Being the first in my family to obtain a college degree means more than a personal achievement—it represents a turning point for my entire family. It means breaking generational curses that have held so many people I love back. It means pushing through doubt, fear, and financial hardship to prove that success is possible. Coming from Magnolia, Arkansas, where opportunity can sometimes feel out of reach, I know that I’m not just earning a degree for myself—I’m creating a path for my younger siblings, cousins, and the future generations of my family. I’m showing them that we don’t have to settle for what life hands us—we can build something greater, something lasting. Being a first-generation college student also means carrying a lot of weight on my shoulders. There are times when I’ve felt lost or unsure of what to do, with no one in my immediate family to turn to for guidance through the college experience. But it’s also made me stronger, more resilient, and more determined. I’ve learned how to advocate for myself, how to seek out help when I need it, and how to keep going even when it gets hard. Every class I pass, every goal I reach, is a reminder that I’m doing something powerful—not just for myself, but for my whole family. At the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, I’m currently majoring in Animal Science. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve had a deep love for animals. I grew up around them, caring for strays and always wanting to help when one was hurt or sick. That love turned into a passion, and now that passion is guiding my path toward becoming a veterinarian. I’ve always known I wanted to work with animals, but college has helped me understand just how big of an impact I can make in their lives—and in the lives of the people who care for them. My dream doesn’t stop at becoming a veterinarian. One of my long-term goals is to own my own veterinary practice. I want to build a space that provides excellent care for pets but also serves as a welcoming environment for families, especially those who may not have easy access to animal healthcare. I want to educate people on how to care for their animals and create jobs and internship opportunities for other young people interested in veterinary medicine. In addition to owning a practice, I also want to open an animal shelter focused on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming abandoned animals. In my hometown, I saw so many strays left to fend for themselves. I want to be the person who steps in to give them a second chance. My shelter won’t just be a place for animals to stay—it will be a place where they are healed, loved, and given the life they deserve. I also want it to be a space where community members can volunteer, learn, and give back. A big part of my motivation comes from my late grandmother, Lawanda “Gwen” Davis. She passed away in 2021, but she remains one of my biggest inspirations. She believed in me wholeheartedly, even when I doubted myself. She always encouraged me to chase my dreams and reminded me that I was capable of achieving great things. Everything I’m doing now—every class I take, every late-night study session—is done with her in my heart. I want to make her proud. I want to be the success story she always knew I could be. Earning a degree will be more than a personal goal—it will be a legacy.

My name is Missouri Davis, and I’m from Magnolia, Arkansas. I am currently attending the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, majoring in Animal Science. As a first-generation college student, my decision to pursue higher education was not just about earning a degree—it was about rewriting the narrative for my family, breaking generational curses, and honoring the people who came before me, especially my late grandmother. Growing up, I saw the challenges that came with not having access to education or opportunity. I watched people I love work hard day and night just to get by, often putting their dreams on hold so others could survive. I didn’t want to continue that cycle. I knew I had to make a change, not just for myself, but for my future children and for every younger cousin, niece, or nephew who might look up to me. Higher education became my way out, my path toward something greater. I saw it as a chance to create the life I dreamed of and to show others in my family and community that it’s possible to reach for more. One of my biggest inspirations has always been my grandmother, Lawanda “Gwen” Davis. She passed away in 2021, but her strength, kindness, and belief in me still guide me every day. She always told me I was capable of doing great things, even when I wasn’t sure of myself. I carry her words in my heart through every challenge and every success. Going to college was one of the ways I knew I could make her proud. I want to build a life and a legacy that would’ve made her smile and say, “That’s my grandbaby.” Preparing for college as a first-generation student wasn’t easy. I didn’t have someone at home to help me fill out FAFSA, pick the right classes, or explain what to expect. But I knew I couldn’t let that stop me. I asked questions, researched everything I could, and leaned on my high school teachers and counselors for guidance. Once I got to UAPB, I found mentors, advisors, and friends who supported me and helped me feel like I belonged. I joined programs that provided academic and emotional support, and I made it a priority to stay focused and consistent. My passion for animals also kept me grounded. Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian. That dream gave me purpose and reminded me why I was doing all of this in the first place. I’ve worked hard in my animal science courses, looked for shadowing opportunities, and stayed committed to reaching veterinary school and one day opening my own practice and animal shelter. Pursuing higher education has not only opened doors for me—it’s transformed me. I’ve grown more confident, more independent, and more determined to make a difference. I’m proving to myself and everyone watching that where you come from doesn’t have to determine where you’re going. I’m here not just for a degree, but to build a better future—for my family, for my community, and in loving memory of my grandmother.

