"The greatest wealth is health," says Virgil. Many people take health for granted until life delivers a painful reminder of its fragility. For me, that reminder came through my family’s history with cancer. On my mother’s side of the family, cancer has been a recurring battle. My uncle passed away from covid, and other relatives have experienced cancer in different forms. Witnessing this pattern so close to home has shaped how I view my body, choices, and future. It has turned health from something optional into a daily priority. I understand that genetics plays a role in cancer, but I also know that lifestyle, environment, and prevention can make a powerful difference. Because of this, I take proactive steps to lower my risks. Nutrition has become a foundation. I aim to eat more whole foods, fruits, and vegetables while limiting processed options that can increase long-term health problems. Staying hydrated and balancing meals is not just a habit but a way of respecting my body and knowing the history in my bloodline. Exercise is another form of protection. I take seriously. Even when life gets busy, I make room for movement, walking, stretching, or working out to strengthen my body and reduce stress. Growing up, I was always in spurts of energy. I loved running, jumping, and moving around as much as I could, almost as if being still wasn’t natural. That energy has stayed with me, and I channel it into healthier routines today. One practice that has especially helped me is Pilates. Pilates challenges my strength and flexibility but also centers me mentally, teaching me discipline, patience, and control. It helps me maintain balance, improve posture, and lower stress, which supports my efforts to keep my blood pressure healthy. Finally, I protect my mental and emotional health. Watching my family members struggle with cancer was not only a physical reality but an emotional weight. Prioritizing self-care, prayer, supportive friendships, and positive outlets helps me handle stress and maintain resilience. A healthy mind supports a healthy body; both are necessary to break the cycle that has hurt my family. In many ways, my family’s history with cancer and health struggles has been both painful and motivating. I cannot change the past, but I can learn from it. By making health a priority in my daily life through nutrition, exercise, Pilates, blood pressure management, and mental wellness, I am writing a new future for myself. I want to live a life where health is not only maintained but celebrated, and where the legacy I pass on is not one of illness but of strength and intentional care.

Growing up, my family always deemed having a good time with each other mainly consisted of drinking and smoking. Occasionally, it got to a point where someone was fighting by the end of the night. For a minute, I started to engage in drinking and smoking because my friends and family praised those activities highly. As I developed into a woman, I noticed that those activities numbed pain temporarily, but once the high faded, reality returned, often more complicated than before. Although it feels like the best medicine to take in the moment, you are stuck with the same enduring pain. That causes someone to disregard their true feelings, leading to many deadly results like addiction, overdose, or death. My grandpa was a cocaine addict; he didn't care about anything else but cocaine. Although I loved my grandpa, it hurts to know that he was battling with deeper issues that he never knew could be resolved in healthier ways. So, I ensured he felt loved and appreciated whenever he was around. He died three years ago, and that grief fuels my passion to create spaces where healing is possible. As an African American woman living in Jackson, Mississippi, I've seen countless women fall into this same cycle of temporary highs and long-term emptiness. Too often, our system reinforces this behavior by offering no real alternatives. I find it heartbreaking and frustrating. But I also saw hope. I am grateful that I am at New Vineyard Church. I have been surrounded by leaders and advocates who want to see real change despite our current obstacles. Working with these people has made my vision easier, and I want to create academic and therapy programs that assist in putting women on a path of success. One program I am proud of that we have started is Mom University at my church. It is a program dedicated to mothers who need help navigating life, school, and their children. We provide safe spaces for opening up about critical situations or circumstances and point them towards healthy coping mechanisms and resources. Many women have grown positively since this program started. I plan to open more businesses and programs that provide the resources needed to help individuals heal positively. Trying to change people's lives is far from easy. Real change comes from those who actually make it happen. So, I am grateful to be at Jackson State University. This University was started because they wanted to change the narrative around them. With the help of the leaders involved in the school, we are bound to significantly impact many women in Jackson, since the majority of the population in Jackson, Mississippi, is African American Women. I plan to host women's therapy sessions with the help of other organizations and donate essential items to single mothers every Friday. Although it's not grand gestures, I have witnessed these acts of service significantly change their lives. Surely, I am dedicated to continuing these programs by starting a business that will allow these programs to be associated with the government. My intentions to create a safe space for women to deal with their personal problems and not be judged or taxed are desperately needed in Jackson. That will be the catalyst for a revolution in Jackson. Reassuring women, they are not alone in this crazy journey called life.

