Receiving this scholarship would be both a blessing and a bridge — a bridge that connects the foundation I’ve built in sports and education to the next chapter of my career in athlete development and sports innovation. It would allow me to continue investing in my growth as a leader, creator, and advocate for athletes, while also alleviating financial burdens that often come with pursuing graduate education and making a career transition. My ultimate goal is to work in a leadership role within the sports industry where I can shape programs that support athletes holistically — mentally, emotionally, and professionally. I want to be a driving force in how sports organizations develop talent beyond performance, including how they use technology to improve the athlete experience, tell more authentic stories, and provide tools for long-term success. This scholarship would directly support the education and skill-building necessary for that vision. I’m currently pursuing a Master’s in Creative Technology at Southern Methodist University, where I’m learning to blend design, storytelling, and emerging technology. This program is giving me the technical and creative skills to approach sports in a new way — not just from an operational or logistical standpoint, but through digital innovation. I’m learning how to create interactive experiences, use data-driven visuals, build immersive platforms, and think critically about how tech can solve human problems — especially within youth sports and athlete development. At the same time, I bring over a decade of experience in both education and sports operations. I’ve worked in football operations at the University of Texas and the University of Florida, managing logistics, working directly with athletes, and supporting elite-level programs. I’ve also played volleyball and golf, so I understand the athlete experience from the inside out. Later, as an educator and AVID program leader, I developed mentorship models, coordinated schoolwide initiatives, and designed student leadership experiences that mirror what I now want to offer young athletes. My career has always centered on service, structure, and support — and now, I want to scale that impact through sports. However, returning to school and navigating a career transition comes with sacrifices. Balancing full-time work, graduate coursework, and personal responsibilities has stretched me financially and mentally. Receiving this scholarship would ease that load, giving me the freedom to fully invest in opportunities that will move me closer to my goals — including internships, workshops, conferences, and portfolio-building projects. It would also help cover the cost of software, supplies, and tools needed to bring my ideas to life in the creative technology space. But beyond the financial relief, this scholarship would affirm the path I’m on — a path that isn’t traditional, but one I know I’m meant to walk. It would signal that my blend of sports experience, educational leadership, and creative ambition is valid, necessary, and supported. It would give me the confidence to keep pushing forward, to keep designing new ways to uplift athletes, and to keep building programs and platforms that matter. In short, this scholarship would not only help me finish my graduate degree — it would help me fully activate the next phase of my purpose. I’m not just seeking a job in sports; I’m building a career rooted in care, innovation, and impact. This support would help ensure I can show up fully — for the industry, for the athletes, and for the legacy I want to leave behind.

Sports have always been my first love. I grew up an athlete — competing in volleyball and golf , and eventually translated that love into a career, working in football operations at both the University of Texas and the University of Florida. Those years taught me how to operate at the highest levels: managing logistics, coordinating with athletes and coaches, and keeping the rhythm of major programs intact. But more than anything, they showed me the power of support — what it means to be the steady presence behind the scenes that allows athletes to thrive. Although I later transitioned into education, my mindset has remained rooted in sports. As an educator, AVID team lead, and student mentor, I built systems of support for students the same way I once did for athletes ,focusing on development, leadership, accountability, and growth. My classroom became a training ground not just for academic success, but for life skills. Now, I’m intentionally returning to the sports industry , not just to pick up where I left off, but to help redefine how we nurture, equip, and elevate the next generation of athletes. The impact I hope to make in sports is twofold: to be a bridge between performance and personal development, and to infuse innovation and technology into the way we support and engage athletes. I believe the future of sports lies not only in physical performance but in how we leverage digital tools to enhance the athlete experience , from mental wellness platforms to interactive player branding to smarter data for athlete development. I'm currently pursuing graduate studies in creative technology, where I’m learning how to blend storytelling, design, and emerging tech to build more meaningful, engaging systems , and I plan to bring that into my next chapter in sports. Whether it's developing interactive onboarding experiences for athletes, building platforms that help players explore identity beyond the game, or using digital tools to expand access to mentorship and life skills training, I want to be at the forefront of where innovation meets intention. I’ve seen how overlooked the human side of sports can be — especially for young athletes navigating pressure, identity, and transition , and I want to change that narrative. My dream is to work in player development, athlete engagement, or operations with a focus on equity, innovation, and care. This scholarship would allow me to fully align my background in sports operations, education, and creative technology , and pour it into a career that is both impactful and future-facing. I know how to build relationships, manage chaos, and lead with empathy. I know how to show up for people. But now, I also know how to build systems, design digital experiences, and think critically about how we shape the future of sport. I’m returning to sports not to relive old wins, but to help athletes secure new ones , on the field, online, and in life. The goal has never been just to work in sports. The goal is to build something in it that lasts. And I’m ready to do just that.

