Learner Mental Health Empowerment for Health Students Scholarship Mental health is not just important to me as a student, it is the foundation of my overall growth and success. Growing up, mental health was not something that was discussed. Instead, it was pushed aside while I endured verbal and physical abuse, creating a constant sense of fear, anxiety, and insecurity. During my undergraduate years, I experienced a traumatic relationship and sexual assault. These experiences did not just affect me emotionally, they shaped how I viewed myself, my safety, and my place in the world. One of the most defining challenges I faced as a student occurred during my junior year of college, when I was in a mentally and physically abusive relationship. My partner controlled my environment in ways that directly interfered with my education. He would tell me that his apartment “wasn’t a library” and that I was not allowed to study there. When I tried to go to campus to focus on my coursework, I was accused of not wanting to spend time with him or his son. I was constantly placed in situations where I felt forced to choose between my education and avoiding his anger. The pressure and manipulation took a significant toll on my mental health, and for the first time, my grades suffered. As someone who had always been a dedicated student, this impacted my self-worth. Mental health matters because students are not just learners, we are human beings, often carrying more than others realize. When mental health is ignored, it becomes a barrier to progress. My experiences have taught me that healing is not linear, but it is possible with time, acknowledgment, and support. Because of my experiences, I am committed to advocating for mental health awareness. Working in social services while pursuing my graduate degree, I encounter individuals facing many of the same struggles I have experienced. I lead with empathy, listen without judgment, and create a safe space where others feel seen and heard. Advocacy takes many forms, and sometimes it is simply showing up consistently, offering compassion, and reminding someone that they are not alone. In my everyday life, I advocate for mental health by being open about my own journey. By sharing my experiences, I help reduce stigma and normalize conversations that many people are afraid to have. I also encourage those who confide in me to seek help and connect them with resources that have supported me. Whether I am supporting a friend, coworker, or client, I strive to foster understanding and a sense of safety. As I continue my education in administration with a focus on human resource management, I plan to expand my advocacy by promoting mental health awareness in workplace environments. I want to help create organizational cultures where mental health is valued, resources are accessible, and employees feel supported. My journey has shaped not only who I am as a student, but who I am as a future leader. Through my experiences, I have developed resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to helping others. I will continue to use my voice, my education, and my career to advocate for a world where mental health is prioritized.

Building Opportunity Where It Doesn’t Exist Yet Every day in my work in social services, I meet people who are trying to rebuild their lives while navigating systems that were never designed to make success easy. I see parents working multiple jobs, individuals searching for stability, and families who simply need someone to help them find a path forward. I also understand these struggles from personal experience. What I want to build is not just a career, but a better system, one that truly supports the people it is meant to serve. My goal is to build stronger connections between social services, referral partners, and other community resources so that individuals are not just surviving difficult circumstances but gaining access to real help and opportunity. At times, resources exist but remain disconnected, leaving people overwhelmed and unsure where to turn. I want to help build programs and partnerships that simplify access to support such as employment pathways, financial education, childcare resources, and mentorship. Through my graduate education in administration while working full-time in social services, I am learning how effective leadership and thoughtful management can turn ideas into impactful solutions. Building programs that create lasting change requires more than good intentions; it requires strategic planning and collaboration. My motivation to build this future is both professional and deeply personal. As a single mother raising my son while pursuing my education, I understand firsthand the challenges many families face when trying to balance opportunity with responsibility. My son, Jack, is my greatest inspiration and motivation. He is the sweetest little boy with the spunkiest personality, and he deserves the best. I have struggled to find affordable housing, childcare that fits my schedule, and financial aid for graduate school while supporting my family on a social work salary. The future I hope to build is one where opportunity is not determined by circumstance. When communities invest in systems that empower individuals, the impact spreads far beyond one person. Families grow stronger, communities become more resilient, and people are given the tools they need to succeed. Education is the foundation that allows me to build this vision into reality. With the knowledge and leadership skills I am gaining, I hope to help shape programs and partnerships that expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and create lasting change for generations to come.