My name is Missouri Davis, and I’m from Magnolia, Arkansas. I am currently attending the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where I’m a junior majoring in Animal Science. My goal is to become a veterinarian, open my own practice, and one day start an animal shelter to help rescue and care for stray animals. While I’ve always been passionate about animals and dedicated to my education, the road to higher education hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the biggest obstacles I’ve had to overcome is financial hardship. Coming from a small town and a working-class family, money was always tight growing up. When I decided to go to college, I knew that paying for tuition, books, housing, and basic living expenses would be a struggle. I didn’t want to place a heavy financial burden on my family, but I also didn’t want to let money stop me from chasing my dreams. There were moments when I questioned whether I could afford to keep going. I’ve worked part-time jobs, applied for scholarships, and even skipped meals sometimes just to make things stretch. Balancing work, school, and personal responsibilities has been mentally and physically exhausting at times. What helped me overcome this obstacle was the support of my mother. She has always been my biggest cheerleader, even when she didn’t have all the answers or resources. She reminded me of the importance of education and always told me that I was capable of doing great things. Even when things got hard, she kept encouraging me to keep pushing. Her sacrifices and strength have been a constant motivation for me to succeed. She didn’t let me give up on myself when it would have been easy to walk away. In addition to my mother’s support, I also leaned on mentors and staff members at UAPB. My academic advisor took time to walk me through the financial aid process and helped me apply for grants and scholarships. The university’s support programs connected me with resources for food, housing, and counseling, which made a huge difference in helping me stay focused on my studies. These individuals reminded me that I’m not alone, and that there are people who want to see me succeed. Going through financial hardship has taught me the value of perseverance and resourcefulness. It’s made me more grateful for every opportunity I’ve been given and more determined to give back in the future. I plan to use my experiences to help other students who might be facing similar challenges. Whether it’s through mentorship, offering affordable veterinary services, or creating internship opportunities at my future practice, I want to be a part of someone else’s support system—just like others were there for me. Even though the journey hasn’t been easy, it’s shaped me into a stronger, more resilient person. I’ve learned that obstacles don’t have to stop you—they can build you. And with faith, determination, and the right people by your side, you can overcome anything.

Economic empowerment and business innovation have the power to transform underrepresented communities by providing opportunities for growth, stability, and long-term success. When communities are given access to financial resources, education, and entrepreneurial support, they are better positioned to create their own pathways to prosperity. Business innovation, particularly when it addresses local needs, can lead to the creation of jobs, increased access to essential services, and a stronger sense of community pride and ownership. By fostering an environment where entrepreneurship and economic self-sufficiency are encouraged, we can begin to dismantle systemic barriers and create lasting change. Underrepresented communities often face challenges such as limited access to healthcare, education, and quality employment opportunities. Economic empowerment addresses these disparities by giving individuals the tools they need to build wealth, support their families, and invest back into their neighborhoods. When small businesses thrive, they hire locally, mentor young people, and reinvest profits into community development. Innovation allows these businesses to not only survive but also to adapt, grow, and meet changing community needs. Whether through new technologies, creative business models, or social enterprises, innovation ensures that progress is sustainable and impactful. My career goals strongly align with the vision of using business innovation to drive social equity and justice. As a future veterinarian, I plan to own and operate both a veterinary clinic and an animal shelter. Through my business, I aim to provide affordable and accessible animal care services to communities that traditionally have limited access to veterinary services. Too often, families in underrepresented areas are unable to afford proper healthcare for their pets, leading to unnecessary suffering and community-wide issues like stray overpopulation. By offering affordable services, flexible payment plans, and educational programs, my clinic will address a critical gap and promote better overall community health. In addition to providing direct services, my animal shelter will serve as a hub for education, youth employment, and community engagement. I want to create internship and job opportunities for local students interested in veterinary science, animal care, or nonprofit management. By investing in the next generation and providing them with practical experience, I hope to spark new career interests and show young people that they have the power to create meaningful change in their communities. Education will be a key part of my mission, with workshops and outreach programs aimed at teaching responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, and the connection between healthy animals and healthy communities. Economic empowerment through my veterinary business will uplift my community by creating jobs, offering affordable services, and investing in education. Business innovation will allow me to find creative solutions, such as mobile veterinary units and community partnerships, to reach more people and adapt to their needs. My focus will always be on serving the community first, ensuring that my business grows alongside the people it is designed to help. Driving social equity and justice requires intentional action. It requires businesses that are mission-driven, community-centered, and committed to addressing inequality. Through my work, I hope to prove that business ownership is not only a path to personal success but also a tool for social transformation. I believe that when underrepresented communities are empowered economically, they gain the ability to advocate for themselves, shape their futures, and create spaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. In everything I do, I want to use my career and business to be a force for good. I believe that true change comes when economic empowerment is combined with a genuine commitment to justice, compassion, and community development. I am determined to be part of that change and to build a legacy of service.

