My mother, my number one cheerleader, my hero passed away February 8, 2024, one day before her seventy fifth birthday and three days before my birthday. Losing my mother was one of the most heart wrenching experiences I've ever endured. Her death has taught me more about life and what it truly means than any other experiences I've had to date. My mother and her two siblings were orphans. Despite that, they all survived. My mother was a caregiver for the last thirty years of her life. She cared for my great-grandmother prior to her passing. Then, she cared for her mentally disabled brother for twenty years. She was a devout Christian. She literally laid down her life to serve others. She didn't stop until the ambulance came to pick her up and take her to the hospital where she would be transferred to hospice and then pass on. Her brother, who she cared for tirelessly, passed away three weeks later. Five months prior to my mother's death she had gallbladder surgery with complications that worsened over time. She didn't tell anyone how ill she was. She carried on. I started going back to college that August to complete a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics. I would be a first-generation college graduate. My mother was so proud. She dreamed of going to college, but she was unable to do so. That did not stop her from teaching me how to read and how to strive for excellence in everything I do. I told my mother that I could not wait to fly her to Arizona to see me graduate. We looked forward to that day. However, God had other plans for my mother. I'm glad that she is no longer suffering, but I miss her terribly. Losing two close relatives within a month was really tough but I have to keep moving forward. As a mother and grandmother, I learned that no matter how difficult life gets we must persevere. We must fight for the things that really matter to us most. We must hold our families together. We must maintain our health, wealth, and happiness. We must diligently fight to obtain our dreams and goals. Also, we must champion for those who are powerless to do so for themselves. As I watched my mother fight to live despite her afflictions, I learned about the power of having faith. One of the last things my mother said to me was, "Do not stop going to school. Finish." I intend to fulfill my promise to my mother. I am a junior attending Grand Canyon University. I maintain a 3.83 grade point average while working full-time. I want to obtain a Certification in Financial Planning and Business Analysis and start my own financial management firm. In order to do so, I must have a bachelor's degree. I am not a traditional student. I am a fifty-six-year-old mother and grandmother. I was a single, divorced mother when my children were growing up, with very little financial support. I worked two and three jobs to make ends meet. Then, I parented one of my grandchildren for seven years. College became a dream deferred until now. I want to help other single parents and struggling families create solid financial plans to build generational wealth. Also, I want to mentor young people who desire a similar career path. Winning the Eden Alaine Memorial Scholarship will enable me to fulfill a lifelong dream for me and my dear mother.

As an African American female aspiring to become a certified financial planner and entrepreneur, I possess a unique opportunity to empower my community through my career endeavors. My journey in the field of finance and entrepreneurship will serve as a catalyst for positive change, providing inspiration, resources, and guidance to uplift individuals within my community. Here are several ways I plan to leverage my career to empower those around me: First and foremost, representation matters. By pursuing a career in finance and entrepreneurship, I will challenge stereotypes and demonstrate that individuals from underrepresented backgrounds can excel in these fields. My presence will serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement for other African American females who may aspire to pursue similar paths. Through my accomplishments, I will break down barriers and pave the way for future generations to follow in my footsteps. Education is key to empowerment. As a certified financial planner, I can educate members of the community on financial literacy and wealth management. Many African American communities face disparities in access to financial education and resources. By offering workshops, seminars, and one-on-one consultations, I can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed financial decisions, build wealth, and secure their futures. Empowering individuals with financial literacy not only improves their own financial well-being but also strengthens the economic resilience of the community as a whole. Entrepreneurship provides avenues for economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. By starting my own business or supporting aspiring entrepreneurs within the community, I can help create opportunities for economic advancement. I will facilitate establishing mentorship programs, providing funding or grants for startups, or offering resources and guidance on business development and management. Encouraging entrepreneurship fosters innovation, job creation, and economic growth within the community, while also fostering a spirit of self-reliance and empowerment. In addition to individual empowerment, community empowerment is essential for long-term progress. I can get involved in community initiatives and advocacy efforts aimed at addressing systemic issues such as economic inequality, access to capital, and racial discrimination. I can also use my platform and expertise to advocate for policies and programs that promote economic equity and social justice. I can collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and stakeholders to implement sustainable solutions that uplift and empower marginalized communities. Furthermore, I can be a role model and mentor. I can share my experiences, insights, and lessons learned with aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs within the community. I can provide guidance, encouragement, and support to help them navigate challenges and achieve their goals. By paying it forward and investing in the next generation of leaders, I will perpetuate a cycle of empowerment and create lasting impact beyond my own career. In conclusion, as an African American female, aspiring certified financial planner, and entrepreneur, I have the power to make a profound difference in the community. By leveraging my skills, knowledge, and passion, I can inspire, educate, and empower individuals to achieve financial independence, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the collective advancement of the African American community. My journey is not only a testament to my own resilience and determination but also a beacon of hope for those who follow in my footsteps. I will seize the opportunity to be a catalyst for positive change and leave a legacy of empowerment that transcends generations.

