My name is Jordan Northington, and I am currently a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana majoring in Neuroscience with a double concentration in Biology and Chemistry. From an early age, I have been fascinated by the workings of the human body, particularly the ways in which the brain and nervous system influence our physical abilities, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. This passion, combined with a deep desire to serve others, has fueled my dream of becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy, with a focus in neurological, pediatric, or acute care therapy. Healing is both a physical process and emotional, personal, and transformative. However, the road to this point has not been without significant challenges. These challenges have tested my resilience, deepened my sense of purpose, and shaped the person and future healthcare provider I strive to be. At the beginning of my second year of college, my academic journey was unexpectedly disrupted when I was hospitalized due to a serious health issue. The experience was not only physically taxing but emotionally overwhelming. I found myself transitioning from a thriving student deeply engaged in rigorous coursework to a patient in a hospital bed. The hospitalization and the recovery process forced me to miss a significant amount of class time, which inevitably impacted my academic performance. Despite my attempts to stay connected with my professors and complete assignments from afar, the sheer amount of material and lab work I missed made it difficult to catch up. I went from being a scholarship recipient and high-achieving student to someone struggling to maintain academic standing. For the first time in my life, I saw my grades drop below the standard I had always upheld with pride and consistency. Losing my scholarship was one of the most difficult consequences of that period. It was a financial impact and felt like a personal loss, a symbol of the academic and personal stability I had worked so hard to maintain. With no scholarship to cover my tuition, I had to begin paying for school out of pocket, coming with a host of new pressures and responsibilities. I found myself working extra hours, applying for student loans, and leaning heavily on my family for financial support. I had to juggle a job, a full course load filled with demanding science courses, and the emotional and physical recovery from my hospitalization. It was one of the most difficult periods of my life. Through all of this, I never lost sight of why I started and my passion for neuroscience and physical therapy grew even stronger. Being on the receiving end of medical care offered me a new perspective on healing. I saw firsthand the power of empathy, the importance of patient-centered care, and the incredible potential of physical therapy to restore not just movement, but confidence and hope. I realized that my studies were not just abstract knowledge but they were tools that could change lives. While learning about the brain, I came to understand just how deeply I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives, especially at their most vulnerable points. The adversity I’ve faced taught me the importance of perseverance, the value of leaning on others, and the necessity of staying grounded in one’s purpose. Financial strain could have easily derailed my education, but instead it became motivation. I learned to advocate for myself, to seek help without shame, and to stay focused on long-term goals even with short-term setbacks. I also learned the power of compassion which I hope to carry into my career as a provider, where patients often need both physical healing and emotional encouragement. As a Black woman in STEM and a student at an HBCU, I am very aware of how underrepresented individuals like myself are in the fields of neuroscience and physical therapy. This is one of the driving forces behind my commitment. Representation is not just important for visibility but it impacts patient outcomes. Patients feel more comfortable and respected when their healthcare providers reflect their cultural and community backgrounds. As a future physical therapist, I want to be someone who not only brings scientific knowledge and clinical skill to the table but who also offers empathy, cultural understanding, and the kind of support that makes healing truly possible. In the future, I envision myself working in hospitals or clinics that serve marginalized and underserved communities. I want to be on the front lines of closing the gap in healthcare disparities by making high-quality neurological and rehabilitative care accessible to those who often go without it. Whether it’s through direct patient care, conducting research in neuroplasticity and recovery, or mentoring underrepresented students who want to pursue careers in STEM, my goal is to uplift others the way I’ve been uplifted. I want to build a career that not only heals the body but inspires the mind and strengthens the spirit. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden I continue to face as I finish my undergraduate education, but it would also serve as a meaningful recognition of the resilience, hard work, and sacrifices I’ve made to remain on this path. More importantly, it would be an investment in a future healthcare provider who is deeply committed to equity, healing, and long-term change in the communities that need it most.