Marilynn Walker Memorial Scholarship Leadership in business is often measured by profit, growth, or innovation. For me, leadership is measured by impact: how decisions made in offices and boardrooms shape the lives of individuals and families in our communities. As a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in administration while working full-time in social services and raising my son as a single mother, my education represents more than personal advancement. It is the foundation that will allow me to turn my purpose into meaningful change. Working in social services has given me a unique perspective on the intersection between organizational leadership and human well-being. I see every day how policies, management decisions, and resource allocation can directly affect the stability and opportunities available to individuals and families. Strong leadership within organizations is not just about efficiency; it is about creating systems that empower people and produce sustainable solutions. My graduate education in administration with a specialization in human resource management is equipping me with the tools to influence these systems in a meaningful way. Through my studies, I am developing advanced skills in leadership, strategic decision-making, and organizational management. These skills will allow me to take on leadership roles where I can strengthen the effectiveness of programs, improve operational strategies, and build workplace cultures that value productivity and compassion. I want to help organizations operate with strong business practices and a commitment to serving people. Higher education is also expanding my ability to think strategically about long-term impact. In social services, many challenges families face are the result of gaps in the system and limited resources. By combining my professional experience with a strong foundation in business leadership, I hope to contribute to building organizations that prioritize sustainability and structures that improve lives. As a woman pursuing leadership in administration, I would also like to challenge barriers that continue to limit opportunities for women in executive roles. Balancing graduate school, a full-time career, and single motherhood has required resilience, discipline, and unwavering determination. These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills in ways that no classroom alone could teach, through persistence and an unrelenting commitment to my goals. My son is a constant reminder of why the long days are worth it. I am working to build a future that provides both stability for my family and meaningful impact for the communities I serve. Higher education is providing the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to turn my vision into action. I believe that both strong business strategy and compassion are crucial in creating lasting change. The legacy I hope to build in business is simple: leadership that strengthens organizations, empowers people, and leaves communities better than they were before.

Tawkify Meaningful Relationships Scholarship Human connection has always been the foundation of the life I am building. While many relationships have influenced my life, the most meaningful one I have is with my son, Jack. Jack is the sweetest little boy, he is my whole world, and he deserves the best. Becoming a mother changed not only my priorities but also the way I understand purpose, resilience, and the impact relationships can have on shaping a person’s future. As a single mother, my relationship with my son is the driving force behind nearly every decision I make. Raising him on my own while working full time and pursuing graduate school has not been easy. There are long days filled with responsibilities, financial pressures, and moments of self-doubt. Yet through all of those challenges, the connection I share with my son continually reminds me why perseverance matters. He inspires me to keep going, pursue my education, and create a future that provides stability and opportunity for us. Through him, I have learned that relationships are powerful motivators that push us toward growth. My understanding of connection extends into my professional life. I work as a social worker designee in a rehabilitation unit, where I witness how relationships influence healing and recovery. Many of the individuals I work with are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, or feelings of isolation. Sitting with someone, listening to their story, and ensuring they feel seen and supported can make an enormous difference in their recovery. Those moments reinforce my belief that relationships are one of the most powerful forces for positive change. Because of these experiences, relationships now play a central role in my long-term professional goals. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Administration and Human Resource Management with the goal of improving how organizations approach mental health and employee well-being. While my work has been rooted in direct service, I believe I can make meaningful and lasting change in leadership. Workplace culture has a profound impact on people’s mental health, sense of belonging, and overall well-being. When organizations foster environments where individuals feel supported, respected, and connected, employees are more likely to thrive both personally and professionally. In the future, I hope to help create workplace cultures and care facilities where human connection is prioritized rather than overlooked. Policies and leadership decisions shape how individuals experience their work environments. By advocating for mental health awareness, supportive leadership, and open communication, I hope to contribute to organizations where people feel valued and empowered to seek support when they need it. At its core, my life has always been shaped by relationships. My son is my motivation to be my best self. The individuals I work with show me the profound impact that compassion and understanding can have on someone’s life. These connections continue to guide my personal and professional path, reinforcing my belief that strong relationships truly have the power to change lives. As I continue my education and career, I remain committed to building environments where connection, empathy, and support are at the center of everything we do.