I am a southern girl! Raised in the heart of Dallas, Texas! My family are always involved in the community. My father went from teaching in a low-income community to selling furniture at an old K-mart in the south of Dallas, Texas. Eventually, my mother transitioned from working at Mary Kay's factory for over a decade to selling hair extensions in the same building as my dad's store. Our family business has always needed hands-on help. From a young age, I stepped up cleaning, assisting customers, and moving furniture. Through our work, we've built a reputation of love and trust in the community because we serve wholeheartedly. Outside of the business, I have been involved in sports since I was 8 years old. I have done gymnastics, volleyball, cheerleading, and softball from elementary to high school. We always did community events, whether it was community cleanups, food drives, car washes, or other fundraisers, to continue being a positive program for youth in the community. Even today, there are many people in the community who still are feeling the positive effects of our services. I have always enjoyed performing acts of service because they truly change people's lives. As I have been in college at Jackson State University, I have continued my service by faithfully volunteering to mentor the youth in the community. My church home, New Vineyard Church, has mentored youth for over 15 years. We have gathered quality resources that will help them achieve their goals for the future. In addition, we have shown them they can build their leadership and confidence through affirmations and scripture, which we teach them to keep close to their hearts. One of the most charitable moments with them has been hosting a youth event called "God loves You", where other youth leaders and I teach them how to love authentically and godly. Many of them have decided to dedicate their lives to Christ from that event. This has been a fulfilling moment in my life. With my business major in entrepreneurship, I plan to open businesses after I graduate college. I want to invest in properties that give the people in the community the right to jobs, good housing, and a sense of security in their own neighborhoods. Jackson is one of the poorest cities in America. This has been caused by an inadequate system that underserves the community. When you first get to Jackson, you think no one is trying to change that narrative, but I was further from the truth. Some people are helping the city of Jackson become a better tomorrow. Still, we need to change the poor legislative rules operating in Jackson. I plan to break those barriers by opening businesses that dismantle the poor system and rises Jackson to a thriving community. That goal can be achievable with the right resources, determination, and partnerships with others with the same vision. I trust God and my community to see it come to life.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” (Mahatma Gandhi). Many people feel the need to give or help someone in the moment. But imagine if helping others became a way of living, not just a reaction. I’ve made it my personal mission to give back in any way I can. I come from a family of selfless people whenever they had something to give, they offered it without hesitation. That example taught me that when you help others, you're also helping yourself grow in character, compassion, and purpose. That mindset has shaped me into a determined, caring, and grounded student at Jackson State University. As I continue my journey, I look forward to joining organizations like the Wesley Foundation a Christian group dedicated to uplifting students through faith, fellowship, and service. I’m excited to be part of something that not only builds character but also empowers me to serve my campus and community at no cost. In the future, I plan to open businesses that help break the economic barriers in Jackson, MS. I’ve seen how poverty and unstable environments can dim even the brightest futures. My goal is to create spaces that offer security, and purpose. Through job opportunities, affordable housing, and community-driven programs, I want to help build a stronger, more hopeful Jackson. I believe it takes the help of today to see a better tomorrow.

