My faith is not something I reserve for Sundays. It is something I strive to live out intentionally in my everyday life. Each night, I have made it a priority to spend time in devotion, creating a moment of silence and prayer with God. This consistent practice has grounded me, allowing me to reflect, seek guidance, and realign my actions with my beliefs. Beyond personal devotion, I have also surrounded myself with friends who encourage my spiritual growth and help keep me steadfast in my faith. Through these relationships, I am reminded daily of the importance of living with compassion, integrity, and purpose. Living out my faith also means advocating for the dignity and sanctity of every human life. My pro life beliefs are rooted in the conviction that all life, from conception to natural death, is valuable and worthy of protection. I strive to reflect this belief not only in my words but also in my actions by approaching others with empathy, supporting those in difficult circumstances, and promoting a culture that values life at every stage. I believe being pro life extends beyond a single issue. It calls for a commitment to uplifting individuals, supporting families, and advocating for systems that protect and care for the most vulnerable. My faith has significantly shaped my future goals and career path. I am drawn to a profession where I can serve others, advocate for justice, and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I hope to pursue a career that allows me to be a voice for those who may not have one, particularly in areas where life and dignity are at risk. Whether through legal work, community service, or policy advocacy, I want my career to reflect my commitment to faith driven service and ethical responsibility. Education plays a crucial role in this mission. Through my studies, I am gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively advocate for life and create lasting change. I plan to use my education to engage in meaningful conversations, influence policy, and support organizations that provide resources for individuals facing difficult decisions. I believe that real change happens when compassion is paired with action, and I am committed to being part of that change. Ultimately, my goal is to live a life that reflects my faith in both small, daily choices and larger, long term commitments. By remaining rooted in prayer, supported by a strong community, and dedicated to serving others, I hope to make a positive impact that protects and honors life in all its stages.

I plan to make a positive impact on the world by dedicating my life to advocating for children and families who are in vulnerable situations, ensuring they have the support, guidance, and resources they need to thrive. As a student on a Pre-Law track at the University of Toledo, my goal is to become a family and juvenile lawyer. In this role, I will work to protect children, guide families through challenging circumstances, and create opportunities for long-term stability and growth. My experiences have shown me that even small acts of advocacy and support can have life-changing consequences, and I am committed to being a steady, compassionate presence for those who need it most. I have already begun making a positive impact through my community involvement. As Vice President and Service Chair of Alpha Phi Omega, I plan and organize volunteer events that directly benefit our local community. These projects include supporting children with developmental disabilities at Sunshine Communities in Maumee, Ohio, assisting families at the Ronald McDonald House, volunteering at the Toledo Northwestern Food Bank, organizing tie-blanket making events for children in need, and leading campus cleanups. Each event allows me to create meaningful experiences that not only serve the community but also inspire others to give back. Additionally, as treasurer of Gift of Life, I coordinate bone marrow swabbing events that encourage students to register as donors and potentially save lives. These experiences have reinforced my belief that leadership and service go hand in hand, and that one person’s effort can ripple outward to create broader change. My internship at Williams County Juvenile and Probate Court has further shaped my understanding of how I can make a lasting impact. Assisting with court reporting and supporting the juvenile probation department has allowed me to witness firsthand the challenges children face when navigating difficult family circumstances. Hearing their stories has strengthened my determination to advocate for those who may not have a voice and to work toward solutions that prioritize their well-being. This experience has inspired me to approach my future career with both compassion and integrity, ensuring that my work contributes to meaningful, positive outcomes for children and families. Beyond my career aspirations, I strive to make a difference in the world through my daily actions, leadership, and commitment to service. I aim to be a role model who demonstrates empathy, perseverance, and responsibility, and to inspire others to engage in acts of service that strengthen their communities. By combining my legal education, volunteer experience, and leadership skills, I hope to create systemic and individual change that improves lives, fosters hope, and empowers families to build better futures. Through my work, both now and in the future, I am committed to using my skills, knowledge, and passion to make a tangible, lasting, and positive impact on the world. I believe that every child and family deserves advocacy, support, and the opportunity to thrive, and I will dedicate my life to making that belief a reality.

