I have always believed that the greatest lessons often come from the hardest moments in life. My name is Sienna Richardson, and I graduated from Troy High School with a 4.07 GPA. I am now beginning my undergraduate studies at Michigan State University, where I plan to pursue a degree in Business at the Broad College of Business. While academics have been a priority, my personal experiences have shaped my perspective on resilience, empathy, and the importance of mental health. This past year, my family and I faced profound challenges with my father’s battle with pancreatic cancer, his passing in May, and the loss of my grandmother shortly afterward. These experiences taught me the deep connection between mental health and our ability to cope, support one another, and find purpose even in times of grief. During high school, I learned that mental health is not just an individual concern, it is a shared responsibility. Isolation, unspoken stress, and stigma can make even small challenges feel overwhelming. At the same time, I discovered the power of community, encouragement, and empathy. My volunteer work with FAR Therapeutics allowed me to put these lessons into practice. I played trumpet for clients of all ages with disabilities, using music to bring joy and confidence into their lives. One unforgettable moment was helping a young girl named Elise overcome her stage fright. She was terrified and crying backstage, but with encouragement and a small fanfare, she walked on stage confidently and performed beautifully. Witnessing her courage reminded me that emotional support and small gestures of kindness can transform lives. These experiences have inspired my vision for the future. In college, I plan to continue raising awareness about mental health by fostering environments where students feel safe to express themselves, seek help, and support one another. I hope to use my business education to create programs, initiatives, or organizations that provide practical resources for mental well-being, whether through mentoring, peer support groups, or campus events that destigmatize mental health. I want to apply what I have learned about resilience, faith, and community to help others navigate challenges, just as my family and I relied on each other during difficult times. Receiving the Abbey’s Bakery Scholarship would not only support my education at MSU but also empower me to pursue these goals. It would allow me to focus on my studies, volunteer work, and advocacy while making a meaningful impact on mental health awareness on campus and beyond. I believe that combining education, service, and empathy can transform both our own lives and the lives of those around us, fostering a community where mental health is valued, supported, and never stigmatized.

I have learned that life does not always go as planned, and sometimes the greatest growth comes from the hardest moments. Over the past year, my family and I faced unimaginable adversity when my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and later passed away. Watching him fight with strength, faith, and courage for fifteen months, and then losing him, was devastating. Shortly after, my grandmother passed as well. The grief was overwhelming, and our lives were forever changed. Through it all, my mom and I leaned on our faith, reading the Bible together and trusting in God’s plan. This period of loss made me realize that even in the darkest times, I have the power to choose how I respond, to grow, and to make a positive impact on the world. In the midst of these challenges, I found opportunities to bring hope and joy to others. I volunteer with FAR Therapeutics, where I play trumpet for clients of all ages with various disabilities. One moment I will never forget is helping Elise, a young girl terrified of performing, overcome her stage fright. I played a trumpet fanfare for her, and within minutes, she went from crying to walking on stage with confidence. Witnessing her courage inspired me to embrace my own challenges and to use my skills to lift others. Experiences like this have taught me the importance of offering someone a “second chance,” whether it is a moment to overcome fear, to try again after failure, or to pursue a goal despite setbacks. My goal is to take these lessons forward in my life. I am beginning my first semester at Michigan State University in the Broad College of Business, where I am building the foundation to create meaningful change in the medical field. My ambition is to work in healthcare administration or patient support, helping families facing critical medical challenges, and giving them the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need, much like the second chance Nelson Vecchione offered through mentorship. I want to ensure that even in the hardest times, people can find hope and opportunities to grow and thrive. Receiving the Second Chance Scholarship would help me stay on track to achieve these goals. The financial support would relieve some of the burden left by medical expenses, allowing me to focus on my education and service. More importantly, it would honor my dad’s legacy by empowering me to continue making a difference for others, using the lessons I’ve learned through faith, resilience, and volunteer work. I plan to pay it forward by mentoring and serving others, just as I have been inspired to do at FAR Therapeutics. Whether through supporting individuals facing health or personal challenges, offering guidance to students in need, or sharing encouragement in moments of doubt, I hope to continue the cycle of giving that Nelson Vecchione championed. Every small act, helping someone gain confidence, offering a second chance, or simply showing compassion, can ripple outward, creating opportunities and hope for others. I am committed to making a change in my life that extends beyond myself, honoring the idea that giving someone a second chance can transform not only their future but also the lives of those around them.

