My name is Dylan Griggs, and I’m a Fine Arts major entering my senior year at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Atlanta, Georgia. I specialize in watercolor, acrylic, and oil painting, and I showcase my original work through my website www.griggsgallery.com and my Instagram page @griggsgalleryy, where I’ve built a growing audience of over 40,000 followers. My artistic journey is deeply tied to both my upbringing and my belief in the power of creative expression to inspire, connect, and heal. I grew up in Lithonia, Georgia, a vibrant but often challenging community just outside of Atlanta. In an effort to access better education, my mother tried busing me to schools in more resourced districts. However, the long commutes took a toll, and I eventually attended the local middle and high schools—places where fights and conflict were part of the daily experience. It was tough, but instead of getting pulled into negative influences, I found my escape and my identity through art. Drawing and sports became my way to stay focused, disciplined, and true to myself. Over time, it became clear that while athletics offered temporary relief, art gave me a vision for a future. My parents recognized my potential early on and encouraged me to pursue art seriously. My dad, a small business owner who runs a landscaping company, did everything he could to help me attend SCAD—even co-signing loans so I could follow my dream. I'm incredibly proud to be the first in my family to attend a nationally recognized art college, and I carry that responsibility with a deep sense of gratitude and purpose. At SCAD, I initially focused on drawing and graphic design, but thanks to my professors and peers who saw something more in me, I was encouraged to step out of my comfort zone and try painting. That encouragement changed everything. I fell in love with the tactile nature of painting—with how brushstrokes, colors, and textures could express emotion and tell stories in ways I hadn’t experienced before. Today, I work primarily in watercolor, acrylic, and oil, exploring themes of cultural identity, inner strength, and urban resilience. My artwork is often inspired by my own experiences growing up in a complex world—navigating between creativity, survival, and hope. Beyond the studio, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with SCAD’s Savannah campus and local museums. Even though galleries and museums often take a 40–50% commission, I’ve learned that the relationships and exposure I gain are invaluable. I’ve also worked with fashion students on runway sets and even helped campus curators with installations. These collaborations have taught me the value of teamwork, professionalism, and staying open to unexpected opportunities. My long-term goal is to grow my art business into a full-time career—selling work online, collaborating with galleries, and eventually creating an arts-based nonprofit that mentors youth from underserved communities. I want to be the kind of mentor I never had growing up: someone who helps young artists see their creative gifts as a viable path to personal and professional success. Financially, this final year of college is the most difficult. My cost of attendance is about $40,000, and I already carry $80,000 in student loans. Winning the Kim Beneschott Creative Arts Scholarship would help relieve a major burden, allowing me to graduate on time and fully dedicate myself to my artistic mission. I want to represent your organization with integrity and excellence and continue creating work that embodies the spirit of resilience, truth, and beauty that this scholarship celebrates. Thank you for considering my application and for believing in the power of artists to change lives—starting with their own and reaching out into the world.

My name is Dylan Griggs, a rising senior at the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta, Georgia, majoring in painting. Growing up in Lithonia, Georgia, I faced numerous challenges that tested my resilience. My mother's efforts to enroll me in better school districts often meant long, taxing commutes, leading me to eventually attend local schools where daily altercations were commonplace. Amidst this environment, I found solace in two things: sports and art. While sports kept me physically engaged, it was art that truly captured my spirit. Drawing became my refuge—a means to process my experiences and envision a brighter future. Recognizing my passion, my parents encouraged me to pursue art wholeheartedly. Their unwavering support led me to SCAD, where I've been able to refine my skills and expand my artistic horizons. At SCAD, I discovered a profound love for painting, a medium that allows me to convey complex emotions and narratives. My professors and peers have been instrumental in this journey, encouraging me to push boundaries and explore new techniques. Beyond academics, I've taken the initiative to build my own brand. I launched Griggs Gallery, an online art store, and cultivated a vibrant community of over 40,000 followers on Instagram (@griggsgalleryy). These platforms have allowed me to share my journey, connect with fellow artists, and inspire others from similar backgrounds. Art, for me, is more than a medium of expression; it's a tool for change. I aim to create pieces that resonate with underrepresented communities, shedding light on stories that often go unheard. My work often explores themes of resilience, identity, and hope, drawing inspiration from my own experiences and those of others around me. By sharing these narratives, I hope to foster understanding and empathy, bridging gaps between diverse audiences. The Mcristle Ross Minority Painter's Scholarship seeks to honor the memory of Mcristle Ross by supporting minority students who are pursuing artistic degrees in college. This mission aligns perfectly with my own aspirations. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate financial burdens but also serve as an affirmation of my journey and dedication to the arts. It would enable me to focus more on my art and community initiatives, furthering the impact I hope to make. In conclusion, my path from Lithonia to SCAD has been marked by challenges, growth, and an unwavering commitment to the arts. With the support of my family and mentors, I've transformed obstacles into opportunities. I am eager to continue this journey, using art as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. Thank you for considering my application and for honoring the legacy of Mcristle Ross by supporting emerging artists like myself.

Growing up in Lithonia, Georgia, I was surrounded by both challenges and inspiration. My mother, striving for better educational opportunities for me, enrolled me in schools outside our district. However, the long commutes proved taxing, leading me back to local schools where daily altercations were commonplace. Amidst this environment, I found solace in two things: sports and art. While sports kept me physically engaged, it was art that truly captured my spirit. Drawing became my refuge—a means to process my experiences and envision a brighter future. Recognizing my passion, my parents encouraged me to pursue art wholeheartedly. Their unwavering support led me to the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD), where I am now a rising senior. SCAD has been transformative, offering me the tools and community to hone my craft. Beyond the classroom, I've launched my online art store, Griggs Gallery, and cultivated a vibrant community of over 40,000 followers on Instagram (@griggsgalleryy). These platforms have allowed me to share my journey, connect with fellow artists, and inspire others from similar backgrounds. My father, a small business owner, has been a significant influence in my life. His dedication to his landscaping business and his commitment to our family taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. He believed in my potential, assisting me in securing student loans to attend SCAD, emphasizing the importance of investing in one's passion. Art, for me, is more than a medium of expression; it's a tool for change. I aim to create pieces that resonate with underrepresented communities, shedding light on stories that often go unheard. My work often explores themes of resilience, identity, and hope, drawing inspiration from my own experiences and those of others around me. By sharing these narratives, I hope to foster understanding and empathy, bridging gaps between diverse audiences. Moreover, I am committed to using my platform to mentor aspiring artists from similar backgrounds. By offering workshops, sharing resources, and providing guidance, I strive to empower the next generation to harness their creativity as a tool for personal and communal growth. The Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt Foundation Fine Arts Scholarship aligns perfectly with my mission. This scholarship is awarded to minority students with big aspirations in the arts, aiming to honor the life and legacy of Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate financial burdens but also serve as an affirmation of my journey and aspirations. It would enable me to focus more on my art and community initiatives, furthering the impact I hope to make. In conclusion, my path from Lithonia to SCAD has been marked by challenges, growth, and an unwavering commitment to the arts. With the support of my family and mentors, I've transformed obstacles into opportunities. I am eager to continue this journey, using art as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. Thank you for considering my application and for honoring the legacy of Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt by supporting emerging artists like myself.