Faith has always been a guiding force in my life. I grew up attending a traditional Methodist church with my family, where we were deeply involved in the community through volunteering, worship, and service. From an early age, I learned the importance of compassion, integrity, and helping others—not just in words, but through actions. These values were reinforced by my family and church community, and they shaped the way I approach my life, my relationships, and my goals. Now, as a college student, I continue to grow in my faith through my involvement with Soma City Church in Toledo, Ohio. I have made it a priority to do a devotional every night and spend a moment of silence and prayer with God. This nightly practice helps me reflect, remain grounded, and approach each day with purpose and humility. I have also surrounded myself with friends who help me grow in my faith and keep me steadfast in it. Their support, encouragement, and shared commitment to living a moral and faithful life strengthen me in moments of challenge and inspire me to live intentionally. This foundation of faith has influenced both my academic and career goals. I am on a Pre-Law track, aspiring to become a family and juvenile lawyer. In this field, it is essential to approach each case with fairness, integrity, and empathy, ensuring that the people I serve are treated with dignity and respect. My faith teaches me that helping others is not just about following the law, but also about serving with compassion, honesty, and moral responsibility. It guides me to advocate for children and families in ways that honor their worth and potential. Faith also motivates me to give back to my community. Through my involvement in Alpha Phi Omega, I plan and organize service events for Sunshine Communities, the Ronald McDonald House, Toledo Northwestern Food Bank, and other projects. These opportunities allow me to put my beliefs into action by serving those in need and creating positive change. My faith inspires me to lead by example, to treat every person I encounter with care, and to make ethical decisions in all areas of my life. Looking forward, I know that my faith will continue to shape my career and personal life. It provides a foundation for integrity, perseverance, and ethical decision-making, all of which are essential for a successful lawyer. Through my devotion, prayer, and the support of friends who share my values, I am committed to serving others, advocating for those who need a voice, and building a career that reflects both competence and moral responsibility.

As the Vice President and Service Chair of Alpha Phi Omega, I have had the opportunity to plan and organize a variety of volunteer events that directly benefit children and families in our community. I take pride in coordinating service projects at Sunshine Communities, where I support children with developmental disabilities, and at the Ronald McDonald House, providing assistance to families facing serious medical challenges. I also lead efforts at the Toledo Northwestern Food Bank, organize tie-blanket making events for children in need, and coordinate campus cleanups to keep our community safe and welcoming. Additionally, as the treasurer of Gift of Life, I help plan bone marrow swabbing events that encourage students to register as donors and potentially save lives. Organizing these events requires careful planning, communication, and collaboration. I work with my fellow Alpha Phi Omega members to schedule, promote, and execute each project, ensuring that our impact is meaningful and inclusive. I also coordinate with community partners and local organizations to identify where our help is most needed, making sure that our efforts reach those who benefit the most. Through this process, I have learned that leadership is not just about directing others—it is about inspiring action, creating opportunities for involvement, and ensuring that everyone who participates feels valued and empowered to make a difference. Volunteering has allowed me to give back to my community in tangible ways while also developing my skills as a leader. By planning events that bring members together to serve, I have seen firsthand how collective effort can have a significant impact on those in need. Leadership through service means stepping up to take responsibility, supporting others, and using your position to amplify the positive effects of your work. I have learned that true leadership is measured not by personal recognition, but by the results achieved for the community and the experiences created for those who serve alongside you. Through these experiences, I have grown both as a leader and as a person. I have developed organizational skills, strengthened my communication abilities, and deepened my understanding of the importance of empathy, teamwork, and responsibility. Most importantly, I have learned that giving back is not only about addressing immediate needs, but also about inspiring hope, building relationships, and creating lasting change in the lives of others. By leading volunteer initiatives as Vice President and Service Chair, I am able to make a positive difference in my community while helping others discover the joy and fulfillment of service. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to serving others, and they have strengthened my belief that leadership through service is one of the most powerful ways to impact the world.