My faith has shaped every part of who I am, especially through the loss and challenges my family has faced. When my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, my world shifted. For fifteen months, I watched him fight with strength, humor, and faith. During that time, my mom and I prayed constantly. We didn’t always understand God’s plan, but we trusted it. After my dad passed away in May of this year, and then my grandmother, his mother, passed on September 20th, the grief felt overwhelming. Yet even in those moments, my mom and I found our strength in the Lord. We read our Bibles every night together, comforting each other with Scripture, reminded God is close to the brokenhearted. My faith didn’t take away the pain, but it gave me the ability to keep moving forward, to keep loving, and to keep living in a way that honors both God and the family I miss so much. I am involved in SALT Co at MSU, participating in weekly Bible studies that have strengthened my relationship with God and given me opportunities to encourage and support others in their own faith journeys. One of the clearest ways I try to live out kindness and compassion is through my service work, especially with FAR Therapeutics. I first heard about FAR through a family friend who mentioned they were looking for a trumpet player for their “FAR Friends” fundraising event. Because I have always been passionate about music, and because my dad had been a trumpet player himself, I felt drawn to the opportunity. Volunteering with FAR was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I worked closely with music therapists and clients of all ages, including individuals with Down syndrome and many older adults with disabilities. It humbled me to play even a small role in giving them joy through singing and playing instruments. One moment I will never forget was helping a girl named Elise. She was terrified to perform her solo and was crying backstage from stage fright. I played a trumpet fanfare for her, simple, joyful, and strong. Earlier in the week, she had asked me to play for her, but the music therapist said we had to keep rehearsals going. Her face slowly lit up, and she went from trembling to clapping and smiling. A few minutes later, she walked on stage confidently and performed beautifully. I wasn’t proud of myself; I was proud of her. Her courage reminded me why serving others matters so much. My dad had seen me perform and was proud, cheering louder than anyone and encouraging me to wear my poofy gray dress—his favorite. He of course made an Instagram post about the event, as he always did. Family has always been my foundation. Now it is just my mom and me, and although life feels different, we hold tightly to the traditions my dad loved. We still have movie nights and cook his favorite meals to feel close to him. My dad had dreamed of me attending Michigan State University and being accepted into the Broad College of Business. When I got into both, he was ecstatic. Even though he never saw me graduate high school or move into college, I carry his pride with me every day. Everything I do is shaped by his belief in me and the resilience he modeled. Joy, for me, now comes from the Lord and from the blessings He continues to give, even in grief. I am close to completing my first semester at MSU, and being here has shown me how strong I can be. I pour myself into my classes because education is something my dad valued deeply, and because my future matters to me. I hope to graduate with a business degree and work within the medical field, using my skills to support patients and families facing the hardest moments of their lives. After walking through my dad’s battle, my purpose is to help give others the same blessing my family received—a chance to fight, to hope, and to hold onto faith. However, the financial burden left behind by medical bills has been difficult. My mom had to leave her job to care for my dad, and even with FAFSA and every resource I’ve found, there is still a gap. Receiving the Ed and Aline Patane Scholarship would help me continue at MSU and stay on the path my dad dreamed of for me. It would also honor his legacy and allow me to keep living out the values he and my faith have planted in me: service, compassion, joy, and an unwavering trust in God.