Raised in the heart of inner-city Dallas, where my parents own a thriving furniture store that is more than just a regular store; it is a cornerstone of support for the people around the community. Firsthand, I saw how service and hard work could change lives. My parents built a life for our family and a network of trust and acceptance for the community around them. They taught me what real success is, not how much you stuff into your pockets but how many hearts you touch along the way. Their relentless graft, kindness, and resilience taught me to show up with my best, lead with my heart, and make a difference, and bucket loads of hard work always pay. These values have formed mainly my identity and inspired me to engage in furthering the lives of the members of my own community and education. Education has also been my north star. My father was an educator for over 20 years in a low-income community, and he spent my entire life emphasizing that education is a life-changing advantage. As a second-generation college student, I do not see higher education as a personal accolade but as a duty to use my privileged platform to raise others. Attending Jackson State University, a historically black university, has enabled me to develop in an atmosphere that promotes black excellence and provides leadership opportunities. Being at JSU has solidified my passion for making a difference in people for all the right reasons. When Individuals work together for the betterment of society, then better does come in the end. This resolution inspired me to establish a high school mentorship program. I wanted to do something more than textbooks, giving students the skills for real-world success. By providing academic tutoring, leadership development, financial literacy, and practical life skills like time management and goal setting, the program equips students for college and their careers. In a world ready to tear one another down, I include affirmations and reading scripture to build their resilience and self-esteem. To see the students emerge with confidence, set ambitious goals, and begin to see themselves as future leaders has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life. I see firsthand how young people with the right tools and self-confidence change their futures and the future of their communities. I am determined to make a drastic difference in the surrounding neighborhoods. I aspire to implement businesses and startups that fix economic leverage and put new practical skills in the hands of real people. I will develop education in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, leadership, and job readiness training to allow for a path to a sustainable career and personal growth. In addition to direct services, I will fight for legislative change to dismantle systemic barriers and create long-range equity. I think the way to revive communities is through economic empowerment and creating pathways to opportunity and self-sufficiency; I hope to help bring generational change that lifts people and empowers families and communities. My passion, determination, and dedication to make a difference are who I am at my very core. They are shaped by my family’s sacrifices and by an unfaltering commitment to the power of education and opportunity. By mentoring, entrepreneurship, and serving purposefully, I intend to transform hope into tangible change and leave behind stronger individuals, strong families, and strong communities to last for generations.

Growing up in a close-knit community in inner-city Dallas, I've witnessed firsthand the power of education, service, and resilience. My journey toward entrepreneurship was shaped by my deep-rooted commitment to uplifting those around me. Inspired by my father's great commitment to teaching and servicing the community, I have followed the same narrow path. At just 15 years old, I started working at my family's local furniture store, initially just looking for something to do after school. However, what began as a way to pass time quickly transformed into a passion for service. Seeing the impact of small acts of kindness on people’s lives made me realize how meaningful it is to support and uplift others. The joy on the faces of those we helped ignited a fire in me, one that continues to drive my desire to make a difference. When I began my college journey, I took my commitment a step further by creating a mentorship program for high school students of color. I wanted to do more than just offer academic support—I wanted to instill confidence, self-worth, and a belief in their dreams. Through structured sessions that include scripture readings, affirmations, and goal-setting exercises, I have watched these students grow academically and personally. Seeing them flourish reminds me that change happens one person at a time, and the small lessons we share can have lasting impacts. Education has always been my guiding star. As a second-generation college student, I don’t see higher education as just a personal achievement; it is a tool for uplifting my entire community. I am pursuing a degree in Entrepreneurship because I believe business is one of the most powerful ways to drive change. My goal is to establish businesses that provide job opportunities, mentorship programs, and resources to underserved communities, bridging the gap between education and real-world success. When I arrived at Jackson State University, I was immediately surrounded by an environment where Black excellence was celebrated and cultivated. I found a community that encouraged me to be authentic, dream big, and take bold steps toward my future. I have always been actively involved in my school and church, and USU has further fueled my ambition to give back in even more significant ways. I want to take what I have learned here and pour it into my business ventures that will revitalize communities and create lasting opportunities for others. My commitment to entrepreneurship is more than just about business, it’s about legacy, empowerment, and creating spaces where people of color can thrive. Jackson, like many predominantly Black communities, has immense potential, but economic challenges have held it back. I want to be part of the solution by investing in properties, creating businesses, and providing services that reflect the needs of its residents. Some may call it crazy to stay and invest in Jackson, but I see it as an opportunity to restore and uplift a city filled with promise. I envision a future where thriving Black-owned businesses are the backbone of this community, where young entrepreneurs have access to the resources they need, and where economic empowerment is no longer just a dream but a reality. I will not leave until I see that vision come to life. Entrepreneurship is about more than making money, it’s about making an impact. I am determined to use my education, faith, and passion for service to create lasting change, ensuring that the next generation has even more opportunities than I did. With perseverance and dedication, I know that I can help shape a brighter future for my community, one business at a time.