One of the most important social issues I am passionate about addressing is the well-being and protection of children and families in vulnerable situations. Many children face challenges at home that affect their safety, education, and overall development. As someone pursuing a Pre-Law track with the goal of becoming a family and juvenile lawyer, I am committed to advocating for these children and helping families navigate difficult circumstances so they can build healthier, more stable lives. I have gained firsthand insight into this issue through my seasonal internship at Williams County Juvenile and Probate Court. In this role, I assist with court reporting and support the juvenile probation department, witnessing the struggles that children face when parents are unable to provide adequate care. These experiences have shown me the critical need for legal professionals who are not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and dedicated to guiding children and families toward positive outcomes. Sitting in the court reporter’s chair, listening to these stories, is often emotional, but it fuels my determination to make a meaningful difference. Beyond my internship, I actively work to address social issues through consistent community service. I volunteer with Sunshine Communities in Maumee, Ohio, supporting children with developmental disabilities, and I have contributed my time to the Ronald McDonald House and Toledo Northwestern Food Bank. On campus, I serve as the treasurer of Gift of Life, coordinating bone marrow swabbing events to save lives, and participate in Alpha Phi Omega, where I organize cleanups and community service projects. These opportunities allow me to engage directly with my community, provide tangible support, and raise awareness of important social issues, from health and access to basic needs to advocacy for children. Supporting children and families requires not only direct action but also creating a culture of care and understanding. Through my volunteer work and leadership roles, I strive to model empathy, consistency, and advocacy in every interaction. I also work to maintain my own mental well-being so that I can remain present and supportive for others. Witnessing the impact of mental health challenges on my younger sister and best friend has shown me how critical it is for people to feel valued and supported, and it has strengthened my belief that legal professionals should consider the whole person when addressing family and juvenile cases. Through education, internships, and service, I am actively preparing to address these social issues on a larger scale as a lawyer. My goal is to provide children and families with advocacy, guidance, and protection, ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. By combining legal knowledge with empathy and community engagement, I hope to create meaningful change, improve lives, and strengthen families for generations to come.

From a young age, I have been passionate about serving my community and making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. As a student on a Pre-Law track at the University of Toledo, I have committed myself not only to my education but also to giving back through service, leadership, and advocacy. I currently balance two jobs while being actively involved in two student organizations, which has taught me the importance of time management, resilience, and dedication. Paying for my own schooling, I understand the financial pressures that come with pursuing higher education, and a scholarship would significantly alleviate that burden, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies and community work. Service has always been central to my life. I regularly volunteer at Sunshine Communities in Maumee, Ohio, where I work with children who have developmental disabilities. I have also contributed my time at the Ronald McDonald House and Toledo Northwestern Food Bank, providing support to families and individuals in need. On campus, I actively participate in Alpha Phi Omega, a service fraternity where I take part in organizing community cleanups and various service projects. Additionally, as the treasurer of Gift of Life, a student organization connected to the national stem cell registry, I help coordinate bone marrow swabbing events to encourage students to register as donors. Through these experiences, I have learned the power of small acts of kindness and the importance of giving back consistently, even while managing a demanding academic and work schedule. My commitment to service is complemented by my academic and career goals. I am on a Pre-Law track because I aspire to become a family and juvenile lawyer, advocating for children and families in need. My seasonal internship at Williams County Juvenile and Probate Court has given me firsthand exposure to the legal system, allowing me to assist with court reporting and support the juvenile probation department. Witnessing the challenges children face when navigating difficult circumstances has strengthened my determination to create positive change through law. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial pressures of working multiple jobs to fund my education, but it would also allow me to dedicate more time to serving others, pursuing leadership opportunities, and gaining the skills I need to make a lasting impact in my community. It would support my ongoing commitment to service and help me continue building the foundation to become a lawyer who advocates for children and families with compassion, integrity, and dedication. I strive to live with ambition, drive, and impact in every area of my life. Through my education, volunteer work, and leadership experiences, I have learned the value of hard work, empathy, and perseverance. This scholarship would empower me to continue pursuing my goals while expanding my ability to make a positive difference in the lives of those who need it most.

