From the moment I felt called to ministry, I knew I wanted to work with children, knowing how pivotal our influence can be on their developing faith and sense of self. This calling isn’t just a career choice; it’s a commitment to nurturing young souls, helping them discover Jesus, and creating a safe, loving environment where they feel valued and empowered. As a youth leader and theology student at Grand Canyon University, I am preparing for a future in full-time children’s ministry, grounded in both experience and a commitment to ongoing learning. Working with children at my church has shown me the profound impact of every interaction—from sharing stories of faith to listening to their questions and fears. Each moment reinforces my purpose: to help children build a resilient, faith-centered foundation that will guide them throughout their lives. Vision for Research in Ministry Current research on child development, trauma-informed care, and psychology offers us invaluable insights that I believe should be integrated into church ministries. For example, understanding the effects of childhood trauma can equip ministry leaders to approach each child with compassion and awareness of the unseen struggles they may carry. A trauma-informed approach can be especially impactful in ministry, where a nurturing environment can be a refuge for children facing difficult situations. Research also highlights that children learn best through play, creativity, and storytelling. I envision a ministry that utilizes these methods to make biblical teachings engaging and accessible. By blending research-based methods with the timeless truths of the Gospel, we can create environments where children feel loved, safe, and excited to explore their faith in ways that resonate with them personally. My Calling and Vision for Impact I feel called to children’s ministry because introducing children to Jesus is about more than teaching stories; it’s about helping them experience His love in a personal, lasting way. When I witness a child’s excitement in learning about God or their openness to follow Jesus, I am reminded that these are deeply impactful moments. Each lesson, prayer, and activity is a seed planted for future faith to flourish. In full-time ministry, I aim to create programs that focus on both spiritual and emotional well-being, equipping children to face life’s challenges with faith and resilience. I want my ministry to feel like home—a place where every child knows they are cherished, part of a larger community, and integral to God’s story. This scholarship would allow me to continue my studies with a clear focus on building the skills and knowledge needed to fulfill this calling with excellence. Thank you for considering my application and for supporting those of us dedicated to bringing Jesus into the lives of children. With Gratitude, Richard Powell

My name is Richard Powell, and I’m currently an undergraduate theology major at Grand Canyon University. While my studies are focused on youth ministry, my life experiences have given me a deep respect for community safety and the importance of protecting others—values that I see reflected in the mission of the Rob Dollar Foundation. As a combat veteran and father, I know what it means to be vigilant and how vital it is to keep our public spaces safe for everyone. Although I’m not directly involved in the cycling community, I’ve come to understand how critical road safety is. In my military service, I was a forward observer, responsible for ensuring safety through precise decision-making under intense conditions. That experience taught me that even a small oversight can put lives at risk. The same principle applies to our roadways, where a lack of awareness can lead to tragedy. Seeing how many cycling accidents occur each year, especially preventable ones, motivates me to advocate for safer roads and more awareness in my community. As a youth leader and coach, I often talk to young people about responsibility and the importance of being aware of others around them—whether they’re walking, driving, or biking. Many of them rely on their bikes to get around, and I emphasize the need to be cautious and mindful on the road. These conversations are small steps, but they’re part of building a culture of respect for everyone who shares the road. Goals to Improve Road Safety If awarded this scholarship, I plan to continue advocating for road safety, particularly for cyclists and pedestrians, through my work in youth ministry and my community. I’d like to organize events that focus on awareness, perhaps inviting local speakers or hosting workshops to educate young people about safety and respect for cyclists. I also envision collaborating with local organizations on campaigns that emphasize road-sharing and help foster understanding of the risks cyclists face every day. Another step I’d like to take is connecting with local policymakers to share community feedback and voice support for safer infrastructure. Advocating for better signage, bike lanes, and public awareness campaigns are ways we can work together to reduce accidents and create a safer environment for everyone. Drive and Impact Service has always been central to my life, whether on the battlefield or here at home. I know that it takes committed individuals to drive change, even if it’s one step at a time. This scholarship would allow me to further my efforts, giving me the chance to raise awareness and support meaningful initiatives that honor Rob Dollar’s legacy. His dedication to cycling safety is one I deeply respect, and I am committed to working toward a community where everyone, whether they’re on two wheels or four, can feel safe. Thank you for considering my application. With Gratitude, Richard Powell