Elijah’s Helping Hand Scholarship Award Mental health has influenced my life in ways that are both deeply personal and profoundly motivating. Growing up, I witnessed and experienced events that no child should ever have to endure. Because of those experiences, I have battled severe anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation on my darkest days. I also saw what untreated mental health struggles did to individuals and families. Those experiences left a lasting impact on me, but they also sparked a lifelong commitment to understanding mental health and helping others who face similar challenges. Because of what I experienced growing up, I chose to pursue my undergraduate education in psychology and human services and counseling. I wanted to better understand the emotions, behaviors, and illnesses that so many people carry. Learning about mental health from an academic perspective helped me put words and understanding to experiences that once felt overwhelming and confusing. Today, I work as a social worker designee, where I see firsthand how mental health affects individuals every day. I work in the rehabilitation unit, and many of the people I work with are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, or feelings of hopelessness. Some struggle simply because they have never been given the resources or support they need to address their mental health. In these moments, I am reminded why this work matters so much to me. I know how powerful it can be when someone feels seen, heard, and supported. My life has not been without its challenges. As a single mother raising my son while working full time and pursuing graduate school, I often feel overwhelmed by the pressure of balancing responsibilities while also managing my own depression and anxiety. Balancing responsibilities, financial stress, and the emotional weight of supporting others through difficult circumstances can take a toll. However, my experiences have also strengthened my resilience. They have taught me perseverance, empathy, and the importance of prioritizing mental health not only for others, but for myself as well. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Administration and Human Resource Management, with the goal of improving how organizations approach mental health. While my background is rooted in direct service, I believe I can make lasting and meaningful change at the leadership level. In the future, I hope to help create workplace environments and care facilities where mental health is treated as an essential part of overall well-being rather than an afterthought. Policies, culture, and leadership can either reinforce stigma or foster spaces where people feel safe seeking help. Mental health challenges affect countless individuals, yet stigma continues to prevent many from speaking openly about their struggles. My experiences have shown me that awareness, compassion, and advocacy can change that narrative. By continuing my education and expanding my role in leadership, I hope to contribute to a future where mental health is met with understanding, support, and dignity. The challenges I have faced have shaped who I am today, but they have also given me purpose. Through my education, career, and personal experiences, I remain committed to helping others navigate their own struggles and reminding them that they are not alone.

Poynter Scholarship Balancing graduate school, a full-time career in social services, and raising my son as a single mother has required unrelenting determination, resilience, and commitment to our future. Every day, I work toward building a life that provides stability and opportunity for Jack and me. My pursuit of higher education is driven by the desire to create a better life for us while using my career to support and advocate for others. Being a single parent means there is no one to split the responsibilities with. Every decision, every challenge, and every task is mine to take on. My days often begin early and end late as I balance my work day, my school responsibilities, and the needs of a growing toddler who depends on me for stability, love, and guidance. While the schedule is exhausting, it has also shown me how strong and determined I truly am. Jack is the reason I continue to push forward. When I look at him, I see the future I am working so hard to build. I also see myself. Some of my strongest childhood memories involve my parents fighting about money. They counted the change from their pockets, were consistently late paying my school lunch bill, and I remember my dad tearing up when I asked him for thirty dollars for a soccer league. Every long day is for Jack, to create a stable life, one where he does not have to know what the lunch at school costs or worry about the cost of any activity he would like to participate in. My pursuit of higher education was also influenced by my interest in mental health. During my undergraduate studies in psychology and human services and counseling, I began to understand how traumatic experiences can influence a person’s life. Those lessons became even more meaningful through my work in social services. As a Social Worker Designee, I advocate for residents and help ensure their emotional and social needs are supported. Working closely with these individuals has strengthened my commitment to making systems more compassionate. Today, as I pursue a graduate degree in administration and human resource management, my goal is to take that passion for mental health advocacy into leadership roles. I want to help create workplaces where mental health is not overlooked but prioritized. Employees who feel supported are better able to care for others, and residents deserve environments where emotional well-being is treated as an essential part of overall care. Through leadership and policy, I hope to foster cultures that replace stigma with understanding and support. Balancing my education with my responsibilities as a mother requires discipline, organization, and sacrifice. My schedule is carefully structured so I can dedicate time to work, parenting, and to school responsibilities. Many nights after my son falls asleep, I continue working on my education. While the days can be challenging, it has strengthened my resilience and reinforced my commitment to achieving my goals. Receiving the Poynter Scholarship would significantly ease the financial pressure that comes with raising a child while pursuing a graduate degree. Financial support would allow me to focus more fully on completing my education and advancing in my career. More importantly, this scholarship would help me continue building a future not just for myself, but for Jack. By completing my degree, I will create greater stability for my family while continuing to advocate for compassionate care and mental health awareness in the communities I serve.