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana majoring in Neuroscience with a double concentration in Biology and Chemistry. As an African American woman pursuing a career in healthcare, my journey through higher education has been filled with both incredible growth and deep challenges. One of the most defining setbacks I’ve faced occurred during the beginning of my second year of college and it taught me a lesson I’ll carry for life. I entered Xavier full of drive and determination. Coming from Madison, Mississippi, a predominantly white suburb, I was used to standing out. As a high-achieving Black student, I often felt pressure to exceed expectations just to feel seen and validated. Still, I pushed myself academically and became involved in multiple organizations, confident in my path toward becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy. But during my sophomore year, an unexpected health issue led to my hospitalization. The time I spent away from school caused a significant drop in my GPA, which resulted in the loss of my academic scholarship. That moment was heartbreaking. The financial burden weighed on me and I had a lot of self-doubt. For someone who had always prided herself on academic excellence and overachievement, failing to meet a standard I had set for myself felt like losing part of my identity. I questioned whether I could recover, whether I still belonged in the spaces I had worked so hard to earn. But rather than give up, I chose to pivot. I took a hard look at the pressure I placed on myself and began to define success on my own terms. I leaned into my support systems, focused on rebuilding my academic performance, and continued my involvement across campus. I remained active in organizations such as the XULA Competitive Cheerleading Team, the Association of Student Athletes, the Peer Dean Association, and the Student Government Association Cabinet. I also dedicated over 90 volunteer hours through Xavier’s service programs and nonprofits like Second Harvest Food Bank and Take Paws Rescue. These commitments helped re-center me and reminded me that setbacks don’t cancel purpose. I’m now on track to graduate a full year early, and I view that not just as an academic achievement, but as a symbol of resilience. The experience taught me to give myself grace, to adapt when things don’t go as planned, and to keep moving forward no matter the obstacle. As an underrepresented student in healthcare, I know I will face more barriers but I also know I have the strength to overcome them. This scholarship would help me continue my education and affirm the belief that students like me, who navigate systemic and personal challenges, belong in every room they walk into.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana majoring in Neuroscience with a double concentration in Biology and Chemistry. I aspire to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy, with a focus on neurological, pediatric, or acute care therapy. This path has not been easy, but it has been shaped by hard work, resilience, and a deep belief in my ability to create lasting change in the lives of others. I am originally from Madison, Mississippi which is a predominantly white suburb where. As a high-achieving Black girl, I often felt the pressure to perform beyond expectations to be taken seriously. I internalized those pressures, striving for excellence in every area of my life. That same mindset followed me to Xavier, where I immediately immersed myself in academics, leadership, and service. At Xavier, I am involved in a variety of student organizations that have helped shape my leadership and professional development. I serve as the SGA Cabinet Secretary of Safety and Security, a Peer Dean, a Vanguard Student Ambassador, and a member of the Class of 2027 Public Relations Team. I’m also active with the XULA Competitive Cheerleading Team and the Association of Student Athletes, and I’ve taken part in professional development programs like the Forward Amplifiers Internship and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Through these experiences, I’ve learned the value of responsibility, communication, and service. In addition to campus involvement, I am deeply committed to giving back. I’ve contributed over 90 hours through Xavier’s Service Saturdays and student-led volunteer initiatives. I also volunteer regularly at Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans, where I help sort food, prepare meals, and support special event and with Take Paws Rescue, spending 50+ hours walking dogs, participating in adoption events, and helping to promote rescue animal efforts throughout the city. These experiences have affirmed my passion for working with people and communities in need. My academic journey took an unexpected turn during the beginning of my second year, when I was hospitalized for a medical issue. The experience affected my GPA, causing me to lose my academic scholarship. It was a low point, and one that challenged both my confidence and my financial stability. But I refused to let it stop me. I’ve pushed forward, stayed on track, and remain on course to graduate an entire year early. That determination is at the heart of who I am. Pursuing a healthcare career is a professional ambition and my purpose. I want to support others through some of the most difficult moments of their lives, offering care that is not only clinical but compassionate. This scholarship would help ease the financial strain of my education and serve as a reminder that others believe in my potential. I am committed to using my future in healthcare to uplift, heal, and lead with empathy.