My name is Jo’Mhara Benning and I’m a student athlete at Coppin State University where I play division one softball and maintain a 4.0. GPA. I plan to pursue a BS in political science with a minor in criminal justice. Balancing the demands of athletics, academics and leadership has taught me discipline, and how to excel under pressure. Every late night study session, and early morning practice have helped me to gain the tools that I need in order to excel. I aspire to earn my Juris Doctor degree and become a civil rights attorney, advocating for equity and justice in underserved communities. Moving across the country with aspirations of a bigger career and new beginnings has been challenging for my family and I. I have watched my family struggle and I have chosen a different route. I have learned to never give up on my dreams. To support myself financially and gain real world experiences, I’ve taken on a variety of different roles. I have also had numerous jobs with leadership roles, including seasonal amenities manager for Shawnee County Parks and Recreation, front desk receptionist with elwood staffing and co-own firehouz bulliez LLC. I was also an assistant for Jas Benibo, a realtor working for “real”. These experiences have strengthened my leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Beyond work and the classroom I have also been actively involved in leadership and service. In high school, which was less than a year ago, I captained the varsity basketball, volleyball, and softball teams, I also served as a boys basketball manager. I participated in student government, holding positions as class president and all school treasure. I was also involved in NEHS, NHS, BSU, link crew, leadership academies, and advisory panels. I have also pursued health and community service opportunities, including athletic training and PT/OT shadowing, earning certifications in CPR/AED and stop the bleed. Each opportunity has shown me that growth comes from dedication, service, and challenging myself beyond my comfort zone. This scholarship would help me in numerous ways. Particularly with helping me continue to excel academically while focusing on law school preparation, internships, and service projects that align with my career goals. With your support, I can further develop the skills, experience, and leadership needed to create meaningful change as a civil rights attorney and advocate for justice in my community. Being a minority from tough beginnings makes choosing a different path complicated and emotionally distressing. This scholarship would help me tremendously. Thank you for your consideration with this scholarship

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As an aspiring civil rights attorney, I am deeply committed to advocating for social justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Through my high school career, I have actively participated in various leadership roles that have shaped my character and represented my skills. As the captain of the softball, volleyball, and basketball teams, I have learned the importance of teamwork, dedication, and leadership. These experiences taught me how to lead by example and motivate others. Being a team captain means bringing the team together for an empowering and supportive environment. In addition to my athletic pursuits, my involvement in Student Government has allowed me to engage with my peers on a broader scale. Serving as a member of all school leadership has brought me an understanding of the importance of leadership and authority. Participating in Link Crew has enriched my experience by enabling me to mentor incoming freshmen, helping them navigate the challenge of high school and feel welcomed in our community. My commitment and leadership extends beyond sports and school governance; I have also participated in various extracurricular activities and faced many challenges regarding social injustice. These circumstances are what fueled my passion for becoming a civil rights attorney. Growing up as a young woman from both Black and white backgrounds, I initially did not question how others perceived me. However, as I matured, I became acutely aware of the different ways I was treated in various social settings. Learning about civil rights heroes like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Ruby Bridges fueled my determination to continue their legacies. Their courage and commitment to justice inspired me to seek a career as a civil rights attorney, where I can be a voice for individuals facing systemic barriers. A pivotal moment for me occurred in December 2022, when my peers and I were subjected to derogatory slurs during a basketball game at Valley Center High School. Rather than staying silent, I chose to use my voice and social media platform to shed light on this incident. My posts garnered over three million views and reached numerous news outlets, including CNN and NBC. This experience not only highlighted the prevalence of racism but also solidified my resolve to pursue a career in civil rights law. I received recognition from organizations such as the NAACP and my local school board for my efforts, reinforcing my commitment to fighting for justice. Receiving a scholarship would provide me with many opportunities. I aspire to be a voice for individuals who face discrimination and injustice, working to dismantle barriers that hinder their access to opportunities. I am passionate about becoming a civil rights attorney, and I believe that my leadership experiences and commitment make me a strong candidate for your scholarship. Thank you for your consideration with my application.