As a two-time recipient of the WCEJ Thornton Foundation Music & Art Scholarship, I am profoundly grateful for the support that has enabled me to pursue my passion at the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). Now entering my senior year, I have not only honed my artistic skills but also launched my online art store, Griggs Gallery, and cultivated a vibrant community of over 40,000 followers on Instagram (@griggsgalleryy). Growing up in Lithonia, Georgia, I faced numerous challenges that tested my resilience. My mother's efforts to enroll me in better school districts often meant long, taxing commutes, leading me to eventually attend local schools where daily altercations were commonplace. Amidst this environment, I found solace in sports and, more profoundly, in art. Drawing became my refuge, a means to process my experiences and envision a brighter future. My parents recognized the transformative power of art in my life. They encouraged me to pursue this path, understanding that my creativity could open doors beyond the confines of our community. Their unwavering support, coupled with the financial assistance from scholarships like yours, has been instrumental in my journey. Through my art, I aim to make a positive impact by telling stories that resonate with underrepresented communities. My work often explores themes of resilience, identity, and hope, drawing inspiration from my own experiences and those of others around me. By sharing these narratives, I hope to foster understanding and empathy, bridging gaps between diverse audiences. Bold Moreover, I am committed to using my platform to mentor aspiring artists from similar backgrounds. By offering workshops, sharing resources, and providing guidance, I strive to empower the next generation to harness their creativity as a tool for personal and communal growth. The WCEJ Thornton Foundation's support has not only alleviated financial burdens but has also affirmed my belief in the transformative power of art. As I continue my journey, I remain dedicated to creating work that uplifts, inspires, and drives positive change within my community and beyond. I hope I am selected again for this my final year of college. Thank you!

Embracing Art as a Lifeline: My Journey from Lithonia to SCAD Growing up in Lithonia, Georgia, I experienced firsthand the challenges that come with limited access to quality education and resources. My mother, determined to provide me with better opportunities, enrolled me in a school district outside our area. The long bus rides, however, proved to be taxing, and eventually, I returned to our local schools. These institutions were tough environments, with daily altercations and distractions that could easily derail a young person's aspirations. Amidst this chaos, I found solace in two things: sports and art. While sports kept me physically engaged, it was art that truly captured my spirit. Drawing became my refuge—a way to process my surroundings and express emotions I couldn't articulate otherwise. My parents recognized this passion early on. They believed that my artistic talents could pave the way for a brighter future, and they encouraged me to pursue this path wholeheartedly. My mother would take me to The Atlanta Spruill Arts Center for drawing classes twice a week during the summer to make sure I was getting the best skills training. My class had people in their 30s and 40s and I was excited to know that I was being elevated to learn with them. My parents unwavering support led me to the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) Atlanta campus, where I am currently a rising senior. Attending SCAD has been transformative. The institution has not only honed my technical skills but also expanded my understanding of art's impact on society. I've had the privilege of collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds, participating in exhibitions, and even launching my own platforms—my website, www.griggsgallery.com, and Instagram page, @griggsgalleryy—to showcase my work and connect with a broader audience. One of the most significant influences in my life has been my father. Owning a small landscaping business, he embodies dedication and perseverance. Despite financial constraints, he assisted me in securing student loans to attend SCAD, emphasizing the importance of investing in one's passion. His belief in my potential fuels my drive to succeed and give back to the community that shaped me. Art, for me, is more than a medium of expression; it's a tool for change. I aspire to create pieces that resonate with individuals from all walks of life, shedding light on stories that often go unheard. My experiences in Lithonia have instilled in me a deep understanding of resilience, and I aim to channel this into artworks that inspire and uplift. The Diane Amendt Memorial Scholarship for the Arts stands as a testament to the profound impact educators and artists can have on young minds. Diane Amendt's dedication to nurturing talent and celebrating individuality aligns with my own mission as an artist. Receiving this scholarship would not only alleviate financial burdens but also serve as an affirmation of my journey and aspirations. In conclusion, my path from Lithonia to SCAD has been marked by challenges, growth, and an unwavering commitment to the arts. With the support of my family and mentors, I've transformed obstacles into opportunities. I am eager to continue this journey, using art as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. Thank you for considering my application and for honoring the legacy of Diane Amendt by supporting emerging artists like myself.

Growing up in Lithonia, Georgia shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand until I began chasing my dream of becoming an artist. Like many kids in the inner city, I had to learn how to navigate my surroundings early on. My parents wanted me to have the best education possible, so my mom did what many determined mothers do—she tried to get me into a better school district. That meant long, early morning bus rides to schools far from home. At first, it seemed like a good solution, but it quickly became exhausting, both mentally and physically. Eventually, we had to accept that the distance was too much, and I started attending the local middle and high schools in our area. That transition was tough. School fights were a regular occurrence, and I had to learn quickly how to protect myself—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally, too. It was easy to fall into the wrong crowd, but I knew I wanted more for myself. Sports gave me an outlet, but it was art that gave me purpose. Drawing became my escape, my voice, and my safe space. My parents always believed in my creative talent. Even when others around me saw sports as the more promising path, they encouraged me to keep developing my artistic gifts. I’m so thankful for that. Sports were great, but art allowed me to think bigger, dream beyond my neighborhood, and explore the kind of future I really wanted. It wasn’t just about creating something beautiful—it was about building something that felt like mine. Now, as a rising senior at the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta, I’m proud to say that I’m still on that path. I’ve had the opportunity to grow tremendously both as an artist and as a young business owner. Through my website, www.griggsgallery.com, and my Instagram page, @griggsgalleryy, I’ve been able to share my work with a wider audience and even begin to build my own brand. It’s a grind, especially while balancing school, commuting from home, and managing finances—but it’s a blessing I don’t take for granted. A big part of the reason I’m able to pursue my education at SCAD is because of my dad. He runs a small landscaping business, and even though we didn’t have a lot of extra money growing up, he helped me apply for student loans and told me that if I was going to study art, SCAD was the best place to do it. His work ethic and quiet strength inspire me every day. Watching him build something of his own with his hands, care for clients, and stay consistent even through hard times taught me the value of discipline and pride in your craft. I’m applying for this scholarship because it would take some of the financial pressure off of both me and my family, allowing me to focus more on my art and continuing to grow my business. Every dollar matters when you're trying to finish school without being buried in debt. Being chosen would be an incredible honor, and I’d be proud to represent your organization and show others what’s possible, no matter where you come from. Why I Want to Be an Artist I want to be an artist because art saved me. It gave me a reason to stay focused during chaotic school days. It gave me confidence when I didn’t always feel seen or heard. Art helped me express emotions I couldn’t put into words and let me dream about something bigger than my immediate surroundings. As I’ve grown in my craft, it’s become clear that art is not just a passion—it’s my purpose. I want to use my creativity to inspire others, especially kids like me who may feel stuck or overlooked. My goal is to not only create, but to teach, mentor, and uplift through the work I do. Who Inspires Me My biggest inspiration is my dad. He’s the kind of man who leads by example, showing me that hard work, humility, and consistency matter more than flash or fame. He believed in my dream even when others didn’t fully understand it. I also draw inspiration from artists who turn their pain into beauty and who use their platforms to speak truth, tell stories, and connect people across backgrounds. That’s the kind of artist I aim to be. My Artist Statement My art is rooted in resilience, storytelling, and emotion. I specialize in paintings that reflects real life—its challenges, its beauty, and its complexity. Through color, texture, and symbolism, I explore themes of growth, identity, and transformation. Whether I’m creating a vibrant portrait or a moody abstract piece, my goal is always the same: to make people feel something. To pause. To reflect. To see themselves or someone they know in my work. Art is more than a product—it’s a conversation. A bridge between people. A chance to build community and share perspective. I want my art to speak to the everyday person, to those who’ve struggled, dreamed, fallen, and gotten back up. Because that’s my story, too. Moving Forward There’s still so much I want to learn and accomplish. SCAD has given me access to incredible professors, talented peers, and professional opportunities I never imagined possible when I was sketching alone in my room back in Lithonia. But it’s not just about where I’ve been—it’s about where I’m going. With your support, I can keep pushing forward, not just for myself, but for the next generation of young artists coming from neighborhoods like mine. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I’m truly honored to be considered for this scholarship and excited about the possibility of representing your organization. Your support would be a meaningful investment in a life that’s being built through passion, persistence, and painting.