Growing up in a close-knit community in inner-city Dallas, I experienced the power of education and service firsthand. Inspired by Joyce Tolbert's belief that showing God's love through service can spark change, I have dedicated my life to uplifting those around me. At the age of twelve, I began volunteering at a local furniture store, initially to fill my time after school. However, this experience blossomed into a profound passion for community engagement. Witnessing the joy on the faces of those I served, I understood that listening and supporting others could ignite hope and purpose. During my college journey, I deepened my commitment to service by initiating a mentorship program to empower high school children of color. This program not only provided academic support but also focused on self-esteem, goal-setting, and the significance of education. Through our sessions, which include reading scriptures and affirmations, we instill a belief in their potential and the importance of personal growth. As a result, the children improve daily, demonstrating the positive impact of the small yet meaningful lessons we emphasize in our program. My dedication to virtuous living goes beyond just community service; it’s woven into the very fabric of who I am. I strive to lead by example, balancing academic excellence with active participation in my church's youth group. These experiences have shown me the profound importance of integrity, perseverance, and using my voice to advocate for positive change. Education has always been my guiding star. As a second-generation college aspirant, I see higher education not just as a personal milestone, but as a powerful tool for uplifting my community. My passion for learning is reflected in my rigorous course load, but it’s about more than just grades. I dream of pursuing a degree in Entrepreneurship, to become both an educator and a business owner in underserved communities. I want to nurture young minds and inspire a lifelong love for learning. My vision includes creating innovative programs that connect classroom lessons to real-world applications, emphasizing community service and civic engagement. I believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and I hope to be a catalyst for change, showing them that they can achieve anything with hard work and dedication. Together, we can build a brighter future, one where education empowers and transforms lives. In essence, the B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E. spirit encapsulates core values and aspirations. It reminds me daily that true fulfillment comes from serving others, that education is a powerful catalyst for change, and that with faith and determination, we can overcome any obstacle. Like Joyce Tolbert, I believe in the ripple effect of love and service, and I am committed to carrying forward her legacy by dedicating my life to uplifting others through education and community outreach. As I stand on the threshold of higher education, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my story. I pledge to honor the spirit of this scholarship by continuing to embody the B.A.B.Y. L.O.V.E. principles in all that I do, striving to make a positive impact on the lives of others, just as Joyce Tolbert did throughout her inspiring life.

Being Black to me is a source of strength, resilience, and cultural richness. It means embracing my heritage, celebrating my ancestry, and standing in solidarity with fellow black individuals in the ongoing fight for equality and justice. It means defying stereotypes, breaking barriers, and striving for excellence in the face of adversity. Choosing to attend a Historically Black University was a deliberate decision rooted in my desire to immerse myself in a supportive community that celebrates and uplifts Black excellence. At Jackson State University, I found a nurturing environment where I could thrive academically, socially, and culturally. It provided me with invaluable opportunities to connect with like-minded peers, engage with inspiring mentors, and cultivate a sense of pride in my identity. In the future, I envision myself as a catalyst for positive change within underserved communities, particularly those within the African American community. Drawing upon my entrepreneurial skills and education, I aspire to establish businesses and initiatives that address pressing social issues, contribute to economic development, and empower individuals to overcome systemic barriers. One avenue I plan to explore is the creation of job training programs and mentorship initiatives aimed at providing pathways to economic stability and upward mobility for marginalized populations. Additionally, I am passionate about advocating for policy reforms that promote equity and dismantle systemic inequalities. By choosing an HBCU, I have not only furthered my education but also deepened my understanding of the profound impact of Black institutions in shaping the trajectory of our collective future.