My favorite quote is written on the whiteboard above my desk, and it reads: “I never dreamt about success, I worked for it” —Estée Lauder. My name is Sienna Richardson, and I am an incoming Freshman at Michigan State University. I plan to study Business Management with a minor in Entrepreneurship to prepare myself to become an entrepreneur. I plan to start a pharmaceutical equipment company which will allow me to help patients in hospitals and research facilities. I am passionate about medicine because in the end of 2023, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with illnesses and injuries. If it was not for the innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. I applied to FAFSA and many scholarships, but unfortunately my mom and I will still have to pay much of the tuition. At one point, I considered going to a community college instead of Michigan State. The tuition would be more affordable and reasonable for us, but then I remember the look on my dad’s face when I told him my decision. He was so excited to know I would be going to MSU in the fall. Sadly, my dad passed away April 7th of this year, before he could see me graduate from Troy High. So even though it will be difficult, I will work hard to fund my education by balancing multiple jobs with my classes. The Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship would allow me to attend college and pursue my entrepreneurial dream. Because of my dad’s illness preventing him from working, I am a low-income household. My mom will soon have to move from our house to a small apartment, we simply cannot keep up with the expenses. Nevertheless, my faith in God gives me the strength I need to face everyday with a positive outlook. My dad would go into even surgery with a smile on his face, so I too will work hard to always spread love and kindness to those around me. I will succeed in graduating from MSU because I am a passionate student, and I am devoted to my studies. I will never stop working for my success, because I know that one day my success will save lives.

My favorite quote is written on the whiteboard above my desk, and it reads: “I never dreamt about success, I worked for it” —Estée Lauder. My name is Sienna Richardson, and I am a senior at Troy High School. My dream is to attend Michigan State University where I will pursue business. I plan to study Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship to prepare myself to become an entrepreneur. I plan to start a pharmaceutical equipment company which will allow me to help patients in hospitals and research facilities. I am passionate about medicine because in the end of 2023, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those in need. If it was not for the innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide, targeting 3rd world countries specifically. I had this idea because after visiting Costa Rica, where my mother is from, I realized that a lack of pharmaceutical equipment can cause a country to suffer. Less medicine, ointments, and pills are available, and they are extremely expensive for families. I hope to make difference by providing more equipment to countries such as Costa Rica, alleviating some of the cost of production for medicines. I believe that I will succeed in graduating from Michigan State because I am a passionate student, and I am devoted to my studies. I plan to pay for my schooling by applying to FAFSA as soon as the application is open, applying to scholarships and by continuing working. At the moment, we are living off only my mom’s income, since my dad is unable to work. Currently I work as a tutor and babysitter to save money for college. I tutor two middle school girls in both math and science while maintaining my 4.0 GPA in school. I am also babysitting 3-4 times per week for up to 9 hours at a time. I believe that if I truly work hard and persevere through any difficulty that comes my way, I can accomplish anything. I have faith in God everyday and work hard to be gracious in life, even though my dad’s condition worsens. I will never stop working for my success, because I know that one day my success will save lives.

My favorite quote is written on the whiteboard above my desk, and it reads: “I never dreamt about success, I worked for it” —Estée Lauder. My name is Sienna Richardson, and I am a senior at Troy High School. My dream is to attend Michigan State University where I will pursue business. I plan to study Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship to prepare myself to become an entrepreneur. I plan to start a pharmaceutical equipment company which will allow me to help patients in hospitals and research facilities. I am passionate about medicine because in the end of 2023, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with illnesses and injuries. If it was not for the innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide, targeting 3rd world countries specifically. I had this idea because after visiting Costa Rica, where my mother is from, I realized that a lack of pharmaceutical equipment can cause a country to suffer. Less medicine, ointments, and pills are available, and they are extremely expensive for families. I hope to make difference by providing more equipment to countries such as Costa Rica, alleviating some of the cost of production for medicines. I believe that I will succeed in graduating from Michigan State because I am a passionate student, and I am devoted to my studies. I plan to pay for my schooling by applying to FAFSA as soon as the application is open, applying to scholarships and by continuing working. Currently I work as a tutor and babysitter. I tutor two middle school girls in both math and science while maintaining my 4.0 GPA in school. I am also babysitting 3-4 times per week for up to 8 hours at a time. I believe that if I truly work hard and persevere through any difficulty that comes my way, I can accomplish anything. I have faith in God everyday and work hard to be gracious in life, even though my dad’s condition worsens. I will never stop working for my success, because I know that one day my success will save lives. Thank you.