Growing up, I was often told that certain fields were more suited for boys, but I never let those stereotypes define me. Engaging in sports such as softball, basketball, and volleyball has not only shaped my athletic skills but has also fortified my resolve as a strong female in a world often dominated by males. Balancing school, sports, and various extracurricular activities has taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, resilience, and self-belief, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. From a young age, my passion for sports was evident. During recess, I could be found racing the boys on the playground, relishing the thrill of competition. I often beat them, much to their chagrin, which only fueled my drive. While others opted for the slides and swings, I chose to spend my time honing my skills in various sports. This choice was not merely about physical prowess; it was about breaking the mold and challenging the status quo. I wanted to show that girls could excel in sports just as much as boys, and I was determined to prove it every day. As I ventured into organized sports, my experiences on the court and field became more profound. Whether it was leading my softball team as captain, shooting hoops in basketball, or spiking the ball in volleyball, each sport presented its unique challenges and opportunities for growth. The camaraderie built with my teammates was invaluable, creating a support system that empowered us to push one another towards excellence. I learned the importance of teamwork, communication, and the ability to motivate others, skills that transcend sports and are crucial in any leadership role. One recurring theme in my sports journey has been the discussion surrounding softball versus baseball. While some may dismiss softball as a lesser version of baseball, I embrace my sport with pride. I’ve faced comments questioning the legitimacy of my passion, but I’ve learned to rise above them. Softball is not just a game to me; it represents hard work, dedication, and an opportunity to showcase my skills. Ignoring the comparisons, I focus on my growth as an athlete and as a leader, knowing that my commitment to the game speaks volumes about my character. My leadership experiences extend beyond the sports arena. I have taken on the role of captain in all three sports and have led nine clubs at my high school. This involvement has been instrumental in developing my organizational and communication skills while balancing academics. It has also reinforced my desire to become a civil rights attorney, where I can advocate for equality and justice in a world that often marginalizes voices like mine. My journey through sports has equipped me with the resilience to face challenges head-on and the confidence to stand up for what I believe in. In a male-dominated society, I have learned that strength comes from perseverance and the ability to challenge stereotypes. My experiences in sports have been a testament to the fact that passion and dedication can break down barriers. As I continue to pursue my goals, I carry with me the lessons learned on the field and court: that I am capable, that I can lead, and that my voice matters. Each success, whether in sports or academics, is a step toward creating a future where women are recognized for their talents, regardless of the arena. As I strive to become a civil rights attorney, I do so with the confidence that my journey in sports has prepared me to fight for equality and justice in our society.

As an aspiring civil rights attorney, my educational and professional goals are deeply rooted in advocating for social justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. My journey toward this path has been shaped by my personal experiences and leadership roles throughout my high school career. As the captain of the softball, volleyball, and basketball teams, I have learned the importance of teamwork, dedication, and leadership. These experiences taught me how to lead by example and create an empowering and supportive environment for my peers. My involvement in Student Government further broadened my understanding of leadership and authority, allowing me to engage with my classmates on a larger scale. Through programs like Link Crew, I mentored incoming freshmen, helping them navigate the challenges of high school and feel welcomed in our community. These leadership experiences have instilled in me a passion for social justice and a commitment to advocating for those who face discrimination and injustice. Growing up as a young woman from both Black and white backgrounds, I initially did not question how others perceived me. However, as I matured, I became acutely aware of the different ways I was treated in various social settings. Learning about civil rights heroes like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Ruby Bridges fueled my determination to continue their legacies. Their courage and commitment to justice inspired me to seek a career as a civil rights attorney, where I can be a voice for individuals facing systemic barriers. A pivotal moment for me occurred in December 2022, when my peers and I were subjected to derogatory slurs during a basketball game at Valley Center High School. Rather than staying silent, I chose to use my voice and social media platform to shed light on this incident. My posts garnered over three million views and reached numerous news outlets, including CNN and NBC. This experience not only highlighted the prevalence of racism but also solidified my resolve to pursue a career in civil rights law. I received recognition from organizations such as the NAACP and my local school board for my efforts, reinforcing my commitment to fighting for justice. My educational goals include attending an HBCU, where I believe I can thrive in an environment that celebrates and uplifts Black culture and history. HBCUs have a rich legacy of producing leaders and activists who have significantly contributed to the civil rights movement and beyond. By immersing myself in this supportive community, I will be better equipped to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to advocate for those who are marginalized. Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech resonates deeply with me, as it embodies the vision of a society where individuals are judged by their character rather than the color of their skin. My unique experiences and perspectives as a person of mixed race compel me to contribute to the ongoing fight for equality. I aspire to leave a lasting impression on the world and to be a voice for those who have been silenced. Through my education and future career as a civil rights attorney, I am committed to dismantling the barriers that hinder access to opportunities and ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Thank you for considering my application for this scholarship, which will help me further my goals and impact the lives of others.

