. I didn’t understand what that meant until now. The tiger community is disconnected, and we will never progress until EVERYONE is in the room. As a minority student who is actively involved in a diverse group of activities in the school and community, I already receive feedback and opinions from my peers. I believe all these issues should be of interest to the school board and the community. Once selected as a student ambassador, I formally gathered that information, researched alternatives, and put it all together for presentation(s). Since I am actively involved in a diverse group of activities in the school and community, I am already able to communicate with my peers the information I receive from the BOE meetings. To reach my peers outside of UHS band, NHS, AA club and my friend groups, I utilized social media platform(s) for two-way communication to gather information, opinions, and feedback. I plan to continue this advocacy towards a more inclusive and fair community on my college campus and beyond.

I am the daughter of a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. My mother served during Operation Desert Storm before I was born. She doesn’t talk much about the details of her time during active duty but the evidence of the training and the values that were instilled in her are visible in everything I have seen her accomplish. In addition to paid employment, my mother has volunteered countless hours to various veterans’ organizations. When possible, she would take me and my siblings along to gift-wrapping, holiday parties for the underprivileged and children whose parent(s) was deployed, membership drives, rallies to push for veterans benefits and many, memorial and veteran day ceremonies, and programs. Sometimes one or more of us would not want to miss out playing with our friends to attend these events and my mother would sit us down and explain “the joy of selfless giving” or “the benefits of paying it forward”. If necessary, she would pull out the big guns and talk about the sacrifices that others have made for us in our country’s history from the civil rights movement to world wars. I have a hard time recounting any specific names or locations but the same thing would stay consistent each time… the passion she has for the needs of her fellow veterans and the pride of her service. As I have grown, I have been exposed to many veterans. They all, at least the ones I’ve encountered, have an indestructible spirit. They can accomplish so much with so little and the network is unbelievable! Put the word out that a veteran or anybody for that matter needs something and you have to move out the way of them getting it done. Obviously there are non-service people that have accomplished a lot and give back to the community but speaking from my experience, it goes deeper for military personnel. I wasn’t around when my mother was in uniform but she still has dress blues and a set of camouflage fatigues. She pulls them out of storage every now and then and reminisces about her service days. With her involvement in organizations such as The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War, she has a much scaled down “uniform” that she wears with just as much pride. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my peers. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to the non-profits that gave me the confidence I needed as a musician and challenged me to do better academically and to go beyond my own expectations!

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

My mother is a United States Air Force veteran and a member of the American Legion. My mother has volunteered countless hours to various veterans’ organizations. As I have grown, I have developed these same feelings about the importance of community service. I have learned that when you think you don't have enough there are always others that have even less. At birth I became a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, the branch of the organization for eligible mothers, daughters, granddaughters and now husbands of active duty and military veterans. The auxiliary supports the initiatives and programs of The American Legion. I am the longest and most consistent member of the junior unit of American Legion Post #559. I have at times in the last 18 years been the only active (dues paying) member of the unit’s junior auxiliary. In addition to representing my unit at district, division and Department of Illinois meetings/conventions, it has been my mission to increase/retain membership in the auxiliary juniors. This process taught me a lot about the responsibility of the formation of an organization and all the legwork and paperwork that is required to build something from the ground up. As a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, I’ve spent a lot of time around veterans and veteran events. As I have grown, I have been exposed to many veterans. They all, at least the ones I’ve encountered, have an indestructible spirit. They can accomplish so much with so little and the network is unbelievable! Put the word out that a veteran or anybody for that matter needs something and you must move out the way of them getting it done. I have watched elders with fascination as they struggle to stretch out arthritic and ailing bodies to stand at attention and render a proper salute. Some of the retirees are known to the community only as their previous military rank and they wouldn’t have it any other way. During deployment, they have had to endure many hardships, from constant threats and unpredictable crises to extreme temperatures, chaotic operations, absences from loved ones and uncertainty about their return home. I believe a lot of people are letting their discontent with the political structure or their feelings about war in general deter them from caring about the well-being of our brothers and sisters overseas. The veteran community is the largest demographic to depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide. Legion posts are a meeting place for veterans who share the same experiences and history, a place to seek assistance with veteran affairs, caregivers to our sick and elderly, nurturers to our young, a steppingstone to leadership in the community, and for some a home away from home. At our post I assist with organizing wellness fairs that offer information from local organizations for programs or referral services. One of frequent partners is Rattle the Stars, a suicide prevention agency serving the Champaign County area. Rattle the Stars is a non-profit organization that provides community-based suicide prevention services. I have also taken RTS/C Responding to Suicide with Compassion - Supporting Veterans, an eight-hour training course to provide support, validation, provide resources and referrals. When I asked my mother why I thought the suicide rate was so high amongst the veteran community, she spoke to the lack of gratefulness. Military have historically been met with much criticism returning home from conflicts protecting the freedoms of those very same critics. Military pay is not compensatory to civilian contractors doing the same jobs and receiving additional hazard pay. As a desert storm veteran, there was probably the biggest recognition with the support the troops/yellow ribbon campaign. But even that was short lived and didn’t have any real impact on veteran needs and issues. She said more affirmative votes towards military/veteran bills, donations to military organizations, making veteran preference for hiring mandatory and more resources in Champaign County would go along way to change the hopelessness that so many veterans deal with. Military veterans take their missions seriously and for those accomplishments and for their dedication, we must always be grateful. “Support the Troops” doesn’t only apply to wartime situations. Opportunities like these allow me to accomplish my advocacy goals and revitalize the veteran community.

In spring of 2020 when our school district went to remote learning, it was discovered that many families not only didn’t have equipment for this but no internet service to connect to the virtual classrooms. Before this, it was taken for granted that everyone has access to technology. However, we learned that is not the case. As a member of Urbana High School PTSA (UHS PTSA), we were able to apply for grant funds to assist with internet devices and connectivity. We partnered with Urbana School District (USD116) technology services, UHS social workers/guidance counselors/resource staff and a local internet provider to survey, locate and offer these services at no expense to the families. The desire to volunteer is usually based on an individual’s need to give back, strengthen and support the community they live in. The past two years have shown me that volunteerism is even more important to maintaining our communities than ever before. I believe students should volunteer for programs in the community so that we are all doing our part. I endeavor to participate in as many community service projects as my schedule will allow. I am serving as student ambassador for USD116 so that I can keep the board informed about the issues and concerns of the minority students within the district. The last few years there has been a lot of inconsistency because we have had five principals at the high school in the same number of years. Also, during this time, we had to navigate a worldwide health pandemic that forced us to remote school. This situation was new to all of us but emphasized how the needs of the least heard students were overlooked. The issues that have been made a priority in the district only benefit a few. Those who are struggling with homelessness, poverty, lack of food, parental guidance and support are forced to express their anger in ways that aren’t productive and challenging to the rest of the school community. Instead of talking about why these acts of violence continue to happen in the schools, I’m having conversations that lead to action to address how things have gotten this way and towards repairing ALL the students. To improve conditions at UHS, there must be improved two-way communication between school/district administration and the parents/students. I’m not saying this lack of communication is solely the responsibility of the administration, but it is important that the district take the first step. This first step must look different than any past attempts. I am accomplishing this by utilizing the sports, clubs and organizations within the school as a bridge to reach the parents that are not coming to the board, PTSA and curriculum meetings. One of the things I heard while growing up in the church is “you have to meet people where they are”. I didn’t understand what that meant until now. The tiger community is disconnected, and we will never progress until EVERYONE is in the room. As a minority student who is actively involved in a diverse group of activities in the school and community, I already receive feedback and opinions from my peers. I believe all these issues should be of interest to the school board and the community. As student ambassador, I formally gathered that information, researched alternatives, and put it all together for presentation(s). Since I am actively involved in a diverse group of activities in the school and community, I am already able to communicate with my peers the information I receive from the BOE meetings.

During a sleepover in middle school, I saw the movie Grease (1978) for the first time. I was captivated by the music and choreography but also felt invited into a new world. Even though the characters were high school students the storyline centered around grown-up themes that I had only overheard. Based on a stage play of the same name, the story centers around the main characters Danny Zuko (John Travolta) and Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John) who fall in love the summer before their senior year. Danny was the leader of the T-Birds greaser gang consisting of Doody, Sonny, Putzie, and his best friend Kenickie. Sandy became a member of the pink ladies with Frenchy, Jan, Marty and was led by Rizzo once she transferred to Rydell High. Neither Danny nor Sandy was expecting their “summer nights” to transition and once school started and they were in a different environment, the sweet boy that Sandy had fallen in love with on the beach turned into a “hound dog”. Both following the bad advice of their respective groups, Danny continued to treat Sandy poorly and Sandy concluded that she needed to prove that she was “hopelessly devoted” to Danny. To clean up his bad-boy image, Danny joins the track team and earns a varsity letter. Matching his efforts to meet him in the middle, Sandy gets a hair-teased, leather, greaser girl makeover and shows up at the school carnival blowing everybody’s mind. The movie ends with them both declaring “you’re the one that I want” as they drive off into the sunset in Danny’s supped-up hot rod. Danny and Sandy are the main characters of the production but other characters had secondary storylines. Frenchy was studying to become a hairstylist. She pierces Sandy’s ears but after turning her own hair pink by accident, she becomes a “beauty school drop-out”. The most controversial character(s) and plot were Rizzo and Kenickie. Rizzo : What's up, Kenickie? Kenickie : One guess. One would think a teen pregnancy storyline in 1978 that takes place in the fifties would have overshadowed the more acceptable teen romance. Most people’s favorite character is Sandy or Danny but mine is Rizzo (Stockard Channing). Rizzo’s storyline resembles what true struggles teens had and still do today. At the onset of the movie, she is introduced as the antagonist but her bullying is masking her envy at how fast Sandy was accepted into the Rydell community. She develops a tough exterior to lead the pink ladies and to protect herself from the scrutiny of an unjustly bad reputation. She was ahead of her time with her open style of dress, sexuality and self-awareness. Due to her free expression and liberal spirit, she was a victim of gender and sex-shaming. Ironically Sandy emulates Rizzo at the end of the movie. The black leather outfit, cigarette smoking, attitude and swagger are all inspired by Rizzo. I have watched this movie countless times since then and know the entire soundtrack. Grease didn’t win any motion picture awards but it is a cult classic. It is reprised in many school and community productions as well as movie and television sequels. I am looking forward to a sing-a-long event at a local theater this summer. Grease is not only a great movie but also an inspiration to teens who are dealing with the same situations in their lives. It has inspired me to broaden my musical repertoire by participating in theater where I auditioned for my high school performance for the role of Rizzo.