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana majoring in Neuroscience, with concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. As a Black woman in STEM, I’ve chosen this field because I’m passionate about using science and technology to make meaningful changes in people’s lives, particularly in healthcare. My ultimate goal is to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy and specialize in neurological, pediatric, or acute care rehabilitation. I chose neuroscience because the brain is the most complex and powerful part of the human body, yet many communities lack access to the care and knowledge needed to maintain neurological health. Understanding how the brain, body, and behavior connect is essential in designing patient-centered treatment plans, particularly for populations that have historically been underserved or misdiagnosed. With technology playing a critical role in diagnosis, recovery, and physical therapy, I want to be on the front lines of merging compassionate care with innovative tools to improve outcomes for those often left behind. As an underrepresented minority in STEM, I’ve felt the weight of expectation and the challenges of being “the only one” in certain rooms. This experience has motivated me to stay the course for myself and those coming after me. There are countless brilliant young Black girls who need to see someone who looks like them thriving in science and technology fields. I plan to be that example. Being a minority in this field has made me more determined to increase representation, reduce cultural disparities in treatment, and make healthcare more accessible to people of all backgrounds. My journey hasn’t been without obstacles. During college, I’ve faced personal and academic challenges that tested my resilience. I was hospitalized during my second year and had to rely on my my village to recover emotionally, physically, and academically. That experience not only solidified my passion for patient care but also reminded me of the power of community support. I’ve worked as a physical therapy technician, participated in volunteer efforts, balanced academics with cheerleading, and remained active in student organizations, all while maintaining my focus on my long-term goals. This scholarship would alleviate a significant financial burden as I complete my senior year. With less worry about tuition, I’ll be able to dedicate more time to research, clinical experience, and mentoring others. More importantly, it would be an investment in my mission to combine technology, service, and culturally competent care to transform how we think about healing.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana, majoring in Neuroscience with concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. I am a Black woman in STEM, a collegiate cheerleader, a physical therapy technician, a volunteer, and a proud member of multiple campus organizations. Every experience I’ve had, both joyful and challenging, has shaped the servant-leader I strive to be. My passion for healthcare and science began early, inspired by witnessing disparities in my own family and community. I was raised without the presence of grandparents due to a combination of loss, incarceration, and instability. My mother was raised by other relatives, and from an early age I understood what it meant to carry a legacy of perseverance. These personal gaps taught me the importance of showing up for others—and they drive my passion for becoming a Doctor of Physical Therapy. My journey has not been without struggle. At the beginning of my sophomore year, I was hospitalized, which caused my GPA to drop and left me emotionally drained. But during that difficult time, my my village rallied around me. I learned that healing isn’t just physical; it’s collective. That experience strengthened my commitment to holistic, accessible, and culturally competent care for underserved populations. Service has always been a pillar of my life. My parents instilled in me the importance of charity and treating everyone with equal respect. I’ve volunteered across campus and in the community tutoring, participating in health fairs, and mentoring peers. As a physical therapy technician, I’ve supported patients through their healing journeys, listening to their concerns and advocating for their care. These roles have reinforced that leadership isn’t about titles but compassion, action, and responsibility. My neuroscience degree, combined with my hands-on healthcare experience, will uniquely position me to work in neurological, pediatric, or acute care physical therapy. I plan to open clinics in underserved communities where access to care is limited. I also want to mentor young Black students interested in healthcare to help build a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Representation changes outcomes, and I want to be part of that change as a provider and a role model. This scholarship would ease the financial weight of my final year and help me continue my education without interruption. More importantly, it would be an investment in my goal of healthcare by providing equitable, culturally competent care and opening doors for the next generation of Black scientists and providers.