Love Island Fan Scholarship If I were designing a Love Island challenge, it would be called the “The Trust Test.” The challenge would focus on communication, teamwork, and trust between couples. The challenge would take place across several stations set up around the villa. Each station would test a different aspect of how well couples truly know and trust each other. The first station would be “Blindfolded Connection.” One partner would be blindfolded and guided through an obstacle course filled with inflatable palm trees, stepping stones, and small hurdles. The blindfolded partner can only rely on verbal directions from their partner standing outside the course. The second station would be “Know Your Partner.” The couples would sit back-to-back and answer questions about each other. Questions could include things like their biggest fear, dream job, et cetera. If their answers match, they earn points. If they don’t, they get sprayed with water. The third station would be “Temptation Trivia.” The couples would be shown photos or short video clips of moments from the villa involving their partner, some romantic and some not no much. The contestant must decide whether their partner handled the situation honestly or if they lied. The final station would be “The Love Lift.” The couples must work together to stack giant foam blocks to reach a flag hanging above them. One partner climbs while the other stabilizes the structure. The couple that completes all stations the fastest with the most correct answers wins the challenge. Their prize would be a romantic sunset date outside the Villa. I believe this challenge could truly make or break some couples in the villa.

Organic Formula Shop Single Parent Scholarship Being a graduate student, a single mother to Jack, and working full time in social services is one of the toughest things I have done. Every day, I balance a multitude of responsibilities. On one hand, I am working toward my education and career goals. On the other, I am raising a toddler who depends on me for stability, love, guidance, and attention. Juggling these responsibilities is not easy, but it has strengthened my determination to create a better future for both of us. I would do anything to improve his life and be a better mother for him. One of the greatest challenges of being a student and a single mother is managing time and energy. As a parent, Jack will always come first. My days often begin early and end late, filled with work, childcare, school, errands, and household responsibilities. There are many nights when I complete my school work after I get my son to bed, sacrificing sleep so I can succeed in my education. While other students may have the time to focus entirely on their courses, I must constantly balance academic responsibilities with my full time job and raising my son. Financial stress is another major challenge. Raising a child on a single income while pursuing higher education requires constant planning and sacrifice. Tuition, books, childcare, and everyday living expenses add up quickly and are only getting more expensive. There are moments when it can feel overwhelming to manage these costs while trying to invest in my future through education. Despite these challenges, being a mother is also my greatest motivation. Jack inspires me to continue pursuing my goals even when the journey feels difficult. I want him to grow up seeing the value of perseverance, education, and resilience. By continuing my education, I hope to demonstrate that even with challenges, it is still possible to work toward your dreams. My goal is to build a career in Human Resource Management within a healthcare organization. I have already spent twelve years working in healthcare, where I have witnessed firsthand the importance of strong leadership, compassionate workplaces, and supportive environments for both employees and patients. Through graduate study, I hope to develop the skills necessary to become a leader who helps create workplaces where people feel valued, supported, and empowered. Receiving the Organic Formula Shop Single Parent Scholarship would make a meaningful difference in Jack and I’s lives. Financial support like this would help relieve some of the pressure of tuition costs. It would allow me to focus more fully on my studies while continuing to provide a stable and supportive environment for my son. It would also create opportunities for Jack by giving him greater access to experiences that support his growth. Being a single parent and a student is not easy, but I am driven by love, responsibility, and hope for a better future. Everything I am working toward today is not only for myself, but for the life I am building for Jack.