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

What I love most about reading is being able to escape to other worlds and realities. Just like a vacation, it’s nice to get away from everything and engross yourself in fantasy. Reading stretches your imagination enabling broadened creativity. There is also something beneficial about reading about others’ problems that puts your own life into perspective. I also benefit from learning new things. Television shows and movies are like the visual versions of books. There have been many unfortunate incidents in the news the last couple of years involving police brutality and excessive use of force. Unfortunately, this isn’t a new trend with an old racist system that used segregation and discrimination against non-white citizens. The Hate U Give opens with Starr’s parents talking about how to act when pulled over by the cops. I feel like it's good to teach your children to be aware at an early age. He was being a little aggressive when he was explaining it but it's better to be realistic. I have gotten that talk with my mom way before I even started driving. I already knew everything she was telling me, so it was not a surprise. It's sad that a certain demographic must have this talk at a very young age because some adults don't know how to control themselves. Starr’s dad tells his kids to “know your rights, know your worth”. That means know who you are as a person and know your rights as an American so the police can't do anything to you legally. I think about what you can and can’t say around certain people when I get around a group of white people who aren’t my friends and over analyze everything I say so I don't get thought of in a certain way. Just makes me feel like I can't be myself because I don't want them to get too comfortable. What resonated with me about Khalil’s death is that I was very realistic. Black people get killed for police being not good at their jobs too often, so it just seemed a regular instance of police brutality. At Khalil’s funeral the justice worker says, “It’s impossible to be unarmed when our blackness is the weapon they fear.” In her interview with the police, Starr says, “I didn’t know a dead person could be charged with his own murder!” when they only wanted to talk about what Khalil did wrong. America has a way of blaming the victim instead of focusing on the people who are at fault. They do it to save the people who did wrong but I don't understand why. It frequently occurs because of incorrect assumptions made to explain occurrences. Starr thinks she must live a double life to fit in. I know lots of people of color can relate to Starr because around some people we must act differently than ourselves because we don't want to make others uncomfortable. There were numerous protests during COVID-19 pandemic, ranging from Black Lives Matter (BLM) demonstrations to the reopening of businesses. Because more people were becoming aware of police brutality during the pandemic, the BLM social movement was unquestionably the largest. Death resulted from protests that descended into violence due to the ferocity of the BLM movement's supporters, who were fed up with the system's ingrained racism and brutality. There were deaths because of the intense hatred and rage between the two opposing sides. Even though there was violence because of the movements, I thought it was appropriate to protest for change. Thomas, Angie (2017). The Hate U Give. Publisher: Harper Collins

There have been many unfortunate incidents in the news the last couple of years involving police brutality and excessive use of force. Unfortunately, this isn’t a new trend with an old racist system that used segregation and discrimination against non-white citizens. The Hate U Give opens with Starr’s parents talking about how to act when pulled over by the cops. I have gotten that talk with my mom way before I even started driving. I already knew everything she was telling me, so it was not a surprise. It's sad that a certain demographic must have this talk at a very young age because some adults don't know how to control themselves. Starr’s dad tells his kids to “know your rights, know your worth”. That means know who you are as a person and know your rights as an American so the police can't do anything to you legally. I think about what you can and can’t say around certain people when I get around a group of white people who aren’t my friends and over analyze everything I say so I don't get thought of in a certain way. Just makes me feel like I can't be myself because I don't want them to get too comfortable. What resonated with me about Khalil’s death is that I was very realistic. Black people get killed for police being not good at their jobs too often, so it just seemed a regular instance of police brutality. At Khalil’s funeral the justice worker says, “It’s impossible to be unarmed when our blackness is the weapon they fear.” In her interview with the police, Starr says, “I didn’t know a dead person could be charged with his own murder!” when they only wanted to talk about what Khalil did wrong. America has a way of blaming the victim instead of focusing on the people who are at fault. They do it to save the people who did wrong but I don't understand why. It frequently occurs because of incorrect assumptions made to explain occurrences. Starr thinks she must live a double life to fit in. I know lots of people of color can relate to Starr because around some people we must act differently than ourselves because we don't want to make others uncomfortable. Thomas, Angie (2017). The Hate U Give. Publisher: Harper Collins

Television shows and movies are like the visual versions of books. What I love most about reading is being able to escape to other worlds and realities. Just like a vacation, it’s nice to get away from everything and engross yourself in fantasy. Reading stretches your imagination enabling broadened creativity. There is also something beneficial about reading about others’ problems that puts your own life into perspective. I also benefit from learning new things. Emmy-nominated Ginny & Georgia is one of my favorite series on Netflix. It is the story of a tumultuous relationship between a mother and daughter. The show made its debut in 2021 during the pandemic and has only had two seasons so far. Georgia was a teenage mother when she had Ginny and as a result, they have done a lot of growing up together. Georgia’s lack of maturity which is evidenced by her poor decision making and instability contrasts Ginny’s early maturation. Ginny was forced to grow up to survive multiple moves around the country and to help take care of her younger brother Austin. After years of running from Georgia’s past the family finally seems to be settling down and planting roots in the fictional New England town of Wellsbury. It’s quiet and serene, a perfect place for starting a new life. It seems like all is going well. Nice home, stable job and nice guy for Georgia. New school, friends and a therapist for Ginny. Wellsbury also offers a cast of other characters for the audience to relate to. The Millers – Clint, Ellen, their two children Marcus and Maxine (Max). There’s also Ginny’s friend group – MANG (everyone’s initial). Other interesting characters include a teacher, private investigator, campaign manager, mayoral opponent and friends of MANG just to name a few. Georgia has a brief and ill-advised resumption with her ex, Zion Ginny’s biological father and Gil, Austin’s biological father. It appears that this will eventually result in the family having to move on again but then Georgia starts a relationship with Mayor Randolph. However, the cliffhanger from season two may signal the end of the tranquil bliss. You’ll have to catch up to see for yourself 😉 Ironically, my mother and I enjoy this series together. It’s one of few shows we both enjoy and bond over. We are anxious for season three which is not scheduled to be released until 2025. We will probably have to with many other Ginny & Georgia fans binge the first two seasons in the meantime as a refresher of the storylines.

I inherited my love of books and reading from my mother. She is an avid reader that read books to all her children from birth. This introduced us all to books as education and knowledge. It was a rite of passage to be able transition from listening to the books to reading the words by yourself. We would start with pre-school books that had more pictures than words. This helped the reading process by teaching you how to spell words while matching the picture. This created an independence that allowed me to move on to short chapter books. This was the age where I wanted to read to anyone that would listen to show off my reading skills. Enjoying reading books creates a need for access to more books. As a family we made many trips to the library to check out books. We’d each go to our desired section of the library. At the Urbana Public Library, the children’s section is on the lower level. It is brightly colored, has play and lounge areas. This environment heightened the excitement of picking out new books. In elementary school, I discovered the book fair! Not only is there the opportunity to purchase new books but you’re also able to raise funds or scholastic dollars for the school to use on projects or incentives. What I love most about reading is being able to escape to other worlds and realities. Just like a vacation, it’s nice to get away from everything and engross yourself in fantasy. Reading stretches your imagination enabling broadened creativity. There is also something beneficial about reading about others’ problems that puts your own life into perspective. I also benefit from learning new things. If I can’t determine meaning whenever I encounter a new word, I utilize my dictionary to look up the definition. Learning new vocabulary is helpful in conversations and writing composition papers. Now in my senior year of high school, I am looking for financial assistance for college. Applying for scholarships almost always requires a written component. All my reading thus far has enabled me to successfully create a variety of essays on my education and life experiences. While most of the applications focused on “tell us about yourself” or “why I deserve the scholarship” prompts, I have been challenged with writing on a variety of different topics where a multi-purpose essay wouldn’t answer the prompt. Thanks to reading books all my life, I have been able to reflect my values, strengths, interests, volunteer work, and life experiences creatively with a plethora of words to choose from.

In response to a worldwide health pandemic, Urbana School District #116 decided for students not to return to school during spring break 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. When I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. I got my first job at the age of sixteen, providing customer service to patrons at the local aquatic center. For a teenager, the hourly wage of $16/hour seemed fair enough. This fall I will begin my college career and before I know it be a full-fledged adult in the workforce. An issue that impacts young girls and women in the United States is the pay disparity for work. Women earn less than men in nearly all occupations. According to the Department of Labor, women earn 82 cents for every dollar a man earns. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music business/management/administration will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music. After successfully completing an undergrad and perhaps a graduate degree, I want to know that that any compensation I receive will be based on my knowledge and skills on the same scale as a male applicant. It will always be my goal to support other women in the music industry, advocating for fair pay.

During my senior year of high school, I'm embracing the leadership that I've always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS, UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I've picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I'm looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement and also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I'm looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

My name is D’meneca Turner- Winston. I was recruited to play in the band at the end of my 4th grade year. I started playing clarinet in 5th grade. We discovered I was a natural musician and took to reading and playing music by ear easily. In sixth grade my band director suggested I try the saxophone as well. The bluesy tones of the sax proved a great contrast to the classical tones of my clarinet. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I have been fortunate to learn under many great musicians and several of them urged me to add piano to my repertoire to strengthen my musical skills. I have found it very beneficial when I’m working out the notes on a new piece of music. I also enjoy playing the drums and guitar for fun. I play clarinet in the Urbana High School wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) fine arts academy. I had just started middle school when I first began participating in BBL and was only able to do so because they offered scholarships to need based families for music lessons. This is possible due to various grants and donation of time from local musicians and instructors. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I got my first job at the age of sixteen, providing customer service to patrons at the local aquatic center. For a teenager, the hourly wage of $16/hour seemed fair enough. This fall I will begin my college career and before I know it be a full-fledged adult in the workforce. An issue that impacts young girls and women in the United States is the pay disparity for work. Women earn less than men in nearly all occupations. According to the Department of Labor, women earn 82 cents for every dollar a man earns. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music business/management/administration will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music. After successfully completing an undergrad and perhaps a graduate degree, I want to know that that any compensation I receive will be based on my knowledge and skills on the same scale as a male applicant. It will always be my goal to support other women in the music industry, advocating for fair pay.