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana majoring in Neuroscience with double concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. As a Black woman in STEM, a collegiate cheerleader, a physical therapy technician, and an active campus leader, I am passionate about uplifting my community and using my skills and voice to make a lasting difference. From a young age, my parents instilled in me the value of service. They taught me that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, that giving back is a duty, and leadership means using your gifts to create opportunities for others. That foundation has stayed with me throughout my life and is one of the driving forces behind my future goals. If given the opportunity, I would improve my community by addressing inequities in healthcare access. My goal is to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy, specializing in neurological or acute care. I have a particular passion for working with underserved populations, where access to consistent, quality therapy is often lacking. Many families are forced to travel long distances or go without care altogether. I want to be a provider who brings healing closer to home and someone who patients can trust and rely on not only for treatment, but also for advocacy and understanding. In addition to healthcare, I believe strongly in the power of mentorship and education. As a student at a Historically Black University, I have seen power of representation. I plan to give back by mentoring young students, especially Black girls, who may not yet see a place for themselves in medicine or science. I want them to know that their dreams are valid, and that they belong in any room they walk into. When I began college, I faced my own challenges, including the emotional toll of being far from home and balancing academics, work, and leadership roles. I leaned on my peers and friends who quickly became my village. That experience taught me the value of community and the importance of showing up for others in both big and small ways. It’s that spirit I plan to bring into my career and future service. Henry Walker Sr.’s story is incredibly inspiring. Despite the odds, he served his country with dignity, resilience, and a sense of purpose greater than himself. His legacy of strength, sacrifice, and leadership is the kind of impact I hope to have. This scholarship would help me complete my education and continue building a life of purpose, one dedicated to improving lives through healthcare, mentorship, and compassion. I am committed to honoring my roots, lifting others as I climb, and carrying forward the legacy of those who paved the way for me.

My name is Jordan Northington, a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana majoring in Neuroscience with concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. As a Black woman in STEM, a collegiate cheerleader, a physical therapy technician, and an active campus leader, service has always been at the heart of everything I do. My parents instilled in me the importance of giving back from a young age. They taught me that everyone deserves to be treated with respect, and that true fulfillment comes from helping others. Through volunteering, mentoring, and healthcare work, I have found purpose and a deep connection to my community. As a future Doctor of Physical Therapy, I plan to serve underrepresented communities with compassionate, equitable care. I also hope to mentor other Black students in healthcare and continue volunteering with organizations that uplift youth and families. This scholarship will support me as I live out my commitment to service and justice.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana, majoring in Neuroscience with double concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. As a Black woman pursuing a career in physical therapy, I am deeply committed to advancing diversity in STEM and using my education to serve underrepresented communities. However, my journey has not been without significant challenges. At the beginning of my sophomore year, I faced amhealth crisis that required hospitalization. This unexpected event forced me to step away from my studies temporarily, and as a result, my GPA dropped. Navigating recovery while maintaining academic progress was one of the toughest obstacles I have encountered. During this period, I felt vulnerable and uncertain about whether I could continue on the path I had so carefully planned. Fortunately, I was not alone. My college friends became my village and support system. They encouraged me, helped me stay focused, and provided emotional and practical assistance when I needed it most. Their belief in my potential kept me motivated to push forward despite setbacks. This experience taught me the profound importance of community and resilience, especially for students like me who are underrepresented in STEM fields. Increasing diversity in STEM is essential, not only to create equal opportunities but also to bring varied perspectives and innovative solutions to the scientific and healthcare fields. I am determined to be part of this change. My experiences as a physical therapy technician, volunteer, and campus leader have strengthened my commitment to healthcare within STEM. I plan to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in neurological and acute care. Through this career, I hope to provide equitable healthcare to underserved communities that often face barriers related to race and socioeconomic status. Overcoming the setback of my hospitalization and academic struggles showed me that success in STEM requires not only intellectual ability but also perseverance, support, and the willingness to ask for help. My village helped me rebuild my academic standing and reminded me that no one achieves success alone. The William A. Lewis Scholarship would help me continue this journey by alleviating financial stress and allowing me to focus on my studies and community involvement. It would also honor the legacy of a leader who understood the importance of representation and opportunity in STEM fields. With continued support and determination, I am confident I can contribute meaningfully to diversifying STEM and improving healthcare outcomes for underrepresented populations.