As a rising senior at SCAD Atlanta, I’ve learned that collaboration is at the heart of everything I love about being an artist. Whether it’s working on a painting, helping behind the scenes with a fashion show, or preparing a gallery exhibit, the process always feels more meaningful when shared with others. That’s why I was especially moved when I read about Pamela Branchini’s passion for building relationships through art, music, and events. Her legacy is something I really admire, and it’s exactly how I hope to grow in my own creative journey. When I first started at SCAD, I thought I had a clear path—drawing and graphic design were my focus, and I didn’t really plan to explore beyond that. But thanks to the encouragement of my professors and peers, I tried painting… and everything changed. I found a new level of freedom in expression and realized this is where I could really grow. Their support gave me the push I didn’t know I needed, and now painting is a major part of my work and identity as an artist. Since then, I’ve had the chance to collaborate on several exciting projects. I’ve partnered with our SCAD Savannah campus and local art museums to showcase my paintings. I’ve learned how much work goes into putting on exhibitions, and I’ve also learned the business side—like how galleries often take 40-50% commission. But honestly, that hasn’t discouraged me at all. I love the process. I love working with curators, museum staff, and fellow artists to bring something beautiful to life. It’s all about the relationships and the shared vision. Some of my favorite experiences have been cross-disciplinary ones—like helping fashion design majors create sets for their runway shows, or working with the on-campus museum curator. Being involved in these different areas of creativity has helped me grow in unexpected ways. It’s shown me how important teamwork is in the art world and how we all bring something unique to the table. I’m currently a commuter student, living at home with my parents to cut down on expenses. I’m getting close to finishing my degree, and applying for this $1,000 scholarship means a lot. It would really help relieve some financial pressure and let me focus more on creating, growing, and giving back. While I haven’t received this scholarship yet, just knowing that there are people who believe in supporting students like me—who believe in the power of collaboration, creativity, and community—is incredibly meaningful. I see Pamela Branchini’s story as a reminder of the kind of artist I want to be: one who uplifts others, builds connections, and stays open to new experiences. Collaboration, for me, is about more than working together—it’s about learning from one another, creating something bigger than yourself, and finding joy in the process. I’m so grateful for the people I’ve met along the way, and I look forward to carrying this spirit into everything I do as I continue growing as an artist.

My future project is to have my art studios across the United States where visual arts is taught to under-resourced communities. Along with this goal is to have my art shown at world-renowned art museums. As an African-American male, I turned down several football scholarships because I knew painting and drawing would fulfill me more. My parents recognized my artistic talents early on and drove me 45 minutes each way to the Spruill Arts Center in North Atlanta when I was in the 6th grade to build my skills. Their support and sacrifices inspire me to give back to others. Currently, I give back to under-resourced communities as a fine arts teaching assistant at ArtStation Gallery in Stone Mountain, GA, where about 85% of the population is Black. I work with tweens during summer camp sessions, helping them with arts projects like painting, poetry, music, and sewing. In our communities, kids are often pushed towards athletics for financial freedom and success, but I want to show them they can showcase their visual arts talents as well. My motivation is to inspire positive thinking and joy through my art. I design thriving, friendly communities that explore a future beyond present-day limitations. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. Two of my drawings are currently submitted for the City of Atlanta, GA bike rack mural and utility box mural proposals. My goal is to encourage bicycling and beautify our neighborhoods with these two pieces. With advancements in technology like artificial intelligence and digital art, the spirit of creation and storytelling remains vital. I plan to start a YouTube Channel in September 2024 to teach different techniques I'm learning at SCAD, providing accessible art education to a broader audience. YouTube has been instrumental in my learning, and I hope to inspire youth to pick up these skills. I've even taught a homemade canvas tutorial for painting on my Instagram page which was one of my highest-performing reels - https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/. Thank you for considering my application. Through your support, I look forward to making a meaningful impact on the lives of youth in under-resourced communities, fostering their creative talents, and opening doors to future artists.

My biggest influence on my life has been my mom. She always tells me how I will inspire millions of people with my art locally and in World-Renowned Museums. I currently give back to under-resourced communities through visual arts as a fine arts teaching assistant at ArtStation Gallery, I work with tweens during summer camp sessions, helping them with arts projects like painting, poetry, music, and sewing. ArtStation Gallery is located in Stone Mountain, GA where about 85% of the population is Black. In our communities, kids are often pushed towards athletics for financial freedom and success, but I want to show they can showcase their visual arts talents as well. As an African-American male, I was offered several football scholarships to cover my college expenses. But I turned them down because I knew I wouldn't be as fulfilled as I am now with painting and drawing. I was fortunate that my parents saw my artistic talents early on. They drove me almost 45 minutes each way to the Spruill Arts Center in North Atlanta when I was in the 6th grade to build my visual art skills. I want to be that person for other children, offering local classes at an organization near my home in Lithonia, GA, where the poverty level is 34%. I plan to volunteer my time weekly to teach visual arts and discuss pathways to sustainable careers or entrepreneurship. My artistic gifts help people think positively and live with more joy. I design thriving, friendly, communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. Two of my drawings are currently submitted for the City of Atlanta, GA bike rack mural and utility box mural proposals. The goal of my drawings is to encourage bicycling and beautifying our neighborhoods. Instead of living on campus, I plan to live at home and save money while completing my last two years at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta, GA. This scholarship will relieve a huge financial burden given that my potential out-of-pocket expenses are expected to be $20,000 for the 2024-2025 school year. My mother, Dorothy is currently freelancing with bookkeeping gigs, and my father, Lamont is an entrepreneur of a landscape business with seasonal revenue. But they support my finishing my Bachelor's in Fine Arts at SCAD. I am excited to share this potential partnership with the Christian ‘Myles’ Pratt Foundation Fine Arts Scholarship on my social media platforms and with the administrative staff at SCAD. I would obtain assistance from SCAD's career center to create press releases of this award. I'd also mention my advocacy for more visual arts classes in economically challenged Metro Atlanta areas and across the United States. Additionally, this scholarship has inspired me to start a YouTube Channel to teach the different techniques I am learning at SCAD. I plan to launch this channel in September 2024, providing accessible art education to a broader audience. I still use YouTube channels to this day, to learn different painting techniques in combination with what I learn at SCAD. This would be a great way for youth to pick up these skills while future partnerships are being formed. I've even taught a homemade canvas tutorial for painting on my Instagram page that was one of my highest-performing reels - https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/ Thank you for considering my application. Through your support, I look forward to making a meaningful impact on the lives of youth in under-resourced communities, fostering their creative talents, and opening doors to future artists.