My purpose in life is to help others. I discovered my purpose in the dawn of the pandemic in 2020. As a seventh grader suddenly thrust into online school, I became lonely. I struggled to find joy in my mundane and isolated routine. This is when I first learned of the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL), a non-profit animal shelter in my community. With so much time on my hands, I looked into the shelter more. I learned that during Covid-19, MARL was facing a cut in funding and could barely support their animals. I knew I had to do something. I refused to just continue to sit in my room when I knew that there were kittens with no food to eat, dogs without beds to sleep on. So, I started Apparel by Sienna Rae, my tie-dye clothing brand in which 100% of my profits go to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. I researched extensively on how to start my own business, made a business plan, built my website and began networking in order to spread the word about my work. Once I began to make a profit, I immediately reached out to MARL to tell them about my business and drop off my first donation. The manager personally invited me to visit with the kittens and discuss the future of our partnership. I grew my business, began shipping internationally, and became an official donor for MARL on their website, right next to Kroger and Chewy. I realized that I had spent so long feeling sorry for myself, while there were animals actually suffering and in desperate need of help. These animals and the people of MARL have changed my life forever. They have shown me what true strength and perseverance is. I used to think that as a young girl, I wouldn’t be able to change the world until I was an adult. It was through my business and volunteering with MARL that I have found my purpose, my life’s mission: to help others and spread love. I plan on studying Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship in college in order to prepare myself to become an Entrepreneur. With my Apparel by Sienna Rae experience, I know that I want to build a company that helps others in their lives. My dream is to have a pharmaceutical equipment company in order to support patients in hospitals. Besides my love for animals, I am passionate about medicine because in the beginning of 2024, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with illnesses and injuries. Unfortunately, my dad’s illness has also cost my family most of my college savings, due to expensive surges and appointments his insurance does not cover. But I refuse to stop seeing the good in my situations. I am so blessed in every way, and I wish to spread my blessings. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Of course, I will remain a donor to MARL throughout my career. I no longer live for myself, for my own desires and aspirations. Now, because of MARL, I live for my family, my community, and those in need. I will help others, one person (or cat) at a time.

Adversity has a way of showing us who we really are. For me, it wasn’t some earth-shattering event, but a quiet challenge that nudged me out of my comfort zone—volunteering for Far Therapeutics. Through Far, I worked with adults and kids who have disabilities, building connections through music.nI love playing the trumpet, but performing alongside people who faced challenges so different from my own made me question if I could really make a difference. Walking into the building for the first time, I felt completely out of my depth. The room buzzed with energy, laughter, and noise—all things I didn’t know how to navigate. I’d prepared music to play, but when I met Elise, a quiet girl who barely acknowledged me, I realized this wasn’t about me or my performance. I started playing a simple tune, hoping to break the ice. Elise’s eyes lit up, and he began tapping his hands to the rhythm. That moment hit me hard. It wasn’t about hitting the right notes; it was about connecting in a way that mattered to her. That day, and so many after, I had to let go of my plans and just be present. I’m the kind of person who loves structure, but here, nothing went as planned. Whether it was making up silly songs on the spot or letting the kids try my trumpet—even if the sound was more squeak than melody—I learned to focus on the joy of the moment. Adapting wasn’t easy, but seeing the courage these kids showed every day inspired me to push through my own self-doubt. This experience completely changed how I see challenges. It taught me that it’s okay to feel unsure or scared. What matters is showing up anyway. Watching those people face their struggles head-on helped me realize that adversity isn’t about what happens to you; it’s about how you respond. They showed me what it means to keep going, even when things feel impossible. That mindset has carried into so many parts of my life. It’s what drives me in my tie-dye business, Sienna Rae, where I donate 100% of proceeds to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. Running a small business has its own set of challenges, but I’ve learned to focus on progress, not perfection. Every shirt sold, every dollar donated, reminds me why I started and keeps me pushing forward. If I could give advice to someone facing their own challenges, I’d say this: Don’t be afraid to step into the unknown. You might not feel ready, and that’s okay. Take it one step at a time, and don’t underestimate the power of small actions—even something as simple as a smile or a shared moment can change someone’s day. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help or admit you’re struggling. It’s not weakness; it’s part of growing. Far taught me that adversity isn’t something to fear. It’s an opportunity to grow, to connect, and to make an impact—however small it might seem. That’s a lesson I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life, facing each new challenge with an open heart and a willingness to learn.