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana, majoring in Neuroscience with double concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. As a Black woman in STEM, a collegiate cheerleader, a physical therapy technician, and a committed volunteer, I am dedicated to uplifting and serving my community through education, healthcare, and advocacy. However, my journey has also been shaped by personal experiences with substance abuse and family struggles, which have deepened my compassion and motivated me to pursue a career that can make a real difference. Growing up, my family faced many challenges. My grandmother struggled with substance abuse that led to her being in and out of jail. This instability meant she was not present in my life, and I never had the opportunity to experience a relationship with a grandparent. My mother was raised by other family members due to these circumstances, and I witnessed firsthand the effects of addiction and trauma on family dynamics. These experiences have given me a unique understanding of the emotional and systemic impact of substance abuse and the intergenerational cycles that often accompany it. Although I have not personally been a victim of domestic violence, I have seen how addiction and trauma can lead to silence, shame, and isolation, especially among Black women. Many suffer without the resources or support needed to escape abusive situations or break free from addiction. The story of Linda Hicks, who showed immense courage in overcoming childhood abuse, domestic violence, and addiction, resonates deeply with me. Her life inspires me to be a force of healing and advocacy for those impacted by these issues. Through my education and career goals, I plan to contribute to changing these outcomes for African American women and others affected by abuse and addiction. As a future Doctor of Physical Therapy hoping to specialize in neurological and acute care, I want to integrate trauma-informed care into my practice, recognizing how past abuse and addiction impact physical and mental health. I also aim to work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including social workers and counselors, to provide holistic, coordinated care that addresses the whole person, not just symptoms. Beyond clinical work, I am passionate about advocacy and mentorship. I want to use my voice to raise awareness about the specific challenges Black women face regarding domestic violence and substance abuse. I plan to volunteer with organizations that provide support and education for survivors and their families, helping to break the stigma and encourage healing. Additionally, I hope to mentor young women who come from backgrounds affected by trauma and addiction, showing them that their past does not define their future. Receiving the Linda Hicks Memorial Scholarship would not only alleviate financial burdens but also strengthen my resolve to honor Linda’s legacy by dedicating my career to improving the care, coordination, and communication necessary to transform lives. I am committed to using my education and experiences to be part of a future where every woman feels empowered to seek help, heal, and thrive.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at the illustrious Xavier University of Louisiana, majoring in Neuroscience with double concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. I am a proud Black woman in STEM, a collegiate cheerleader, a physical therapy technician, a volunteer, and an active member of multiple campus organizations. Each of these roles has shaped my character, strengthened my commitment to service, and deepened my belief in the power of representation and faith, which are values that I see reflected in the life and legacy of Willie Mae Rawls. Throughout my time at Xavier, I have worked diligently to excel both in and outside the classroom. My experiences as a physical therapy technician have provided hands-on exposure to patient care and solidified my calling to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy. I plan to specialize in neurological, pediatric, or acute care therapy. These are fields that require compassion, cultural competence, and a heart for advocacy. I am particularly passionate about serving underrepresented and low-income communities who often lack access to quality care and who benefit greatly from providers who understand their unique experiences. As a campus leader, I have learned the importance of uplifting others, whether it is rallying school spirit or supporting my peers through challenges. Volunteering has kept me grounded in purpose and connected to the needs of the larger community. My campus involvement has given me the opportunity to mentor, collaborate, and grow alongside other ambitious students who are determined to make an impact. I carry all of these experiences with me as I prepare for a career centered on healing, empowerment, and equity. What drives me is the belief that healthcare should be inclusive, compassionate, and accessible to all. Racial disparities in health outcomes persist in this country, and part of the solution is increasing the number of Black healthcare professionals who can offer culturally sensitive care. I want to be part of that change not only by providing excellent care but also by mentoring future Black students in healthcare and advocating for systemic improvements within the field. Willie Mae Rawls’s life, grounded in faith and positivity, is deeply inspiring. Like her, I strive to lead with love, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. Her legacy reminds me that impact begins with intention and is measured by the lives we touch. This scholarship would be more than financial support and would affirm the values I try live by. In everything I do, I aim to be a light for others.. Through my studies and future career as a Doctor of Physical Therapy, I am committed to making a positive impact on the world.