I currently give back to under-resourced communities through visual arts as a fine arts teaching assistant at ArtStation Gallery, I work with tweens during summer camp sessions, helping them with arts projects like painting, poetry, music, and sewing. ArtStation Gallery is located in Stone Mountain, GA where about 85% of the population is Black. In our communities, kids are often pushed towards athletics for financial freedom and success, but I want to show they can showcase their visual arts talents as well. As an African-American male, I was offered several football scholarships to cover my college expenses. But I turned them down because I knew I wouldn't be as fulfilled as I am now with painting and drawing. I was fortunate that my parents saw my artistic talents early on. They drove me almost 45 minutes each way to the Spruill Arts Center in North Atlanta when I was in the 6th grade to build my visual art skills. I want to be that person for other children, offering local classes at an organization near my home in Lithonia, GA, where the poverty level is 34%. I plan to volunteer my time weekly to teach visual arts and discuss pathways to sustainable careers or entrepreneurship. Instead of living on campus, I plan to live at home and save money while completing my last two years at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta, GA. This scholarship will relieve a huge financial burden given that my potential out-of-pocket expenses are expected to be $20,000 for the 2024-2025 school year. My mother, Dorothy is currently freelancing with bookkeeping gigs, and my father, Lamont is an entrepreneur of a landscape business with seasonal revenue. But they are very supportive of me finishing my Bachelor's in Fine Arts at SCAD. Additionally, this scholarship has inspired me to start a YouTube Channel to teach the different techniques I am learning at SCAD. I still use YouTube channels to this day, to learn different painting techniques in combination with what I learn at SCAD. I've even taught a homemade canvas tutorial for painting on my Instagram page that was one of my highest-performing reels - https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/ Thank you for considering my application. Through your support, I look forward to making a meaningful impact on the lives of youth in under-resourced communities, fostering their creative talents, and opening doors to future artists.

I currently give back to under-resourced communities through visual arts as a fine arts teaching assistant at ArtStation Gallery, I work with tweens during summer camp sessions, helping them with arts projects like painting, poetry, music, and sewing. ArtStation Gallery is located in Stone Mountain, GA where about 85% of the population is Black. In our communities, kids are often pushed towards athletics for financial freedom and success, but I want to show they can showcase their visual arts talents as well. As an African-American male, I was offered several football scholarships to cover my college expenses. But I turned them down because I knew I wouldn't be as fulfilled as I am now with painting and drawing. I was fortunate that my parents saw my artistic talents early on. They drove me almost 45 minutes each way to the Spruill Arts Center in North Atlanta when I was in the 6th grade to build my visual art skills. I want to be that person for other children, offering local classes at an organization near my home in Lithonia, GA, where the poverty level is 34%. I plan to volunteer my time weekly to teach visual arts and discuss pathways to sustainable careers or entrepreneurship. Instead of living on campus, I plan to live at home and save money while completing my last two years at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta, GA. This scholarship will relieve a huge financial burden given that my potential out-of-pocket expenses are expected to be $20,000 for the 2024-2025 school year. My mother, Dorothy is currently freelancing with bookkeeping gigs, and my father, Lamont is an entrepreneur of a landscape business with seasonal revenue. But they are very supportive of me finishing my Bachelor's in Fine Arts at SCAD. I am excited to share this potential partnership with the Wendy Alders Cartland Visual Arts Scholarship on my social media platforms and with the administrative staff at SCAD. I would obtain assistance from SCAD's career center to create press releases of this award. I'd also mention my advocacy for more visual arts classes in economically challenged Metro Atlanta areas. Additionally, this scholarship has inspired me to start a YouTube Channel to teach the different techniques I am learning at SCAD. I plan to launch this channel in September 2024, providing accessible art education to a broader audience. I still use YouTube channels to this day, to learn different painting techniques in combination with what I learn at SCAD. This would be a great way for youth to pick up these skills while future partnerships are being formed. I've even taught a homemade canvas tutorial for painting on my Instagram page that was one of my highest-performing reels - https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/ Thank you for considering my application and for the opportunity to potentially represent your organization. Through your support, I look forward to making a meaningful impact on the lives of youth in under-resourced communities, fostering their creative talents, and opening doors to future artists.

I am super excited that I get to do every day what I love doing as an illustration major at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). But I've quickly discovered that it also takes real effort to create and maintain a healthy mind, spirit and soul given the daily flow of life. Spending my time improving my overall health is one of the best investments I make each day. I'm continually learning how to make healthier decisions amidst the unique situations I face in school. Implementing these skills has brought more balance to my life, maintains my motivation to succeed and creates a healthier lifestyle to reach my goals. Below are some of the key developments in my health journey that have made the most impact in a productive, college lifestyle that works amazingly for me. Time management: To ensure that I have enough time to properly take care of my health, I practice better time management. After playing high school track and football, I understood how great my body felt after even the shortest workout. And even though I’m not playing team sports in college, I did want to keep up an exercise routine. This was made even easier by free access to the gym on my college campus. But my first year in college was quite overwhelming. As an illustration major, I didn't realize the number of quality assignments that would be required to secure a 3.0 GPA to keep my scholarships. I would sacrifice my sleep and exercise routine with mindless scrolling on social media. I've now focused on making a daily to-do list and prioritizing my tasks. I time-block everything! Exercising/stretching, meditation, class schedule, eating meals, homework time, and even time with friends. I do admit that my daily scheduling is far from perfect, but it does keep me on track. And I always take high-quality time to sleep and relax. Energy: Eating healthy and exercising gives me tons of energy. I take full advantage of my college meal plan by choosing the most healthy options and dining dollars with local restaurants. Between classes, I make sure to have healthier snack options in my backpack. I'm usually full of energy after my workouts each morning before I go to class. My parents started a great habit of suggesting I take a multivitamin each day when I was younger and I continue to take one daily in college. I also enjoy drinking healthy protein powders that help supplement any key nutrients I'm still missing each day. The adrenaline I get from a quick 30-minute workout will carry over to a positive mindset throughout my day. I make sure to have motivational and inspirational music or speeches playing while I workout out. It gives me the expectation to receive all the great things the world has for me each day. Thank you for the opportunity to share my journey so far. I hope it inspires many others to continue being the best they can be! Thank you for considering me as a recipient of the Wellness Warriors scholarship. I would be honored to represent Enso Superfoods to my social media outlets and college community. Sincerely, Dylan Griggs.

Work Title: Ascension Date Completed: May 16 - June 1, 2023 Mediums: Charcoal Dimensions: 72x36 in. Description: This is a piece that represents my free mind, me reaching out to new heights. It’s as if a heavy weight was just released from my shoulders, giving me room to spread my wings and soar. The Savannah College of Art and Design has allowed me to express myself in my transition into the “professional creative” lifestyle. For many years, I have played sports and that was my passion. However, drawing has taken me to places where no traveling sports team could ever do. This self-portrait gives the audience a view of not only my physical talent but my artistic talent. I believe everyone has different talents they should develop to empower others for greatness. I have been involved in organized sports since I was five years old. The positive impact of athletics includes my disciplines of keeping fit and healthy, social relationships, mental toughness and volunteer opportunities. I always thought that sports and arts could not mix. That I had to choose a track or football scholarship at a college that didn't have a great art program. Or that I had to pick an art school and not continue with my love of competing on a sports team. I was ecstatic when my athletic and artistic talents were taken notice of by my number one college choice Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). Goal setting, time and relationship management, and recovering from setbacks are some of the skills that are learned in navigating sports and art classes. I enjoy using art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. My focus is showing people how to live in more thriving, harmonious communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding lead to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. I believe that looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. I would be honored to represent the Isaac Yunhu Lee Memorial Arts Scholarship in all of my outreach platforms.

