What makes me different isn’t just my background, my education, or the career I’ve chosen — it’s the way I’ve turned adversity into purpose and learned to lead through quiet strength. I’ve been through experiences that could have broken me, but instead they’ve shaped me into someone who shows up with compassion, humility, and resilience — even when I don’t know who’s watching. I didn’t come into my strength loudly. For a long time, I was simply surviving — surviving emotional and physical abuse, navigating instability, and trying to build a life in systems that weren’t designed to support people like me. I often felt invisible, like no one truly saw me or understood what I was going through. But over time, through hard work and healing, I found power in my survival. My past no longer defines me; it fuels me. That journey has made me someone others look to, even when I don’t realize it. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is that leadership and influence don’t always come from having a title or being the center of attention. Sometimes, the most powerful impact you make is through quiet consistency — showing up, doing your work with care, and treating people with dignity. That’s what I bring into every healthcare and community setting I’ve worked in. During my internship at Pathways Homeless Shelter, a nonprofit serving women and families in crisis, I was tasked with case intake, eligibility documentation, and referral coordination. But it wasn’t the administrative work that left the biggest impression on me — it was the way I connected with the clients. These were women, many of them African American like me, who had experienced trauma, homelessness, and rejection. When I greeted them with kindness and took the time to explain processes they didn’t understand, something changed. They opened up. They felt safe. One woman told me, “You treated me like I was still worth something.” That stayed with me. I realized I was making a difference — not just by what I did, but by how I made people feel. At Cardinal Pediatric Therapies, I worked as a Registered Behavior Technician, helping children with autism and other developmental needs. I supported therapy sessions, tracked progress, and worked with families to ensure services were properly documented and covered by insurance. But the impact wasn’t just clinical — it was emotional. Parents told me they felt heard, understood, and supported. One mother said, “My daughter trusts you — that means everything.” I didn’t set out to be a role model, but I became one by simply being present, patient, and real. What makes me unique is that I don’t perform kindness — I live it. I bring my full, authentic self into every space, even when that means being vulnerable. I’ve learned that people are always watching — especially the ones who need hope. They see how you handle pressure, how you treat others, how you carry your past with grace. And if I can be someone’s quiet inspiration — someone who helps them believe that success is possible even after struggle — then I’ve done something meaningful. I plan to continue using my uniqueness to make a difference in healthcare, particularly by advocating for underserved communities and creating systems that are more responsive, compassionate, and inclusive. My long-term goal is to help transform how care is delivered — not just in clinical outcomes, but in how people are treated. Even when I don’t know who’s watching, I aim to be someone worth watching — someone who leads with love.

My goal in pursuing a career in healthcare is rooted in a deep desire to serve, advocate for, and uplift underrepresented populations — especially Black and Brown communities that have long been under-served by the medical system. As I continue my education in Medical Administration, I am preparing to not only contribute to the inner workings of healthcare systems but to be a voice for equity, representation, and systemic change. Over the past few years, I have gained experience in various healthcare environments — from mental health hospitals to pediatric therapy clinics and nonprofit shelters. These experiences opened my eyes to the many barriers patients face when trying to access quality care: miscommunication, long wait times, lack of cultural competence, and insurance hurdles that too often lead to delayed or denied services. In each of my roles, I witnessed how administrative systems directly impact patient outcomes — especially for African American women, children with developmental disabilities, and individuals experiencing housing instability. One of my primary career goals is to work in healthcare management or benefit coordination, where I can help ensure that patients not only receive accurate and timely services, but are treated with dignity and understanding throughout the process. I want to improve workflow processes, advocate for policy improvements, and help train providers and administrators in trauma-informed, culturally competent care. I am also passionate about helping patients navigate claims, eligibility, and coverage — often the most confusing and stressful parts of their healthcare experience. My work at Cardinal Pediatric Therapies and Cape Fear Valley Medical Center highlighted how crucial it is to have administrators who truly understand the communities they serve. Whether I was entering CPT codes, verifying insurance, or tracking claims, I always strived to provide clarity and support to families who were overwhelmed by the system. It