In the beginning of my junior year, everything stopped making sense. I thought I knew how the world worked, I thought I knew everything—but I didn’t. My dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I felt like words were no longer able to express how I was feeling. It was like no matter what I said to my mom, even to my dad, my mind was still a jumbled mess. It wasn’t until I enrolled in AP calculus that I was able to find true peace. Unlike everything else that was happening in my life, math just made sense. Every time I walked into my first hour class with my teacher Mrs. Vitale, I let out a deep sigh. It’s like when I stepped into that classroom, all my worries melted away. When I held the pencil in my hands, I was finally able to be free. Free to explore, to create, to let all my thought and ideas pour out. Sitting on on my paper were problems I could actually solve. The numbers, black ink on the bright white page, provided more clarity than any words could. Suddenly, I felt inspired to participate in class. After months of letting my sadness control me, I realized that this isn’t the way. When I finished typing on my graphing calculator, I shot my hand up. My teacher smiled as she says I’m correct. An overwhelming sense of pride comes over me, and I realize that I’m not just solving math problems. Math is giving me a purpose at a time where I am without one. It’s true that I didn’t always understand everything. But this was actually reassuring. Calculus taught me that there is always a solution, whether you see it now, or not. Even though I might not always know the answer, there is one. For me, I can apply this to my own life and think about how I might not always understand my dad’s illness, but I know that there is a lesson to be learned. I don’t just love math, math saved me. Math understood me when no one else did, and I understood math when I couldn’t understand my own life. As I go onto pursue business at the University of Michigan, I know I will always have math as a safe place to go, friend to lean on.

I squeeze my dad‘s cold, rough hand as his blinks grow slower and slower. Finally his eyes stay closed, and the nurse wheels him out for another long surgery. At the end of my junior year, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. This wasn’t anything I could’ve expected. He had been having some pains in his back, and finally a doctor noticed something after months of complaints. After being explained everything by my mom, I at least felt a sense and relief in knowing that the cancer was localized. My dad’s illness has dramatically impacted my life, my education and my career, but I wouldn’t say this change has all been for the worst. I believe there is always good to be found in every situation. We were told that the next step would include chemotherapy, followed by surgery. Knowing that surgery was going to be possible gave us hope. So, my dad endured 12 cycles of chemotherapy. For context, my dad is the strongest person I know. Throughout the entire duration of his chemotherapy treatment, he never once complained. He always went to the long appointments and came home with a smile. After the 12 cycles, he was just not the same person. He didn’t want me to know, but I could see he was losing strength. After, complications with his liver arose, delaying his surgery. It felt like the ground kept moving beneath my feet. I prayed to God that he would just be able to get the surgery soon. That everything could go back to the way it was. Unfortunately, we still have no date. The hardest part was watching my dad, a man so full of life and love for his family, become so worn down by this illness. And yet, no matter how much his body was failing him, his spirit never faltered. I plan on attending the University of Michigan to pursue a major in Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship. Seeing my dad’s hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with illnesses and injuries. I want to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Although it has been the most difficult things ever happened to me, I know I must be grateful for the lessons I have learned. First, I learned through my parents that if you are strong and determined, you can accomplish anything. Nothing can stop you if you hold on to Faith. Secondly, I believe that God showed me there is always a lesson to be learned, especially in the difficult times. It is important to not get caught up in grief and sadness, but instead open your mind to wisdom. My dad has not been able to work for 6 months, and with how things are right now, I’m not sure if he will be able to work ever again. This has impacted my education because my lower-income household has lost 1 of our sources of income. However, I will never stop fighting for my education. I know that if I relentlessly work hard, I will graduate from the University of Michigan with a major in Business. I want to show my dad that all of his perseverance has not been for nothing. He is my inspiration and every single thing I do, and I will succeed because of him.