I am a 3rd year finance and economics major attending Grand Canyon University. I am also a full-time accountant for a private equity oil and gas firm where I deal with oil and gas, banking, real estate investments, and economics on a daily basis. These are all terms, that I believe, Americans should be familiar with. I love puzzles because they challenge us to think constructively. This Connections puzzle is all about money. The movement of money is fascinating. Money is either made or spent on a daily basis by millions of people around the world for various things. The first grouping is things you hear when you go into a bank: debit, cash, credit, and statement. A debit is a subtraction from the bank balance. A credit is an addition to the bank balance. The second grouping is things an oilman might talk about: pipeline, rig, barrel, and exploration. Exploration is very costly. It is the work done to determine if oil and gas is present and if it is cost effective to dig it out of the ground. A rig is what is used to pump the oil from the pipeline. Barrels are the units used when oil is sold. The third grouping is things a realtor may discuss with you: equity, option, lease, and mortgage. The fourth and final grouping is things an economist might say: debt, unemployment, inflation, and recession.

I never thought that I would be going back to college at fifty-five, but life has many twist and turns. I was a single, divorced mom in my twenties and thirties, and I worked two and three jobs just to make ends meet. Once my daughter was grown, I prepared to re-enroll into a degree program. Unexpectedly, I ended up getting custody of and fostering my one-year-old grandson. I cared for him for seven years and I gave him all the love and care that his parents couldn't at the time. I was working full-time, as well, so that left little time for anything else. Even so, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After the pandemic, my grandson was able to return to my daughter. I enrolled in Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. I took two classes and I obtained a 4.0 grade point average. Then, unfortunately, my mother got sick and passed away in February. She was the caregiver of my uncle who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later. As a result, I had to take a break to grieve and handle some of my mother's affairs. One of the last things my mother asked me was to keep going until I finished college. Education was very important to my mother and it's very important to me. I plan on getting this degree for her and for me. Once I obtain my degree, I will finally eliminate a career glass ceiling that I've been trying to break for decades. Having these various circumstances occur in my life has made me a more resilient individual. It has also made me more compassionate toward others who may have similar plights. As a single mom who had little familial and financial support, I see the growing need for people, especially, women of color, to have a voice and a presence in the financial space. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, less the 2% of certified financial planners are African American women. I intend to increase statistic. I want to become a certified financial planner and open my own advisory firm. I want to educate and coach people so that they can make better financial decisions for their families. I’d also like to mentor young women who desire a career in finance. Finances, or the lack of necessary finances, affect families and communities for generations. Financial literacy and planning are very important, especially in underprivileged communities. I'd also like to study behavioral economics, specifically, so that I can really help people understand why they make the financial decisions they make. When you understand the systemic cause of a problem, it's easier to find appropriate solutions. To become a certified financial planner, you must have an undergraduate degree. Obtaining the Linda Fontenot-Williams scholarship award will enable me to achieve my personal and professional goals. Most importantly, I will be able to help financially empower other single mothers.

I never thought that I would be going back to college at fifty-five, but life has many twist and turns. I was a single, divorced mom in my twenties and thirties, and I worked two and three jobs just to make ends meet. Once my daughter was grown, I prepared to re-enroll into a degree program. Unexpectedly, I ended up getting custody of and fostering my one-year-old grandson. I cared for him for seven years and I gave him all the love and care that his parents couldn't at the time. I was working full-time, as well, so that left little time for anything else. Even so, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After the pandemic, my grandson was able to return to my daughter. I enrolled in Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. I took two classes and I currently have a 4.0 grade point average. Then, unfortunately, my mother got sick and passed away in February. She was the caregiver of my uncle who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later. As a result, I had to take a break to grieve and handle some of my mother's affairs. One of the last things my mother asked me was to keep going until I finished college. Education was very important to my mother and it's very important to me. I plan on getting this degree for her and for me. Once I obtain my degree, I will finally eliminate a career glass ceiling that I've been trying to break for decades. Having these various circumstances occur in my life has made me a more resilient individual. It has also made me more compassionate toward others who may have similar plights. As a single mom who had little familial and financial support, I see the growing need for people, especially, women of color, to have a voice and a presence in the financial space. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, less the 2% of certified financial planners are African American women. I intend to increase statistic. I want to become a certified financial planner and open my own advisory firm. I want to educate and coach people so that they can make better financial decisions for their families. I’d also like to mentor young women who desire a career in finance. Finances, or the lack of necessary finances, affect families and communities for generations. Financial literacy and planning are very important, especially in underprivileged communities. I'd also like to study behavioral economics, specifically, so that I can really help people understand why they make the financial decisions they make. When you understand the systemic cause of a problem, it's easier to find appropriate solutions. To become a certified financial planner, you must have an undergraduate degree. Obtaining the Rivera-Gulley First-Gen scholarship award will enable me to move closer to achieving my personal and professional goals.