became clear to me that change doesn’t just happen in exam rooms or operating theaters — it happens behind the scenes too, in documentation, coordination, and communication. That’s where I believe I can make the most immediate impact. But making change in healthcare also requires something even bigger: representation. I believe increasing racial diversity in healthcare is critical — not only for fairness and equality but for better health outcomes. Studies consistently show that patients of color experience disparities in pain management, maternal care, mental health access, and chronic disease treatment. Part of the problem lies in cultural misunderstandings, unconscious bias, and the lack of trust that stems from generations of mistreatment. When healthcare teams reflect the diversity of their patient populations, it leads to greater empathy, improved communication, and more tailored care. Patients are more likely to feel heard and understood when their provider or care coordinator looks like them or shares similar life experiences. For African American women in particular, whose health needs are often overlooked or misdiagnosed, having culturally competent staff is not just important — it can be life-saving. As a Black woman and a future leader in healthcare administration, I carry both the responsibility and the privilege of representing my community in these critical spaces. I want to be part of the solution that brings more diversity into clinics, hospitals, and executive roles — so that our systems can finally serve all people equitably. This scholarship will help me continue building the skills, knowledge, and network I need to achieve my career goals. With it, I will move closer to transforming healthcare from the inside out — creating pathways that are more inclusive, accessible, and just for the communities I care so deeply about.

Education is not just a personal goal for me — it is a pathway to serve others, especially those who are most vulnerable. My journey through healthcare and community service has shown me the immense need for compassionate, coordinated, and culturally responsive care. As I pursue my degree in Medical Administration, I am not only investing in my future, but also preparing to become a leader who will make a meaningful impact on the systems that shape people’s lives — particularly in underserved communities. One of the most defining experiences in my career was my internship at Pathways Homeless Shelter. This nonprofit serves women and families, many of whom are facing domestic violence, mental health challenges, and chronic poverty. There, I conducted intake interviews, determined eligibility for housing and health services, maintained case documentation, and tracked reimbursements. But beyond the paperwork, I connected with people who often felt invisible. I saw the courage it takes to ask for help — and the importance of having professionals on the other side who care enough to listen. That experience confirmed my calling: to support vulnerable populations through effective systems of care. Working with children has also shaped my mission. At Cardinal Pediatric Therapies, I served as a Registered Behavior Technician in an ABA and speech therapy setting. I worked one-on-one with children diagnosed with autism, using structured programs to promote communication and behavioral growth. My responsibilities included session documentation, benefits verification, and collaboration with therapists and families. I learned how essential early intervention and family engagement are in helping children thrive. It also made me more aware of the gaps many families face when navigating insurance systems, accessing care, or receiving culturally competent services. My educational career is preparing me to address those very gaps. With training in medical coding (CPT, ICD-10), claims processing, and healthcare reimbursement, I am gaining the technical tools to advocate for more accurate, efficient, and equitable care coordination. My coursework and work experience have taught me how complex — and sometimes confusing — the healthcare system can be. I want to help demystify that process for others, particularly for low-income families and people of color who are often underserved. The positive impact I aim to make comes down to this: I want to be a change agent inside systems that often fail those who need them most. Whether it’s helping a parent get approval for a child’s therapy, ensuring that a shelter resident can access Medicaid, or improving documentation workflows so that mental health services are covered and reimbursed, I want to be part of the solution. I also believe that representation matters. As a Black woman with lived experience in both receiving and providing care, I bring a perspective that is often missing in leadership roles within healthcare. My goal is to one day help design community-based programs that bridge the gap between medical institutions and the everyday realities of the people they serve — especially women, children, and those impacted by trauma. This scholarship would allow me to continue my education without financial strain and focus fully on the work that matters most to me. With every class I complete and every skill I gain, I am getting closer to my dream of creating lasting change through compassionate service, strategic systems, and lifelong learning. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting students like me who are committed to making a difference.