As a youth pastor in training and full-time theology major at Grand Canyon University, I am committed to becoming a leader in youth ministry, guiding young people to develop resilience, compassion, and purpose. My goal is to create a mentorship model that blends faith, support, and growth, providing young people with tools to navigate life’s challenges. My experiences as a combat veteran, father, and youth leader have prepared me to pursue this path with dedication and intentionality. The motto “Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan” resonates deeply with me. Every day, I apply its principles to balance my responsibilities as a father to my three-year-old daughter, Noelle, my role as a youth leader, and my studies. The resilience I developed as a dual Purple Heart recipient and traumatic brain injury survivor now fuels my commitment to serve others. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that purposeful planning and unwavering determination are essential to achieving meaningful goals. My Goal and the Plan to Achieve It My immediate goal is to complete my Bachelor’s degree in Youth Ministry, followed by a Master’s in Theology. This advanced education will provide the theological foundation and practical skills necessary to serve effectively in youth ministry. My plan combines academic excellence, hands-on ministry experience, and a long-term vision to give back to communities in need. 1. Academic Excellence: I am dedicated to excelling in my studies, particularly in courses like Christian Character Formation, which deepen my understanding of faith’s impact on personal growth. Academic excellence is central to my plan, as it equips me with the knowledge to guide young people effectively. 2. Practical Ministry Experience: As a youth leader, I guide young people through life’s challenges, helping them grow spiritually and develop resilience. I also work closely with a mentor pastor, meeting biweekly to hone my skills and gain insights into ministry work. This hands-on experience is invaluable as I prepare to serve as a youth pastor, and it allows me to develop a strong foundation in leadership. 3. Long-Term Vision for Impact: My ultimate goal is to create programs that provide mentorship, career guidance, and support to young people, especially those from challenging backgrounds. I plan to build a mentorship model rooted in resilience and faith, empowering young people to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. Drive and Impact My journey from soldier to youth pastor in training reflects the discipline and drive that define my approach to life. The same resilience that carried me through combat now fuels my dedication to youth ministry. I approach each day with purpose, striving to impact young lives while building a bright future for my daughter, Noelle. My mission is to instill in youth a faith that can anchor them through life’s storms, providing them with a sense of purpose and belonging. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue my education, balancing my academic pursuits with my responsibilities as a father and youth leader. It would enable me to focus on my studies and ministry, paving the way to make a meaningful impact in my community. I am grateful for the opportunity to apply and am committed to honoring Joe Gilroy’s legacy by planning my work and working my plan with purpose and passion. Thank you for your consideration. With Gratitude, Richard Powell

My commitment to service began in high school, where I first discovered the profound impact of helping others. I volunteered at a local community center that provided tutoring and mentorship to underprivileged children. What started as a simple tutoring role quickly evolved into something much more meaningful. I noticed that many of the students struggled not only with their studies but also with self-esteem and confidence. I realized that while academic support was important, emotional encouragement and mentorship were equally vital in helping these children believe in their capabilities. Through patience, empathy, and consistent positive reinforcement, I saw these students transform—not just in their academic performance but also in their self-confidence and motivation. This experience solidified my understanding that helping others is not just about addressing immediate needs but also about empowering them to realize their potential. This passion for service continued into my college years, where I sought out various opportunities to volunteer and make a difference in my community. One of the most transformative experiences has been my work with a non-profit organization that supports homeless individuals and families. Initially, I volunteered to distribute food and clothing, but I soon saw an opportunity to contribute more deeply. I began organizing job readiness workshops, helping participants build resumes, prepare for interviews, and develop the skills needed to secure stable employment. This experience taught me the importance of empowerment—how providing someone with the tools and confidence to succeed can restore their dignity and sense of purpose. It reinforced my belief that meaningful service goes beyond providing temporary relief; it is about creating pathways for sustainable growth and self-reliance. In addition to my work with the homeless community, I have also served as a peer mentor at my university, helping first-year students navigate the challenges of college life. My own experience as a freshman was filled with uncertainties and challenges, and I wanted to ensure that others had someone to turn to during this crucial transition. As a peer mentor, I provide academic guidance, emotional support, and practical advice to help new students adjust to the demands of college. This role has taught me to be a more patient listener, a better communicator, and a more thoughtful leader. It has shown me that sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness—like a reassuring conversation or a piece of advice—can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Through these experiences, I have come to see helping others as both my purpose and my passion. I believe that my journey is aligned with the values that the Team Rox Scholarship seeks to uphold—those of selflessness, compassion, and a commitment to helping others reach their full potential. I am driven by the desire to create positive change and to inspire others to do the same. My GPA of 3.67 reflects my dedication to academic excellence, but more importantly, my experiences reflect my dedication to serving others and making a meaningful impact. Receiving the Team Rox Scholarship would enable me to continue this work and further develop my skills as a leader and changemaker. It would allow me to honor the memory of the incredible individual for whom this scholarship is named by continuing her legacy of kindness, empowerment, and service. With the support of this scholarship, I am committed to using my education and my passion for service to help others achieve their goals and unlock their true potential, just as she did throughout her life.