I am super excited that I get to do every day what I love doing as an illustration major at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). But I've quickly discovered that it also takes real effort to create and maintain a healthy mind, spirit and soul given the daily flow of life. Spending my time improving my overall health is one of the best investments I make each day. I'm continually learning how to make healthier decisions amidst the unique situations I face in school. Implementing these skills has brought more balance to my life, maintains my motivation to succeed and creates a healthier lifestyle to reach my goals. Below are two of the key developments in my health journey that have made the most impact in a productive, college lifestyle that works amazingly for me. 1. Energy: I'm usually full of energy after eating healthy foods, like produce, whole grains, and lean proteins each day. My parents started a great habit of suggesting I take a multivitamin each day when I was younger and I continue to take one daily in college. I've always had a competitive mindset and my thoughts are way more focused with my body isn't sluggish. I realize that the adrenaline I get from a quick 30-minute workout will carry over to a positive mindset throughout my day. I make sure to have motivational and inspirational music or speeches playing while I workout out. It gives me the expectation to receive all the great things the world has for me each day. 2. Finances: College living expenses can get pricey. I love thrifting at unique stores throughout trendy neighborhoods in Atlanta, GA where my college is located. Eating healthy and exercising can be expensive as well. I make sure to take full advantage of my college meal plan by choosing 80% of the time the healthy options in my campus cafe and dining dollars with local restaurants. Unfortunately, we do not have a kitchen in my freshman dorm. Between classes, I make sure to have healthier snack options in my backpack. I always look for ways to save money such as buying in bulk the healthy breakfast and snack options that I eat the most. And if I can't make it to the free gym on campus, I take advantage of free workout classes on YouTube fitness channels. Thank you for the opportunity to share my mind, body and soul journey. I hope it inspires many others to continue a healthier lifestyle!

I believe that digital design is the future. The dominance of the internet, technological advancement and software solutions are significantly impacting design trends. As I college student, I utilize many new designing tools that enhance graphic design and other artistic styles. I’d like to use art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I’d like to show more thriving environmentally friendly, technologically advanced communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding lead to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. I believe that looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I’ve come to realize that graphic/digital design, requires an in-depth understanding of typography, colors, technology and operating software, digital platforms and formats to create high-performing and better resolution designs. From my experience, feedback via analytical metrics including likes, shares, downloads and page views is almost instantaneous. As a designer, I must be quick to review and respond to them. This quick consumption means continual efforts to retain interest and keep the design relevant and targeted. My main focus during my freshman year was developing as an Illustrator at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) by utilizing Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign in combination with traditional mediums such as pencil and charcoal. I was also selected as part of a multi-artist exhibition for SCAD 2022-2023 Council for Interior Design Association (CIDA) accreditation artwork submissions. To excel it’s important to identify the right course from a reputed institute like SCAD. They have provided a curriculum that prepares and guides students to gain knowledge of communication design while exposing them to acquire experience in photography, videography, animation, graphic design and skills in software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, Adobe XD, Sketch and Dreamweaver. They’re also equipped to train students with employable skills to translate ideas and concepts into a workable reality. To help determine my career path, I must obtain real-world experience in different areas of art design. I’m currently a guest engagement associate at SCAD Fash Museum of Fashion + Film, Atlanta, Georgia. I began my employment part-time in March 2023 to help cover my living expenses in college. I was given full-time employment status in June as a result of my request for additional work hours from my supervisor. My duties include; presenting interpretive information about the exhibition's visual elements, engaging in guided tours and conversations about the exhibits, creating museum marketing materials in Adobe Photoshop for creative review, and honing my leadership skills by participating in various management training. If there is one thing dependable about graphic design, it’s that it changes continuously. I also plan to be one of the top illustrators with my art being exhibited in the best art galleries in the world. I am actively involved in design organizations, studying top designers and reading industry magazines. I realize that conceptual innovation, a robust work ethic, and finely honed drawing skills are all essential components to success in the art/design world. With my proven ability to produce detailed illustration projects, combined with my steadfast commitment to top-notch artistic quality and production, I am prepared to excel in providing outstanding service to my generation. My goal is to have my designs be a point of reference and become trends themselves. Thank you again for your consideration of this scholarship award.

I am the founder of a top marketing agency, where I lead a team in an innovative campaign of idea and concept development, consisting of unique custom artwork.

I enjoy using my art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I’d like to show more thriving communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding leads to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. I believe that looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I choose to love people enough to show them that they don’t have to stay in a negative mental state. I want people to see joy when they encounter my art. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. My experience and background have allowed me to build relationships with people from all walks of life. Although I'm an illustrator, I must know how to connect on a solid, human level with everyone I meet. I've been involved in organized sports since I was five years old. The positive impact of athletics includes my disciplines of keeping fit and healthy; social relationships; mental toughness and volunteer opportunities. I am super excited that I get to do every day what I love doing as an illustration major at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). But I've quickly discovered that it also takes real effort to create and maintain a healthy mind, spirit and soul given the daily flow of life. Spending my time improving my overall health is one of the best investments I make each day. I'm continually learning how to make healthier decisions amidst the unique situations I face in school. Implementing these skills has brought more balance to my life, maintains my motivation to succeed and creates a healthier lifestyle to reach my goals. I enjoy drawing landscapes of country life, city life, and individual faces. By excelling as an Illustrator in my first year at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) by utilizing Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign in combination with traditional mediums such as pencil and charcoal I was selected as part of a multi-artist exhibition for SCAD 2022-2023 accreditation artwork submission. I also demonstrate excellent originality, creativity, networking, and communication talents. Here is a link to my most recent art works - https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/. Thank you for your consideration!

I’d like to use my art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I’d like to show more thriving communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding lead to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. I believe that looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I want people to see joy when they encounter my art. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. Thank you for your consideration.

Hello, Wild Scholarship committee! I'm Dylan Griggs, a freshman at Savannah College of Art & Design (Atlanta Campus) and illustration is my unique talent that I enjoy doing every day. My parents saw my gifts and talents early on and while I was in middle school, they enrolled me in weekly art classes at Spruill Arts Center in Atlanta, GA. This center was a 40-minute drive from our home, but it really developed my confidence and technical details of what it will take to be an outstanding artist. Being the youngest in the class, I thought the projects would be too advanced for me. But the advice and support I received from my instructor and the other students continued to help me excel. I chose to pursue education in the arts because I like using my art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I get excited when I'm able to show more thriving environmentally friendly, technologically advanced communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding lead to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. I believe that looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. In the digital art space, I'd like to give my unique take on visual storytelling to make any television or media project I'm involved with have a huge global impact. I enjoy researching to make sure all design elements accurately reflect the story represented. Participation in a team or working independently for all the graphic elements that are outlined in a venture are the details I would enjoy doing. As a graphic designer, I would need to consider cultural, physical, and social factors in planning and executing designs for the target audience. I would prepare sketches or layouts—by hand or with the aid of a computer—to illustrate the vision for the design. I would be called upon to suggest and select colors, artwork, photography, animation, style of type, and other visual elements for the design. According to my research, science fiction and futuristic projects require a lot of work as graphic designers work to create a unique and innovative look for the project at hand. I can definitely agree with this statement based on my drawing of the Mandalorian, which can be seen on my Instagram link https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/. This drawing was one of my most liked due to the vast details in the armor. I believe that through my vision of combining the right elements, each motion graphic design can evoke an accurate depiction of emotions and feelings that would be highly memorable and invoke positive actions in all audiences. Currently, I enjoy drawing landscapes of country life, city life, and individual faces. Each week I draw, for free, different people who request a drawing from my social media platforms. In addition, my course drawings for my college, Savannah College of Art & Design - Atlanta campus, have been displayed as part of a group exhibition in the Foundation Studies Art Hall. These drawings were requested by two of my professors as part of SCAD's submission for accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and master degrees. Thank you for your consideration and I hope I am awarded the Wild Scholarship.