My experience with domestic violence was not something I ever anticipated. What began as a seemingly loving relationship soon turned into a cycle of control, emotional manipulation, and physical abuse. My last boyfriend, who I once believed would be my lifelong partner, used anger, intimidation, and isolation to maintain power over me. The emotional wounds cut deep, but the physical scars served as a constant reminder that I was living in fear — and fighting to survive. As an African American woman, I faced additional layers of complexity. There is often stigma in our communities about seeking help, especially when it comes to mental health or admitting we are in unsafe situations. Cultural expectations of strength can make it hard for Black women to be seen as victims or to be offered compassion. I learned quickly how society often turns a blind eye to our pain — or worse, blames us for it. Surviving domestic violence gave me a new purpose: to use my life, voice, and education to help other African American women who are struggling in silence. I believe that higher education is not only a path to personal empowerment, but a powerful tool for social change. Through my studies in Medical Administration and my professional experience in healthcare and behavioral health, I’ve come to understand how crucial coordinated care and compassionate communication are for women impacted by trauma and substance abuse. I have worked in several healthcare settings, from mental health hospitals to home caregiving services, and I've seen firsthand the disparities in how care is delivered to women of color. Too often, African American women facing abuse or addiction are misjudged, misunderstood, or completely overlooked. Providers sometimes lack the cultural competence or trauma-informed training needed to engage with empathy and awareness. This disconnect leads to worse outcomes — including homelessness, incarceration, or the loss of children and families. I am committed to changing that narrative. With my education, I plan to continue working in medical and behavioral health systems where I can advocate for improved care models for Black women. My goal is to contribute to the development of culturally responsive programs that emphasize wraparound services — mental health support, substance abuse treatment, safety planning, and community-based resources. I also want to help train healthcare workers in trauma-informed care and implicit bias, so they are better equipped to support women like me. Most importantly, I want to create spaces where African American women feel seen, heard, and supported — not just as patients, but as whole people deserving of healing and justice. Whether I’m helping someone access benefits, navigating claims, or working behind the scenes in administrative coordination, I want to ensure the systems meant to protect us actually do so. My past no longer defines me — it motivates me. I am a survivor, but I am also a future leader in healthcare. Through education, lived experience, and relentless compassion, I will help bridge the gaps in care and change the outcomes for women impacted by domestic violence and substance abuse. I believe that when one of us heals, we all move closer to collective liberation. This scholarship would not only support my educational journey, but help me continue the work I was born to do: turning pain into purpose, and lifting others as I rise.

As a bisexual student pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Management at Fayetteville Technical Community College, my journey has been shaped by resilience, ambition, and a commitment to inclusivity. Being part of the LGBTQ+ community has presented both challenges and opportunities, strengthening my dedication to advocacy and healthcare equity. Growing up, I felt the pressure to conform to societal expectations. It took time to fully embrace my identity, and navigating unwelcoming spaces remains a challenge. Discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals persists, especially in professional and academic settings. Studies show that one-third of LGBTQ+ individuals face discrimination, with even higher rates among transgender individuals. This reality fuels my passion for change and inspires me to contribute to a more inclusive society. My career aspirations align with my commitment to service and advocacy. I chose healthcare management to address disparities in healthcare access, particularly for marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals. Many face barriers to medical care due to provider bias, systemic discrimination, or financial hardship. My goal is to work in healthcare administration, ensuring policies and practices prioritize inclusivity, cultural competency, and equitable care for all. Through my academic and professional journey, I have gained experience in mental health support and child support enforcement, reinforcing my dedication to helping others. These roles have exposed me to individuals facing discrimination, poverty, and systemic barriers. These experiences have solidified my belief that everyone deserves equal access to essential services. Receiving the Pool Family LGBT+ Scholarship would provide financial support to continue my education and advance my impact in healthcare management. With this scholarship, I can develop programs addressing LGBTQ+ healthcare disparities, advocate for policy reforms, and contribute to a more inclusive healthcare system. Despite the challenges that come with being part of the LGBTQ+ community, I am proud of who I am and the journey that has shaped me. My identity has given me strength, courage, and determination to create meaningful change. I am committed to using my education and career to support those who need it most, ensuring healthcare is a safe, welcoming, and accessible space for everyone.