Dear Scholarship Committee, My name is Richard Powell, and I am honored to apply for the John Acuna Memorial Scholarship. My journey has been deeply influenced by my military service, which has shaped my educational and career goals and driven my commitment to giving back to the community. I served in the Army, enlisting at the age of 17 and quickly advancing to the rank of Sergeant by 19. My service took me to various locations, including Afghanistan and Iraq, where I completed two combat tours. My military career was marked by dedication and sacrifice, culminating in a Purple Heart award. Unfortunately, a combat injury led to my medical retirement at the age of 23, leaving me with PTSD and a traumatic brain injury. Despite these challenges, my time in the Army profoundly shaped my outlook on life and my future aspirations. Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Christian Studies with a focus on youth ministry at Grand Canyon University. This path reflects my desire to deepen my faith and my commitment to guiding and mentoring young people. My military service instilled in me a sense of discipline, resilience, and leadership—qualities that have been instrumental in my academic journey and my goal of becoming a youth pastor. The challenges of living with PTSD and managing the effects of a traumatic brain injury have impacted my ability to achieve my goals. Navigating these obstacles requires ongoing therapy, support, and personal resilience. However, my military background has equipped me with the strength to face these challenges head-on and remain focused on my educational and career objectives. In line with John Acuna’s legacy of community involvement, I am actively engaged in supporting my community. For the past 18 months, I have been involved in youth ministry at my church, where I coach small groups and participate in mission trips. These experiences have allowed me to connect with young people and contribute to their spiritual and personal growth. Additionally, my work as a Registered Veterinary Technician and my role as a father have further deepened my commitment to serving others and giving back to the community. Receiving the John Acuna Memorial Scholarship would be a significant step in advancing my education and continuing my mission to serve and support others. It would enable me to further develop my skills and expand my impact on the community, in honor of John Acuna’s dedication to service and giving back. Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to continue my journey of service and support, inspired by the example set by John Acuna. https://www.loc.gov/item/afc2001001.102287/ https://riverscenemagazine.com/veteran-spotlight-richard-powell/

Dear Scholarship Committee, My name is Richard Powell, and I am deeply honored to apply for the Bryent Smothermon PTSD Awareness Scholarship. As a combat veteran living with PTSD, I understand firsthand the challenges and impact of this condition. This scholarship represents not only an opportunity for personal growth but also a chance to raise awareness and support for others who, like me, navigate the complexities of PTSD. I enlisted in the Army at 17 and served with dedication, quickly rising to the rank of Sergeant. My military career included two combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, during which I was awarded a Purple Heart for my service. However, my experiences also left me with significant physical and emotional scars. A combat injury led to my medical retirement at 23, and I was diagnosed with PTSD and a traumatic brain injury. These conditions have profoundly influenced my life, but they have also fueled my determination to advocate for awareness and support. Living with PTSD has been a challenging journey, marked by periods of intense struggle and growth. I have learned to manage my symptoms through therapy, support networks, and resilience-building strategies. The experience has deepened my empathy and understanding of mental health, inspiring me to pursue a path where I can make a difference in the lives of others facing similar struggles. After my military service, I redirected my energy towards a new purpose: serving others through veterinary medicine. I worked as a Registered Veterinary Technician in Arizona, providing critical care and leading wildlife conservation efforts. This role allowed me to apply my skills and compassion in meaningful ways while managing the effects of PTSD. In 2021, the birth of my daughter, Noelle, further motivated me to create a supportive and loving environment for her, navigating the challenges of parenthood with resilience and determination. Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Christian Studies with a focus on youth ministry at Grand Canyon University. My goal is to become a youth pastor, guiding young people and offering support to those who might be dealing with their own mental health challenges. Through my studies and involvement in youth ministry, I have gained valuable insights into the power of faith and community in healing and personal growth. The Bryent Smothermon PTSD Awareness Scholarship is an essential opportunity for me to continue my education and advance my mission of raising awareness and supporting others affected by PTSD. By sharing my story and advocating for mental health, I hope to contribute to a greater understanding and provide hope for those who face similar challenges. Thank you for considering my application. This scholarship will empower me to continue my journey of personal and professional growth, ultimately allowing me to make a positive impact on the lives of others and further the cause of PTSD awareness. https://www.loc.gov/item/afc2001001.102287/