My name is Jordan Northington, and I am a senior at the illustrious Xavier University of Louisiana, majoring in Neuroscience with double concentrations in Biology and Chemistry. As a Black woman in STEM and an aspiring Doctor of Physical Therapy, I am deeply committed to serving underrepresented communities and helping to transform the face of healthcare,both in how it looks and how it serves. My ultimate goal is to specialize in neurological, pediatric, or acute care physical therapy. These areas require more than just technical knowledge. They demand compassion, cultural competence, and long-term patient advocacy. Throughout my studies, I have learned how essential it is to not only understand the human body but to understand the social and emotional realities that shape a patient’s experience. Many of the communities I hope to serve have been historically marginalized in healthcare. I want to be more than just a provider to them and I want to be a consistent, trusted presence who listens, affirms, and advocates. Increasing racial diversity in healthcare is not a luxury but rather a necessity. When patients see themselves reflected in their providers, they feel safer, more understood, and more likely to trust their care. Studies have shown that health outcomes improve when care is delivered by providers who understand a patient’s cultural background. For far too long, Black voices have been underrepresented in healthcare leadership, clinical practice, and policy-making leading to gaps in access, misdiagnoses, and neglect. In physical therapy, those disparities show up in rehabilitation access, pain management, and long-term care. Representation matters because lives are on the line. Attending a historically Black university like Xavier has shown me what it means to learn in an environment where my identity is seen not as an obstacle, but as a strength. I have been inspired by faculty and peers who are committed to uplifting their communities through service, excellence, and education. I want to carry that same spirit into my career by expanding access to therapy services, implementing more inclusive treatment approaches, and mentoring the next generation of Black healthcare professionals. The MedLuxe Representation Matters Scholarship would not only support me financially but would also affirm values I have built my career around like equity, representation, and care that truly sees the whole person. I am not just pursuing a degree but answering a lifelong calling. With more diverse and dedicated voices in healthcare, we can build a system that doesn’t just treat illness but fosters dignity and healing for everyone.

As a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana majoring in Neuroscience with concentrations in Biology and Chemistry, I have always been driven by a fascination with the details of the human body and a deep passion for helping others. My academic journey has solidified my desire to become a Doctor of Physical Therapy, specializing in neurological, pediatric, or acute care therapy. This field perfectly aligns with both my intellectual interests and my personal mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing physical and neurological challenges. Pursuing physical therapy as a career means more to me than just earning a degree and it represents the opportunity to serve others through healing, movement, and rehabilitation. I am especially passionate about working with underserved communities, where access to quality care is often limited. I believe that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves the chance to recover, thrive, and live a fulfilling life. As a future clinician, I hope to be part of closing that gap in healthcare by offering not just treatment, but hope, advocacy, and long-term support. Continuing my education is both a practical step and a personal calling. A Doctor of Physical Therapy program will provide me with the hands-on experience, critical thinking, and research-based knowledge I need to deliver effective and compassionate care. It will also prepare me to advocate for patients, especially children and individuals recovering from strokes, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic brain injuries. These are the populations I feel most called to support, and I am eager to be part of a healthcare system that values both scientific advancement and human connection. However, graduate education is an investment that comes with a significant financial burden. As a student from an HBCU, I have worked hard to manage the costs of undergraduate education, and the rising expense of continuing my education can be daunting. This scholarship would not only ease that burden but also give me the opportunity to fully dedicate myself to my studies without the added stress of financial insecurity. With this support, I will be empowered to move forward with confidence, continue serving others, and one day mentor aspiring healthcare professionals. I am committed to lifelong learning and community impact, and I know that advancing my education will equip me with the tools I need to lead, serve, and heal. I feel that this is more than just my career path and it is my purpose.