Sgt. Albert Dono Ware’s legacy embodies service, sacrifice, and bravery—values that have deeply influenced my personal journey and aspirations. As a first-generation college student pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Management at Fayetteville Technical Community College, my academic and professional experiences have been shaped by a deep commitment to service and advocacy. Through my work in child support enforcement, mental health support, and patient care, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by marginalized communities, particularly those within the African diaspora in the United States. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to contribute to meaningful policy and community reforms that promote equity, access, and empowerment. How Service, Sacrifice, and Bravery Have Shaped My Journey Service has always been at the core of my professional and personal life. My roles as a Mental Health Specialist, Patient Care Technician, and Child Support Agent II have placed me in positions where I must advocate for individuals facing systemic barriers. As a Mental Health Specialist at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, I worked with patients struggling with mental health disorders, ensuring they received the necessary resources and support. This role required patience, compassion, and a strong commitment to serving vulnerable populations. Similarly, as a Child Support Agent II, I helped enforce child support policies, ensuring that children and families received the financial assistance they were entitled to. Many single-parent households struggle to navigate complex legal and social service systems, and I have had to balance empathy with firm policy enforcement. These experiences have reinforced my belief that service is not just about fulfilling a role—it is about creating opportunities for individuals to lead better lives. Sacrifice has also played a significant role in my journey. As a first-generation college student, I have had to overcome financial and personal obstacles to pursue my education. Balancing work and school has required immense dedication and perseverance, but I remain committed to my mission of advocating for marginalized communities. True sacrifice is often necessary to effect change, whether through personal hardship or standing up for what is right. Bravery is an essential value that guides my leadership and advocacy. I have had to be courageous in many aspects of my career, from addressing difficult cases in child support enforcement to working with mental health patients in crisis. My ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure has been crucial in ensuring the well-being of those I serve. Sgt. Ware’s bravery in the military serves as an inspiration for me to continue facing challenges head-on, advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Addressing Challenges Faced by the African Diaspora in the U.S. The African diaspora in the United States faces systemic challenges, including economic disparities, healthcare inequities, and barriers to education. One of the most pressing issues is the lack of access to quality healthcare. Many African Americans experience higher rates of chronic illnesses, such as hypertension and diabetes, due to a combination of socioeconomic factors, limited healthcare access, and systemic biases within the medical field. Additionally, mental health remains a significant issue within the African American community, often due to stigma, financial constraints, and a shortage of culturally competent mental health professionals. My experiences in mental health support have reinforced the need for reforms that increase access to mental health services, promote awareness, and encourage culturally sensitive approaches to treatment. Another challenge is the economic disparity that disproportionately affects African Americans. Many individuals in our communities lack access to resources that enable economic mobility, such as affordable housing, job training programs, and financial literacy education. Without these resources, generational cycles of poverty persist, making it more difficult for individuals and families to achieve economic stability. Policy and Community Reforms for Change To address these challenges, comprehensive policy and community reforms are necessary. Expanding community-based healthcare programs that provide affordable, accessible medical services to under-served populations is critical. Mobile health clinics, tele-medicine services, and community health outreach initiatives can help bridge the gap between healthcare providers and African American communities. Mental health services must also be expanded to include more culturally competent professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by African Americans. Policies should increase funding for mental health programs in schools, community centers, and healthcare facilities, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need from an early age. Economic empowerment is another key area that requires attention. Programs that provide financial literacy education, small business grants, and workforce development training can equip African Americans with the tools needed to build generational wealth. Policy initiatives should focus on creating equitable access to capital, home-ownership opportunities, and job advancement pathways to reduce economic disparities. Key Stakeholders in Driving Change Achieving these reforms requires collaboration between various stakeholders. Community organizations, such as the United African Organization, play a crucial role in advocating for policy changes and providing direct support to African American communities. Nonprofit organizations can help implement grassroots initiatives that address healthcare, education, and economic empowerment. Policymakers and government agencies must also be actively involved in creating legislation that supports these initiatives. This includes allocating funding for community health programs, increasing mental health resources, and implementing policies that promote economic equity. Local and state governments should work closely with community leaders to develop programs that directly benefit African American communities. Educational institutions are another critical stakeholder in driving change. Schools and universities must prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that support African American students. This includes providing scholarships, mentorship programs, and career development opportunities that help students succeed academically and professionally. Lastly, corporate partnerships can help fund and sustain community programs. Businesses can invest in workforce development initiatives, offer internship opportunities, and provide financial support for educational and healthcare programs. By engaging the private sector, we can create sustainable solutions that address systemic inequalities.

