Despite the miles separating Texas and Oklahoma, my grandpa made it to nearly every piano recital. As I played, I often thought of his mother, a talented singer whose artistic dreams took a backseat to family. He saw a similar spark in me, and it was at his church, during my visits to Oklahoma, that his pride felt most palpable. Playing in the small sanctuary, the notes seemed to resonate with a deeper meaning. In those moments, I wasn't just playing music; I felt a profound connection to him, our Kickapoo heritage, and the artistic spirit he valued so deeply. My journey with the piano began at the age of six, a decision my dad hoped would unlock some hidden mathematical talent. While numbers remained a mystery, I found myself drawn to the instrument. During my visits to my grandparents in Oklahoma, this connection to music deepened, particularly when my grandpa would ask me to play at his church. As his hands clapped a little louder than the others, I knew it wasn't just about the music itself; it was about carrying on a legacy, one that his own mother had been unable to fully realize. He often shared her story – a gifted singer accepted to Juilliard who chose family over a career on stage. This wasn't a tale of regret, but one of sacrifice, shaped by the societal expectations placed on Native American women of her time. My grandpa saw in my musical inclination a chance for that artistic potential to flourish, a chance he wanted me to seize without hesitation. My grandpa’s encouragement extended beyond just my individual playing. He envisioned my music as a way to connect and uplift our Kickapoo community. This vision took root during my grandparents' annual Christmas party at their church. What started as me playing solo eventually evolved into a trio with my younger sister and cousin occasionally joining in. We would play familiar Christmas carols, and I would often close with classical pieces, a way to share the breadth of music I was learning. This collaborative experience deepened my understanding of music's power to bring people together and fostered a sense of shared pride within our family and community. Seeing the joy our music brought to my grandpa and his friends reinforced my desire to not only pursue excellence in music myself but also to encourage that same pursuit in others within my Native American tribe, hoping to show them that artistic success is within their reach. My commitment to fostering musical growth extended beyond those Christmas gatherings. During my sophomore year, I began teaching my younger sister piano through weekly lessons and practice sessions, a commitment that continues to this day. This experience has not only reinforced my own understanding of musical concepts but has also allowed me to witness firsthand the joy and confidence that learning an instrument can bring. It's a way for me to share the gift my grandpa encouraged in me and to nurture that same potential in another member of our family. By striving for excellence in my own musical pursuits and by actively guiding my sister's development, I aim to demonstrate to my Native American community that dedication and passion can lead to meaningful achievements.

The values instilled during formative years often shape an individual's trajectory, and for me, this was profoundly influenced by my parents' shared experience in the United States Army, beginning at West Point. Their time at the US Military Academy ingrained in them the core tenets of "Duty, Honor, Country", which served as the foundation of our household. These principles, further reinforced by the Army Values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, became the guiding force in my upbringing, shaping my approach to education and life's challenges. The emphasis on duty and responsibility instilled by my parents' military service translated directly into my educational journey. Facing the complexities of Escobar's Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that has necessitated 34 surgeries, required a level of discipline and resilience mirroring the dedication demanded in the military. Missing significant amounts of school due to medical needs meant I often had to independently navigate my learning, fostering a sense of self-reliance and problem-solving, qualities often associated with a military upbringing. My parents' unwavering belief in the importance of perseverance, a trait cultivated through the military, motivated me to consistently strive for excellence, even when faced with setbacks. While I may not have always been the most naturally gifted student, the value of hard work, deeply ingrained by their example, ensured I was rarely outworked by others. Beyond their military careers, my father's transition to entrepreneurship with the founding of 151 Capital three years ago provided another powerful source of inspiration. His application of military-honed skills such as resilience, self-motivation, leadership, and the ability to execute plans to the business world demonstrated a tangible way to translate values into real-world impact. The mission statement of his company, rooted in duty, honor, country, integrity, grit, discipline, and excellence, further underscored the enduring relevance of these principles beyond military service. Witnessing his dedication to building a company based on these values instilled in me a desire to pursue my own goals with similar integrity and purpose. The Army Value of selfless service, consistently modeled by my parents, has also profoundly influenced my educational journey. Despite my personal health challenges, I felt a strong desire to use my experiences to connect with and uplift others facing similar difficulties. This led to the creation of my social influencer persona, which has reached a significant audience of approximately 140,000 followers and garnered millions of views. This endeavor reflects the military emphasis on contributing to something larger than oneself, allowing me to turn my disability into a light for others. Furthermore, the discipline and pursuit of excellence, values central to both military service and entrepreneurship, have been instrumental in my pursuit of classical piano. My achievements, including performances on NPR and at the Texas State Fair, and the upcoming opportunity to perform with the Austin Symphony, are a direct result of years of my dedicated practice and unwavering commitment to honing my craft. This dedication mirrors the commitment required in the military and in building a successful business, reinforcing how consistent effort and a focus on excellence are key to achieving meaningful goals . In conclusion, my educational journey has been intertwined with the values and experiences imparted by my parents' military service and my father's entrepreneurial venture. The principles of duty, honor, integrity, grit, discipline, and excellence have not only guided my approach to academics but have also empowered me to overcome personal challenges, inspire others, and pursue artistic excellence. Their example continues to shape my aspirations, instilling in me a profound understanding of the power of values-driven action in achieving both personal and professional fulfillment.