My name is Missouri Davis, and I am a junior majoring in Animal Science at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. I was born and raised in Magnolia, Arkansas, where I grew up surrounded by a supportive community that encouraged education, leadership, and personal growth. Throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to have access to resources, mentors, and programs that helped me prepare for college and pursue my passion for animal care. These experiences allowed me to stay focused on my dreams and build the foundation necessary for success. With hard work, guidance, and a clear vision for my future, I have reached this point in my academic journey, determined to turn my passion into reality. From a young age, I developed a deep love and compassion for animals. Whether it was taking care of stray cats, rescuing injured pets, or helping neighbors with their farm animals, I knew early on that my calling involved caring for animals. I have always believed that animals deserve kindness, respect, and proper care. Throughout high school, I made it a point to take every science course available and to seek out volunteer opportunities related to animal care. These experiences not only strengthened my love for animals but also taught me about responsibility, patience, and the importance of community service. After graduating, I made the decision to attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), where I knew I would receive a quality education and the cultural support necessary to thrive. Attending an HBCU has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. At UAPB, I am surrounded by professors and peers who understand the unique challenges and strengths that come from our backgrounds. I am constantly inspired by the history, pride, and perseverance that fill our campus. Being part of an HBCU community means that I am continuing a legacy built on resilience, excellence, and a deep commitment to service. It has also given me leadership opportunities and a network of support that empowers me to keep moving forward, even when the journey gets difficult. UAPB has not only prepared me academically but has also instilled in me a sense of pride in who I am and where I come from. Attending an HBCU is about more than receiving a degree—it is about honoring my ancestors’ sacrifices and paving the way for future generations. After completing my bachelor’s degree, my goal is to attend veterinary school at Louisiana State University. I am passionate about becoming a licensed veterinarian and opening my own veterinary clinic and animal shelter. My dream is not just about personal success; it is about giving back to my family, my community, and the animals that bring so much love into people’s lives. I plan to offer affordable veterinary services, focusing especially on underserved areas where proper animal care is often limited. By opening a shelter, I want to provide a safe haven for stray and abandoned animals, reducing overpopulation and promoting adoption and responsible pet ownership. Through my actions and career, I hope to make a significant difference. For my family, achieving my educational and career goals means breaking generational barriers and creating new opportunities for my siblings and cousins. I want them to see that higher education, professional success, and community leadership are all within their reach. For my community, it means improving access to veterinary care, promoting animal welfare, and educating others on how to properly care for animals. I believe that when we take care of our animals, we strengthen our communities as well. Additionally, I want to mentor and inspire other young people from small towns like mine, encouraging them to pursue their passions fearlessly. My journey to this point has been shaped by support, opportunity, and an unshakable determination to succeed. Attending an HBCU has given me the confidence, the cultural pride, and the preparation I need to move forward toward even bigger dreams. With the opportunity to further my education and the passion I have for animals and community service, I am committed to making a lasting, positive impact on every life I touch. This scholarship would help me continue this journey, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to share my story.

My name is Missouri Davis, and I am a junior majoring in Animal Science at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Being a first-generation and low-income student has greatly shaped my educational journey. Without family members who had navigated higher education, I had to learn to advocate for myself, seek out resources, and remain persistent despite the many obstacles I faced. Although the path has not been easy, it has taught me resilience, independence, and a deep appreciation for every opportunity I earn. Throughout my life, there were moments when the pressure of balancing academics, part-time jobs, and family responsibilities felt overwhelming. Financial hardships often made it difficult to focus solely on my studies, and there were times when I questioned if I truly belonged in college. However, instead of letting these challenges discourage me, I used them as motivation. They helped me develop a strong work ethic and a level of determination that pushes me to succeed, not only for myself but also for the generations that will come after me. Every late night of studying and every difficult choice to prioritize schoolwork has reinforced my belief that education is the key to creating a better future. My ultimate goal is to earn my bachelor’s degree, attend veterinary school, and open my own animal clinic and shelter. I have had a deep love and respect for animals since childhood, growing up around pets and seeing firsthand the comfort and joy they bring to people’s lives. I believe that all animals deserve proper care and compassion, regardless of their owners’ income or background. With the education and experience I am gaining, I plan to serve communities by providing accessible veterinary services, educating others about responsible pet ownership, and advocating for animal welfare. I am passionate about building a career where I can give back to both animals and the people who love them. Attending college is extremely important to me because it represents more than personal achievement; it symbolizes hope, progress, and the breaking of generational barriers. I want to be an example to my younger siblings and others in my community, showing them that with hard work and determination, they too can pursue higher education and follow their dreams. Receiving this scholarship would not only ease the financial burden on my family but would also bring me one step closer to fulfilling my purpose. I am committed to making a difference in the lives of animals and people alike, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue my education.