Financial literacy and empowerment are social issues that loom large in the African American community. It is my goal to help families achieve better financial outcomes and build generational wealth. Upon graduation, I want to spearhead financial literacy initiatives through schools and churches for greater impact within communities. I am an adult, non-traditional, undergraduate student attending Grand Canyon University while working full-time. I am seeking a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics. Currently, I am a junior with a 4.0 grade point average. I will be a first-generation college graduate. My mother passed away in February which was devasting for me. She instilled in me a strong desire to read and learn. My great-grandmother was the child of an emancipated slave. She had just an eighth-grade education, but she was an avid reader. Ultimately, she trained, became an entrepreneur, and started the first African American cosmetology school in her state. I learned a lot from her perseverance and work ethic. Ultimately, I want my children and grandchildren to know that you finish what you start no matter how long it takes. That's the legacy I'd like to leave to my family and the world. Graduating from college will lay the foundation for me to obtain certifications in financial planning and business analysis. During the pandemic, I studied and obtained life and health insurance licenses. I have found that many people are underinsured or don't have life insurance at all. This situation is extremely problematic, and it really hurts families and communities financially. Therefore, I plan to open my own investment advisory and consulting firm which will be a one stop shop for all things financial: budgeting, insurance, annuities, asset management, and advisory services. I want to help families stabilize their finances and build generational wealth. As a woman who was a single working mother, I understand the impact that finances can have on families and communities whole. I'd like to train and mentor others who want a career in the finance industry, as well. Education helps people communicate and interact better with each other. Prejudice is often a result of illogical ignorance. Learning about other cultures and societal norms is crucial to being able to solve some of the problems that plague our world today. We are all humans, and we should embrace our differences and use those to our advantage to make the world better. Gaining an education at home, in college, and in the workplace has empowered me to enter rooms I never thought I would, as an African American female working in private equity finance. An education and degree in finance and economics will be extremely valuable in the professional marketplace. According to the Certified Financial Planning Board, of the 92,000 planners who pass the rigorous training and tests and meet the ethics requirements needed to become certified, only 1.8% are African American. I desire to change this statistic. I believe education is the key. African American representation in finance, private equity in particular, is severely lacking, as well. If we fail to educate ourselves, we will never grow as a community and as a thriving demographic in society. I believe improvements can be made and I'd like to be a catalyst for positive change. Through financial literacy and economic empowerment initiatives that support diversity, equity, and inclusion, we can create communities that thrive, not just survive.

I am an adult, nontraditional, undergraduate student attending Grand Canyon University and majoring in finance and economics. I currently have a 4.0 grade point average while working full-time . I will graduate in 2025. I am not a traditional student because I am a fifty-six-year-old mother and grandmother. In addition, I will be a first generation college graduate. I was a single, divorced mother when my children were growing up. I worked two and three jobs to make ends meet. Then, I parented one of my grandchildren for seven years. College became a dream deferred until now. I want to obtain a Certification in Financial Planning and Business Analysis. In order to do so, I must have a bachelor’s degree. I want to help other single parents and struggling families create solid financial plans to build generational wealth. Also, I want to mentor young people who desire a similar career path. Motherhood has taught me that no matter how difficult life gets we must persevere. We must fight for the things that really matter to us most. We must fight to hold our families together. We must fight for our health, wealth, and happiness. We must fight to obtain our dreams and goals. Also, we must fight for those who are powerless to fight for themselves. In addition, we must be patient and compassionate. I learned these lessons from my mother: my number one cheerleader, my hero who passed away February 8, 2024, one day before her seventy fifth birthday and three days before my birthday. Losing my mother was one of the most heart wrenching experiences I've ever endured. Her death has taught me more about life and what it truly means than any other experiences I've had to date. My mother and her two siblings were orphans. Despite that, they all survived. My mother was a caregiver for the last thirty years of her life. She cared for my great-grandmother prior to her passing. Then, she cared for her mentally disabled brother for twenty years. She was a devout Christian. She literally laid down her life to serve others. She dreamed of going to college, but she was unable to do so. That did not stop her from teaching me how to read and how to strive for excellence in everything I do. I told my mother that I could not wait to fly her to Arizona to see me graduate. She was so proud of me. We looked forward to that day. However, God had other plans for my mother. I'm glad that she is no longer suffering, but I miss her terribly. Losing two close relatives within a month is tough but I have to keep moving forward. My mother would want me to do so. I am excited about making the world better as a CFP (certified financial planner) by promoting financial literacy and responsible stewardship; having ethical business practices; offering faith-based counseling; supporting charitable causes; maintaining integrity, transparency, and compassion; and promoting community advocacy and involvement. Financial literacy and responsible stewardship are important factors in aiding the advancement of underserved communities. Often, businesses exploit these communities financially. I want to become a catalyst for change by offering faith-based counseling which will help struggling families learn how to budget, grow their income, save and build generational wealth. By offering my clients compassionate, ethical, and honest advice tailored to their personal needs, I can help families build stronger financial foundations and build legacies that will benefit generations.

I am a Christian, first generation student attending Grand Canyon University while living and working full-time in Houston, Texas. I am a junior with a 4.0 grade point average majoring in finance and economics. Business majors at my college have a servant leadership and conscious capitalism focus. What does this mean? It means that my goal as a Christian is to lead by serving others and being conscious of how I can benefit others, not solely my profit margin. Upon graduation, I plan to obtain a Certified Financial Planning designation. This designation has many rigorous standards. One requirement is a bachelor's degree, which is part of the reason why I've returned to college to complete my education at the age of fifty-five. Another reason is that my mother passed away February 8th of this year, one day before her 76th birthday and three days before my 56th birthday. She always wanted me to obtain an education and she told me not to stop until I finish. So, that is what I will do. I am excited about making the world better as a CFP (certified financial planner) by promoting financial literacy and responsible stewardship; having ethical business practices; offering faith-based counseling; supporting charitable causes; maintaining integrity, transparency, and compassion; and promoting community advocacy and involvement. Financial literacy and responsible stewardship are important factors in aiding the advancement of underserved communities. Often, businesses exploit these communities financially. I want to become an agent of change by offering faith-based counseling which will help struggling families learn how to budget, grow their income, save and build generational wealth. By offering my clients compassionate, ethical, and honest advice tailored to their personal needs, I can help families build stronger financial foundations which will be better for the community as a whole. When families have financial stability, they flourish. It also enables families to help others through charitable giving. I will lead by example by donating to charitable initiatives in the community. Initiatives that are of particular importance to me are foster child advocacy, education, healthcare, and the alleviation of hunger. My attitude in my career and as a Christian needs to be "what would Jesus do?" In addition to sharing my faith, literally, I need to provide practical solutions for people who need them. Application is key. I want to help families build generational wealth and legacies that will last. Strong families build strong communities which create strong countries that yield a better world for us all. Obtaining the "Building A Better World Scholarship" will enable me to use my career as a catalyst for change, one family/person at a time.