I was never supposed to be a pianist. Most people don’t expect someone with a physical disability to play classical piano, let alone pursue it with passion and purpose. But for me, music became the one place where my body didn’t define my limits. It gave me a voice when I couldn’t speak, a purpose when things felt uncertain, and a way to connect when words fell short. Living with Arthrogryposis, I’ve faced tight muscles, weak joints, and over thirty surgeries. Even so, music has always felt like a possibility—an open space where I could create without limits. Turning that possibility into something real has taken years of focused effort, support, and persistence. Throughout high school, I’ve studied piano with deep focus and dedication under Dr. Bret Serrin, continued advanced music theory classes with Dr. Carl Van Wyk and Mr. Evan Ritter, and participated in two years of Dalcroze training with Dr. Jeremy Dittus. Each lesson, class, and performance became more than just practice—it became a chance to prove to myself and others that I could do more than anyone expected, even when my body said otherwise. Because of my disability, I can’t play chords larger than a third with my left hand and no larger than a sixth with my right. I play almost entirely with one finger on my left hand, and each piece requires customized fingerings and adapted voicings. Despite that, I’ve tackled challenging repertoire and pushed my expressive range. I recently performed on NPR’s From the Top, a nationally broadcast showcase of young classical musicians. That moment wasn’t just about being heard—it was about being seen for who I really am: a musician, not a diagnosis. In music, I’ve found not just a creative outlet, but a home. It’s where I feel most connected to others and to myself. Whether I’m performing a Mozart fantasy or a Chopin Nocturne, I’m telling a story that goes beyond what I can physically say or do. I’ve also found a community of teachers and fellow musicians who don’t see my disability first—they see my passion. That acceptance has been life-changing. Music has helped me through countless surgeries and long recoveries. When I couldn’t speak clearly due to pain or wiring in my jaw, music gave me a way to still express emotion and feel grounded. It’s made me resilient. It’s taught me to listen, adapt, and lead with empathy—skills I carry into every part of life. As I look toward college, I plan to double major in Music and another field—likely Economics or Political Science—because I want to keep all doors open while staying true to the art that has shaped me. No matter what path I take professionally, music will always be central to who I am. It’s not just a passion—it’s a lifelong commitment to expression, connection, and growth. That’s why this scholarship holds deep personal meaning for me. I never met Nick Lindblad, but from what I understand, he saw music as something deeply meaningful—something that connects people. I feel the same way. To be considered for a scholarship in his memory is not just an honor; it’s a reminder that music, even after someone is gone, can keep their spirit alive and moving through the world. I hope to carry that legacy forward—not just by continuing to perform, but by using music to build empathy, community, and connection in every space I’m part of.