I’d like to use my art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I’d like to show more thriving environmentally friendly, technologically advanced communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding lead to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. I believe that looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. After college, I'd like to give my unique take on visual storytelling to make any television or media project I'm involved with have a huge global impact. I enjoy researching to make sure all design elements accurately reflect the story represented. Participation in a team or working independently for all the graphic elements that are outlined in a venture are the details I would enjoy doing. As a graphic designer, I would need to consider cultural, physical, and social factors in planning and executing designs for the target audience. I would prepare sketches or layouts—by hand or with the aid of a computer—to illustrate the vision for the design. I would be called upon to suggest and select colors, artwork, photography, animation, style of type, and other visual elements for the design. According to my research, science fiction and futuristic projects require a lot of work as graphic designers work to create a unique and innovative look for the project at hand. I can definitely agree with this statement based on my drawing of the Mandalorian, which can be seen on my Instagram link https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/. This drawing was one of my most liked due to the vast details in the armor. I believe that through my vision of combining the right elements, each motion graphic design can evoke an accurate depiction of emotions and feelings that would be highly memorable and invoke positive actions in all audiences. Currently, I enjoy drawing landscapes of country life, city life, and individual faces. Each week I draw, for free, different people who request a drawing from my social media platforms. In addition, my course drawings for my college, Savannah College of Art & Design - Atlanta campus, have been displayed as part of a group exhibition in the Foundation Studies Art Hall. These drawings were requested by two of my professors as part of SCAD's submission for accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and master degrees. Thank you for your consideration and I hope I am awarded the Mohamed Magdi Taha Memorial Scholarship.

My life so far has been amazingly great. There have definitely been challenges to overcome. But by my faith in God and the support of my family and friends, I can truly say that I am blessed and I cannot complain. In 2021 there were a series of challenges that were almost too much to handle spiritually, mentally and physically. In June 2021 my Grandma Rosie Brown transitioned to heaven after a second bout of cancer. This was hard because I wanted her to see me graduate in May 2022, just like Ms. Theresa Lord saw her grandchildren graduate. When I was 12, I was able to draw a picture of her because she saw my talents back then. I'm very grateful for my time on earth with her and I know I'll see her again in heaven. Also, in August 2021 my mom, Dorothy was hospitalized with Covid-19 and thankfully was healed. Then, in October 2021, I broke three bones in my foot by making a tackle during a playoff football game. Given that this was my senior year, it was tough to take. I was in a cast for nearly six weeks. But I kept focus knowing that spring season was coming, and my main sport of track and field (300m hurdles) would be in full swing. In two months, I had to relearn how to walk, jog, run and hurdle all over again. But I would not allow any of these things to break me. Yes, I cried sometimes and asked God some hard questions, but my faith has grown tremendously and I consider myself an even stronger overcomer. My biggest accomplishment in track was obtaining a personal record in the 300-meter hurdles of 43.3 seconds on April 6, 2022. This time placed me in 4th place in the state of Georgia regional track and field rankings in this race. I just knew I was going to get a college scholarship in either track or football to pay for college. But the offers were with colleges that didn't focus on my creative talents off the field. I quickly realized that my main God-given talent is drawing. I currently attend Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) - Atlanta campus as a freshman. I am from the Metro Atlanta area and this is my dream school. My drawing skills have increased significantly in just my first two quarters as a freshman. Currently, I enjoy drawing landscapes of country life, city life, and individual faces. Each week I draw, for free, different people who request a drawing from my social media platforms including https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/. In addition, my course drawings for my college, Savannah College of Art & Design - Atlanta campus, have been displayed as part of a group exhibition in the Foundation Studies Art Hall. These drawings were requested by two of my professors as part of SCAD's submission for accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and master degrees. My mindset has been improved greatly by renewing my mind with biblical meditation, my parents and mentors who keep encouraging me to daily work on my skills because they will bring me before great men and women. This is part of my life’s purpose. To give my unique take on visual storytelling to make any project I'm involved with have a huge global impact, and that helps people think positively and act more long-term. Thank you for your consideration and I hope I am selected for the Theresa Lord Future Leader scholarship.

I’d like to use my art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I’d like to show more thriving environmentally friendly, technologically advanced communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding lead to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. I believe that looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. After college, I'd like to give my unique take on visual storytelling to make any television or media project I'm involved with have a huge global impact. I enjoy researching to make sure all design elements accurately reflect the story represented. Participation in a team or working independently for all the graphic elements that are outlined in a venture are the details I would enjoy doing. As a graphic designer, I would need to consider cultural, physical, and social factors in planning and executing designs for the target audience. I would prepare sketches or layouts—by hand or with the aid of a computer—to illustrate the vision for the design. I would be called upon to suggest and select colors, artwork, photography, animation, style of type, and other visual elements for the design. According to my research, science fiction and futuristic projects require a lot of work as graphic designers work to create a unique and innovative look for the project at hand. I can definitely agree with this statement based on my drawing of the Mandalorian, which can be seen on my Instagram link https://www.instagram.com/griggsgallery1/. This drawing was one of my most liked due to the vast details in the armor. I believe that through my vision of combining the right elements, each motion graphic design can evoke an accurate depiction of emotions and feelings that would be highly memorable and invoke positive actions in all audiences. Currently, I enjoy drawing landscapes of country life, city life, and individual faces. Each week I draw, for free, different people who request a drawing from my social media platforms. In addition, my course drawings for my college, Savannah College of Art & Design - Atlanta campus, have been displayed as part of a group exhibition in the Foundation Studies Art Hall. These drawings were requested by two of my professors as part of SCAD's submission for accreditation through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate and master degrees. Thank you for your consideration and I hope I am awarded this scholarship.