I was recruited to play in the band at the end of my 4th grade year. I started playing clarinet in 5th grade. We discovered I was a natural musician and took to reading and playing music by ear easily. In sixth grade my band director suggested I try the saxophone as well. The bluesy tones of the sax proved a great contrast to the classical tones of my clarinet. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I have been fortunate to learn under many great musicians and several of them urged me to add piano to my repertoire to strengthen my musical skills. I have found it very beneficial when I’m working out the notes on a new piece of music. I also enjoy playing the drums and guitar for fun. I play clarinet in the Urbana High School wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) fine arts academy. I had just started middle school when I first began participating in BBL and was only able to do so because they offered scholarships to need based families for music lessons. This is possible due to various grants and donation of time from local musicians and instructors. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. BBL gave me the confidence I needed to come out of my shell as a jazz player. My teachers constantly challenged me to do better academically and to go beyond my own expectations! There have been several individuals that have gone above and beyond during my primary education thus far in my musical journey. Ms. Karen Debauche was my middle school band teacher. She was instrumental in nurturing and strengthening my musicianship. She understood that my family has financial difficulties and never made me feel undervalued. In fact, she refused to let money be a hinderance to growth. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. At the end of my sixth-grade year, she suggested that I add the saxophone to my musical repertoire. Ms. Debauche not only found a used saxophone for me but assisted my mother and I in procuring scholarship funds to pay for it. Under her tutelage I have become proficient in both instruments as well as playing by reading and hearing. She has also assisted me in learning other instruments such as piano which she insisted would secure a musical foundation for other instruments I am learning. Even though I haven’t been her student for almost four years, she is always an email or text message away willing to help in any way she can. Applying to universities with a music major requires an audition with that department for supplemental admittance. Ms. Debauche helped me pick music that would satisfy the requirements of each school as well as showcase my strengths. Now retired, she invited me to her home to practice while accompanying me on the piano. We were able to record videos for electronic submissions and she has traveled to accompany me for in-person auditions. Personal lessons to this degree would cost thousands of dollars and she has done it all without charge on her own time. I hope to be able to repay her one day by excelling in the music field.

The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I interned as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. BBL (formerly Mo' Betta Music) strives to enhance the musical knowledge base of young musicians by providing meaningful supplementary curriculum utilizing the genres of Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Rhythm & Blues and Soul to participate and contribute to their school ensembles. The goal is to enhance the diversity of local school instrumental and vocal music educational programs by providing individual and small group instruction to low-income and underrepresented students. I had just started middle school when I first began participating in BBL and was only able to do so because they offered scholarships to need-based families for music lessons. This is possible due to various grants and donations of time from local musicians and instructors. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

There have been several individuals that have gone above and beyond during my primary education thus far in my musical journey. Ms. Karen Debauche was my middle school band teacher. She was instrumental in nurturing and strengthening my musicianship. She understood that my family has financial difficulties and never made me feel undervalued. In fact, she refused to let money be a hinderance to growth. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. At the end of my sixth-grade year, she suggested that I add the saxophone to my musical repertoire. Ms. Debauche not only found a used saxophone for me but assisted my mother and I in procuring scholarship funds to pay for it. Under her tutelage I have become proficient in both instruments as well as playing by reading and hearing. She has also assisted me in learning other instruments such as piano which she insisted would secure a musical foundation for other instruments I am learning. Even though I haven’t been her student for almost four years, she is always an email or text message away willing to help in any way she can. Applying to universities with a music major requires an audition with that department for supplemental admittance. Ms. Debauche helped me pick music that would satisfy the requirements of each school as well as showcase my strengths. Now retired, she invited me to her home to practice while accompanying me on the piano. We were able to record videos for electronic submissions and she has traveled to accompany me for in-person auditions. Personal lessons to this degree would cost thousands of dollars and she has done it all without charge on her own time. I hope to be able to repay her one day by excelling in the music field. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

I started tumbling with Irish’s Gymnastics at the age of five following my big brother’s lead. We competed under the United States Tumbling Association (USTA). When I was seven, we switched to Top Star Trampoline, Tumbling & Cheerleading. Once there I also became a member of the United States Association of Gymnastics (USGA). I trained in trampoline and tumbling but I enjoyed trampoline the best. We had a trampoline in my backyard, so I got lots of practice outside of the gym. My brother was good at all of it but was a tumbling master! We put lots of time into perfecting our skills because we traveled all over competing. We went to invitational meets all over Central IL. We competed at USTA state three times and USGA state twice. We also competed at USTA Nationals twice. I always wanted to do my best so that I could hear my name called at the awards ceremony and stand on the podium. I remember these being really long days because between me and my brother we both competed in at least three events and they would always be spread out all over the meet schedule. I have quite the collection of trophies and medals from my tumbling experience. Once my brother started playing football, after a couple years he gave up gymnastics. I competed another year without him but it wasn’t the same. However, the experience was invaluable and my foundation for teamwork, sportsmanship and work ethic. As a result, I have successfully performed duties as American Legion Auxiliary: Youth Liaison, Bethel AME Church Young People's Department: President, NAACP junior life member: Youth Liaison, National Council for Negro Women: Youth Liaison, UHS Parent, Teacher, Student Association: Student Ambassador and USD116 Board of Education: Student Ambassador. These activities have enabled me to receive academic monogram awards, induction into the National Honor Society and selection as the student body representative for the district school board. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I want to learn and discuss influences in music, food and community on/off campus. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections built a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success.

Law enforcement’s biggest challenge today is public image. There have been many unfortunate incidents in the news the last couple of years involving police brutality and excessive use of force. Unfortunately, this isn’t a new trend with an old racist system that used segregation and discrimination against non-white citizens. There were numerous protests during COVID-19 pandemic, ranging from Black Lives Matter (BLM) demonstrations to the reopening of businesses. Because more people were becoming aware of police brutality during the pandemic, the BLM social movement was unquestionably the largest. Death resulted from protests that descended into violence due to the ferocity of the BLM movement's supporters, who were fed up with the system's ingrained racism and brutality. There were deaths because of the intense hatred and rage between the two opposing sides. Even though there was violence because of the movements, I thought it was appropriate to protest for change. To address these challenges, recruitment efforts should be more inclusive so that local law enforcement would mirror the demographic makeup of the areas they serve and protect. Once the officers have been recruited and selected, the agencies must train them to do the work efficiently and safely. Law enforcement agencies need to perform needs assessment collecting data to determine where training or intervention is needed. In addition to firearm, arrest and control tactics, officers should also receive training in diversity, cultural sensitivity and mental health awareness. The saying “there’s no such thing as bad publicity” does not apply to law enforcement. Even with improvements in recruitment and training, there must be a reversal of positive news reports outnumbering the negative. One way to reach the masses is an image rebrand using social media. One of the fundamental reasons why social media has been so readily embraced by the general public is that it helps connect people with each other in ways that are valuable, meaningful, and convenient, on their own terms, and on an unprecedented scale. Businesses that have some type of product or service for sale need some way of getting that information to the consumer. The way that this is accomplished is by marketing said product or service to the public. Marketing involves creating a campaign that attracts buyers to the features or benefits of a product or service. The current trend in business is to utilize the vast audiences of consumers that can be reached through social media channels. Law enforcement agencies are the businesses that need to sell an improved image to the general public.

Growing up I lived in a family of six. My parents never told us about money problems or anything that would have worried us as kids. Then my parents got a divorce, my brothers went to college and moved out leaving me the youngest with my mother. At this time I was about eight years old. I did not know about my social class or how much money my mom had. Since my mom was my sole provider, she had a lot of weight on her shoulders. I didn't think we were rich growing up but I thought we were in a decent place. I always had a roof over my head, food to eat, and toys to play with so that’s all a kid needs. As I got older, I started to understand where we were financially. Sometimes my mother and I would talk about finances and I could tell it would really worry her but she always assured me everything was okay. She didn’t want me to worry because I had no way of helping her. My parents separated in 2012. The marriage wasn’t dissolved until 2017. Five years of legal fees left our household financially lacking and my father was not mandated nor volunteered to pay child support. The dramatic loss of household income in addition to the lack of financial support from my other parent has caused an enormous hardship and strain on the household finances. Being one of four children, I knew it would be difficult for my parents to be able to put all of us through higher education. I wanted to make sure that my hard work would take some of the burden from them and assist as much as possible by obtaining grants and scholarships for my education. I have worked hard to obtain financial rewards to enable me to attend college and this is not an opportunity I plan to waste. I want to go to college to achieve my career goals. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music administration business/management/administration will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music. Receiving financial assistance would give me the much-needed boost I need to keep pursuing my goals and allowing me to accomplish them.