As an aspiring civil rights attorney, I am deeply committed to advocating for social justice, equality, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. Through my high school career, I have actively participated in various leadership roles that have shaped my character and represented my skills. As the captain of the softball, volleyball, and basketball teams, I have learned the importance of teamwork, dedication, and leadership. These experiences taught me how to lead by example and motivate others. Being a team captain means bringing the team together for an empowering and supportive environment. In addition to my athletic pursuits, my involvement in Student Government has allowed me to engage with my peers on a broader scale. Serving as a member of all school leadership has brought me an understanding of the importance of leadership and authority. Participating in Link Crew has enriched my experience by enabling me to mentor incoming freshmen, helping them navigate the challenge of high school and feel welcomed in our community. My commitment and leadership extends beyond sports and school governance; I have also participated in various extracurricular activities and faced many challenges regarding social injustice. Growing up I never questioned what people thought of me or my race, but as I got older I noticed how I would get treated differently around certain groups of people. As a woman coming from black and white backgrounds, I could’ve never dreamed of a life any differently from what I have now. In Elementary school when civil rights were first mentioned to me I was intrigued to learn more. When I first heard names like Dr Martin Luther King Jr, Rosa Parks, and Ruby Bridges, I was determined to continue their legacies. These new learnings inspired me to become a Civil Rights Attorney. Becoming a civil rights attorney is one thing that I have a strong interest in and passion for. I was raised as an empowered Black Woman having confidence in who I am and who I aspire to be. Becoming a civil rights attorney will give me the voice and the position to help anybody getting backlash for who they are as a person. Dr Martin Luther King Jr was a great example for me growing up. He portrayed characteristics that left a lasting impression on me. To this day, I try to demonstrate intelligence, self-confidence, and determination. In December 2022 I and many of my peers were called many derogatory terms and slurs during and after a basketball game at Valley Center High School. The boys' game was heated but this is no excuse. I decided that it would be wrong to sit back and allow this to happen. I posted videos and a story of what happened on Twitter and Facebook. I ended up receiving over 3 million views, reaching many worldwide news stations like CNN, CBS, and NBC. I received a few awards for this story, some from the NAACP, I Change Nations, and an award from the school board. Ultimately, using my social media resources and valuing my 1st amendment, Valley Center High School faced many consequences. This put racism into a perspective that I had never thought of and this is when I sealed the deal and decided to become a Civil Rights Attorney. In a career dominated by white Americans where black Americans only make up a total of 5%, I hope to become a voice for those who have been suppressed of their own.