My name is Richard Powell, and I am writing to express my sincere interest in the Brandon M. Greber Memorial Scholarship. My life has been shaped by a combination of military service, personal challenges, and a deep commitment to community and faith. This scholarship will greatly assist me in advancing my education and continuing to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I enlisted in the Army at 17, driven by a profound sense of duty and commitment to my country. By the age of 19, I had risen to the rank of Sergeant and had been deployed twice to Afghanistan and Iraq. These experiences were transformative, teaching me resilience, leadership, and the importance of camaraderie. My military service earned me a Purple Heart, but it also led to a medical retirement due to injuries sustained in combat, including PTSD and a traumatic brain injury. These challenges have not deterred me but have instead fueled my determination to turn adversity into opportunity. After leaving the military, I pursued a career in veterinary medicine, working as a Registered Veterinary Technician in Arizona. This role allowed me to channel my skills and dedication into serving animals and their owners, and to lead conservation efforts for Arizona's wildlife. The birth of my daughter, Noelle, in 2021 has added a new dimension to my life. As a single father, I am committed to providing a loving and supportive environment for her. My military background has equipped me with the resilience and discipline necessary to face the challenges of parenthood, and our journey together, supported by an exceptional cortisol alert dog, is a testament to the strength and adaptability I have developed. Currently, I am pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Christian Studies with a focus on youth ministry at Grand Canyon University. This academic path reflects my desire to deepen my faith and make a positive impact on the lives of young people. Over the past 18 months, I have been actively involved in youth ministry at my church, coaching small groups and participating in mission trips. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to serving others and have provided me with valuable insights into the power of faith and community. The Brandon M. Greber Memorial Scholarship represents an opportunity for me to further my education and expand my ability to support and mentor young individuals. My background in the military, veterinary medicine, and youth ministry has equipped me with unique perspectives and skills that I am eager to apply in my future endeavors. This scholarship will enable me to continue my mission of service and make a lasting impact on the lives of those I work with. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the legacy of Brandon M. Greber through my ongoing commitment to faith, service, and community. Sincerely, Richard Powell

My name is Richard Powell, and I am honored to apply for the Johnny Douglas Conner Memorial Scholarship. As a combat veteran, my journey has been profoundly shaped by my military service, which has positively impacted my life in numerous ways. I would like to share my story, my connection to the military, and how this experience has molded me into the person I am today. From a young age, I felt a calling to serve my country. At 17, I enlisted in the Army, driven by a deep sense of duty and patriotism. My military career was marked by dedication and rapid advancement, achieving the rank of Sergeant by the age of 19. During my service, I was deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq for two combat tours. These experiences tested my resilience, strength, and faith, but they also forged in me an unbreakable spirit and a profound appreciation for life. The sacrifices and challenges I faced during my military service were significant. Unfortunately, during my last deployment, I sustained a combat injury that led to my medical retirement at 23. As a result, I live with PTSD and a traumatic brain injury, which have been challenging but also transformative. My story is documented in the Library of Congress, where you can learn more about my experiences and reflections https://www.loc.gov/item/afc2001001.102287/ Despite these obstacles, the military has impacted my life positively in many ways. It instilled in me values of discipline, perseverance, and leadership that have been invaluable in my civilian life. After my military career, I pursued a path in veterinary medicine, working as a Registered Veterinary Technician in Arizona. For seven years, I provided critical care at an emergency animal hospital and led conservation efforts for Arizona's native wildlife. These roles allowed me to channel my skills and passion into meaningful work, serving my community and making a difference. In 2021, I welcomed my daughter, Noelle, into the world. Being a single full-time father has brought immense joy and purpose to my life. My military background has equipped me with the resilience and determination needed to navigate the challenges of parenthood and provide a nurturing environment for her. Together, with the support of an exceptional cortisol alert dog, we face life's adventures with courage and faith. My journey has also led me to deepen my faith and commitment to serving others. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Christian Studies with a focus on youth ministry at Grand Canyon University. For the past 18 months, I have been actively involved in youth ministry as a leader at my church, coaching small groups and participating in mission trips. These experiences have enriched my life and strengthened my resolve to guide and inspire young individuals. The Johnny Douglas Conner Memorial Scholarship represents an invaluable opportunity for me to continue my education and expand my ability to mentor and support young people. My military service has profoundly shaped my character and life path, and I am committed to using these experiences to positively impact the lives of others. Thank you for considering my application. The scholarship will empower me to further my mission of service and mentorship, and I am eager to contribute to its goals.