Christian Fitness Association General Scholarship Growing up, I faced difficulties that taught me the importance of resilience and empathy. I grew up in a troubled home, but it was through these hardships that I developed compassion. From a young age, I had a desire to help people. This desire has guided me throughout my life and my work in healthcare, shaping who I am today and motivating me to pursue higher education to make a lasting difference. I began my career in healthcare as a Certified Nursing Assistant in 2013. At first, the work was physically and emotionally demanding, but I quickly realized that I was forming genuine connections with the residents and their families. Assisting them with daily tasks, listening to their stories, and providing comfort taught me the true meaning of human service. I went on to double major in Psychology and Human Services and Counseling at Wayne State College. Balancing the demands of my work while pursuing my undergraduate studies required determination and discipline, but it also strengthened my time management skills and my commitment to learning. I have always embraced opportunities for growth. My coursework and training in healthcare and human services have provided me with a solid foundation for understanding the needs of both patients and staff in healthcare environments. I am pursuing a graduate degree in Human Resource Management at the University of South Dakota, where I hope to combine my healthcare experience with leadership skills to improve workplace culture and support the wellbeing of healthcare professionals. In addition to my academic and professional accomplishments, I have been actively involved in community service and extracurricular activities that align with my values. I have participated in charity runs, including the Avera 5K fundraising event for patients and families of the Avera Cancer Institute. I believe leadership is not about authority, but about empowering others and making meaningful differences in the lives around you. Throughout my life, I have faced personal challenges that have truly tested my resilience and shaped my character. From a difficult home life to managing my mental health struggles, I have learned the importance of perseverance and self-reflection. These experiences have not only made me stronger but have also given me empathy for others who face adversity. I carry these lessons into every aspect of my life. My dedication to making an impact on the lives of others has also been formally recognized. I received a letter from Douglas R. Ekeren, Regional President and CEO of Avera, acknowledging my efforts. The letter stated: “Your commitment to our residents, patients, and your fellow team members is amazing… It is people like you who bring our mission to life, and your dedication is greatly appreciated. You truly are making a difference, and we are fortunate to have you as a part of our team.” This recognition reinforced my belief that small acts of care and creativity can impact others, and it motivates me to continue my work. My faith has also played a central role in guiding my ambitions and shaping my approach to service. The values of compassion, integrity, and stewardship are at the heart of my actions, inspiring me to lead by example and make a difference in the lives of others. Avera Sister James, where I have worked going on five years, shares this same mission. I believe that education is a powerful tool for creating positive change, and receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue my studies while growing my ability to support others. My goal is to create environments where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered. I aspire to use my education and experiences to make a meaningful impact in healthcare administration. My ultimate goal is to work in human resources leadership, focusing on employee wellbeing, organizational development, and creating a culture of compassion. I want to ensure that healthcare professionals feel capable, supported, and motivated to provide the greatest care to their patients. I believe my vision aligns with the mission of the Christian Fitness Association, focusing on service, dedication, and making difference in the lives of others. I believe I am an ideal candidate for this scholarship because of my academic dedication, professional experience, commitment to community service, and my drive to make a positive impact. My life has been shaped by resilience, empathy, and a desire to support others, all of which have prepared me to excel in my graduate studies and career. Receiving this scholarship would help support my educational goals and allow me to serve my community on the next level. I am committed to using my education and experiences to make a difference.

Sharra Rainbolt Memorial Scholarship Cancer changed my family in a way I never expected when my grandfather was diagnosed with prostate cancer. My grandpa has always been the strongest, kindest, most hard working person I know. For over forty years, he worked construction, building homes, schools, and communities with his hands. Hard work defined his life. Seeing him forced to retire early from the job he loved so he could focus on treatments was the first time I truly understood how devastating cancer can be. My grandma and grandpa are two peas in a pod. I could never imagine losing either of them. What makes his diagnosis even more personal to me is the role he played in my life. I grew up in a troubled home, and my grandparents stepped in to watch me when I would run to their house two blocks down. He became the stability I desperately needed as a child. He taught me what kindness, dedication, and integrity look like through the way he lived his life. To me, he has always been more than a grandparent, he has been a role model. Watching him go through cancer treatments was incredibly painful. The man who once worked long days without complaint now battled constant exhaustion. Seeing someone who has always been so strong struggle with the physical effects of treatment was heartbreaking. Cancer does not only affect the person, it affects the entire family. Despite everything, my grandfather continued to fight like it was just another day. Even on his hardest day, he maintained his determination and sense of humor. His resilience has been an inspiration to me. His cancer is currently in remission and I thank God for that. His experience influenced my own path. I currently work in healthcare while pursuing graduate studies in human resource management. Working in a healthcare environment has allowed me to see firsthand how illness affects not only patients but their families, their finances, and their ability to continue working and pursuing their goals. Watching my grandfather deal with his cancer has strengthened my compassion and reinforced my commitment to supporting people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. In the future, I hope to use my education in human resource management to advocate for stronger workplace support systems, better employee benefits, and policies that allow individuals facing serious health challenges to maintain stability in their lives. No one should have to choose between their health and their financial security. Cancer has taken a toll on my family, but it has also strengthened my determination to build a career focused on helping others. My grandfather spent his life building communities and providing for those he loved. The resilience, work ethic, and compassion he modeled continue to shape the person I am becoming. Carrying those lessons forward is one of the greatest ways I can continue to honor him.