There have been numerous ladies in my life who have had a beneficial impact on me. My mother, Ronnie, is the most significant person to me. She has always been my fiercest advocate. Mom has always encouraged me to be the greatest person I can be. She would sometimes make me do things I didn't want to do at the time, but as I grew older, I recognized that these things helped me develop. I've always been grateful for the sort of mother I have because, while she pushes me, she also allows me to make my own decisions and experiences. For example, when I was going through a rebellious era, I didn't like all of the extracurricular activities that my mom enrolled me in, so we argued and I had her pull me out of them all. It was a terrible mistake that was great at first, but as time passed and I had nothing to do. After a few months passed, I begged my mother to put me back into them, which she did. Looking back at this time period always makes me laugh because it was so ridiculous. I developed performance anxiety when I entered high school. Just envisioning peers your own age watching you and waiting for you to make mistakes was frightening. So I started backing out of things because I was scared, which was very out of the norm for me. My mom gave me a piece of advice - “Just do it because if you don't, you already know what will happen, but if you do, you might succeed”. This piece of advice is something I say to my friends whenever they need a boost of motivation. I really adore this piece of advice because it's very simple and impressive. It really puts it into perspective for me. Whenever I’m doing something challenging, I always think about that. I'm fortunate enough to have a great mother who was able to broaden my horizons and show me that I am capable of things I never thought I could accomplish, but she always knew I could. My mother is my spiritual role model. She inspires me the most because she is pursuing a doctorate and I see the strain it places on her while still being a wonderful mother and person. My mom does many things for our community and helps so many people. It's awesome having a mother who cares about others as well. Having someone like this around inspires me to stop being so selfish and do things for others not because of others’ opinions or accolades but because you want to. Writing this paper has made me realize that I don't appreciate my mother as much as I should. I believe that everyone should take the time to tell a lady they love how much they appreciate her!

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS symphonic and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) fine arts academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

During women’s history month, I received lots of communications from different organizations I’m affiliated with. Girl Scouts reminded me that I’m empowered to lead the next generations of scouts and give back to organizations that support girls globally. National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) reiterated the mission of leading, advocating, and empowering women of African descent, their families, and communities. American Legion Auxiliary thanked members for being incredible women who have made a significant impact on our world and being part of this empowering journey. I define empowerment as the internal ability to confidently lead and engage. Entering my senior year of high school, I embraced the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I am a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. I have at times in the last 18 years been the only active (dues-paying) member of the unit’s junior auxiliary. In addition to representing my unit at district, division and Department of Illinois meetings/conventions, it has been my mission to increase/retain membership in the auxiliary juniors. I have trained with Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy for the last seven years. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have received training through University of IL School of music’s Illinois Summer Youth Music (ISYM) camp for several years, Smith Walbridge’s marching band leadership camp and BBL annual summer camp. Not only did these opportunities enable me to hone my craft but also taught me invaluable leadership skills. I am an American Legion Girls State participant - a seven-day mock government program learning about civics and American government in a fast-paced, interactive program of campaigning, debating, voting, and electing mock local and state leaders. As a result, I have successfully performed duties as American Legion Auxiliary: Youth Liaison, Bethel AME Church Young People's Department: President, NAACP junior life member: Youth Liaison, National Council for Negro Women: Youth Liaison, UHS Parent, Teacher, Student Association: Student Ambassador and USD116 Board of Education: Student Ambassador. These activities have enabled me to receive academic monogram awards, induction into the National Honor Society and selection as the student body representative for the district school board. I have been making the most of my senior year and feel empowered to continue doing that and my academics to have a strong finish! I'm looking forward to graduating and having something to celebrate with all my friends working so hard during school to go off and live our separate lives. Despite my fears, I’m looking toward the future, filled with empowerment, optimism and hope for the work that is before me.

I have been going to church all my life. My family belongs to Bethel AME church in Champaign, IL. My mother is my spiritual role model. I have grown up watching her live the guiding principles of Christianity. I have participated in youth conferences, Sunday school conventions, vacation bible school (VBS) and competed in bible bowls. I have probably received more Christian education than a lot of my peers but I didn’t have my own relationship with Jesus until I was in crisis. No one in my family could pray me through and I started putting my learning into practice. In response to a worldwide health pandemic, Urbana School District #116 made the decision for students not to return to school during spring break 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. During the time when I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interests, passions, faith and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. Even though many congratulated me on my newfound fortitude, I know that it wasn’t new, just dormant. For I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 It is inevitable that your world view will be challenged and forced to grow. Finding your purpose in life brings a sense of clarity and sense of belonging to a specific cause, purpose, or agenda. If you ask 100 separate individuals about faith you would get more than 100 different versions of what faith is. Faith seems like a simple concept but is one of the most difficult to actually understand. I like to think of faith as that force which allows a me to face each day with hope and belief. It’s that unseen force which wills concepts, and ideas into existence.

I am the daughter of a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. My mother has volunteered countless hours to various veterans’ organizations. As I have grown, I have developed these same feelings about the importance of community service. I have learned that when you think you don't have enough there are always others that have even less. I have volunteered hours for my home church, visited nursing homes, lectured to my peers on the value of NAACP and NCNW membership, gift-wrapping, holiday parties for the underprivileged and children whose parent(s) was deployed, membership drives, rallies to push for veterans benefits and many, many memorial and veteran day ceremonies, and programs and of course advocated for the rights and needs of veterans. The veteran community is the largest demographic to depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and suicide. Legion posts are a meeting place for veterans who share the same experiences and history, a place to seek assistance with veteran affairs, caregivers to our sick and elderly, nurturers to our young, a steppingstone to leadership in the community, and for some a home away from home. At our post I assist with organizing wellness fairs that offer information from local organizations for programs or referral services. One of frequent partners is Rattle the Stars, a suicide prevention agency serving the Champaign County area. Rattle the Stars is a non-profit organization that provides community-based suicide prevention services. I have also taken RTS/C Responding to Suicide with Compassion - Supporting Veterans, an eight-hour training course to provide support, validation, provide resources and referrals. At birth I became a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, the branch of the organization for eligible mothers, daughters, granddaughters and now husbands of active duty and military veterans. The auxiliary supports the initiatives and programs of The American Legion. I am the longest and most consistent member of the junior unit of American Legion Post #559. I have at times in the last 18 years been the only active (dues paying) member of the unit’s junior auxiliary. In addition to representing my unit at district, division and Department of Illinois meetings/conventions, it has been my mission to increase/retain membership in the auxiliary juniors. This process taught me a lot about the responsibility of the formation of an organization and all the legwork and paperwork that is required to build something from the ground up. I believe students should volunteer for programs in the community so that we are all doing our part. I endeavor to participate in as many community service projects as my schedule will allow.

I have always been the one to stand out in my life. I enjoyed participating in all the extracurricular activities and events because I found them to be entertaining. But as I got older, I began to sense that people were actually paying attention to me and I started to get scared. It began in middle school band class, where I really despised having to perform a playing test in front of my peers. We still do this in band and to this day despise it. I knew I was a good player but even if I had the slightest chance of messing up, I would crumble into pieces. My performance anxiety grew as I entered high school. Just envisioning peers your own age watching you and waiting for you to make mistakes was frightening. So I started backing out of things because I was scared, which was very out of the norm for me. My mom gave me a piece of advice - “Just do it because if you don't, you already know what will happen, but if you do, you might succeed”. This piece of advice is something I say to my friends whenever they need a boost of motivation. I really adore this piece of advice because it's very simple and impressive. It really puts it into perspective for me. Whenever I’m doing something challenging, I always think about that. I'm fortunate enough to have a great mother who was able to broaden my horizons and show me that I am capable of things I never thought I could accomplish, but she always knew I could. I developed social anxiety because of the COVID pandemic, which is shocking to anyone who knew me before 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I will always be extremely thankful that my mother gave me the advice that I use daily. Everyone requires some guidance as they develop and learn about the outside world. One reason I am going to college is to earn a degree, to prove to myself and others that, through hard work and perseverance, anything can be achieved. Considering the struggle I have been through with schooling and my education, earning a degree would be my greatest achievement in my life at this point.

I have always been the one to stand out in my life. I enjoyed participating in all the extracurricular activities and events because I found them to be entertaining. But as I got older, I began to sense that people were actually paying attention to me and I started to get scared. It began in middle school band class, where I really despised having to perform a playing test in front of my peers. We still do this in band and to this day despise it. I knew I was a good player but even if I had the slightest chance of messing up, I would crumble into pieces. My performance anxiety grew as I entered high school. Just envisioning peers your own age watching you and waiting for you to make mistakes was frightening. So I started backing out of things because I was scared, which was very out of the norm for me. My mom gave me a piece of advice - “Just do it because if you don't, you already know what will happen, but if you do, you might succeed”. This piece of advice is something I say to my friends whenever they need a boost of motivation. I really adore this piece of advice because it's very simple and impressive. It really puts it into perspective for me. Whenever I’m doing something challenging, I always think about that. I'm fortunate enough to have a great mother who was able to broaden my horizons and show me that I am capable of things I never thought I could accomplish, but she always knew I could. I developed social anxiety because of the COVID pandemic, which is shocking to anyone who knew me before 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I will always be extremely thankful that my mother gave me the advice that I use daily. Everyone requires some guidance as they develop and learn about the outside world. One reason I am going to college is to earn a degree, to prove to myself and others that, through hard work and perseverance, anything can be achieved. Considering the struggle I have been through with schooling and my education, earning a degree would be my greatest achievement in my life at this point.

I have always been the one to stand out in my life. I enjoyed participating in all the extracurricular activities and events because I found them to be entertaining. But as I got older, I began to sense that people were actually paying attention to me and I started to get scared. It began in middle school band class, where I really despised having to perform a playing test in front of my peers. We still do this in band and to this day despise it. I knew I was a good player but even if I had the slightest chance of messing up, I would crumble into pieces. My performance anxiety grew as I entered high school. Just envisioning peers your own age watching you and waiting for you to make mistakes was frightening. So I started backing out of things because I was scared, which was very out of the norm for me. My mom gave me a piece of advice - “Just do it because if you don't, you already know what will happen, but if you do, you might succeed”. This piece of advice is something I say to my friends whenever they need a boost of motivation. I really adore this piece of advice because it's very simple and impressive. It really puts it into perspective for me. Whenever I’m doing something challenging, I always think about that. I'm fortunate enough to have a great mother who was able to broaden my horizons and show me that I am capable of things I never thought I could accomplish, but she always knew I could. I developed social anxiety because of the COVID pandemic, which is shocking to anyone who knew me before 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I will always be extremely thankful that my mother gave me the advice that I use daily. Everyone requires some guidance as they develop and learn about the outside world. One reason I am going to college is to earn a degree, to prove to myself and others that, through hard work and perseverance, anything can be achieved. Considering the struggle I have been through with schooling and my education, earning a degree would be my greatest achievement in my life at this point.