Living with Escobar’s Syndrome has shaped nearly every part of my life—but it has never defined me. I was born with tight, weak muscles and severely limited mobility in my joints. By the time I turned 17, I had already undergone 33 surgeries, with more to come. Every step I take in braces comes with effort and persistence. I’ve had to learn to navigate a world not built for me, while still showing up fully in everything I do. One of the most important parts of my life is music. I’ve been playing piano for over twelve years, and due to my physical limitations, I had to completely reinvent how I play. I can’t span more than a fourth with my left hand or a sixth with my right, and I play non-chord tones with only my index finger. Yet I’ve never let that stop me. I’ve worked with my teacher to adapt techniques, restructure pieces, and create a playing style that works for me. One of my favorite achievements has been performing on From the Top, an NPR radio show that features the next generation of classical musicians. It reflected not only my musicianship, but the years of problem-solving, creativity, and determination that got me to that stage. Music has always given me a sense of identity and direction. In a world that often highlights what disabled people can’t do, piano became a way for me to show what I can. Every piece I learn is a challenge I adapt to. It’s not just about playing notes, it’s about rewriting the rules for people like me. Outside of music, I’ve found purpose through advocacy. I started Grace Nova, a social media initiative that amplifies the voices of people with disabilities like me. I use my platform to tell honest stories—what it’s like to grow up disabled, how surgeries affect education, why accessible design matters, and how disability intersects with identity. My videos range from day-in-the-life content, to disability etiquette and awareness, to calling out ableism in media and policy. I want my viewers to walk away with more understanding, more empathy, and more urgency to create change. Through Grace Nova, I’ve also connected with parents of disabled children who often reach out for advice or encouragement. Some ask how to support their child’s mental health during recovery from surgery, others want to know how to advocate for IEP accommodations. These conversations remind me how important visibility and community are—especially for families navigating disability for the first time. Being able to speak from personal experience and help others feel less alone has become one of the most meaningful parts of my work. I’ve faced more than my share of challenges—recovering from major surgeries while keeping up with school, advocating for accommodations, and constantly having to prove that disability doesn’t mean inability. There were times I felt underestimated, isolated, or overwhelmed. Still, I kept showing up. I’ve maintained strong grades, poured my heart into music, and built a platform that’s reaching thousands of people across the country. Looking forward, I plan to major in economics and minor in music, while also exploring areas like political science or communications. My long-term goal is to work in a space that combines strategy, storytelling, and advocacy—whether that’s in public policy, law, or social impact. I want to be a voice for inclusion and representation, and to use my lived experience to improve systems that often overlook people like me. This scholarship wouldn’t just help fund my education, but also represent an investment in someone who’s ready to turn personal challenges into public impact.

I have spent my entire life adapting to a world that wasn’t designed for me. Simple things—opening doors, using public transportation, even navigating a classroom—come with challenges that most people never have to think about. Having arthrogryposis means that my muscles and joints are tight and weak, making everyday tasks physically demanding. Still, the most difficult obstacles I have encountered are not physical. They are societal—assumptions that I’m incapable, systems that don’t accommodate me, and opportunities that seem just out of reach. That’s why I created Grace Nova, a social media initiative dedicated to disability advocacy, awareness, and empowerment. Through it, I share my experiences navigating a world that often overlooks people with disabilities, helping others understand the barriers we face while also creating a community for those who need to know they’re not alone. I started Grace Nova because I know what it’s like to feel invisible—to feel like no one understands the struggles of living with a disability. Over time, it has become more than just a platform for storytelling; it has become a space for education and change. Beyond raising awareness, I want my advocacy to lead to real, lasting change. After college, I plan to work on initiatives that improve accessibility in education and professional spaces. Whether through policy work, community outreach, or mentorship programs, my goal is to create tangible solutions that give people with disabilities greater opportunities to succeed. Advocacy isn’t just about speaking—it’s about action. One of the most rewarding aspects of Grace Nova has been its ability to start difficult but necessary conversations. Through this platform, I’ve helped shift perspectives, showing others how small changes in accessibility can make a big difference. I’ve also connected with young people with disabilities who now feel empowered to pursue their own goals, knowing they’re not alone in their struggles. These moments remind me why this work is so important. As I move forward in my education and career, my goal is to take this advocacy beyond social media. I want to expand Grace Nova into a broader movement—one that not only amplifies voices but also drives initiatives that directly impact policies and institutions. I envision a world where accessibility is not an afterthought but a fundamental part of how we design spaces, workplaces, and opportunities. I want to ensure that future students don’t have to fight to be included in classrooms, that disabled professionals don’t have to justify their competence, and that young people with disabilities grow up seeing themselves represented in all areas of society. My experiences have taught me that representation matters—not just in media, but in leadership, education, and decision-making. True inclusion happens when disabled individuals are given a seat at the table, not just as subjects of discussion but as active voices shaping policies and cultural narratives. I see myself becoming a leader in this movement, advocating for disability inclusion on a broader scale and working to dismantle the systemic barriers that have excluded so many. I believe that by fostering conversations, breaking down misconceptions, and fighting for structural change, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society—one where people with disabilities are not only accommodated but valued. My advocacy work is only beginning, and I am committed to ensuring that the next generation of disabled individuals has greater access to opportunities than those before them.