From a young age, I have been drawn to helping children, guiding them toward brighter futures, and advocating for their well-being. I initially pursued a Social Work major because I wanted to make a difference in their lives, but my perspective shifted when I began interning at the Williams County Juvenile and Probate Court. Sitting in the court reporter’s chair, I listened to stories of children navigating unimaginable challenges with unfit parents. Hearing their experiences was difficult, but it also ignited a profound passion in me for the law. I realized that through legal advocacy, I could help children while also empowering parents to turn their lives around, creating lasting change for families. Each case reminded me that the decisions made in court can have a lifelong impact on a child, and that understanding, guidance, and support are just as important as legal knowledge. My desire to pursue law is also deeply personal. My father is a police officer, and growing up, I watched the impact he had in our community. Children would run up to him in public, excited to see someone who had helped them. Witnessing his ability to make people feel seen and valued inspired me. I want to have that same effect in a different way, through advocacy, guidance, and protection under the law. I want children to know that there is someone on their side who will listen, fight for them, and help them feel safe and supported. This commitment extends beyond the court. I have gained extensive experience working with children through my service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega, and through regular volunteering at Sunshine Communities in Maumee, Ohio, supporting children with developmental disabilities. These experiences have reinforced the importance of patience, empathy, and consistent care. They have taught me that meaningful change comes from both guidance and advocacy, and that children thrive when they know they are valued. Supporting these children has strengthened my belief that every child deserves access to opportunities, care, and protection, regardless of the challenges they face. I bring a calm presence under pressure, strong organizational skills, and a dedication to standing up for what is right. These qualities, combined with my real-world experiences, equip me to navigate the complexities of juvenile and family law with integrity, compassion, and determination. I am committed to using my legal education to advocate for children, support families in crisis, and contribute to a legal system that prioritizes rehabilitation, understanding, and long-term well-being. Through law, I hope to be the kind of professional who not only enforces justice but also fosters hope and empowers families to make positive changes. I want every child and every family I work with to feel seen, supported, and capable of creating a better future for themselves. By combining my passion, experience, and skills, I aim to make a meaningful and lasting impact on society, one child, one family, and one courtroom at a time.

Reading has always been a powerful way for me to understand lives beyond my own. Through books that explore injustice, resilience, and the realities many children and families face, I have learned how deeply systems can shape a person’s life. These stories have reinforced my belief that everyone deserves to be heard, protected, and treated with dignity. They have also helped guide my goal of becoming a family and juvenile lawyer. I want to be someone who can advocate for those who are often overlooked or unheard. While I have not personally faced significant mental health challenges, I have witnessed their impact in deeply personal ways. My younger sister and my best friend have both struggled, and those experiences have shaped my understanding of what it truly means to support someone. Watching someone you love fight battles you cannot see is both heartbreaking and eye-opening. At one point, my best friend attempted to take her own life, and the thought of losing her is something I still cannot fully put into words. That moment changed me. It made me realize how critical it is for people to feel seen, valued, and cared for. Since then, I have made it a priority not only to maintain my own mental well-being, but also to be a steady, supportive presence for the people around me. I have learned that even small acts of kindness, consistency, and compassion can make a life-changing difference. These experiences have shaped both my relationships and my future aspirations. I believe the legal system—especially in family and juvenile settings—must go beyond rules and consequences. It must recognize the emotional and psychological realities that individuals, especially children, are facing. This belief has been further strengthened through my seasonal internship at the Williams County Juvenile and Probate Court. There, I have assisted with court reporting and worked alongside the juvenile probation department. I have witnessed young individuals navigating incredibly difficult circumstances, often without the support systems they need. Seeing how guidance, advocacy, and understanding can alter the course of a child’s life has had a lasting impact on me and reaffirmed my commitment to this path. As a student majoring in Legal and Paralegal Studies on a Pre-Law track, I am actively working to address the social issues that affect youth and families, particularly those connected to mental health, instability, and access to support. I am committed to being part of a system that not only enforces justice but also promotes healing, stability, and second chances. Through my future career, I hope to make a meaningful and lasting impact by advocating for children, supporting families through difficult transitions, and helping create a legal system that leads with both fairness and compassion. I want to be someone who ensures that no child feels invisible and no family feels without hope. Because I have seen firsthand what it means to feel valued, and what can happen when someone doesn’t. I am determined to be part of the change that reminds people their lives matter.