In the life of my dreams, I wake up each morning with a sense of purpose, excitement, and gratitude. I am a creative force in the world, blending my passions for visionary thinking, AI, digital graphic design, and immersive experiences into a career that feels more like a calling. My days are filled with dynamic projects that challenge me to push boundaries and innovate, whether through storytelling, digital art, or crafting experiences that inspire and uplift others. Professionally, I am a Creative Technology leader, working on projects that bridge the gap between technology and human connection. My work is not just about creating visually appealing designs but also about building memorable experiences that leave lasting impressions. I collaborate with diverse teams, contributing to initiatives that promote inclusivity, education, and empowerment. My role allows me to guide and mentor others, sharing my journey and lessons learned, particularly with young African American women and underrepresented communities who, like me, dream big and aim high. My workspace is a hub of inspiration, surrounded by digital tools, vibrant mood boards, and a playlist that keeps my creativity flowing. I am constantly learning, evolving, and experimenting with new technologies and trends. The projects I lead are showcased on platforms that celebrate innovation and purpose, earning recognition not just for their creativity but for their impact on society. Beyond my career, my life is rich with experiences that feed my soul. I have a close-knit circle of family and friends, with whom I share traditions like Friendsgiving, family movie dates, and spontaneous adventures. My days include self-care routines that ground me, from a morning meditation to a brisk walk with my favorite playlist. I continue to find joy in the simple things—sports, good music, and the vibe of being surrounded by positive energy. My dream life also includes giving back. I am involved in community initiatives, perhaps through workshops that combine focused note-taking, Social Emotional Learning (SEL), and grief support, or through creative sessions that help others find their voice through art and design. I use my platform to amplify stories of perseverance and success, particularly highlighting multicultural and diverse experiences. Financial stability and freedom allow me to explore my love for travel and new experiences. I attend conferences, explore art exhibits, and immerse myself in different cultures. My work travels with me, thanks to the flexibility of the digital world, and I find inspiration everywhere I go. Ultimately, the life of my dreams is one where my work and my passions are intertwined, where I wake up each day excited to create, connect, and contribute. It is a life where I am continually growing, helping others grow, and leaving a legacy of creativity, kindness, and impact. This dream life is not a distant hope but a vision I am actively building, step by step, with intention and love.

As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, I am deeply committed to making a positive impact in my community and beyond. My journey has been shaped by a passion for service, education, and mentorship, and I continuously seek opportunities to uplift and inspire those around me. Whether through volunteering, professional pursuits, or sorority initiatives, my goal is to contribute meaningfully to a legacy of empowerment and progress. Delta Sigma Theta has provided me with a powerful platform to serve, lead, and advocate. Through our organization's Five-Point Programmatic Thrust, I have participated in projects promoting economic and educational development, international awareness, physical and mental health, and political awareness and involvement. These experiences have reinforced my belief that service is not just about individual acts of kindness but about building a strong foundation for future generations to thrive. One of the most fulfilling ways I give back is by volunteering at my high school. It is a special honor to return to the same halls where my journey began and support students as they navigate their academic and personal lives. I mentor, assist with events, and offer guidance to encourage young people to dream big and strive for success. My goal is to be a positive example and to show students that with resilience and dedication, they can achieve anything. My involvement extends beyond my sorority and high school. I am actively engaged in several initiatives that align with my passions for education, mentorship, and community engagement. As a graduate student in the Creative Technology program, I am refining my skills in digital graphic design, artificial intelligence, and visionary thinking. I aim to create innovative and memorable experiences that inspire creativity, particularly among young people. I am also passionate about supporting young men through the "Man Up" series, where we help them develop into well-rounded individuals. This initiative offers lessons in ballroom dancing, dinner etiquette, brand creation, and more, providing young men with essential life skills. The "Man Up" series resonates with me because it fosters growth, discipline, and a sense of purpose, helping young men become their best selves. As an educator, I am committed to incorporating Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and grief support into my teaching practices. I understand the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally. By blending focused note-taking techniques with SEL principles, I hope to provide students with tools to manage their emotions, build resilience, and excel in school. I also enjoy creating themed experiences and events that bring people together. Whether it’s planning a Friendsgiving and baby shower for a group of sisters or designing creative graphics for initiatives like College Colors Day, I love finding ways to celebrate community and foster connections. My creative projects often highlight diversity, success, and perseverance, reflecting my belief in the strength and potential of every individual. Looking forward, my vision is to continue using my skills, talents, and resources to make a lasting impact. I aspire to create programs, experiences, and opportunities that enrich lives and build stronger, more vibrant communities. My involvement in Delta Sigma Theta, my volunteer work, and my professional pursuits all align with this vision, allowing me to contribute positively to the world around me. Ultimately, I am driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference. Whether through small acts of kindness or large-scale initiatives, I strive to embody the spirit of service and excellence, ensuring that my contributions leave a lasting and meaningful mark.