I have always been the one to stand out in my life. I enjoyed participating in all the extracurricular activities and events because I found them to be entertaining. But as I got older, I began to sense that people were actually paying attention to me and I started to get scared. It began in middle school band class, where I really despised having to perform a playing test in front of my peers. We still do this in band and to this day despise it. I knew I was a good player but even if I had the slightest chance of messing up, I would crumble into pieces. My performance anxiety grew as I entered high school. Just envisioning peers your own age watching you and waiting for you to make mistakes was frightening. So I started backing out of things because I was scared, which was very out of the norm for me. My mom gave me a piece of advice - “Just do it because if you don't, you already know what will happen, but if you do, you might succeed”. This piece of advice is something I say to my friends whenever they need a boost of motivation. I really adore this piece of advice because it's very simple and impressive. It really puts it into perspective for me. Whenever I’m doing something challenging, I always think about that. I'm fortunate enough to have a great mother who was able to broaden my horizons and show me that I am capable of things I never thought I could accomplish, but she always knew I could. I developed social anxiety because of the COVID pandemic, which is shocking to anyone who knew me before 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I will always be extremely thankful that my mother gave me the advice that I use daily. Everyone requires some guidance as they develop and learn about the outside world. One reason I am going to college is to earn a degree, to prove to myself and others that, through hard work and perseverance, anything can be achieved. Considering the struggle I have been through with schooling and my education, earning a degree would be my greatest achievement in my life at this point.

I have always been the one to stand out in my life. I enjoyed participating in all the extracurricular activities and events because I found them to be entertaining. But as I got older, I began to sense that people were actually paying attention to me and I started to get scared. It began in middle school band class, where I really despised having to perform a playing test in front of my peers. We still do this in band and to this day despise it. I knew I was a good player but even if I had the slightest chance of messing up, I would crumble into pieces. My performance anxiety grew as I entered high school. Just envisioning peers your own age watching you and waiting for you to make mistakes was frightening. So I started backing out of things because I was scared, which was very out of the norm for me. My mom gave me a piece of advice - “Just do it because if you don't, you already know what will happen, but if you do, you might succeed”. This piece of advice is something I say to my friends whenever they need a boost of motivation. I really adore this piece of advice because it's very simple and impressive. It really puts it into perspective for me. Whenever I’m doing something challenging, I always think about that. I'm fortunate enough to have a great mother who was able to broaden my horizons and show me that I am capable of things I never thought I could accomplish, but she always knew I could. I developed social anxiety because of the COVID pandemic, which is shocking to anyone who knew me before 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I will always be extremely thankful that my mother gave me the advice that I use daily. Everyone requires some guidance as they develop and learn about the outside world. One reason I am going to college is to earn a degree, to prove to myself and others that, through hard work and perseverance, anything can be achieved. Considering the struggle I have been through with schooling and my education, earning a degree would be my greatest achievement in my life at this point.

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music. Receiving the Jerzee Foundation Scholarship would give me the much-needed financial boost I need to keep pursuing my goals and allowing me to accomplish them.

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

In response to a worldwide health pandemic, Urbana School District #116 decided for students not to return to school during spring break 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. When I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I've been thinking about college and how that's going to look for me. The college application process is not quite done for me since my major involves auditioning, and interviews. After that, they will listen and decide if I’m at an acceptable level of playing. I’m nervous about college and how it's going to be. This is going to be my first time going to a new school because I have been in the Urbana school district for my entire primary education and have been with all the same people since pre-K. I have had a sense of comfort in that but now it is time to break that bubble and start something new. This is my last semester of high school and that is so crazy to me because it seems like I was just an infant two weeks ago and now I’m a legal adult doing things in the world. I have been making the most of my senior year and I’m just going to continue doing that and my academics to have a strong finish! I'm looking forward to graduating and having something to celebrate with all my friends working so hard during school to go off and live our separate lives. Despite my fears, I’m looking toward the future, filled with optimism and hope and optimistic assessments from my auditions and interviews with a spirit of optimism and enthusiasm for the work that is before me. I believe I’m going to have successful outcomes because I have a positive mental attitude, faith and optimism!

In response to a worldwide health pandemic, Urbana School District #116 decided for students not to return to school during spring break 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. When I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I've been thinking about college and how that's going to look for me. The college application process is not quite done for me since my major involves auditioning, and interviews. After that, they will listen and decide if I’m at an acceptable level of playing. I’m nervous about college and how it's going to be. This is going to be my first time going to a new school because I have been in the Urbana school district for my entire primary education and have been with all the same people since pre-K. I have had a sense of comfort in that but now it is time to break that bubble and start something new. This is my last semester of high school and that is so crazy to me because it seems like I was just an infant two weeks ago and now I’m a legal adult doing things in the world. I have been making the most of my senior year and I’m just going to continue doing that and my academics to have a strong finish! I'm looking forward to graduating and having something to celebrate with all my friends working so hard during school to go off and live our separate lives. Despite my fears, I’m looking toward the future, filled with optimism and hope and optimistic assessments from my auditions and interviews with a spirit of optimism and enthusiasm for the work that is before me. I believe I’m going to have successful outcomes because I have a positive mental attitude, faith and optimism!

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

A Perfect Day Music, deeply embedded within the fabric of human culture, Assumes a multifaceted role across myriad facets of society. Ranging from providing entertainment to serving as a vehicle for emotional expression. Its pervasive influence underscores its inherent value and significance. Music emerges as a linchpin in the development of cognitive faculties, emotional intelligence, and the cultivation of social bonds. Music serves as a powerful medium for emotional expression and regulation, Possessing the innate ability to evoke a broad spectrum of emotions and facilitate introspection and empathy. Music serves as a powerful medium for emotional expression and regulation, Possessing the innate ability to evoke a broad spectrum of emotions and facilitate introspection and empathy. Its melodic tapestries have the power to evoke a kaleidoscope of emotions, Stirring the depths of the human soul with jubilant crescendos of a triumphant symphony. A perfect day is filled with music. ~D’meneca Turner-Winston During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. I play clarinet in the UHS symphonic and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) fine arts academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I interned as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. BBL (formerly Mo' Betta Music) strives to enhance the musical knowledge base of young musicians by providing meaningful supplementary curriculum utilizing the genres of Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Rhythm & Blues and Soul to participate and contribute to their school ensembles. The goal is to enhance the diversity of local school instrumental and vocal music educational programs by providing individual and small group instruction to low income and underrepresented students. I had just started middle school when I first began participating in BBL and was only able to do so because they offered scholarships to need based families for music lessons. This is possible due to various grants and donation of time from local musicians and instructors. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I want to learn and discuss influences in music, food and community on/off campus. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my peers. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents.

Since we are not native to the area, our church members serve the role as family. We have a thriving music department at my home church. There are many talented singers in our choirs accompanied by skilled pianists, organists, drummers, trumpet, horn and base players. I served in the youth choir for a few years but once I discovered instruments and my musical gifts, I knew that was my true contribution to the music ministry. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I interned as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. BBL (formerly Mo' Betta Music) strives to enhance the musical knowledge base of young musicians by providing meaningful supplementary curriculum utilizing the genres of Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Rhythm & Blues and Soul to participate and contribute to their school ensembles. The goal is to enhance the diversity of local school instrumental and vocal music educational programs by providing individual and small group instruction to low-income and underrepresented students. I had just started middle school when I first began participating in BBL and was only able to do so because they offered scholarships to need-based families for music lessons. This is possible due to various grants and donations of time from local musicians and instructors. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my peers. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community-centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents.

Entering my senior year of high school, I embraced the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I am a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. I have at times in the last 18 years been the only active (dues-paying) member of the unit’s junior auxiliary. In addition to representing my unit at district, division and Department of Illinois meetings/conventions, it has been my mission to increase/retain membership in the auxiliary juniors. I have trained with Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy for the last seven years. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have received training through University of IL School of music’s Illinois Summer Youth Music (ISYM) camp for several years, Smith Walbridge’s marching band leadership camp and BBL annual summer camp. Not only did these opportunities enable me to hone my craft but also taught me invaluable leadership skills. I am an American Legion Girls State participant - a seven-day mock government program learning about civics and American government in a fast-paced, interactive program of campaigning, debating, voting, and electing mock local and state leaders. As a result, I have successfully performed duties as American Legion Auxiliary: Youth Liaison, Bethel AME Church Young People's Department: President, NAACP junior life member: Youth Liaison, National Council for Negro Women: Youth Liaison, UHS Parent, Teacher, Student Association: Student Ambassador and USD116 Board of Education: Student Ambassador. These activities have enabled me to receive academic monogram awards, induction into the National Honor Society and selection as the student body representative for the district school board. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I want to learn and discuss influences in music, food and community on/off campus. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

I grew up in a household with a mother that was religious about recycling, reusing and reducing. We also have a city-wide recycling initiative that aids in this endeavor. Since I was old enough to through away trash, I was trained on separating refuse and depositing the bottles, cans, paper and cardboard containers into designated containers. Every time somebody would inadvertently throw a recyclable item in the trash, the whole house would get “the importance of recycling” speech. As I have grown, I have developed a better understanding of conservation of resources. Instead of throwing clothes away, we donate them to charity to decrease waste in landfills. We often discuss sustainable options that meets the needs of the present without compromising the future and changing the mindset of waste – getting consumers to understand the detriment of our behavior. The impact is three dimensional: economic, environmental and social. We also discuss how changing a dimension can change them overall on the tradeoffs you take from changing the dimensions. I enjoy fashion and wanted to focus on sustainable clothing. I am all about the three Rs – recycle, reduce, reuse. Repurposing materials into wearable fashion has been slowly increasing in the fashion industry over the last few decades. The problem initially was finding materials that could be transformed into attractive articles of clothing that people would want to wear. What I have discovered is that even though the trends are increasing the availability of such clothing items is lagging far behind. I did some research to see how accessible sustainable clothing would be to obtain. I also discovered that although sustainable clothing is a good idea it is very hard to find. In searching for retailers, the nearest stores that I was able to locate were in the northern Chicago suburbs – almost 200 miles from my area. Since sustainable clothing is not a feasible option for a great environmental impact at this point, I am continuing to focus my energy on bottles, cans, paper and cardboard. I participate and volunteer in my church’s young people’s division. YPD provides meaningful youth training programs and opportunities for leadership experience. To support these goals, we implemented a can recycling initiative for our congregation. We are fortunate to have a private recycling company in our area that buys and sells auto parts, electronics, appliances and cans. To raise funds for conferences and programs, members of our congregation bring their used cans to church every Sunday. Their incitive is less waste for their households and contributing to the youth of the church. I am looking forward to assisting with the recycling program on my new campus this fall. Facilities planning and management have an environmentally responsible campus that recycles paper products (paper, magazines, envelopes, cereal boxes, cardboard games), aluminum, plastics, etc. They also provide student employment opportunities that I hope to be able to obtain a position.