My purpose in life is to help others. I discovered my purpose in the dawn of the pandemic in 2020. As a seventh grader suddenly thrust into online school, I became lonely. I struggled to find joy in my mundane and isolated routine. This is when I first learned of the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL), a non-profit animal shelter in my community. With so much time on my hands, I looked into the shelter more. I learned that during Covid-19, MARL was facing a cut in funding and could barely support their animals. I knew I had to do something. I refused to just continue to sit in my room when I knew that there were kittens with no food to eat, dogs without beds to sleep on. So, I started Apparel by Sienna Rae, my tie-dye clothing brand in which 100% of my profits go to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. I researched extensively on how to start my own business, made a business plan, built my website and began networking in order to spread the word about my work. Once I began to make a profit, I immediately reached out to MARL to tell them about my business and drop off my first donation. The manager personally invited me to visit with the kittens and discuss the future of our partnership. I realized that I had spent so long feeling sorry for myself, while there were animals actually suffering and in desperate need of help. These animals and the people of MARL have changed my life forever. They have shown me what true strength and perseverance is. I used to think that as a young girl, I wouldn’t be able to change the world until I was an adult. It was through my business and volunteering with MARL that I have found my purpose, my life’s mission: to help others and spread love. The One Chance Scholarship would allow me to study Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship in college in order to prepare myself to become an Entrepreneur. With my Apparel by Sienna Rae experience, I know that I want to build a company that helps others in their lives. My dream is to have a pharmaceutical equipment company in order to support patients in hospitals. Besides my love for animals, I am passionate about medicine because in the beginning of 2024, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with illnesses and injuries. Unfortunately, my dad’s illness has also cost my family most of my college savings, due to expensive surges and appointments his insurance does not cover. But I refuse to stop seeing the good in my situations. I am so blessed in every way, and I wish to spread my blessings. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Of course, I will remain a donor to MARL throughout my career. I no longer live for myself, for my own desires and aspirations. Now, because of MARL, I live for my family, my community, and those in need. I will help others, one person (or cat) at a time.

My purpose in life is to help others. I discovered my purpose in the dawn of the pandemic in 2020. As a seventh grader suddenly thrust into online school, I became lonely. I struggled to find joy in my mundane and isolated routine. This is when I first learned of the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL), a non-profit animal shelter in my community. With so much time on my hands, I looked into the shelter more. I learned that during Covid-19, MARL was facing a cut in funding and could barely support their animals. I knew I had to do something. I refused to just continue to sit in my room when I knew that there were kittens with no food to eat, dogs without beds to sleep on. So, I started Apparel by Sienna Rae, my tie-dye clothing brand in which 100% of my profits go to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. I researched extensively on how to start my own business, made a business plan, built my website and began networking in order to spread the word about my work. Once I began to make a profit, I immediately reached out to MARL to tell them about my business and drop off my first donation. The manager personally invited me to visit with the kittens and discuss the future of our partnership. I grew my business, began shipping internationally, and became an official donor for MARL on their website, right next to Kroger and Chewy. I realized that I had spent so long feeling sorry for myself, while there were animals actually suffering and in desperate need of help. These animals and the people of MARL have changed my life forever. They have shown me what true strength and perseverance is. I used to think that as a young girl, I wouldn’t be able to change the world until I was an adult. It was through my business and volunteering with MARL that I have found my purpose, my life’s mission: to help others and spread love. I plan on studying Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship in college in order to prepare myself to become an Entrepreneur. With my Apparel by Sienna Rae experience, I know that I want to build a company that helps others in their lives. My dream is to have a pharmaceutical equipment company in Oder to support patients in hospitals. Besides my love for animals, I am passionate about medicine because in the beginning of 2024, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with illnesses and injuries. Unfortunately, my dad’s illness has also cost my family most of my college savings, due to expensive surges and appointments his insurance does not cover. But I refuse to stop seeing the good in my situations. I am so blessed in every way, and I wish to spread my blessings. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Of course, I will remain a donor to MARL throughout my career. I no longer live for myself, for my own desires and aspirations. Now, because of MARL, I live for my family, my community, and those in need. I will help others, one person (or cat) at a time.