My mother, my number one cheerleader, my hero passed away February 8, 2024, one day before her seventy fifth birthday and three days before my birthday. Losing my mother was one of the most heart wrenching experiences I've ever endured. Her death has taught me more about life and what it truly means than any other experiences I've had to date. My mother and her two siblings were orphans. Despite that, they all survived. My mother was a caregiver for the last thirty years of her life. She cared for my great-grandmother prior to her passing. Then, she cared for her mentally disabled brother for twenty years. She was a devout Christian. She literally laid down her life to serve others. She didn't stop until the ambulance came to pick her up and take her to the hospital where she would be transferred to hospice and then pass on. Her brother, who she cared for tirelessly, passed away three weeks later. Five months prior to my mother's death she had gallbladder surgery with complications that worsened over time. She didn't tell anyone how ill she was. She carried on. I started going back to college that August to complete a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Economics. I would be a first-generation college graduate. My mother was so proud. She dreamed of going to college, but she was unable to do so. That did not stop her from teaching me how to read and how to strive for excellence in everything I do. I told my mother that I could not wait to fly her to Arizona to see me graduate. We looked forward to that day. However, God had other plans for my mother. I'm glad that she is no longer suffering, but I miss her terribly. Losing two close relatives within a month is really tough but I have to keep moving forward. As a mother and grandmother, I learned that no matter how difficult life gets we must persevere. We must fight for the things that really matter to us most. We must fight to hold our families together. We must fight for our health, wealth, and happiness. We must fight to obtain our dreams and goals. Also, we must fight for those who are powerless to fight for themselves. As I watched my mother fight to live despite her afflictions, I learned about the power of having faith. One of the last things my mother said to me was, "Do not stop going to school. Finish." I intend to do so. I am a junior attending Grand Canyon University. I maintain a 4.0 grade point average while working full-time. I want to obtain a Certification in Financial Planning and Business Analysis and start my own financial management firm. In order to do so, I must have a bachelor's degree. I am not a traditional student. I am a fifty-six-year-old mother and grandmother. I was a single, divorced mother when my children were growing up, with very little financial support. I worked two and three jobs to make ends meet. Then, I parented one of my grandchildren for seven years. College became a dream deferred until now. I want to help other single parents and struggling families create solid financial plans to build generational wealth. Also, I want to mentor young people who desire a similar career path. Winning the Cat Zingano Overcoming Loss Scholarship will enable me to continue the fight.

The most impactful book I've ever read, and continue to read is the Bible. It is a timeless collection of God inspired writings written by forty authors from all walks of life over a 1,500 year timespan. It has survived wars, natural disasters, and mere human error. No other literary work has had its kind of impact and resilience. To gain an understanding of creation, nature, human nature, and mankind's purpose, just read the Bible. I am a junior attending Grand Canyon University majoring in finance and economics. Since the University is Christian, all the courses are taught with a Christian worldview. Business majors focus on servant leadership, ethics, and entrepreneurism. When I think of servant leadership, I think of the Bible and it's main character, Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ embodied servant leadership which is characterized by putting others above oneself or, in finance, looking out for your customer's or client's best interests while maximizing revenue and minimizing expenses. As a Christian, I read the Bible daily so that I gain a greater understanding of God and what His purpose is for me. I do not live merely for myself but for the purposes of the God and the building and glory of His Kingdom. My goal upon receipt of my Bachelor of Science in finance and economics is to become a Certified Financial Planner and establish my own investment advisory firm. I want to help people become better stewards of their money and establish financial literacy initiatives in local churches and other non profit organizations. Winning the Servants Ships Scholarship will help me accomplish these goals. I will be a first generation college graduate. I never thought that I would be going back to college at fifty-five, but many life circumstances made the journey difficult. I was a single mom in my twenties and thirties, and I worked two and three jobs just to make ends meet. Once my daughter was grown, I prepared to re-enroll into a degree program. Unexpectedly, I ended up getting custody of and fostering my one-year-old grandson. I cared for him for seven years and I gave him all the love and care that his parents couldn't at the time. I was working full-time, as well, so that left little time for anything else. Even so, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After the pandemic, my grandson was able to return to my daughter. I enrolled in Grand Canyon University. Then, unfortunately, my mother got sick and passed away in February. She was the caregiver of my uncle who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later. As a result, I had to take a break to grieve and handle some of my mother's affairs. One of the last things my mother asked me was to keep going until I finished college. I intend to fulfill my promise to her and myself. I have returned to school and I have a 4.0 grade point average, currently. Having these various circumstances occur in my life has made me a more resilient individual. It has also made me more compassionate toward others who may have similar plights The world needs people, especially in business, who are servant leaders and have a desire to fulfill God's purposes on Earth. I intend to do so.