I am the daughter of a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. My mother served during Operation Desert Storm before I was born. She doesn’t talk much about the details of her time during active duty but the evidence of the training and the values that were instilled in her are visible in everything I have seen her accomplish. In addition to paid employment, my mother has volunteered countless hours to various veterans’ organizations. When possible, she would take me and my siblings along to gift-wrapping, holiday parties for the underprivileged and children whose parent(s) was deployed, membership drives, rallies to push for veterans benefits and many, memorial and veteran day ceremonies, and programs. Sometimes one or more of us would not want to miss out playing with our friends to attend these events and my mother would sit us down and explain “the joy of selfless giving” or “the benefits of paying it forward”. If necessary, she would pull out the big guns and talk about the sacrifices that others have made for us in our country’s history from the civil rights movement to world wars. I have a hard time recounting any specific names or locations but the same thing would stay consistent each time… the passion she has for the needs of her fellow veterans and the pride of her service. As I have grown, I have been exposed to many veterans. They all, at least the ones I’ve encountered, have an indestructible spirit. They can accomplish so much with so little and the network is unbelievable! Put the word out that a veteran or anybody for that matter needs something and you have to move out the way of them getting it done. Obviously there are non-service people that have accomplished a lot and give back to the community but speaking from my experience, it goes deeper for military personnel. I wasn’t around when my mother was in uniform but she still has dress blues and a set of camouflage fatigues. She pulls them out of storage every now and then and reminisces about her service days. With her involvement in organizations such as The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War, she has a much scaled down “uniform” that she wears with just as much pride. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my peers. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to the non-profits that gave me the confidence I needed as a musician and challenged me to do better academically and to go beyond my own expectations!

I am the daughter of a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. My mother served during Operation Desert Storm before I was born. She doesn’t talk much about the details of her time during active duty but the evidence of the training and the values that were instilled in her are visible in everything I have seen her accomplish as far back as I can remember. In addition to employment that was done for pay, my mother has volunteered countless hours to various veterans’ organizations. Whenever she was able, she would take me and my siblings along to gift-wrapping, holiday parties for the underprivileged and children whose parent(s) was deployed, membership drives, rallies to push for veterans benefits and many, many memorial and veteran day ceremonies, and programs. Sometimes one or more of us would not want to miss out playing with our friends to attend these events and my mother would sit us down and explain “the joy of selfless giving” or “the benefits of paying it forward”. If necessary, she would pull out the big guns and talk about the sacrifices that others have made for us in our country’s history from the civil rights movement to world wars. Each time the stories would be different. I have a hard time recounting any specific names or locations but the same thing would stay consistent each time… the passion she has for the needs of her fellow veterans and the pride of her service. As I have grown, I have been exposed to many veterans. They all, at least the ones I’ve encountered, have an indestructible spirit. They can accomplish so much with so little and the network is unbelievable! Put the word out that a veteran or anybody for that matter needs something and you practically have to move out the way of them getting it done. Obviously there are many non-service people that have accomplished a lot and give back to the community but speaking from my experience, it goes way deeper for military personnel. I wasn’t around when my mother was in uniform but she still has a set of dress blues and a set of camouflage fatigues. She pulls them out of storage every now and then and reminisces about her service days. With her involvement in organizations such as The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War, she has a much scaled down “uniform” that she wears with just as much pride. When I attend officer installations, funerals for fallen soldiers and other commemorative events, I have watched elders with fascination as they struggle to stretch out arthritic and ailing bodies to stand at attention and render a proper salute. Some of the retirees are known to the community only as their previous military rank and they wouldn’t have it any other way. I can definitely say I am the result of military pride. The strong work ethic, fortitude and character that I believe was fostered in my mother by Uncle Sam have been passed on to me. In my life, there have been many things that have made me become the person I am today. I believe it’s the motivation that is instilled in me by myself and others that has pushed me this far. There are many different people who have motivated me to do what I can to get the grades, test scores, and lifestyle that I needed to be ready and adept for college life. Though military service may not be a part of my future career plans, I will always credit them both for my future successes.

In response to a worldwide health pandemic, Urbana School District #116 decided for students not to return to school during spring break 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. When I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I've been thinking about college and how that's going to look for me. The college application process is not quite done for me since my major involves auditioning, and interviews. After that, they will listen and decide if I’m at an acceptable level of playing. I’m nervous about college and how it's going to be. This is going to be my first time going to a new school because I have been in the Urbana school district for my entire primary education and have been with all the same people since pre-K. I have had a sense of comfort in that but now it is time to break that bubble and start something new. This is my last semester of high school and that is so crazy to me because it seems like I was just an infant two weeks ago and now I’m a legal adult doing things in the world. I have been making the most of my senior year and I’m just going to continue doing that and my academics to have a strong finish! I'm looking forward to graduating and having something to celebrate with all my friends working so hard during school to go off and live our separate lives. Despite my fears, I’m looking toward the future, filled with optimism and hope and optimistic assessments from my auditions and interviews with a spirit of optimism and enthusiasm for the work that is before me. I believe I’m going to have successful outcomes because I have a positive mental attitude, faith and optimism!

I am the daughter of a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. My mother served during Operation Desert Storm before I was born. She doesn’t talk much about the details of her time during active duty but the evidence of the training and the values that were instilled in her are visible in everything I have seen her accomplish as far back as I can remember. In addition to employment that was done for pay, my mother has volunteered countless hours to various veterans’ organizations. Whenever she was able, she would take me and my siblings along to gift-wrapping, holiday parties for the underprivileged and children whose parent(s) was deployed, membership drives, rallies to push for veterans benefits and many, many memorial and veteran day ceremonies, and programs. Sometimes one or more of us would not want to miss out playing with our friends to attend these events and my mother would sit us down and explain “the joy of selfless giving” or “the benefits of paying it forward”. If necessary, she would pull out the big guns and talk about the sacrifices that others have made for us in our country’s history from the civil rights movement to world wars. Each time the stories would be different. I have a hard time recounting any specific names or locations but the same thing would stay consistent each time… the passion she has for the needs of her fellow veterans and the pride of her service. As I have grown, I have been exposed to many veterans. They all, at least the ones I’ve encountered, have an indestructible spirit. They can accomplish so much with so little and the network is unbelievable! Put the word out that a veteran or anybody for that matter needs something and you practically have to move out the way of them getting it done. Obviously there are many non-service people that have accomplished a lot and give back to the community but speaking from my experience, it goes way deeper for military personnel. I wasn’t around when my mother was in uniform but she still has a set of dress blues and a set of camouflage fatigues. She pulls them out of storage every now and then and reminisces about her service days. With her involvement in organizations such as The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War, she has a much scaled down “uniform” that she wears with just as much pride. When I attend officer installations, funerals for fallen soldiers and other commemorative events, I have watched elders with fascination as they struggle to stretch out arthritic and ailing bodies to stand at attention and render a proper salute. Some of the retirees are known to the community only as their previous military rank and they wouldn’t have it any other way. I can definitely say I am the result of military pride. The strong work ethic, fortitude and character that I believe was fostered in my mother by Uncle Sam have been passed on to me. In my life, there have been many things that have made me become the person I am today. I believe it’s the motivation that is instilled in me by myself and others that has pushed me this far. There are many different people who have motivated me to do what I can to get the grades, test scores, and lifestyle that I needed to be ready and adept for college life. Though military service may not be a part of my future career plans, I will always credit them both for my future successes.

There have been several individuals that have gone above and beyond during my primary education thus far in my musical journey. Ms. Karen Debauche was my middle school band teacher. She was instrumental in nurturing and strengthening my musicianship. She understood that my family has financial difficulties and never made me feel undervalued. In fact, she refused to let money be a hinderance to growth. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. At the end of my sixth-grade year, she suggested that I add the saxophone to my musical repertoire. Ms. Debauche not only found a used saxophone for me but assisted my mother and I in procuring scholarship funds to pay for it. Under her tutelage I have become proficient in both instruments as well as playing by reading and hearing. She has also assisted me in learning other instruments such as piano which she insisted would secure a musical foundation for other instruments I am learning. Even though I haven’t been her student for almost four years, she is always an email or text message away willing to help in any way she can. Applying to universities with a music major requires an audition with that department for supplemental admittance. Ms. Debauche helped me pick music that would satisfy the requirements of each school as well as showcase my strengths. Now retired, she invited me to her home to practice while accompanying me on the piano. We were able to record videos for electronic submissions and she has traveled to accompany me for in-person auditions. Personal lessons to this degree would cost thousands of dollars and she has done it all without charge on her own time. I hope to be able to repay her one day by excelling in the music field. Teaching can be a thankless job with very few occasions where these individuals are rewarded for the long hours without compensation, spending their own funds to make sure students have needed supplies, dealing with sometimes uncooperative parents and unsupportive administration. Almost all who commit to the teaching profession deserve to be teacher of the year but especially Ms. Debauche. I’m not sure if college or a career in music would have been an option for me without all of her encouragement, support and selflessness. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

During my senior year of high school, I am embracing the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I have experience leading the clarinet section at UMS and have stepped in on occasion for UHS marching and wind symphony band. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the UHS wind symphony and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music. Receiving this scholarship would give me the much-needed boost I need to keep pursuing my goals and allowing me to accomplish them.