In a world that often struggles with division and misunderstanding, I believe my unique talents and skills can contribute to fostering a more empathetic and understanding global community. As a first-generation college student pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Healthcare Management at Fayetteville Technical Community College, my journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to helping others. With a background in child support enforcement, mental health support, and patient care, I have developed a unique perspective on the challenges people face and the importance of advocacy, compassion, and effective communication. Throughout my professional career, I have worked in various roles where I have had the opportunity to assist individuals from diverse backgrounds. As a Mental Health Specialist at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, I worked directly with patients, ensuring their emotional and psychological needs were met while maintaining compliance with healthcare regulations. My role required me to be empathetic, patient, and understanding, as many of the individuals I worked with were experiencing significant hardships. I also assisted in case documentation and referrals, helping patients receive the additional services they needed to improve their well-being. My experiences as a Child Support Agent II have further reinforced my dedication to advocacy and justice. In this role, I conducted investigations, gathered evidence, and ensured compliance with child support guidelines. I worked closely with attorneys and families, helping parents secure the financial resources necessary to support their children. This role required strong communication and conflict-resolution skills, as I often dealt with emotionally charged situations. Through this work, I have developed a deep understanding of the systemic challenges that families face and the importance of policies that promote fairness and accountability. In addition to my legal and healthcare experience, I have also worked in direct patient care roles, such as being a Mental Health Technician at Holly Hills Hospital and a Caregiver at Home Instead. These roles required me to provide hands-on support, including administering medications, assisting with daily activities, and facilitating therapy sessions. Through these experiences, I have honed my ability to connect with people on a personal level, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and supported. My academic journey in healthcare management will allow me to combine my passion for helping others with my skills in policy interpretation, case management, and legal documentation. I aim to use my education to advocate for better healthcare policies, particularly for under-served populations. By understanding the intersection of healthcare administration and social justice, I hope to implement programs that bridge gaps in accessibility, ensuring that all individuals—regardless of their socioeconomic background—receive the care they need. Building a more empathetic and understanding global community starts with fostering environments where people feel supported and empowered. My experiences in mental health, legal advocacy, and patient care have prepared me to take on this challenge. I will use my skills to educate, advocate, and implement policies that prioritize compassion and inclusivity. As I continue my journey in healthcare management, I am committed to creating a world where everyone has equal access to the resources and support they need to thrive. This scholarship will enable me to continue my education and expand my impact, allowing me to further develop programs that address disparities in healthcare and social services. By investing in my education, I will be better equipped to contribute to a more just and empathetic world—one where understanding and kindness are at the core of every interaction and policy decision.