I am super excited that I get to do every day what I love doing as an illustration major at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). But I've quickly discovered that it also takes real effort to create and maintain a healthy mind, spirit and soul given the daily flow of life. Spending my time improving my overall health is one of the best investments I make each day. I'm continually learning how to make healthier decisions admist the unique situations I face in school. Implementing these skills has brought more balance to my life, maintains my motivation to succeed and creates a healthier lifestyle to reach my goals. Below are some of the key developments in my health journey that have made the most impact in a productive, college lifestyle that works amazingly for me. 1. Time management: To ensure that I have enough time to properly take care of my health, I practice better time management. After playing high school track and football, I understood how great my body felt after even the shortest workout. And even though I wasn't playing team sports in college, I did want to keep up an exercise routine. This was made even easier by free access to the gym on my college campus. But as a freshman at SCAD, my first quarter in Fall 2022 was quite overwhelming. As an illustration major, I didn't realize the number of quality assignments that would be required to secure a 3.0 GPA to keep my scholarships. I would sacrifice my sleep and exercise routine with mindless scrolling on social media. I've now focused on making a daily to-do list and prioritizing my tasks. I time-block everything! Exercising/stretching, meditation, classes, eating meals, homework time, and even time with friends. I do admit that my daily scheduling is far from perfect, but it does keep me on track. And I always take high-quality time to sleep and relax. 2. Finances: College living expenses can get pricey. I love thrifting at unique stores throughout trendy neighborhoods in Atlanta, GA where my college is located. Eating healthy and exercising can be expensive as well. I make sure to take full advantage of my college meal plan by choosing 80% of the time the healthy options in my campus cafe and dining dollars with local restaurants. Unfortunately, we do not have a kitchen in my freshman dorm. Between classes, I make sure to have healthier snack options in my backpack. I always look for ways to save money such as buying in bulk the healthy breakfast and snack options that I eat the most. And if I can't make it to the free gym on campus, I take advantage of free workout classes on YouTube fitness channels. 3. Energy: I'm usually full of energy after my workouts each morning before I go to class. My parents started a great habit of suggesting I take a multivitamin each day when I was younger and I continue to take one daily in college. I've always had a competitive mindset and my thoughts are way more focused with my body isn't sluggish. I realize that the adrenaline I get from a quick 30-minute workout will carry over to a positive mindset throughout my day. I make sure to have motivational and inspirational music or speeches playing while I workout out. It gives me the expectation to receive all the great things the world has for me each day. Thank you for the opportunity to share my mind, body and soul journey. I hope it inspires many others to continue a healthier lifestyle!

Did you know that leading a healthy lifestyle takes a lot more than just eating right and exercising? It also takes time and money to maintain, on top of the effort it takes to do well in school. Spending my time improving my health is one of the best investments I make each day. I'm continually learning how to make healthier decisions, build better eating habits and develop a consistent exercise plan. Implementing these skills has brought more balance to my life, maintains my motivation to succeed and creates a healthier lifestyle to reach my goals. Below are some of the key developments in my health journey that have made the most impact in a productive lifestyle that works amazingly for me. 1. Time management: To ensure that I have enough time to properly take care of my health, I practice better time management. After playing high school track and football, I understood how great my body felt after even the shortest workout. And even though I wasn't playing team sports in college, I did want to keep up an exercise routine. This was made even easier by free access to the gym on my college campus. But as a freshman at Savannah College of Art and Design, my first quarter in Fall 2022 was quite overwhelming. As an illustration major, I didn't realize the number of quality assignments that would be required to secure a 3.0 GPA to keep my scholarships. I would sacrifice my sleep and exercise routine with mindless scrolling on social media. I've now focused on making a daily to-do list and prioritizing my tasks. I time-block everything! Exercising/stretching, classes, eating meals, homework time, and even time with friends. And I always take high-quality time to sleep and relax. 2. Finances: Eating healthy and exercising can be expensive. I make sure to take full advantage of my college meal plan by choosing 80% of the time the healthy options in my campus cafe and dining dollars with local restaurants. Unfortunately, we do not have a kitchen in my freshman dorm. But we do have a fridge and toaster oven. Between classes, I make sure to have healthier snack options in my backpack. I always look for ways to save money such as buying in bulk the healthy breakfast and snack options that I eat the most. If I can't make it to the free gym on campus, I take advantage of free workout classes on YouTube fitness channels. 3. Energy: I'm usually full of energy after my workouts each morning before I go to class. My parents started a great habit of suggesting I take a multivitamin each day when I was younger and I continue to take one daily in college. I've always had a competitive mindset and my thoughts are way more focused with my body isn't sluggish. I realize that the adrenaline I get from a quick 30-minute workout will carry over to a positive mindset throughout my day. I make sure to have motivational and inspirational music or speeches playing while I workout out. It gives me the expectation to receive all the great things the world has for me each day. Thank you for the opportunity to share my health journey. I hope it inspires many others to continue a healthy lifestyle!

I've always been very frugal with the money I receive as gifts from others and my part-time job. The best lesson I've learned about money so far is to automate my savings from my paycheck to prevent spending all my money. I always scope out the clearance section of my favorite stores to save on the things I’d normally buy. I prefer thrift stores because I find low-cost, vintage clothing that fits my artistic look and style. I'm an email rewards member of a few Pizza chain restaurants, that way I can get rewards for ordering my favorite "go to" fast food. I work at a retail shoe store, and I’ve found that many stores offer discounts to students. Therefore, I always use my student ID when shopping by asking if there are any discounts to be had. Even if a store doesn't offer student discounts, I'll Google search that store for a discount code which normally comes up. When hanging out with friends, we switch movie nights to different people’s dorms instead of going out to the movie theater. We pop our own popcorn and get chips, dips and generic brand soft drinks because it tastes just as good, if not better than the name brand. I limit eating out to twice a month, or on special occasions like birthdays. The best part about applying for and finding scholarships is winning them! I was encouraged to apply for scholarships after a campus tour with my current college, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The financial aid officer mentioned that although my parent's contribution was $40,000, I should immediately start applying for scholarships. She said if I put in the effort, I would win many and decrease my student loans. I’ve applied for many scholarships that include: Adobe Design Circle Scholarships, AIGA Worldstudio Scholarships, Southeast EMMY® chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, and Extra Space Storage Scholarship. I’ve also applied to many other scholarships on Bold.org, MyScholly.com, and Scholarships.com. Since I'm on winter break from college, I'm working part-time. I also show TikTok lives of me drawing my art and get extra cash this way. I'm always thinking is this expense a "need" or a "want." I've learned to put my needs first and then prioritize my wants based on what's in my bank account. This has allowed me to see the rewards of my savings account growing and the ability to stay stress-free with my money. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story and I hope I am selected for your scholarship.

My name is Dylan Griggs and I have been involved in organized sports since I was five years old. The positive impact of athletics includes my disciplines of keeping fit and healthy; social relationships; mental toughness and volunteer opportunities. I started athletics with my local community park football league and continued until I could play in middle school and high school. I also started running track with USATF local leagues when I was eight years old. I then continued in my middle and high school years. I was a member of my high school's Varsity football team all four years. I was able to play in the skilled positions due to my advanced speed and athletic discipline. I was a member of the Varsity Track Team all four years of high school. My hard work paid off when I placed 8th in the Georgia state championship in the 300m hurdles. In October 2021 I broke three bones in my foot by making a tackle during a high school playoff football game. Given that this was my senior year, it was tough to take. I was in a cast for nearly six weeks. On top of that, the spring 2022 season was fast approaching with my main sport of track and field (300m hurdles). In two and a half months, I had to relearn how to walk, jog, run and hurdle all over again. But I would not allow any of these things to break me. Yes, I cried sometimes and asked God some hard questions, but my faith has grown tremendously and I consider myself an even stronger overcomer. My biggest accomplishment to date has been obtaining a personal record in the 300-meter hurdles of 43.3 seconds on April 6, 2022. This time placed me in 4th place in the state of Georgia regional track and field rankings in this race. My athletic talents were taken notice of by my number one college choice, Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) where I'm currently a freshman. I am on SCAD's track and field team as a member running the 400-meter hurdles. Being on the track team at SCAD has allowed me to meet new people and build an instant community on a campus where I knew no one. The ability to balance collegiate sports with my studies has proven valuable as I have just received my first-quarter grade of 3.0. I'm excited about what the future holds and how my skillset will prove to be just as valuable in my future employment. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story and I hope I am selected for your scholarship.