There have been several individuals that have gone above and beyond during my primary education thus far in my musical journey. Ms. Karen Debauche was my middle school band teacher. She was instrumental in nurturing and strengthening my musicianship. She understood that my family has financial difficulties and never made me feel undervalued. In fact, she refused to let money be a hinderance to growth. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. At the end of my sixth-grade year, she suggested that I add the saxophone to my musical repertoire. Ms. Debauche not only found a used saxophone for me but assisted my mother and I in procuring scholarship funds to pay for it. Under her tutelage I have become proficient in both instruments as well as playing by reading and hearing. She has also assisted me in learning other instruments such as piano which she insisted would secure a musical foundation for other instruments I am learning. Even though I haven’t been her student for almost four years, she is always an email or text message away willing to help in any way she can. Applying to universities with a music major requires an audition with that department for supplemental admittance. Ms. Debauche helped me pick music that would satisfy the requirements of each school as well as showcase my strengths. Now retired, she invited me to her home to practice while accompanying me on the piano. We were able to record videos for electronic submissions and she has traveled to accompany me for in-person auditions. Personal lessons to this degree would cost thousands of dollars and she has done it all without charge on her own time. I hope to be able to repay her one day by excelling in the music field. Teaching can be a thankless job with very few occasions where these individuals are rewarded for the long hours without compensation, spending their own funds to make sure students have needed supplies, dealing with sometimes uncooperative parents and unsupportive administration. Almost all who commit to the teaching profession deserve to be teacher of the year but especially Ms. Debauche. I’m not sure if college or a career in music would have been an option for me without all of her encouragement, support and selflessness. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my peers. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents.

In response to a worldwide health pandemic, Urbana School District #116 decided for students not to return to school during spring break 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. When I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. I play clarinet in the UHS symphonic and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) fine arts academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I interned as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. BBL (formerly Mo' Betta Music) strives to enhance the musical knowledge base of young musicians by providing meaningful supplementary curriculum utilizing the genres of Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Rhythm & Blues and Soul to participate and contribute to their school ensembles. The goal is to enhance the diversity of local school instrumental and vocal music educational programs by providing individual and small group instruction to low income and underrepresented students. I had just started middle school when I first began participating in BBL and was only able to do so because they offered scholarships to need based families for music lessons. This is possible due to various grants and donation of time from local musicians and instructors. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my peers. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents.

In response to a worldwide health pandemic, Urbana School District #116 decided for students not to return to school during spring break 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. When I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. I play clarinet in the UHS symphonic and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) fine arts academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I interned as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. BBL (formerly Mo' Betta Music) strives to enhance the musical knowledge base of young musicians by providing meaningful supplementary curriculum utilizing the genres of Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Rhythm & Blues and Soul to participate and contribute to their school ensembles. The goal is to enhance the diversity of local school instrumental and vocal music educational programs by providing individual and small group instruction to low income and underrepresented students. I had just started middle school when I first began participating in BBL and was only able to do so because they offered scholarships to need based families for music lessons. This is possible due to various grants and donation of time from local musicians and instructors. I am looking forward to returning the favor and giving back to my community as a future professional contributor to BBL. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my peers. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents.

During my senior year of high school, I embraced the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I am a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. I have at times in the last 18 years been the only active (dues-paying) member of the unit’s junior auxiliary. In addition to representing my unit at district, division and Department of Illinois meetings/conventions, it has been my mission to increase/retain membership in the auxiliary juniors. I have trained with Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy for the last seven years. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have received training through University of IL School of music’s Illinois Summer Youth Music (ISYM) camp for several years, Smith Walbridge’s marching band leadership camp and BBL annual summer camp. Not only did these opportunities enable me to hone my craft but also taught me invaluable leadership skills. I am an American Legion Girls State participant - a seven-day mock government program learning about civics and American government in a fast-paced, interactive program of campaigning, debating, voting, and electing mock local and state leaders. As a result, I have successfully performed duties as American Legion Auxiliary: Youth Liaison, Bethel AME Church Young People's Department: President, NAACP junior life member: Youth Liaison, National Council for Negro Women: Youth Liaison, UHS Parent, Teacher, Student Association: Student Ambassador and USD116 Board of Education: Student Ambassador. These activities have enabled me to receive academic monogram awards, induction into the National Honor Society and selection as the student body representative for the district school board. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I want to learn and discuss influences in music, food and community on/off campus. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

I am serving as student ambassador for USD116 so that I can keep the board informed about the issues and concerns of the minority students within the district. The last few years there has been a lot of inconsistency because we have had five principals at the high school in the same number of years. Also, during this time, we had to navigate a worldwide health pandemic that forced us to remote school. This situation was new to all of us but emphasized how the needs of the least heard students were overlooked. The issues that have been made a priority in the district only benefit a few. Those that are struggling with homelessness, poverty, lack of food, parental guidance and support are forced to express their anger in ways that aren’t productive and challenging to the rest of the school community. Instead of talking about why these acts of violence continue to happen in the schools, I’m having conversations that lead to action to address how things have gotten this way and towards repairing ALL the students. To improve conditions at UHS, there must be improved two-way communication between school/district administration and the parents/students. I’m not saying this lack of communication is solely the responsibility of the administration, but it is important that the district take the first step. This first step must look different than any past attempts. I am accomplishing this by utilizing the sports, clubs and organizations within the school as a bridge to reach the parents that are not coming to the board, PTSA and curriculum meetings. One of the things I have heard while growing up in the church is “you have to meet people where they are”. I didn’t understand what that meant until now. The tiger community is disconnected, and we will never make any progress until EVERYONE is in the room. As a minority student that is actively involved in a diverse group of activities in the school and community, I already receive feedback and opinions from my peers. I believe all these issues should be of interest to the school board and the community. Once selected as a student ambassador, I formally gathered that information, researched alternatives, and putting it all together for presentation(s). Since I am actively involved in a diverse group of activities in the school and community, I am already able to communicate with my peers the information I receive from the BOE meetings. To reach my peers outside of UHS band, NHS, AA club and my friend groups, I utilized social media platform(s) for two-way communication to gather information, opinions, and feedback. Not only did this opportunity enable me to hone my craft but also taught me invaluable leadership skills. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success.

During a sleepover when I was in middle school, I saw the movie Grease (1978) for the first time. I was captivated by the music and choreography but I also felt invited into a new world. Even though the characters were high school students the storyline centered around grown-up themes that I had only overheard or whispered. Based on a stage play of the same name, the story centers around the two main characters Danny Zuko (John Travolta) and Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John) who fall in love the summer before their senior year. The story takes place in 1958 but just teens of every generation both belonged to a group. Danny was the leader of the T-Birds greaser gang consisting of Doody, Sonny, Putzie, and his best friend Kenickie. Sandy became a member of the pink ladies with Frenchy, Jan, Marty and was led by Rizzo once she transferred to Rydell High. Neither Danny nor Sandy was expecting their “summer nights” to transition and once school started and they were in a different environment, the sweet boy that Sandy had fallen in love with on the beach turned into a “hound dog”. Both following the bad advice of their respective groups, Danny continued to treat Sandy poorly and Sandy concluded that she needed to prove that she was “hopelessly devoted” to Danny. To clean up his bad-boy image, Danny joins the track team and earns a varsity letter. Matching his efforts to meet him in the middle, Sandy gets a hair-teased, leather, greaser girl makeover and shows up at the school carnival blowing everybody’s mind. The movie ends with them both declaring “you’re the one that I want” as they drive off into the sunset in Danny’s supped-up hot rod. Danny and Sandy are the main characters of the production but other characters had secondary storylines. Frenchy was studying to become a hairstylist. She pierces Sandy’s ears but after turning her own hair pink by accident, she becomes a “beauty school drop-out”. The most controversial character(s) and plot were Rizzo and Kenickie. Rizzo : What's up, Kenickie? Kenickie : One guess. One would think a teen pregnancy storyline in 1978 that takes place in the fifties would have overshadowed the more acceptable teen romance. Most people’s favorite character is Sandy or Danny but mine is Rizzo (Stockard Channing). Rizzo’s storyline resembles what true struggles teens had and still do today. At the onset of the movie, she is introduced as the antagonist but her bullying is masking her envy at how fast Sandy was accepted into the Rydell community. She develops a tough exterior to lead the pink ladies and to protect herself from the scrutiny of an unjustly bad reputation. She was ahead of her time with her open style of dress, sexuality and self-awareness. Due to her free expression and liberal spirit, she was a victim of gender and sex-shaming. Ironically Sandy emulates Rizzo at the end of the movie. The black leather outfit, cigarette smoking, attitude and swagger are all inspired by Rizzo. I have watched this movie countless times since then and know the entire soundtrack. Grease didn’t win any motion picture awards but it is a cult classic. It is reprised in many school and community productions as well as movie and television sequels. Grease is not only a great movie but also an inspiration to teens who are dealing with the same situations in their lives. It has inspired me to broaden my musical repertoire by participating in theater where I auditioned for my high school performance for the role of Rizzo.

