Statement 1: Ten years ago, my life looked very different. I struggled with homelessness, alcoholism, and illicit substance use, and at age 29, I was diagnosed with AIDS. The challenges I faced could have defined my future, but instead, they became the foundation for my purpose. Today, I am proud to have over ten years of continuous recovery and am pursuing a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration to help create systems of care that support individuals facing the same barriers I once experienced. My career goal is to serve in executive healthcare leadership, improving access to behavioral health, substance use treatment, and community-based services for vulnerable populations. As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and healthcare executive, I have dedicated my professional life to advancing health equity and strengthening services for underserved communities. Through my work with L.A. CADA, one of Southern California's leading behavioral health and substance use treatment organizations, I have helped expand access to care, strengthen community partnerships, and advocate for equitable health outcomes for underserved populations. One of my greatest accomplishments is transforming lived experience into leadership and service. I currently serve on the City of Long Beach Equity and Human Relations Commission and was recently appointed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors to the Los Angeles County Commission on HIV. I also mentor individuals in recovery, advocate for reducing stigma, and support initiatives that improve access to care. This scholarship would help alleviate the financial burden of my doctoral education and allow me to continue growing as a leader, advocate, and educator committed to creating opportunities for others to heal, recover, and thrive. Statement 2: My goals align closely with ACHE of Southern California's mission to advance healthcare leadership through education, networking, community service, and partnerships. Having experienced homelessness, addiction, and serious illness firsthand, I understand the profound impact that compassionate and effective healthcare leadership can have on an individual's life trajectory. ACHE's emphasis on lifelong learning resonates strongly with me as I pursue a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration and continue to seek opportunities for professional growth. Recently, I completed the Faculty Diversity Internship Program (FDIP) at Long Beach City College, which reinforced my passion for mentorship, education, and the development of future healthcare leaders. One of my long-term goals is to serve as an adjunct professor and help prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals. I am equally committed to ACHE's values of social responsibility, diversity, and inclusion. Through my work in behavioral health, public health, and community advocacy, I have focused on reducing barriers to care and advancing health equity for underserved populations. My service on the Long Beach Equity and Human Relations Commission and the Los Angeles County Commission on HIV reflects my dedication to fostering inclusive systems that value diverse perspectives and experiences. By combining leadership, service, and education, I hope to strengthen healthcare organizations, mentor emerging professionals, and contribute to a more equitable healthcare system. These aspirations closely reflect the purpose and objectives of ACHE of Southern California.