Imagine an intuitive young girl curious about the world around her. Ever since I was a young girl, I have never been afraid to entangle myself in the world. Growing up in South Texas, I have always been surrounded by a thriving community. Nothing was done in the community that I didn't know about. Every day, something was ready for me to participate in, such as gardening at the school, performing for the community, or just picking up trash off the road. Over the years, I have greatly learned what it looks like to help my community, how to improve it, and how minor impacts can make a huge difference. My dad was very involved in the school system as a teacher. This is where I learned about the importance of education. My dad was very strict in his studies, so I always read a book or did some work after school. Half the time, I did not enjoy it, but it perfectly reflected in my grades that It was rewarding. As I grew up, I steadily prioritized my studies and enjoyed being in sports. I love the challenge sports bring; it keeps my spirit up. Over the years, I have done many sports, such as cheerleading, volleyball, basketball, etc. I wanted to keep this habit for the rest of my life, so I went to Jackson State University. When I arrived at Jackson State, I tried out for sports. Unfortunately, I did not make the team, but I knew I still wanted to be involved in school. As I continued my studies here, I witnessed a world where you can authentically be yourself and find people with the same interests, goals, and aspirations. These are just a few main parts of being at Jackson State University. As I have been here, It has been a breeding ground for young African Americans, including myself, to become their best version. Also, it gives us a safe place to define who we are and learn more about ourselves as we continue the college experience. I have never associated home with school in my younger years because I did not feel a sense of closeness with my schools. This school has beautiful individuals caring for your physical, mental, and emotional state. I believe this is very significant for a school because we are all individuals experiencing life, so people need to have an environment to express themselves. Even when we are not feeling ourselves, something is there to change our spirits. The teachers feel like my very own mom, aunties, and uncles. They always look for our best interests in all aspects of our lives. There is nothing that this school would not do for its students. I am very grateful and honored to go to such a great school. Every time I step on campus, it feels like being at home. When I arrived at JSU, I knew I wanted to have the same impact on the college as I did with my community at home. So, I decided to pursue entrepreneurship. Being an entrepreneur is putting people's desires before your own. I am always happy to see my impact on the community in an uplifting way. My community back home is still thriving today because everyone contributes to the same goal for the community: improvement. Although Jackson has a great community, its economic state is low. As an entrepreneur, I want to invest in Jackson properties to grow Jackson's financial state. Many businesses are needed in Jackson, such as retail stores, manufacturing stores, organic stores, etc. The love is enormous in Jackson, so I believe these businesses can reflect the residents living here in Jackson. Many people call it crazy to stay in Jackson, but with faith, Jackson can look like the beautiful capital it is meant to be. I will not leave here till it does.

Death leaves a sorrow that no one can heal. It suddenly enters your life and engulfs your world. It tastes very bitter. Everything felt so alive and bright when you think about a time when death didn't exist yet. I told him to go, but he won't go. It means staying here. Against my will, I was forced not to leave this stranger. At first, I was upset that it didn't come out of my world. I quickly got used to his presence. Eventually, I began to regain control of my world while living with this. It wasn't easy, but it was definitely worth it...  I had this feeling for months when death took my brother. I remember when I first heard the news. My friends and I were going shopping together, and I got a phone call from my mother stating Darnell had shot himself in the head. Instantly, I fell to the floor, balling my eyes out. It was a feeling I had never experienced in life. It was raw and cold, like I had just been in a deep freezer. I don't remember how I got home, but my family greeted me with hugs and sorrow. The house was chilly that day. My red eyes and despairing face said it all. I was crying till the sun came through my bedroom window. I knew working would help me control my emotions. So, I continued to work for the next three months. Although my brother passed away three months, It still felt like I heard the news just yesterday. So, I decided to take time off my job. Finally, I accepted that I was depressed. In the movies, depression is portrayed as someone who always feels sorry for themselves, so I never suspected I was in that condition. When I finally took a glimpse of myself in the mirror, I saw I was depressed, trying to make it seem like I wasn't. Eventually, I started school. At the start of every fall semester, there are tons of events for everyone to indulge in around campus. So, I decided to link with my college friends and have some fun. I knew I had to do something on campus that enlightened my soul. So I started joining organizations. It was the best decision I ever made. I made a difference on campus and in the community. I also visited a school therapist. After a while, I felt better than the girl I was before my brother died. I was stronger, wiser, and, most importantly, happier. If anyone has had a similar experience, I would like to tell them that God has not left their side since their sibling passed away. So don't lose your trust in God. It will be difficult, but time will heal all wounds. If you enjoy a hobby, do it more often than you normally would. Even if it's only for a short time, it helps to distract the mind from grieving. I took a break before school started. So, if losing a sibling is just as hard for you, I encourage you to do the same. If not, find someone or a friend who has gone through a similar experience and vent to them. They will know what is best for you in times like these. I had friends that I considered family who watched over me 24/7 as I struggled with depression. I am grateful to have such friends. Because of them, I wouldn't be the woman I am today. You are not alone...