The first time I saw my advocacy reach beyond my immediate circle was when Grace Nova caught the attention of major brands. What started as a passion project to amplify the voices of individuals like myself with physical disabilities turned into a platform that allowed me to collaborate with companies like OnStar and Tommy Hilfiger. With Tommy Hilfiger, I had the opportunity to work on their adaptive clothing line, designed specifically for people with disabilities. They sent me clothing tailored for accessibility, and I created a TikTok showcasing their designs, sharing how fashion could be both stylish and functional for individuals like me. This collaboration was personal—it wasn’t just about representation in marketing, but about real, tangible change in how companies think about inclusivity. Through these experiences, I realized that business could be a driving force in creating opportunity and fostering equity. Grace Nova began as a way for me to share personal experiences and advocate for disability representation, but I quickly realized that sustaining and expanding its impact required a deeper understanding of business strategy. Managing partnerships with major brands meant negotiating contracts, aligning missions, and balancing financial considerations. I learned how to craft compelling proposals that highlighted the mutual benefits of collaboration, ensuring that advocacy efforts resonated with both communities and corporations. By working with established companies, I had to navigate complex decision-making processes, develop persuasive communication strategies, and understand the intricacies of brand partnerships. Learning how to position disability advocacy as an asset rather than a charitable effort gave me insight into how businesses can merge social impact with financial success. The experience taught me that business skills are essential for making a social enterprise sustainable and scalable. One of the biggest takeaways from these partnerships was the importance of adaptability. While working with OnStar, I had to ensure that messaging about accessibility aligned with both their brand and the real needs of disabled individuals. With Tommy Hilfiger, I witnessed how companies are beginning to embrace adaptive fashion, yet there remains a gap in understanding true inclusivity. Having the chance to personally engage with their adaptive clothing line made me realize how essential it is for disabled voices to be directly involved in business decisions that impact us. Seeing firsthand how a major brand approached accessibility reinforced my belief that businesses can lead the way in reshaping industries when they actively listen to underrepresented communities. These experiences showed me firsthand how business decisions can drive social impact, solidifying my desire to study business in college. With a business degree, I aim to bridge the gap between financial success and social responsibility. Whether through entrepreneurship, strategic consulting, or impact-driven investments, I want to create opportunities for individuals who, like me, have faced systemic barriers. Business is about people, innovation, and the ability to transform lives. My journey with Grace Nova has shown me that when business principles are applied with purpose, they have the power to reshape industries and redefine inclusivity. College will provide me with the mentorship and knowledge to refine my skills and expand my impact. Immersing myself in coursework focused on business strategy, leadership, and innovation will equip me with the analytical mindset needed to create businesses that are both profitable and socially responsible. I am eager to continue this journey in college, honing my skills and turning my vision into tangible, lasting change.

When I first began learning the piano, I quickly realized that my approach would have to be different from most musicians. Born with Escobar’s syndrome, a rare form of Arthrogryposis which affects my muscles and joints, I have limited mobility in my fingers. Playing the piano would never be as simple as following conventional techniques. Instead, adaptation, problem-solving, and innovation became essential to navigating the instrument in a way that worked for me. Playing with these physical constraints meant that certain musical techniques were out of reach. My left hand can only play two-note chords no larger than a fourth, and my right hand struggles with intervals larger than a sixth. Some pieces and standard approaches would never be possible, but that did not mean that musical expression was out of reach. Working closely with teachers, I developed new fingerings, revoiced chords, and refined techniques to shape music in a way that fit my abilities. Rather than focusing on limitations, the emphasis shifted toward maximizing strengths and exploring alternative interpretations of music. This journey was not just about learning how to play—it was about perseverance, creativity, and resilience. Over time, my efforts led to achievements I never imagined possible. I was featured on NPR’s From the Top, a nationally recognized program showcasing the next generation of classical musicians. Additionally, I attended programs at some of the nation’s best music schools like UNT College of Music, which provided me opportunities to study alongside talented peers, exchange ideas, and refine musicality in a supportive yet rigorous environment. Music became more than just a passion; it became a testament to the power of adaptation and determination. My experiences have profoundly shaped my outlook on education. I have learned that education is not just about mastering information, but problem-solving, adapting, and pushing past perceived limitations. The discipline required in music reinforced my belief that knowledge should be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical abilities. Furthering my education will allow me to continue growing as both a musician and an advocate, equipping me with the tools to create meaningful change in the world of music and beyond. Music has played a crucial role in helping me navigate life's challenges. Beyond the physical adaptations, it has provided an emotional and mental outlet during difficult times. When facing surgeries, medical uncertainties, or moments of frustration, music has been a constant source of comfort and self-expression. Playing the piano allows me to channel my emotions in ways words cannot, providing a sense of peace and purpose. It has given me confidence, helped me connect with others, and reinforced the idea that challenges can be met with creativity and persistence. Looking ahead, I plan to use my education to continue breaking barriers for people with disabilities. I founded Grace Nova, a social media initiative advocating for disability awareness, and I want to expand my efforts to create opportunities for young musicians with physical challenges. Whether through music, mentorship, or policy advocacy, I aim to foster an environment where ability is redefined and inclusion is the norm, not the exception. This scholarship would provide me with the financial support needed to pursue my dual passions for music and advocacy in college. Higher education will allow me to further develop my skills, expand my advocacy work, and inspire others facing similar obstacles. My story is proof that challenges do not have to limit potential. With resilience, adaptation, and support, barriers can be transformed into new opportunities for success.