Future Green Leaders Scholarship As a mother, someone who works in healthcare, and someone that is pursuing a graduate degree in Human Resource Management, I believe sustainability should be a priority not only because it protects the environment, but because it protects the long-term health of our communities. Working in healthcare has shown me how much waste and resource consumption happens. Hospitals and long-term care facilities operate 24 hours a day and rely on large amounts of energy, supplies, and disposable materials to provide safe care. While many of these practices are necessary for infection control and patient safety, there are also countless opportunities to reduce environmental impact through better organizational policies, education, and leadership. That is where human resources and administrative leadership can make a difference. Human resource professionals shape workplace culture. They influence training programs, employee engagement initiatives, and the values that guide an organization. When sustainability becomes part of a workplace culture, it makes employees think about how their daily actions affect the world around them. Small changes, like reducing unnecessary paper use or supporting digital charting can make a significant impact when implemented across an entire organization. I currently work with Avera Sacred Heart, and implementing actions like these could actually make a difference. My professional goal is to move into healthcare administration and human resources where I can help develop policies that prioritize both employee wellbeing and environmental responsibility. I want to help create workplaces where sustainability is a priority. For example, HR leaders can support initiatives that reduce energy consumption in administrative operations, promote environmentally responsible purchasing decisions, and empower employees to participate in sustainability programs within their workplace. I believe sustainability in business is not only about protecting the environment, it is also about protecting the future of our communities. Healthcare organizations exist to improve lives, and that responsibility extends beyond patient care. By making environmentally responsible decisions today, organizations help support healthier communities tomorrow. I have faced significant personal challenges throughout my life, yet those experiences have strengthened my commitment to building a better future, not just for myself, but for my two year old son and for the communities I support through my work. Pursuing graduate education in human resource management is part of that vision. I want to become a leader who helps organizations grow in ways that are sustainable and people-focused. The next generation of leaders will play an important role in shaping how businesses and institutions respond to environmental challenges. I hope to contribute to that change by helping healthcare organizations build cultures that value sustainability and responsible leadership. The ideas we put into action today create healthier communities and opportunities for future generations.

Ella’s Gift Scholarship Growing up in a household affected by addiction changed the way I saw the world. I thought the world was cruel, dark, unfair, unforgiving, and unsafe. I grew up in an abusive home, and my father struggled with opioid addiction and alcoholism. Although I did not fully understand it as a child, I could feel the weight of it. His struggles shaped many of the challenges I faced growing up and played a significant role in my own mental health. Something that stays with me is the anticipation of what kind of a day I would walk into. Some days felt calm and normal, while others consisted of tension, unpredictability, and explosive behavior. As a child, I didn’t have the words to describe what I was experiencing, but I knew something was not right. I always asked myself why I was so different from the other kids in my class. I struggled making friends. I learned to stay quiet about my feelings, to stay quiet all together, and tried to carry more emotional responsibility than a child should have to. Over time, those experiences turned into to feelings of anxiety, depression, self-doubt, and emotional exhaustion. My experiences growing up in a household affected by substance abuse sparked a deep interest in understanding mental health. For my undergraduate studies I chose to double major in psychology and human services and counseling at Wayne State College. These fields allowed me to explore the emotional and psychological challenges that so many people face and helped me better understand the experiences that shaped my own life. For many years, I believed that struggling with mental health meant something was wrong with me. I often blamed myself for feeling overwhelmed, constantly exhausted, or emotionally drained. It wasn’t until I grew older and began reflecting on my life and experiences that I realized I wasn’t a failure, they were responses to extremely difficult circumstances. That realization helped me in my life, but I would be lying if I said that I did not still blame myself in some ways. After earning my Bachelor of Science at Wayne State College, I went on to be a Social Worker Designee at Avera Sister James. Today, I am pursuing a master’s degree in administration with a specialization in human resource management. While my degree focuses on leadership and organizational systems, my motivation continues to be in mental health advocacy. I believe I can make a larger difference in a leadership position. Through my work as a Social Worker Designee, I have already seen how important it is for facilities to prioritize not