Throughout my life, I have been driven by a profound sense of compassion and a desire to uplift those in need. My career has been dedicated to behavioral health, patient care, and educational support—fields where small actions can create profound changes. With a background in criminal justice, anthropology, and liberal arts, I have built a foundation that enables me to approach challenges with empathy, critical thinking, and adaptability. Now, as I pursue my studies in healthcare management at Fayetteville Tech, I am deepening my understanding of the systems that shape patient care, aiming to merge frontline experience with strategic leadership. My experience as a mental health specialist, patient care technician, caregiver, and behavioral health associate has placed me in direct contact with individuals facing immense challenges. From assisting those with special needs to supporting patients in crisis, I have learned that healing is not just about treatment—it’s about human connection. Every shift, every conversation, and every moment of care reminds me of the power of patience, kindness, and advocacy. Working in diverse settings, including hospitals, behavioral health centers, and educational institutions, has deepened my understanding of the systemic challenges that vulnerable individuals face. I have witnessed firsthand the struggles of those battling mental health conditions, developmental disorders, and socio-economic hardships. These experiences have reinforced my belief that everyone deserves dignity, support, and the opportunity to thrive. Beyond direct care, I have honed my skills in research, documentation, crisis intervention, and confidentiality compliance—ensuring that my work is not only compassionate but also professional and ethical. My studies in healthcare management provide me with a broader perspective on how to improve care delivery, enhance patient outcomes, and advocate for policies that strengthen healthcare systems. I am committed to lifelong learning, as evidenced by my certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Nonviolent Crisis Intervention. My membership in Phi Kappa Phi and the National Society of Leadership and Success reflects my dedication to academic excellence and leadership. The impact I aspire to make in this world is simple yet profound: to be a source of stability and empowerment for those who feel unheard. Whether by offering a listening ear to a struggling patient, assisting a student with special needs, or working to improve healthcare systems from a management perspective, I want my career to be a testament to the belief that every life is valuable. Looking ahead, I see my journey as one of continued growth, education, and service. I aim to refine my expertise, embrace new challenges, and advocate for policies that support mental health and social justice. No matter where my path leads, my purpose remains clear—to create a world where care is not just a profession but a promise.

Throughout my career in healthcare, I have encountered many experiences that shaped my passion for the field, but one experience in particular solidified my decision to pursue a degree in Healthcare Management. While working as a Mental Health Specialist at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, I assisted patients struggling with severe mental health crises. One patient, in particular, left a lasting impact on me and changed the way I viewed the healthcare system. The patient was a young woman who had been in and out of mental health facilities for years due to untreated schizophrenia. She struggled to access consistent care because of insurance limitations, long wait times, and administrative hurdles. Each time she was discharged, she faced the same obstacles—lack of resources, insufficient follow-up care, and a system that failed to prioritize long-term well-being. As a frontline worker, I did my best to support her, ensuring she felt safe and heard. However, I realized that no matter how compassionate I was, my efforts alone could not fix the structural issues that made it so difficult for patients like her to receive proper care. Witnessing these gaps in the healthcare system was frustrating. I saw overworked staff juggling multiple responsibilities, patients being discharged prematurely due to insurance constraints, and families struggling to navigate complex policies. It became clear that the quality of care was not just determined by medical professionals but also by hospital operations, policies, and management decisions. This experience ignited a new sense of purpose in me. I no longer wanted to only provide direct patient care—I wanted to influence the policies and administrative processes that determine how care is delivered. That realization led me to pursue a degree in Healthcare Management at Fayetteville State University. I wanted to be part of the solution, ensuring that hospitals and mental health facilities operate in ways that truly prioritize patient care, efficiency, and accessibility. As a first-generation college student from a lower socioeconomic background, I understand the challenges of navigating complex systems with limited resources. My personal and professional experiences have made me passionate about improving healthcare, particularly in mental health services. With this degree, I hope to work in hospital administration or healthcare policy, ensuring that patients receive the care they deserve while improving conditions for healthcare professionals. This journey is deeply personal to me, and I am committed to making a meaningful difference in the field of healthcare.