My name is Richard Powell, and I am honored to apply for the Norton Scholarship. As a combat veteran, a Christian studies major, and an active community member, this scholarship aligns perfectly with my personal and spiritual journey. My goal is to develop a deeper sense of faith and to guide others in their spiritual growth, particularly as I work towards becoming a youth pastor. My journey of faith and service began early in my life. Enlisting in the army at 17, I quickly rose to the rank of Sergeant and served two combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, earning a Purple Heart. My service was not only a commitment to my country but also an expression of my faith, as I believed I was fighting for the values and freedoms that God has blessed us with. Unfortunately, a combat injury led to my medical retirement at 23, resulting in a 100% disability due to PTSD and a traumatic brain injury. Despite these challenges, I refused to let my circumstances define me. In 2014, I pursued a career in veterinary medicine, working as a Registered Veterinary Technician in Arizona. For seven years, I provided critical care at an emergency animal hospital and led conservation efforts for Arizona's native wildlife. These experiences taught me the importance of compassion, resilience, and the interconnectedness of all life. In 2021, my daughter Noelle was born, bringing new purpose and joy into my life. As a full-time single father, I am dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for her. Together, with the support of an exceptional cortisol alert dog, we navigate life's challenges and draw strength from our bond. My faith has always been a cornerstone of my life, and in recent years, I have felt a strong calling to deepen my understanding and share it with others. This led me to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Christian Studies with a focus on youth ministry at Grand Canyon University (GCU). Living near the GCU campus allows me to actively engage in worship services, student-led events, and community outreach programs, reinforcing my dedication to personal growth and service. For the past 18 months, I have been actively involved in youth ministry as a leader at my church. Coaching small groups and participating in mission trips to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Africa, and Ukraine have deepened my passion for service and cultural understanding. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to guide and inspire young individuals, sharing the love of Jesus and helping them navigate life's challenges. The Norton Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for me to continue my education and expand my ability to mentor and support young people. My journey as a soldier, veterinary technician, father, and youth leader has equipped me with resilience, leadership, and empathy. With this scholarship, I am eager to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the young people I mentor and serve. In conclusion, my journey has been defined by service, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to positively impacting young lives. The Norton Scholarship will empower me to continue my mission of service and mentorship, helping me develop a deeper sense of faith and guide others on their spiritual journeys. I am deeply grateful for your consideration and the opportunity to share my story. Warm regards, Richard Powell

I am Richard Powell, and I am honored to apply for the Veteran & Family Scholarship. At 33, my journey has been defined by resilience, service, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact on young people's lives while navigating the challenges of being a single father to my 3-year-old daughter, Noelle. My path began with a deep-seated desire to serve my country. Enlisting in the army at 17, I swiftly rose to the rank of Sergeant by 19 and served two combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, where I earned a Purple Heart. Unfortunately, a combat injury during my last deployment led to my medical retirement at 23, resulting in a 100% disability status due to PTSD and a traumatic brain injury. Despite these obstacles, I refused to let them define me. In 2014, I embarked on a new career path in veterinary medicine in Arizona. For seven years, I worked as a critical care Registered Veterinary Technician, providing care at an emergency animal hospital and leading conservation efforts for Arizona's native wildlife. These roles instilled in me a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of life and the importance of compassionate service. The birth of my daughter Noelle in 2021 brought new purpose and joy into my life. As a full-time single father, I am dedicated to creating a nurturing environment for her. Together, with the support of an exceptional cortisol alert dog, we embrace life's challenges and adventures, drawing strength from our bond. Every day, I strive to set a positive example for Noelle through self-improvement and determination. Pursuing my Bachelor's degree in Christian Studies with a focus on youth ministry at Grand Canyon University (GCU) demonstrates my commitment to lifelong learning and serving others. Living near the GCU campus allows me to actively engage in worship services, student-led events, and community outreach programs, further reinforcing my dedication to personal growth and community involvement. For the past 18 months, I have been actively involved in youth ministry as a leader at my church. Coaching small groups and participating in mission trips to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Africa, and Ukraine have deepened my passion for service and cultural understanding. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to guide and inspire young individuals, sharing the love of Jesus and helping them navigate life's challenges. The Veteran & Family Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for me to continue my education and expand my ability to mentor and support young people. My journey as a soldier, veterinary technician, father, and youth leader has equipped me with resilience, leadership, and empathy. With this scholarship, I am eager to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the young people I mentor and serve. Thank you for considering my application. The Veteran & Family Scholarship will not only support my educational journey but also empower me to continue my mission of service and mentorship. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and look forward to contributing to the scholarship's mission.