only physical care, but also emotional and psychological well-being for residents and staff. In administrative and human resource roles, leaders have the ability to shape workplace culture, implement supportive policies, and ensure that mental health resources are accessible. My goal is to use my education and experience to help create environments within facilities where mental health is valued and supported. By advocating for compassionate leadership and supportive workplace practices, I hope to contribute to systems that better support both the people receiving care and the professionals who provide it. Maintaining my mental health is an ongoing commitment. My plan for managing my struggle with depression includes prioritizing self-care, maintaining healthy coping strategies, and surrounding myself with supportive people. I also believe that purpose plays an important role in recovery. My education and career path serve as daily reminders of why my mental health and well-being matter. While my father’s addiction created many of the challenges I faced growing up, it also helped shape my resilience and determination to build a different future. Those experiences taught me empathy, strength, and the importance of breaking cycles. Through my education and my commitment to helping others, I hope to turn my experiences into something meaningful.

Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship For much of my life, mental health was something I endured alone, not talked about. I grew up in a home where instability and fear were normal parts of my life. My father struggled with opioid and alcohol addiction, and my childhood consisted of physical and verbal abuse. As a child, I did not understand addiction, trauma, or mental illness. I only understood the anticipation for the next explosive event. Living in that environment taught me how one person's struggles can affect an entire family, how it can become a vicious cycle. It also taught me how often people suffer silently. When I left for college, I believed that distance from my childhood home would allow me to start over. Instead, I faced new trauma. During my time in college, experienced repeated sexual assault and later became involved in an abusive relationship. Again, it was something I did not completely understand or process at the time. These experiences added to the anxiety and depression I had already carried for years. Despite the weight of these experiences, I continued to move forward. One of the biggest moments in my life was becoming a mother. When my son was born, I experienced severe postpartum depression. What should have been one of the happiest times of my life instead became one of the most emotionally difficult. I loved my son deeply, yet I also struggled with overwhelming exhaustion, sadness, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy. Being a mother to Jack forced me to confront my mental health in a way I never had before. For the first time, I realized that seeking help was not an option but a necessary step toward healing. I wanted to break the cycle of pain that shaped my life. I wanted to be the best possible mother for him. This past year has been another period of change. Through the lengthy process of my divorce, I have experienced some of the most intense anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts I have ever faced in my life. It was another traumatic event that I had to endure. I felt lost, I felt like a failure to my family and my son, I felt alone, and I felt angry. Now more than ever, I believed that the world was cruel, dark, unsafe, unfair, and unforgiving. Because of these experiences, I have always felt drawn to work that requires compassion and support. I currently work in social services, where I support individuals and families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Every day, I meet people who are dealing with trauma, poverty, mental illness, and the unknown. Many of them feel alone, hopeless, and numb. My personal experiences with mental health challenges make it easy for me to empathize. I understand how isolating it can feel to struggle internally while trying to put on a face for the public. I also understand how powerful it can be when someone listens without judgment. These experiences have shaped not only my career path but also my vision for the future. I am pursuing a master’s degree in administration with a specialization in human resource management. My goal is that a leadership role will allow me to contribute meaningfully and advocate for mental health in the workplace. The mission behind this scholarship, to bring conversations about mental health into the light, is deeply meaningful to me. My life has shown me how damaging silence can be to not only the individual, but to the people in that individual's life. By sharing my story, I hope to be part of the movement that changes that narrative. Mental health struggles do not define a person's worth, nor do they diminish their potential. If anything, they can deepen empathy, resilience, and purpose. My journey with mental health has shaped my beliefs, my relationships, and my ambitions in many ways. While the road has been difficult, it has also given me a clear sense of direction. I am committed to using my experiences to support others, advocate for open discussion about mental health, and help create communities where no one feels they have to suffer in silence. If my story contributes even in a small way to reducing stigma and encouraging someone to seek help, then the challenges I have faced will have helped create something meaningful. That is the impact I hope to continue making throughout my life and career.