I enjoy giving my unique take on visual storytelling to make any project I'm involved with have a huge global impact. I enjoy researching to make sure all design elements accurately reflect the period being represented. Being on a team or working independently for all the illustration elements that are outlined in a project are the details I enjoy doing. I'm currently a freshman at Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta. l am immersed in the unique studies of one of the best art colleges in the United States. I enjoy using my art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I’d like to show more thriving environmentally friendly, technologically advanced communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding leads to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social well-being. I believe that looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. This scholarship will be monumental in allowing me to continue my studies as an illustrator. I've always been very frugal with the money I receive as gifts from others and my part-time job. The best lesson I've learned about money so far is to automate my savings from my paycheck to prevent spending all my money. I always scope out the clearance section of my favorite stores to save on the things I’d normally buy. I prefer thrift stores because I find low-cost, vintage clothing that fits my artistic look and style. I'm an email rewards member of a few Pizza chain restaurants, that way I can get rewards for ordering my favorite "go to" fast food. My experience and background have allowed me to build relationships with people from all walks of life. I’ve taken workshops with Toastmasters to enhance my public speaking and delivery of PowerPoint presentations. I'm learning that although I am an illustrator, I must know how to connect on a solid, human level with everyone I meet. My dad owns a landscaping company that is seasonal and my mom is currently working part-time. My mom has had to deal with two serious illnesses in the past, including being hospitalized for Covid-19 in August 2021. My mom had a stroke in November 2015 which has caused challenges with her keeping a steady job. Before that, she was an accountant with a Fortune 500 company. My sister is currently a sophomore at Belmont University studying music business. The more scholarships I can find, the lower my student loans and better quality of life I'll have after I graduate. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story and I'm hopeful you would select me as the winner of your scholarship.

One financial lesson that I find important is to not overspend. Managing my daily living expenses is an important financial choice that I have found vital to being wealthy. I had the pleasure of visiting Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta and this is definitely my dream school. I have already been accepted into SCAD and am very excited to continue developing my God-given talents of visual arts. A unique offering SCAD has already made available to me is their online financial wellness tutorials. It's helping me to learn important financial skills necessary to make informed choices and prepare for my professional career. One section in the tutorial called "spending and borrowing" caught my attention more than others. It's because I realize that even though I have a part-time job, I could be even more diligent with my financial choices. I have set up my checking account to automatically transfer funds to my savings every time I get paid from my part time job. I work at Journey’s shoe store, and I’ve found that many stores offer discounts to students. I always use my student ID when shopping by asking if there are any discounts to be had. I also find the cheapest gas stations online near me, so that my trips to work and school don't cost as much. I'm an email rewards member of a few pizza chain restaurants, that way I can get rewards for ordering my favorite "go to'' fast food. But I realize that I only need to order on special occasions and not all the time. Eating what my parents make is healthier anyway. Thank you for your consideration for this scholarship.

’d like to use my art and culture as a route to helping people think positively and act more long-term. I’d like to show more thriving environmentally-friendly, technologically advanced communities that explore a future that moves beyond present-day limitations. Good art educates and creates empathy, and empathy and understanding leads to positive change. The presence of arts is linked to increased neighborhood livability, community identity, and social wellbeing. I believe that art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences. I’ve already been accepted into Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) in Atlanta and am very excited to continue developing my God-given talents of visual arts. By attending SCAD, l will be immersed in the unique studies of one of the best art colleges in the United States. I want to help people think about what a better future can look like and how to achieve it. I'd like to give my unique take on visual storytelling to make any project I'm involved with have a huge global impact. I enjoy doing research to make sure all design elements accurately reflect the story represented. According to my research, science fiction and futuristic projects require a lot of work as graphic designers work to create a unique and innovative look for the project at hand. I can definitely agree with this statement based on my drawing of the Mandalorian. I've place a link to this drawing and a couple of others below. This drawing was one of my most liked due to the vast details in the armor. I believe that through my vision of combining the right elements, each graphic design can evoke an accurate depiction of emotions and feelings that would be highly memorable and invoke positive actions to all audiences. Thank you for considering me for this scholarship.

My life so far has been amazingly great. There have definitely been challenges to overcome. But by my faith in God and the support of my family and friends, I can truly say that I am blessed and I cannot complain. In 2021 there were a series of challenges that were almost too much to handle spiritually, mentally and physically. In June 2021 my Grandma Rosie transitioned to heaven after a second bout of cancer. In August 2021 my mom, Dorothy was hospitalized with Covid-19 and thankfully was healed. In October 2021 I broke three bones in my foot by making a tackle during a playoff football game. Given that this is my senior year, it was tough to take. I was in a cast for nearly six weeks. And now that it's Spring season, my main sport of track and field (300m hurdles) is in full swing. In the past two and a half months, I’ve had to relearn how to walk, jog, run and hurdle all over again. But I would not allow any of these things to break me. Yes, I cried sometimes and asked God some hard questions, but my faith has grown tremendously and I consider myself an even stronger overcomer. My biggest accomplishment to date has been obtaining a personal record in the 300 meter hurdles of 43.3 seconds on April 6, 2022. This time has placed me in 4th place in the state of Georgia regional track and field rankings in this race. However, my work is not finished until I compete at the state Championships in mid May 2022 for the first place prize. In addition, in February 2022, I had the pleasure of visiting Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) after being accepted. This is definitely my dream school. By attending SCAD as a freshman in Fall 2022, l will be immersed in the unique studies of one of the best art colleges in the United States.These funds will definitely help me convert my thoughts, feelings, emotions, and visions, into tangible forms that brings more joy, love and peace to everyone who encounters them. Some of my extra-curricular activities include Vice-President of my high school's student council. I oversee the school decorations committee for events, hall decorations, and daily updates of our Instagram senior page. In this role, I have developed a better understanding of the importance of excellent communication skills. Being able to present my ideas is vital to my professional success. I have taken non-required workshops with Toastmasters to enhance my public speaking and outstanding delivery of PowerPoint presentations. I have taken art classes at Spruill Arts Center in Atlanta, GA that have improved my drawing skills tremendously. I’ve even had the privilege of selling some of my drawings on my Etsy account as well. My mindset has been improved greatly by my parents and mentors who keep encouraging me to daily work on my skills because they will bring me before great men and women. This is part of my life’s purpose. To give my unique take on visual storytelling to make any project I'm involved with have a huge global impact, and that helps people think positively and act more long-term. Thank you for your consideration.

This scholarship will be monumental in allowing me to realize my dream of a canvas-focused, graphite drawing artist. Today, I visited Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) and this is definitely a dream school for me. l will be immersed in the unique studies of one of the best art colleges in the United States that is less than 30 minutes from my home. However, I do believe I should stay on campus, at least my freshman year, to get the full college experience. I have been drawing since Kindergarten and I even illustrated a book for my friends in second grade that my parents made copies of for my classmates. During summer months, I take art classes at Spruill Arts Center in Atlanta, GA that have improved my skills tremendously. Every other week, I update my time-lapsed drawings on Twitch and Instagram Live to help grow my audience and share my love of drawing. I sell some of my drawings on my Etsy account as well. But meeting the financial need of attending SCAD will really launch me into the career of my dreams.