As I reflect on my future goals and objectives, I see a path that involves sports, education, and social justice. My journey after high school begins with my commitment to play softball at Coppin State University. I can’t wait to begin my journey as a Division 1 athlete. Academically, I plan to major in political science with a minor in criminal justice. This decision stems from my passionate interest in our legal systems and the role they play in shaping society. After completing my, undergraduate studies and my collegiate softball career, I plan to attend law school. This next step is crucial in my journey to becoming a Civil Rights Attorney. I am motivated by a desire to advocate for Marginalized communities and overall equality and justice for all. My goal to become a civil rights attorney will allow me to represent clients while also engaging in community outreach and education. Growing up I never questioned what people thought of me or my race, but as I got older I noticed how I would get treated differently around certain groups of people. As a woman coming from black and white backgrounds, I could’ve never dreamed of a life any differently from what I have now. In Elementary school when civil rights were first mentioned to me I was intrigued to learn more. When I first heard names like Dr Martin Luther King Jr, Rosa Parks, and Ruby Bridges, I was determined to continue their legacies. These new learnings inspired me to become a Civil Rights Attorney. Becoming a civil rights attorney is one thing that I have a strong interest in and passion for. I was raised as an empowered Black Woman having confidence in who I am and who I aspire to be. Becoming a civil rights attorney will give me the voice and the position to help anybody getting backlash for who they are as a person. Dr Martin Luther King Jr was a great example for me growing up. He portrayed characteristics that left a lasting impression on me. To this day, I try to demonstrate intelligence, self-confidence, and determination. In a career dominated by white Americans where black Americans only make up a total of 5%, I hope to become a voice for those who have been suppressed of their own. MLKs “I Have a Dream” speech is a civil rights and equality cornerstone. For a young woman of mixed race, King's dream of a society where people are judged by what resonates in their hearts and not the color of their skin inspires me deeply. Stories of Civil Rights activists remind me that my unique experiences, perspectives, and voice are vital for the ongoing fight for equality and that I too can leave a lasting impression on the world that we live in.

As a young Black woman dreaming of becoming a civil rights attorney, I often ponder the relationship between law enforcement and my community. The often strained dynamics can be disheartening, especially when I consider the stories I’ve heard and the experiences depicted in books like “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas. In the novel, Starr Carter navigates the aftermath of witnessing the police shooting of her friend, Khalil. This heartbreaking event highlights the mistrust and fear that many in my community feel towards law enforcement. To create a safer and more equitable society, law enforcement agencies must take proactive steps to improve their relationships with African American populations. One of the critical steps is fostering representation within law enforcement. Diverse police forces can help build trust and understanding within communities. When young Black individuals see officers who look like them, it can reshape their perceptions of law enforcement. Representation matters. In “The Hate U Give,” Starr grapples with her identity and how it affects her interactions with the police. If more officers were from the communities they serve, they could understand the unique challenges and perspectives of those neighborhoods. This familiarity could lead to more compassionate policing and a reduction in violent encounters. Moreover, law enforcement agencies should prioritize community engagement. This means going beyond traditional methods of outreach and actively participating in community events. Officers could host workshops in schools, engage in discussions about civil rights, and collaborate with local organizations to address issues that matter to the community. By establishing a presence in a positive context, officers can shift their roles from enforcers of the law to community partners. These relationships can foster trust, making individuals feel more comfortable reporting crimes or seeking help. Training also plays a significant role in improving relationships with African American communities. Law enforcement agencies should implement comprehensive training programs that address implicit biases, cultural sensitivity, and de-escalation techniques. By equipping officers with the tools to understand and respect the communities they serve, agencies can help break down the barriers of mistrust. In “The Hate U Give,” the portrayal of police interactions reflects a lack of understanding and empathy. Training can change this narrative, ensuring officers approach every situation with compassion and an awareness of the historical context of racial tensions. Involving the community in policy-making is another essential step. Law enforcement agencies should create advisory boards that include community members, particularly those from marginalized groups. This inclusion can help shape policies that are fair and representative of the community’s needs. As a future civil rights attorney, I believe that the voices of the people should be at the forefront of law enforcement decisions. Engaging with the community in this way will not only improve relationships but will empower individuals to take an active role in their safety and justice. Finally, transparency is key. Law enforcement agencies must be open about their practices, policies, and accountability measures. By being transparent, agencies can rebuild trust with communities that have historically felt marginalized and oppressed. When people see that their concerns are taken seriously and that there are consequences for misconduct, they are more likely to engage positively with law enforcement. In conclusion, improving relationships between law enforcement and the African American community requires a multifaceted approach. By prioritizing representation, community engagement, training, involvement in policy-making, and transparency, law enforcement can begin to bridge the gap of mistrust. As I dream of becoming a civil rights attorney, I hope to witness a future where law enforcement is seen as a partner in justice, not an adversary.