The healthcare field has been a central part of my career and passion for several years. Through my experiences working in behavioral health, patient care, and mental health support, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that patients and healthcare professionals face in ensuring quality care. These experiences have motivated me to pursue a degree in Healthcare Management at Fayetteville State University. I want to make a meaningful impact on healthcare operations by improving efficiency, accessibility, and patient outcomes. Healthcare has always been a field that requires both compassion and strong leadership. While working as a mental health technician, patient care technician, and behavioral health associate, I saw how administrative decisions directly impacted the care that patients received. I also observed the struggles healthcare workers face, such as high patient loads, inefficient processes, and limited resources. These experiences inspired me to seek a role where I can influence policy and management strategies to improve healthcare environments for both patients and providers. As a first-generation college student from a lower socioeconomic background, I understand the importance of equitable healthcare access. Growing up, I saw family members and community members struggle to navigate the healthcare system due to financial and systemic barriers. This deepened my desire to work toward solutions that create more accessible and efficient healthcare services. By earning my degree in Healthcare Management, I aim to bridge the gap between frontline patient care and administrative decision-making to create a more effective and compassionate healthcare system. My experience in hospitals, mental health facilities, and caregiving roles has given me a well-rounded perspective on patient care and healthcare operations. At facilities like Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, Triangle Springs, and Children’s of Alabama, I worked closely with individuals facing mental health and behavioral challenges. In these roles, I ensured patients received proper care, monitored their well-being, and collaborated with medical professionals to implement treatment plans. These experiences strengthened my communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills—abilities that are crucial in healthcare management. In the future, I hope to use my degree to advocate for better healthcare policies, enhance hospital administration, and implement strategies that improve patient care services. I am particularly interested in addressing disparities in mental health services and ensuring that under-served populations receive the care they need. By working in hospital administration or healthcare policy development, I can help create programs that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase patient satisfaction. Receiving this scholarship would significantly ease my financial burden and allow me to continue my education without interruption. More importantly, it would empower me to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare field. Dr. Michael Paglia’s legacy of service and mentorship resonates deeply with me, and I am committed to carrying forward that spirit of dedication and leadership in healthcare. With the support of this scholarship, I will be able to further my education, expand my impact, and help shape a healthcare system that prioritizes both patient well-being and operational excellence.

My name is Melissa Cain, and I am pursuing a degree in healthcare management at Fayetteville Technical Community College. With years of experience as a patient care technician, mental health specialist, and behavioral health associate, I have gained valuable insight into the challenges within the healthcare system. Working directly with patients in hospitals and mental health facilities allowed me to see firsthand the gaps in care, hospital inefficiencies, and the need for stronger administrative leadership. These experiences motivated me to transition into healthcare management, where I can help improve policies, streamline operations, and advocate for better patient care. I am passionate about making an impact in my community by ensuring healthcare services are accessible, efficient, and patient-centered. My background in behavioral health has given me a deep understanding of the importance of integrating mental health services with overall healthcare management. Many individuals, especially those struggling with mental health conditions, face barriers to receiving proper care. By working on the administrative side of healthcare, I aim to implement policies that enhance patient outcomes, improve provider resources, and create a more inclusive system that prioritizes both physical and mental well-being. Leadership positions in healthcare management often lack diversity, and I am committed to increasing representation in this field. Many professionals in patient care may not realize that their experience equips them with the skills needed to transition into leadership roles. My goal is to serve as an example and inspire others—especially those who have worked directly with patients—to pursue careers in healthcare administration. Diverse leadership brings new perspectives, improves decision-making, and ensures that healthcare policies reflect the needs of all communities. To inspire the next generation, I will mentor and support individuals who want to move from frontline healthcare roles into administration. Representation in leadership is crucial, and I want to show that hands-on experience is a powerful asset in shaping effective policies. By advocating for education, leadership development, and professional growth, I hope to help others see the value of their experience and encourage them to take on influential roles in healthcare. Furthermore, the need for strong healthcare administrators has never been more evident, particularly as healthcare systems continue to evolve. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing complexity of healthcare policies, administrative leaders must be equipped to adapt to these changes while ensuring that patient care remains the top priority. By focusing on strategic planning, policy implementation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, I aim to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and administrative processes. As I continue my education and gain further experience, I remain dedicated to fostering an inclusive, patient-centered healthcare system that benefits individuals from all backgrounds. I believe that my combination of firsthand patient care experience and passion for healthcare leadership uniquely positions me to contribute meaningfully to this field. My long-term goal is to take on a leadership role where I can directly influence policy changes and advocate for a system that prioritizes comprehensive and equitable healthcare access for all. Through my journey, I want to demonstrate that those with direct patient care experience can drive meaningful change in healthcare management. By combining my knowledge of behavioral health with leadership skills, I aim to create a lasting impact in my community and contribute to a more efficient, compassionate, and inclusive healthcare system.