I want to create a legacy in my future by becoming a first generation college graduate. My mother passed away in February which was devasting for me. She instilled in me a strong desire to read and learn. My great-grandmother was the child of an emancipated slave. She had just an eighth grade education but she was an avid reader. Ultimately, she trained, became an entrepreneur, and started the first African American cosmetology school in her state. I learned a lot from her perseverance and work ethic. I am an adult non traditional, undergraduate student attending Grand Canyon University and majoring in finance and economics. I currently have a 4.0 grade point average and I will graduate in 2025. I want my children and grandchildren to know, finish what you start no matter how long it takes. That's the legacy I'd like to leave to my family and the world. Graduating from college will lay the foundation for me to obtain certifications in financial planning and business analysis. Then I can start my own investment advisory and consulting firm. I want to help families build generational wealth and stabilize their finances. As a woman who was a single working mother, I understand that the impact that finances can have on families and communities as a whole. I'd like to train and mentor others who want a career in the finance industry, as well. I shine my light by constantly improving myself and trying everyday to be the best person I can. I read my Bible and self improvement books daily. At work, I try to do my best and exemplify a great work ethic. I also try to be helpful and set a good example for others. I am a Christian so I believe that one should treat others like they want to be treated. Part of the reason, it has taken me so long to return to college is family. Once I finished rearing my children, I ended up caring for a grandchild for the first seven years of his life. He was a handful too. As a result, I delayed college until now. What I realized is that life isn't just about me and my success. It's about the people around me that I will and can impact for good. I'm glad that I waited to restart my college education. I have gained the useful work and life experience needed to operate a business successfully. Patience is definitely a virtue and a key element to success.

"A dream deferred makes the heart sick." I never thought that I would be going back to college at fifty-five, but many life circumstances made the journey difficult. I was a single mom in my twenties and thirties, and I worked two and three jobs just to make ends meet. Once my daughter was grown, I prepared to re-enroll into a degree program. Unexpectedly, I ended up getting custody of and fostering my one-year-old grandson. I cared for him for seven years and I gave him all the love and care that his parents couldn't at the time. I was working full-time, as well, so that left little time for anything else. Even so, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After the pandemic, my grandson was able to return to my daughter. I enrolled in Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. I took two classes and I currently have a 4.0 grade point average. Then, unfortunately, my mother got sick and passed away in February. She was the caregiver of my uncle who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later. As a result, I had to take a break to grieve and handle some of my mother's affairs. One of the last things my mother asked me was to keep going until I finished college. Education was very important to my mother and it's very important to me. I plan on getting this degree for her and for me. Having these various circumstances occur in my life has made me a more resilient individual. It has also made me more compassionate toward others who may have similar plights. As a single mom who had little familial and financial support, I see the growing need for people, especially, women of color, to have a voice and a presence in the financial space. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, less the 2% of certified financial planners are African American women. I intend to increase that number. I want to become a certified financial planner to educate and coach people so that they can make better financial decisions for their families. Finances, or the lack of necessary finances, affect families and communities for generations. Financial literacy and planning are very important, especially in underprivileged communities. I'd also like to study behavioral economics, specifically, so that I can really help people understand why they make the financial decisions they make. When you understand the systemic cause of a problem, it's easier to find appropriate solutions. To become a certified financial planner, you must have an undergraduate degree. Obtaining this scholarship will enable me to move closer to this goal and the goal of helping families experience better financial outcomes. Financially stable homes set the foundation for better communities and a better America.

Education is achieved over one's entire lifetime. There are formal and informal types of education. However, for me, the pursuit of a college education has great significance for me. My mother, who taught me the basics, passed away this February. It was very important to her that I obtain a college education, even though she did have one nor could she afford to send me. I promised her that I would not stop until I finished college. In addition, my great grandmother, who was the child of a freed slave valued education and taught me to value it, as well. She had an eighth-grade education. So, I will be a first-generation graduate in 2025. I am a junior at Grand Canyon University majoring in Finance and Economics. I've always been intrigued in the movement of money, consumer behavior regarding money, financial markets, and financial literacy. I believe that the quality of life for many individuals, families, and communities can be improved if people obtain a better understanding of what money can do for them, if used properly. I've always been an avid reader and researcher of information. I, even, worked in the library in high school. I feel that if you aren't knowledgeable on a topic, it behooves you to attempt to learn more about it. Therefore, I hope that I can use my education to help others become more literate in the area of finance, especially personal finance. I want to become a Certified Financial Planner and business analyst. Education helps people communicate and interact better with each other. Prejudice is often a result of illogical ignorance. Learning about other cultures and societal norms is crucial to being able to solve some of the problems that plague our world today. We are all humans, and we should embrace our differences and use those to our advantage to make the world better. Gaining an education at home, in college, and in the workplace has empowered me to enter rooms I never thought I would, as an African American female working in private equity finance. An education in finance has been extremely valuable, personally and in the job market. According to the Certified Financial Planning Board, of the 92,000 planners who pass the rigorous training and tests and meet the ethics requirements needed to become certified, only 1.8% are African American. Less than 1.8% are female. I desire to change this statistic. I believe education is the key. African American representation in finance, private equity in particular, is severely lacking, as well. If we fail to educate ourselves, we will never grow as a community and as a thriving demographic in society. I believe improvements can be made and I'd like to be a catalyst for positive change.