The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the Urbana High School (UHS) symphonic and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) fine arts academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I want to learn and discuss influences in music, food and community on/off campus. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

I am the daughter of a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. My mother served during Operation Desert Storm before I was born. She doesn’t talk much about the details of her time during active duty but the evidence of the training and the values that were instilled in her are visible in everything I have seen her accomplish as far back as I can remember. In addition to employment that was done for pay, my mother has volunteered countless hours to various veterans’ organizations. Whenever she was able, she would take me and my siblings along to gift-wrapping, holiday parties for the underprivileged and children whose parent(s) was deployed, membership drives, rallies to push for veterans benefits and many, many memorial and veteran day ceremonies, and programs. Sometimes one or more of us would not want to miss out playing with our friends to attend these events and my mother would sit us down and explain “the joy of selfless giving” or “the benefits of paying it forward”. If necessary, she would pull out the big guns and talk about the sacrifices that others have made for us in our country’s history from the civil rights movement to world wars. Each time the stories would be different. I have a hard time recounting any specific names or locations but the same thing would stay consistent each time… the passion she has for the needs of her fellow veterans and the pride of her service. As I have grown, I have been exposed to many veterans. They all, at least the ones I’ve encountered, have an indestructible spirit. They have been there and done that and the rest is doable. I think that’s why I have seen my mother and her comrades achieve so much during my childhood. They can accomplish so much with so little and the network is unbelievable! Put the word out that a veteran or anybody for that matter needs something and you practically have to move out the way of them getting it done. Obviously there are many non-service people that have accomplished a lot and give back to the community but speaking from my experience, it goes way deeper for military personnel. I wasn’t around when my mother was in uniform but she still has a set of dress blues and a set of camouflage fatigues. She pulls them out of storage every now and then and reminisces about her service days. With her involvement in organizations such as The American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War, she has a much scaled down “uniform” that she wears with just as much pride. When I attend officer installations, funerals for fallen soldiers and other commemorative events, I have watched elders with fascination as they struggle to stretch out arthritic and ailing bodies to stand at attention and render a proper salute. Some of the retirees are known to the community only as their previous military rank and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

My cousin (more like an older brother) passed away at the age of thirty from diabetes complications. He is my first relative that I grew up with that has died. I was devastated when I heard and still haven’t reconciled my feelings about his death. It was such an unexpected and senseless death that could have been avoided had he received better medical care. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to mourn his death. While I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, his loss occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post-high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. I know that Gooch would want me to follow his example by successfully completing secondary education.

The clarinet was the first instrument I learned to play and have been playing since 5th grade. Over the years, I have picked up a few more instruments but clarinet is the one that I probably put the most study and practice time. I play clarinet in the Urbana High School (UHS) symphonic and marching band as well as alto saxophone in the Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) fine arts academy. We play all types of jazz styles at community events and have concerts in the fall, winter and summer camp. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have also participated in a music ensemble with the Sunday School program at Bethel AME church. Last winter I auditioned and was selected as drum major for the 2023-24 UHS Tiger Marching Band. I enjoy the challenge of playing my instrument and marching while keeping alignment, cadence and maintaining my carriage. As drum major, I have an active role in guiding and shaping the members of the band, decisions about shows and musical selections as well as assisting the directors. I can redirect the band when they are off task to regroup and focus. I also strive to improve the band’s work ethic emphasizing every day that there can always be improvement. I also lead in fundamentals, show music, and pep tunes. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I want to learn and discuss influences in music, food and community on/off campus. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

During my senior year of high school, I embraced the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I am a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. I have at times in the last 18 years been the only active (dues-paying) member of the unit’s junior auxiliary. In addition to representing my unit at district, division and Department of Illinois meetings/conventions, it has been my mission to increase/retain membership in the auxiliary juniors. I have trained with Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy for the last seven years. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have received training through University of IL School of music’s Illinois Summer Youth Music (ISYM) camp for several years, Smith Walbridge’s marching band leadership camp and BBL annual summer camp. Not only did these opportunities enable me to hone my craft but also taught me invaluable leadership skills. I am an American Legion Girls State participant - a seven-day mock government program learning about civics and American government in a fast-paced, interactive program of campaigning, debating, voting, and electing mock local and state leaders. As a result, I have successfully performed duties as American Legion Auxiliary: Youth Liaison, Bethel AME Church Young People's Department: President, NAACP junior life member: Youth Liaison, National Council for Negro Women: Youth Liaison, UHS Parent, Teacher, Student Association: Student Ambassador and USD116 Board of Education: Student Ambassador. These activities have enabled me to receive academic monogram awards, induction into the National Honor Society and selection as the student body representative for the district school board. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I want to learn and discuss influences in music, food and community on/off campus. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music.

Entering my senior year of high school, I embraced the leadership that I have always been told I naturally possess. I am a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. I have at times in the last 18 years been the only active (dues-paying) member of the unit’s junior auxiliary. In addition to representing my unit at district, division and Department of Illinois meetings/conventions, it has been my mission to increase/retain membership in the auxiliary juniors. I have trained with Banks, Bridgewater, Lewis (BBL) Fine Arts Academy for the last seven years. This past summer, I was hired as a student assistant for the BBL drumline summer camp and gained invaluable skills leading, teaching and instructing the campers. I have received training through University of IL School of music’s Illinois Summer Youth Music (ISYM) camp for several years, Smith Walbridge’s marching band leadership camp and BBL annual summer camp. Not only did these opportunities enable me to hone my craft but also taught me invaluable leadership skills. I am an American Legion Girls State participant - a seven-day mock government program learning about civics and American government in a fast-paced, interactive program of campaigning, debating, voting, and electing mock local and state leaders. As a result, I have successfully performed duties as American Legion Auxiliary: Youth Liaison, Bethel AME Church Young People's Department: President, NAACP junior life member: Youth Liaison, National Council for Negro Women: Youth Liaison, UHS Parent, Teacher, Student Association: Student Ambassador and USD116 Board of Education: Student Ambassador. These activities have enabled me to receive academic monogram awards, induction into the National Honor Society and selection as the student body representative for the district school board. The guidance from the organizations leaders inspired me to branch out and join other groups at school. I want to collect, preserve, and celebrate music in a community-centered environment that fosters my gifts and talents. I want to learn and discuss influences in music, food and community on/off campus. I believe it will greatly benefit my overall education to learn beside and be taught by others that value and highly regard music and that these interactions will best prepare me for maneuvering in the world after college. I know that these connections will build a foundation that will support me and assist me towards academic, professional and personal success. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music education/business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music. Despite my fears, I’m looking toward the future, filled with optimism and hope and optimistic assessments from my auditions and interviews with a spirit of optimism and enthusiasm for the work that is before me. I believe I’m going to have successful outcomes because I have a positive mental attitude, faith and optimism!

On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first African American player in Major League Baseball in the modern era. This barrier breaking moment, paired with his performance, leadership and the exceptional character traits he demonstrated throughout his career, made him a renowned public figure. Robinson used his platform to effect change both on and off the playing field. I see several similarities between myself and Jack Roosevelt Robinson. I was born into a two-parent household but my parents separated when was seven. Once my father left the household, my mother became my sole guardian responsible for my rearing and guidance. She always urged my brothers and I to strive for more and “dare to be different”. We were encouraged to participate in sports and academic pursuits that meant we spent a lot of time out of our neighborhood and comfort zones. It often made us uncomfortable to be the only child/family of color at the events, practices and traveling to small towns that we were not familiar with. Last year I applied for and was selected as the USD116 Student Ambassador for the 2023-24 school year representing UHS student body voices, providing feedback to the Board, and assisting the work of the Board of Education. I wanted to serve as student ambassador for USD116 so that I can keep the board informed about the issues and concerns of the minority students within the district. As a minority student that is actively involved in a diverse group of activities in the school and community, I receive feedback and opinions from my peers. I believe all of these issues should be of interest to the school board and the community. A as a student ambassador, I formally start gathering that information, researching alternatives, and putting it all together for presentation. The last few years there has been a lot of inconsistency because we have had five principals at the high school in the same number of years. Also, during this time, we had to navigate a worldwide health pandemic that forced us to remote school. This situation was new to all of us but emphasized how the needs of the least heard students were overlooked. The issues that have been made a priority in the district only benefit a few. Those that are struggling with homelessness, poverty, lack of food, parental guidance and support are forced to express their anger in ways that aren’t productive and challenging to the rest of the school community. Instead of talking about why these acts of violence continue to happen in the schools, I want to have conversations that lead to action to address how things have gotten this way and towards repairing ALL the students.

In response to a worldwide health pandemic, Urbana School District #116 made the decision for students not to return to school during spring break 2020. What I learned about myself is the lack of social interaction adversely affected my ability to be successful during remote learning. Although I have three brothers, they are all adults who live on their own so it’s only my mom and I in the household. My mom is an essential worker, so that left a lot of time to myself in solitude. Despite my mother’s encouragement and protests, I was the only one who would be able to motivate myself to find coping mechanisms and strategies to succeed in this new normal. During the time when I was trying to figure all this out, my grades declined. It was when I saw the decrease in my GPA and class standing that I realized I needed to focus and get back on track. Fortunately, remote learning occurred during my freshman year, so I had time to recover. I enrolled in summer school to bring the grades up for two courses that I had received technically passing grades but I knew that I could do better. After successfully retaking those courses, with much improved final grades, I began to focus on my post high school goals. I researched colleges/universities and what tasks I would need to complete for the applications. I also reviewed my personal and academic goals, renewed my interest/passions and increased my output towards achieving those goals. I returned to my volunteer pursuits and sought out new opportunities. Even though many congratulated me on my newfound fortitude, I know that it wasn’t new, just dormant. My mom always says, “of course you can you’re my daughter” and I can because of me. My parents separated in 2012. The marriage wasn’t dissolved until 2017. Five years of legal fees left our household financially lacking and my father was not mandated nor volunteered to pay child support. The dramatic loss of household income in addition to the lack of financial support from my other parent has caused an enormous hardship and strain on the household finances. Being one of four children, I knew it would be difficult for my parents to be able to put all of us through higher education. I wanted to make sure that my hard work would take some of the burden from them and assist as much as possible by obtaining grants and scholarships for my education. I have worked hard to obtain financial rewards to enable me to attend college and this is not an opportunity I plan to waste. I want to go to college to achieve my career goals. Playing music is one of my biggest passions and one day I want to teach students the joy of music. Pursuing higher education in music administration business/management/administration will help me become a better contributor to my bands and ensembles by making me a stronger musician, overall improvement and sharing my knowledge with my classmates. Entering the music business field, I am looking forward to leading others to the joy of music. Receiving financial assistance would give me the much-needed boost I need to keep pursuing my goals and allowing me to accomplish them.