Sabrina Carpenter embraces self-expression, resilience, and independence. Watching her career has been inspiring to me because it reflects growth. Her journey shows that it is possible to grow, face criticism, and still be yourself. One of the things that draws me most to Sabrina Carpenter is the way she uses her music and platform to be herself. Her songs can be playful, but they often have deeper messages about confidence and self-worth. For example, songs like Nonsense and Feather show humor, personality, independence, and self-confidence. Her album Emails I Can’t Send is another example of her authenticity. In it, she openly sings about heartbreak, public scrutiny, and personal growth. Instead of hiding from difficult moments, she turned them into art. There is nothing more admirable to me. Sabrina has also faced public criticism, especially during the online drama surrounding the song Driver’s License and the artist. Although Sabrina was never directly named, many people on social media targeted her with assumptions and negativity. Rather than responding with anger, she released Skin, which addressed the situation with vulnerability. Even with public judgment, she chose to respond thoughtfully and continue focusing on her own voice. Another example of her authenticity is how she embraces humor and confidence during her live performances. During her song Nonsense at concerts, she often has lyrics that connect with us and reflect her personality. It as a refreshing example of her simply enjoying herself without fear of judgment. Listening to Sabrina’s music has reminded me that it is okay to take up space. In the past, I often dimmed my light for others. Her confidence has helped me realize that I don’t have to apologize for being myself. Like many people, I have faced difficult experiences that challenged my confidence. I did not grow up in a healthy home environment and was often bullied at school. During those times, music became a source of comfort and motivation. Seeing someone like Sabrina continue to grow in the public eye, even when people criticize her, has been empowering. Another reason I admire her is her work ethic. Sabrina balances music, acting, touring, and writing while continuing to grow creatively. That level of dedication is motivating to me. It reminds me that success is built through effort, courage, and the willingness to keep moving forward. For me, being a fan of Sabrina Carpenter means appreciating the message behind her music, that authenticity, growth, and resilience matter. Her career has shown me that confidence is not about being perfect, it is about embracing who you are. As I pursue my own goals and continue building my future, that is a lesson I will carry with me.

One of the most moving performances by Taylor Swift, in my opinion, is her live performance of Clean. While many of her performances are energetic, this one stands out because of its quieter power. The vulnerability in her voice allows the message of the song to resonate deeply with me. It is not just a performance, it feels like a moment of transparency and an emotional connection. Clean tells the story of finding clarity after a painful chapter in life. The lyrics describe the long, difficult process of letting go of hurt and slowly realizing that you have survived something that once felt overwhelming. When Taylor performs this song live, the emotion in her voice and expression makes the message feel even more real. She captures the feeling of finally stepping out of the storm and recognizing that the rain no longer controls you. This performance is particularly meaningful to me because its message reflects experiences in my own life. Like many people, my path has included moments that felt incredibly heavy and difficult to move past. There were times when it felt like life was defined by those hardships. Watching Taylor performing clean reminds me that healing is not about pretending the past never happened. Instead, it is about finding strength through those experiences and learning how to move forward. I believe that one of the reasons Taylor Swift’s music resonates with so many people is her willingness to be vulnerable and honest in her storytelling. Throughout her career, she has turned personal experiences into songs that help people process their own emotions. In performances like Clean, that honesty becomes even more powerful because the audience can see and feel the emotion behind the lyrics. To me, the most moving performances are not always the ones with the biggest stage effects or the best outfits. Sometimes they are the quieter moments where the artist allows themselves to be fully human in front of thousands of people. Taylor Swift’s performance of Clean represents that kind of moment. It is a reminder that growth often comes after the most difficult chapters of our lives. In a career defined by global fame and spectacular performances, this one stands out because it captures something deeply personal and universal at the same time. It reminds people that even after the hardest storms, there is a moment when the sky clears and you realize you have finally made it through.