"A dream deferred makes the heart sick." I never thought that I would be going back to college at fifty-five, but many life circumstances made the journey difficult. I was a single mom in my twenties and thirties, and I worked two and three jobs just to make ends meet. Once my daughter was grown, I prepared to re-enroll into a degree program. Unexpectedly, I ended up getting custody of and fostering my one-year-old grandson. I cared for him for seven years and I gave him all the love and care that his parents couldn't at the time. I was working full-time, as well, so that left little time for anything else. Even so, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After the pandemic, my grandson was able to return to my daughter. I enrolled in Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. I took two classes and I currently have a 4.0 grade point average. Then, unfortunately, my mother got sick and passed away in February. She was the caregiver of my uncle who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later. As a result, I had to take a break to grieve and handle some of my mother's affairs. One of the last things my mother asked me was to keep going until I finished college. Education was very important to my mother and it's very important to me. I plan on getting this degree for her and for me. I will return to school in May. Having these various circumstances occur in my life has made me a more resilient individual. It has also made me more compassionate toward others who may have similar plights. As a single mom who had little familial and financial support, I see the growing need for people, especially, women of color, to have a voice and a presence in the financial space. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, less the 2% of certified financial planners are African American women. I intend to increase that number. I want to become a certified financial planner to educate and coach people so that they can make better financial decisions for their families. Finances, or the lack of necessary finances, affect families and communities for generations. Financial literacy and planning are very important, especially in underprivileged communities. I'd also like to study behavioral economics, specifically, so that I can really help people understand why they make the financial decisions they make. When you understand the systemic cause of a problem, it's easier to find appropriate solutions. To become a certified financial planner, you must have an undergraduate degree. Obtaining this scholarship will enable me to move closer to this goal and the goal of helping families experience better financial outcomes. Undoubtedly, the most difficult time in my life occurred this year when my mother passed away. For the first month after her passing, I felt like I was in a fog and I cried everyday. My entire world shifted it's axis. If it weren't for my faith in God and family, I do not know if I would have been able to carry on. Remembering the good times with my mother and the lessons that she taught me has really helped. One thing my mother said on her deathbed that continues to reverberate through my head, "Finish school Daphene, no matter what. I love you always." The inner drive to keep my promise to her and my family enables me to persevere in fulfilling this graduation dream.

If I could have everyone in the world read just one book, it would be the Holy Bible. The Bible is the most transformative book of all time. It has survived religious wars and the rise and fall of numerous empires. The Bible which has 66 books has over forty authors from various careers (fishermen, shepherds, warriors, tax collectors, kings, physicians, and more). In addition, it was written over a period of 1500 years! Incredibly, the Bible is a very cohesive literary work which has endured the test of time and all of it's prophecies, thus far, have held true. The Bible is transformative in its teachings. It is a template for good living, at the very least, even if a person doesn't believe in all its precepts. Also, the Bible is the basis for a lot of the ethical standards most governments, businesses, and organizations use today. The greatest commandment in the Bible is to "love God and love your neighbor as yourself." Just imagine a world where everyone treated others with love, honor, and respect. Crime, homelessness, extreme poverty, and wars would not exist. Families wouldn't be in crisis as much as they are today. The Bible has instruction on every aspect of life. Human nature hasn't changed very much from biblical times to now. So, the biblical teachings within the Bible are very applicable to modern times. One could say, the Bible is a living document. If everyone read the Holy Bible and attempted to keep its commandments, the world would definitely be a better place.

I am a non-traditional adult student attending Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. I have always had the drive and emotional support; however, I often lacked access and funding for college. It has always been a dream and a life goal for me to get a college education; however, my mother couldn't afford to send me to college. Then, life got in the way, and after divorce I became a single mom. During that time, I worked two, and sometimes three, jobs to make ends meet. God got me through that stage of my life and with much prayer and hard work, I received some great job opportunities that have changed my life and my family's. My mother passed away on February 8th, 2024, one day before her 76th birthday and three days before my birthday. I had to put my classes on hold to take care of her affairs (I currently have a 4.0 GPA at Grand Canyon University). My mom's death has really had a profound effect on me. It has also increased my faith. She was very ill before she passed but fortunately, she was a devout believer in Jesus Christ. As she was transitioning, she was saying "Lord have mercy, Lord help me." In her darkest hour, she was calling on the Lord. My mother was a caretaker for my great-grandmother prior to her death. She was also the caretaker of her brother, my uncle, who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later on March 1. I know they are both in heaven smiling down at me. My mom always wanted me to finish my education. It was one of her last requests. My faith in God and Jesus Christ has enabled me to weather many of life's storms: from working multiple jobs as a single mom, to becoming a licensed foster parent and raising one of my grandchildren for seven years, to helping support a wayward daughter get on her feet financially so that she could raise her children independently. I couldn't do any of this on my own, but I truly believe that with God all things are possible. Jeremiah 29:11 is my favorite scripture which I've always meditated upon, especially when I experience doubt. Dreams deferred make the heart sick. Not being able to go to college due to family financial circumstances, especially when you know what you can achieve, is heartbreaking. But I know that my time has come, and I will achieve and obtain everything that God has for me. When I obtain my degree, I plan to use my skills to help others obtain financial and spiritual freedom through proper stewardship of our God given resources. This scholarship would enable me to do so.