Gifted children oftentimes walk through the world feeling misunderstood. These are kids who tend to feel everything a little bit deeper. They are looked at through a narrow lens—they are bright, high-achieving, and destined for success. Unfortunately, gifted children sometimes withdraw when their intellectual and emotional intensity goes unrecognized. I believe these children need understanding, validation, and safe spaces that allow them to be true to themselves. I want to be a part of creating that understanding and acknowledgment. Lieba's story resonates with me deeply. She was not only gifted in her talents but also in her courage, compassion, and integrity. Lieba noticed pain and stood up when it was easier to stay quiet. That is the kind of social worker I want to be. I want to lead with empathy and step in with strength when others choose to step back. I also want to help families, teachers, and schools better understand the gifted experience. Oftentimes, people assume giftedness makes things easier. However, for many children, it makes the world feel more overwhelming. For these children, when they reach significant achievements, they often feel relieved rather than excited or proud. I want to serve these children and do everything possible to make them proud of their accomplishments. These are children whose depth, brilliance, and compassion deserve to be nurtured. Eventually, I hope to help develop community programs that can easily provide counseling and peer connection for the gifted youth. Especially those from underrepresented or low-income backgrounds. I know that emotional support shouldn't be considered a luxury; it should be considered a necessity. Furthermore, I understand that giftedness does not make a child immune to trauma, depression, or loneliness. In fact, it can make those children feel things more deeply. Lieba Joran's legacy is full of radical kindness and moral courage. She didn't wait to take action when needed, and she stood up for others even as a child. That is the kind of spirit I want to honor in my work. School-based social work isn't just a career path to me. Social work is a calling rooted in justice, healing, and the belief that no child should feel alone in their differences. If I were to receive the Lieba's Legacy Scholarship, it would support my education and inspire me to help others in my career as a social worker. I want to spend my life advocating for the children who don't always fit in, who feel too much, think too deeply, and struggle silently. I want to help them find their voices, their power, and their peace. I hope to stand up for children and be someone that people can be confident in. I aspire to embody the qualities of Lieba.

Any child with a rare disorder like Rebecca requires a unique and compassionate approach to education. Understanding their needs, finding a way to communicate in an effective manner, and creating a strong family-school relationship are crucial to their development and success. If I were given the opportunity to work with a child who has a rare disorder, I would make sure I prioritized finding individualized strategies and strengthening family collaboration. First, I would take the time to understand the child's needs, weaknesses, strengths, and personal interests. Each and every child is unique, and when a child has a rare disorder, I believe gathering information from the family is extremely important. Assuming there may be little research available on the rare condition, working closely with the child's family, friends, and doctors would be essential. As a future social worker, the collaboration with those who work closely around the child would be a key aspect in my approach. Communication is another vital component of teaching children who are non-verbal or face communication challenges. Finding alternative and augmentative communication tailored to the child would be something that I prioritize. Some alternative ways to communicate that are the most obvious could include picture exchange communication, speech-generating devices, or sign language. Making it a priority to observe the child's natural gestures and responses would also be very important in developing a personalized communication system. Allowing the child to engage in activities such as music, movement, or sensory play would help me as a social worker create a more enjoyable learning environment that can encourage the child and their participation. Furthermore, multi-sensory learning methods would play a significant role in my teaching. I understand that many children with a wide variety of disabilities benefit from hands-on learning that engages multiple senses. My goal with multi-sensory learning would be to find learning techniques that can pique the child's interest or fit into their hobbies. A large chunk of children who have rare disorders are in collaboration with the family. Family and close friends can provide insight into the child's behavior and preferences. Their support is fundamental to the child's progress. I would value open communication with parents and caregivers, encouraging their involvement in the child's education and therapy. I believe that Rebecca's story is a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated educators, doctors, therapists, and social workers can have on a child's life. When those people close to children use patience, innovation, and collaboration, children with those rare disorders can have the opportunity to thrive. I hope to be given the opportunity to support such a child. Within that opportunity I would embrace their uniqueness, advocate for their needs, and prioritize giving them the opportunity to grow, learn, and experience joy. I hope that during my career as a social worker I can combine individualized approaches, effective communication strategies, and strong family partnerships to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with rare disorders like Rebecca.