When I first began learning the piano, I quickly realized that my approach would have to be different from most musicians. Born with Escobar’s syndrome, a rare form of Arthrogryposis which affects my muscles and joints, I have limited mobility in my fingers. Playing the piano would never be as simple as following conventional techniques. Instead, adaptation, problem-solving, and innovation became essential to navigating the instrument in a way that worked for me. Playing with these physical constraints meant that certain musical techniques were out of reach. My left hand can only play two-note chords no larger than a fourth, and my right hand struggles with intervals larger than a sixth. Some pieces and standard approaches would never be possible, but that did not mean that musical expression was out of reach. Working closely with teachers, I developed new fingerings, revoiced chords, and refined techniques to shape music in a way that fit my abilities. Rather than focusing on limitations, the emphasis shifted toward maximizing strengths and exploring alternative interpretations of music. This journey was not just about learning how to play—it was about perseverance, creativity, and resilience. Over time, my efforts led to achievements I never imagined possible. I was featured on NPR’s From the Top, a nationally recognized program showcasing the next generation of classical musicians. Additionally, I attended programs at some of the nation’s best music schools like UNT College of Music, which provided me opportunities to study alongside talented peers, exchange ideas, and refine musicality in a supportive yet rigorous environment. Music became more than just a passion; it became a testament to the power of adaptation and determination. My experiences have profoundly shaped my outlook on education. I have learned that education is not just about mastering information, but problem-solving, adapting, and pushing past perceived limitations. The discipline required in music reinforced my belief that knowledge should be accessible to everyone, regardless of physical abilities. Through music, I have discovered the power of mentorship, the importance of inclusivity, and the impact of representation. Looking ahead, I plan to use my education to continue breaking barriers for people with disabilities. I founded Grace Nova, a social media initiative advocating for disability awareness, and I want to expand my efforts to create opportunities for young musicians with physical challenges. Whether through music, mentorship, or policy advocacy, I aim to foster an environment where ability is redefined and inclusion is the norm, not the exception. This scholarship would provide me with the financial support needed to pursue my dual passions for music and advocacy in college. By investing in my education, I will be able to amplify my voice and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. My story is proof that challenges do not have to limit potential. With resilience, adaptation, and support, barriers can be transformed into new opportunities for success.

Music has always been more than just a passion for me; it’s a calling that drives my ambition and shapes my future. As someone born with a rare physical disability (Escobar’s Syndrome), I believe my musical gift was given to me for a reason. My passion for the music industry stems from its power to influence culture, unite diverse communities, and tell stories that resonate universally. Whether through social media, education, entertainment law, or the music business, I am drawn to a field where creativity meets impact, and I am eager to explore how I can contribute to it. Music is a universal language—one that unites people regardless of background, beliefs, or circumstances. At concerts, political divisions fade, and on digital platforms, borders disappear. I strive to create that unifying impact through every performance, whether it’s during my annual recitals or through videos shared on TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. My journey hasn’t been without significant challenges—34 surgeries and counting—but my drive to overcome them has strengthened my determination. Each note I play is a testament to what ambition can achieve when paired with purpose. Through Grace Nova (www.TikTok.com/@thegracenova), my social media platform, I advocate for positivity, music, kindness, and disability awareness. Grace Nova allows me to share my piano performances while also fostering conversations about resilience and inclusion. Although I’m still uncertain about how Grace Nova will evolve, I see the potential for it to become something greater—perhaps even my own business after college. This reflects my belief that music, when combined with meaningful advocacy, can make a lasting impact on the industry and society. I am committed to broadening my understanding of the music industry’s various facets. From managing artists and shaping contracts to mentoring future musicians, I am excited by the versatility of the industry, and I am eager to explore roles that allow me to influence it from multiple angles. My ambition is fueled by the desire to make an impact, creating experiences where people feel seen, heard, and inspired. My Christian faith plays an important role in my life, and I believe the greatest testament to that faith is the way I use my gifts to bring people together. My accomplishments so far—performing despite physical limitations, building an advocacy platform, and sharing my music globally—are just the beginning. I am driven by the ambition to expand my impact, not only through my own success but by showing others what’s possible when you embrace your purpose. In the end, my story is about more than overcoming adversity; it’s about using ambition, drive, and talent to create something meaningful. Music has the power to unite, heal, and inspire—and I intend to spend my life proving that truth by making a meaningful impact in the music industry.