"A dream deferred makes the heart sick." I never thought that I would be going back to college at fifty-five, but many life circumstances made the journey difficult. I was a single mom in my twenties and thirties, and I worked two and three jobs just to make ends meet. Once my daughter was grown, I prepared to re-enroll into a degree program. Unexpectedly, I ended up getting custody of and fostering my one-year-old grandson. I cared for him for seven years and I gave him all the love and care that his parents couldn't at the time. I was working full-time, as well, so that left little time for anything else. Even so, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After the pandemic, my grandson was able to return to my daughter. I enrolled in Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. I took two classes and I currently have a 4.0 grade point average. Then, unfortunately, my mother got sick and passed away in February. She was the caregiver of my uncle who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later. As a result, I had to take a break to grieve and handle some of my mother's affairs. One of the last things my mother asked me was to keep going until I finished college. Education was very important to my mother and it's very important to me. I plan on getting this degree for her and for me. I will return to school in May. Having these various circumstances occur in my life has made me a more resilient individual. It has also made me more compassionate toward others who may have similar plights. As a single mom who had little familial and financial support, I see the growing need for people, especially, women of color, to have a voice and a presence in the financial space. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, less the 2% of certified financial planners are African American women. I intend to increase that number. I want to become a certified financial planner to educate and coach people so that they can make better financial decisions for their families. Finances, or the lack of necessary finances, affect families and communities for generations. Financial literacy and planning are very important, especially in underprivileged communities. I'd also like to study behavioral economics, specifically, so that I can really help people understand why they make the financial decisions they make. When you understand the systemic cause of a problem, it's easier to find appropriate solutions. To become a certified financial planner, you must have an undergraduate degree. Obtaining this scholarship will enable me to move closer to this goal and the goal of helping families experience better financial outcomes.

I never thought that I would be going back to college at fifty-five, but many life circumstances have made mu educational journey challenging. I obtained my associates degree from Florida State College at Jacksonville by the age of nineteen. I transferred to four year college and started working full time in the college's accounting office. During this time, I was married, had two children, and then divorced. As a result, I was a single mom in my twenties and thirties. I worked two and three jobs just to make ends meet. Once my children were grown, I prepared to re-enroll into a degree program. Unexpectedly, I ended up getting custody of and fostering my one-year-old grandson. I cared for him for seven years and I gave him all the love and care that his parents couldn't at the time. I was working full-time, as well, so that left little time for anything else. Even so, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After the pandemic, my grandson was able to return to my daughter. I enrolled in Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. I took two classes and I currently have a 4.0 grade point average. Then, unfortunately, my mother got sick and passed away in February. She was the caregiver of my uncle who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later. As a result, I had to take a break to grieve and handle some of my mother's affairs. One of the last things my mother asked me was to keep going until I finished college. Education was very important to my mother and it's very important to me. I plan on getting this degree for her and for me. I will return to school in May. Having these various circumstances occur in my life has made me a more resilient individual. It has also made me more compassionate toward others who may have similar plights. As a single mom who had little familial and financial support, I see the growing need for people, especially, women of color, to have a voice and a presence in the financial space. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, less the 2% of certified financial planners are African American women. I intend to increase that number. I want to become a certified financial planner to educate and coach people so that they can make better financial decisions for their families. Finances, or the lack of necessary finances, affect families and communities for generations. Financial literacy and planning are very important, especially in underprivileged communities. I'd also like to study behavioral economics, specifically, so that I can really help people understand why they make the financial decisions they make. When you understand the systemic cause of a problem, it's easier to find appropriate solutions. To become a certified financial planner, you must have an undergraduate degree. Obtaining this scholarship will enable me to move closer to this goal and the goal of helping families experience better financial outcomes.

Being a first generation college graduate will be a family milestone that I will be proud to achieve. My mother passed away this February and one of the last things she said to me was, "don't stop going to school." She didn't even tell me how ill she was until the very end because she wanted me to stay focused. I remember her buying my first books: encyclopedias and children's bible stories. I loved reading. When I started school, I always brought my papers home and showed them to my mom with a smile. They were A's. I made the Grand Canyon University president's list with a 4.0 grade point average a month after my mom's passing. I intend on accomplishing this milestone for her. I also want to set an example for my children and my grandchildren: no matter how long it takes you to accomplish a goal, don't stop until you obtain it. Obtaining a bachelor's degree in finance and economics will remove a glass ceiling and open the door to other possible academic achievements, perhaps even a doctorate. As a single mom who had little familial and financial support, I see the growing need for people, especially, women of color, to have a voice and a presence in the financial space. Advocacy and mentoring are areas that I have interest in, as well. I believe better financial literacy and mentorship programs are in the best interests of underserved communities at large. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, less the 2% of certified financial planners are African American women and only 30% are women. Yet, the majority of households are managed by women. I intend to increase those numbers so I'm majoring in finance and economics. I want to become a certified financial planner to educate and coach people so that they can make better financial decisions for their families. Finances, or the lack of necessary finances, affect families and communities for generations. Financial literacy and planning are very important, especially in underprivileged communities. I'd also like to study behavioral economics, specifically, so that I can really help people understand why they make the financial decisions they make. When you understand the systemic cause of a problem, it's easier to find appropriate solutions. To become a certified financial planner, you must have an undergraduate degree. Obtaining this scholarship will enable me to move closer to this goal and the goal of helping families experience better financial outcomes.