My name is Missouri Davis, and I am currently a junior at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff majoring in Animal Science. Growing up surrounded by animals, I developed a deep respect for their well-being and the critical roles they play in our ecosystems. This lifelong passion has shaped my desire to contribute meaningfully to the fields of animal care, welfare, and conservation. Animal care and welfare are vital components of conservation efforts because they directly impact the survival and quality of life of countless species. Healthy, well-cared-for animals are more likely to thrive, reproduce, and contribute to the balance of ecosystems. Whether in rehabilitation centers, sanctuaries, or in the wild, providing animals with proper medical attention, nutrition, and safe environments can make the difference between extinction and survival. Conservation is not solely about preserving land; it’s about ensuring that the animals within those environments are healthy enough to maintain natural populations and support biodiversity. Welfare practices also foster public support for conservation initiatives. When people see animals being treated with compassion and dignity, they are more inclined to support laws, funding, and education efforts that protect wildlife and natural habitats. Good animal welfare builds a bridge between the public and conservationists, encouraging a sense of shared responsibility for the planet’s future. As a future veterinarian, I envision contributing to conservation by focusing on both preventative care and hands-on rehabilitation of injured or displaced animals. I aspire to work with organizations that rescue and rehabilitate wildlife, ensuring that animals receive the care they need to return to their natural environments whenever possible. Additionally, I plan to advocate for education initiatives that teach communities the importance of humane animal treatment and habitat preservation. Long-term, I aim to open my own veterinary practice and animal shelter, particularly focusing on strays and abandoned animals. By reducing the number of stray animals through rescue, rehabilitation, and responsible adoption practices, I hope to lessen the human impact on local wildlife and ecosystems. My ultimate goal is to blend veterinary medicine with conservation outreach, creating programs that not only save individual animals but also protect the natural systems that all life depends on. Through my education at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and my future veterinary studies, I am building the foundation to be a leader in animal welfare and conservation. I am deeply committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of animals and the health of our planet. With continued support and opportunities for growth, I am excited to become part of a global movement working to preserve wildlife for generations to come.

Growing up in Magnolia, AR, I was always surrounded by animals. From a young age, I found myself drawn to their presence , fascinated by their unique personalities and unconditional love they offer. Whether it was caring for a stray dog, helping nurse a baby kitten, or simply spending time with my pets, I quickly realized that animals, like people, need love, attention, and proper care to thrive. This early passion led me to pursue my bachelor's degree in animal science at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where I am currently a junior. My ultimate goal is to become a veterinarian, attend LSU Veterinary School and one day open my own practice and animal shelter for strays. Through my education and future career, I aim to make a lasting impact on my community by providing high-quality veterinary care and advocating for animal welfare. One of the biggest challenges in many rural communities, including my hometown of Magnolia, is the lack of accessible and affordable veterinary care. Many pet owners struggle to find proper medical attention for their animals, leading to preventable illness and suffering. Additionally, stray animals are a growing issue, often left to fend for themselves without food, shelter, or medical care. As a future veterinarian, I want to address these problems by offering affordable and compassionate services to pet owners while also establishing a safe haven for abandoned and neglected animals. My plan to impact my community begins with education. Many people do not fully understand the importance of routine veterinary care, spaying and neutering, and proper pet nutrition. By working closely with local schools, shelters, and community organizations, I hope to implement educational programs that teach pet owners and future generations about responsible animal care. Knowledge is key to preventing animal neglect and overpopulation, and I want to be an advocate for change. Additionally, I want to create a veterinary practice that not only treats animals but also serves as a resource for pet owners in need. I envision offering low-cost services for low income areas,, and volunteer programs that allow aspiring veterinarians and animal lovers to gain hands-on experience. By making veterinary care more accessible, I can help ensure that every pet, regardless of its owners financial situation, receives the medical attention it deserves. Beyond veterinary medicine, I also dream of opening an animal shelter dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating strays. This shelter would serve as a temporary home for animals until they can be adopted into loving families. Many stray animals are simply lost or abandoned, and with proper care and training, they can become wonderful companions. By providing them with a second chance, I hope to reduce the number of homeless animals in my community while also helping individuals and families find the perfect pet. Attending LSU Veterinary School is the next step in making these dreams a reality. In conclusion, my passion for animals and my desire to help others have shaped my career goals and my vision for the future.