"A dream deferred makes the heart sick." I never thought that I would be going back to college at fifty-five, but many life circumstances made the journey difficult. I was a single mom in my twenties and thirties, and I worked two and three jobs just to make ends meet. Once my daughter was grown, I prepared to re-enroll into a degree program. Unexpectedly, I ended up getting custody of and fostering my one-year-old grandson. I cared for him for seven years and I gave him all the love and care that his parents couldn't at the time. I was working full-time, as well, so that left little time for anything else. Even so, it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After the pandemic, my grandson was able to return to my daughter. I enrolled in Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. I took two classes and I currently have a 4.0 grade point average. Then, unfortunately, my mother got sick and passed away in February. She was the caregiver of my uncle who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later. As a result, I had to take a break to grieve and handle some of my mother's affairs. One of the last things my mother asked me was to keep going until I finished college. Education was very important to my mother and it's very important to me. I plan on getting this degree for her and for me. I will return to school in May. Having these various circumstances occur in my life has made me a more resilient individual. It has also made me more compassionate toward others who may have similar plights. As a single mom who had little familial and financial support, I see the growing need for people, especially, women of color, to have a voice and a presence in the financial space. According to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, less the 2% of certified financial planners are African American women. I intend to increase that number. I want to become a certified financial planner to educate and coach people so that they can make better financial decisions for their families. Finances, or the lack of necessary finances, affect families and communities for generations. Financial literacy and planning are very important, especially in underprivileged communities. I'd also like to study behavioral economics, specifically, so that I can really help people understand why they make the financial decisions they make. When you understand the systemic cause of a problem, it's easier to find appropriate solutions. To become a certified financial planner, you must have an undergraduate degree. Obtaining this scholarship will enable me to move closer to this goal and the goal of helping families experience better financial outcomes.

As an African American female aspiring to become a certified financial planner and entrepreneur, I possess a unique opportunity to empower my community through my career endeavors. My journey in the field of finance and entrepreneurship will serve as a catalyst for positive change, providing inspiration, resources, and guidance to uplift individuals within my community. Here are several ways I plan to leverage my career to empower those around me: First and foremost, representation matters. By pursuing a career in finance and entrepreneurship, I will challenge stereotypes and demonstrate that individuals from underrepresented backgrounds can excel in these fields. My presence will serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement for other African American females who may aspire to pursue similar paths. Through my accomplishments, I will break down barriers and pave the way for future generations to follow in my footsteps. Education is key to empowerment. As a certified financial planner, I can educate members of the community on financial literacy and wealth management. Many African American communities face disparities in access to financial education and resources. By offering workshops, seminars, and one-on-one consultations, I can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed financial decisions, build wealth, and secure their futures. Empowering individuals with financial literacy not only improves their own financial well-being but also strengthens the economic resilience of the community as a whole. Entrepreneurship provides avenues for economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. By starting my own business or supporting aspiring entrepreneurs within the community, I can help create opportunities for economic advancement. I will facilitate establishing mentorship programs, providing funding or grants for startups, or offering resources and guidance on business development and management. Encouraging entrepreneurship fosters innovation, job creation, and economic growth within the community, while also fostering a spirit of self-reliance and empowerment. In addition to individual empowerment, community empowerment is essential for long-term progress. I can get involved in community initiatives and advocacy efforts aimed at addressing systemic issues such as economic inequality, access to capital, and racial discrimination. I can also use my platform and expertise to advocate for policies and programs that promote economic equity and social justice. I can collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and stakeholders to implement sustainable solutions that uplift and empower marginalized communities. Furthermore, I can be a role model and mentor. I can share my experiences, insights, and lessons learned with aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs within the community. I can provide guidance, encouragement, and support to help them navigate challenges and achieve their goals. By paying it forward and investing in the next generation of leaders, I will perpetuate a cycle of empowerment and create lasting impact beyond my own career. As a first generation college student, this scholarship will help me attain an education that will help my family establish a firm foundation for generations to come. My mother passed away this year. She didn't tell me how ill she was because she wanted me to continue my education. Therefore, it is a very important life goal for me. In conclusion, as an African American female, aspiring certified financial planner, and entrepreneur, I have the power to make a profound difference in the community. By leveraging my skills, knowledge, and passion, I can inspire, educate, and empower individuals to achieve financial independence, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the collective advancement of the community. I will seize the opportunity to be a catalyst for positive change and leave a legacy of empowerment that transcends generations.

I am an adult student attending Grand Canyon University. My major is finance and economics. It has always been a dream and a life goal for me to get a college education; however, my mother couldn't afford to send me to college. Then, life got in the way and I became a single mom. During that time, I worked two, and sometimes three, jobs to make ends meet. God got me through that stage of my life and with much prayer and hard work, I received some great job opportunities that have changed my life and my family's. My mother passed away on February 8th, 2024 one day before her 76th birthday and three days before my birthday. I had to put my classes on hold to take care of her affairs (I currently have a 4.0 GPA at Grand Canyon University). My mom's death has really had a profound affect on me. It has also increased my faith. She was very ill before she passed but fortunately she was a devout believer in Jesus Christ. As she was transitioning, she was saying "Lord have mercy, Lord help me." In her darkest hour, she was calling on the Lord. My mother was a caretaker for my great-grandmother prior to her death. She was also the caretaker of her brother, my uncle, who was mentally disabled. He passed away three weeks later on March 1. I know they are both in heaven smiling down at me. My mom always wanted me to finish my education. It was one of her last requests. My faith in God and Jesus Christ has enabled me to weather many of life's storms: from working multiple jobs as a single mom, to becoming a licensed foster parent and raising one of my grandchildren for seven years, to helping support a wayward daughter get on her feet financially so that she could raise her children independently. I couldn't do any of this on my own, but I truly believe that with God all things are possible. Jeremiah 29:11 is my favorite scripture which I've always meditated upon, especially when I experience doubt. Dreams deferred make the heart sick. Not being able to go to college due to family financial circumstances, especially when you know what you can achieve, is heartbreaking. But, I know that my time has come and I will achieve and obtain everything that God has for me. When I obtain my degree, I plan to use my skills to help others obtain financial and spiritual freedom through proper stewardship of our God given resources. This scholarship would enable me to do so.