My purpose in life is to help others. I discovered my purpose in the dawn of the pandemic in 2020. As a seventh grader suddenly thrust into online school, I became lonely. I struggled to find joy in my mundane and isolated routine. This is when I first learned of the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL), a non-profit animal shelter in my community. With so much time on my hands, I looked into the shelter more. I learned that during Covid-19, MARL was facing a cut in funding and could barely support their animals. I knew I had to do something. I refused to just continue to sit in my room when I knew that there were kittens with no food to eat, dogs without beds to sleep on. So, I started Apparel by Sienna Rae, my tie-dye clothing brand in which 100% of my profits go to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. I researched extensively on how to start my own business, made a business plan and presented it to my parents for funds. I built my website and began networking in order to spread the word about my work. Once I began to make a profit, I immediately reached out to MARL to tell them about my business and drop off my first donation. The manager personally invited me to visit with the kittens and discuss the future of our partnership. I grew my business, began shipping internationally, and became an official donor for MARL on their website, right next to Kroger and Chewy. I realized that I had spent so long feeling sorry for myself, while there were animals actually suffering and in desperate need of help. These animals and the people of MARL have changed my life forever. They have shown me what true strength and perseverance is. I used to think that as a young girl, I wouldn’t be able to change the world until I was an adult. It was through my business and volunteering with MARL that I have found my purpose, my life’s mission, to help others and spread love. The Ken Larson Memorial Scholarship will enable me to pursue Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship in college in order to prepare myself to become an Entrepreneur. With my Apparel by Sienna Rae experience, I know that I want to build a company that helps others in their lives. My dream is to have a pharmaceutical equipment company in which I can help people in hospitals. Besides my love for animals, I am passionate about medicine because in the beginning of 2024, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with injuries and health needs. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Of course, I will remain a donor to MARL throughout my career. I no longer live for myself, for my own desires and aspirations. Now, because of MARL, I live for my family, my community, and those in need. I will help others, one person (or cat) at a time.

My purpose in life is to help others. I discovered my purpose in the dawn of the pandemic in 2020. As a seventh grader suddenly thrust into online school, I became lonely. I struggled to find joy in my mundane and isolated routine. This is when I first learned of the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL), a non-profit animal shelter in my community. With so much time on my hands, I looked into the shelter more. I learned that during Covid-19, MARL was facing a cut in funding and could barely support their animals. I knew I had to do something. I refused to just continue to sit in my room when I knew that there were kittens with no food to eat, dogs without beds to sleep on. So, I started Apparel by Sienna Rae, my tie-dye clothing brand in which 100% of my profits go to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. I researched extensively on how to start my own business, made a business plan, built my website and began networking in order to spread the word about my work. Once I began to make a profit, I immediately reached out to MARL to tell them about my business and drop off my first donation. The manager personally invited me to visit with the kittens and discuss the future of our partnership. I grew my business, began shipping internationally, and became an official donor for MARL on their website, right next to Kroger and Chewy. I realized that I had spent so long feeling sorry for myself, while there were animals actually suffering and in desperate need of help. These animals and the people of MARL have changed my life forever. They have shown me what true strength and perseverance is. I used to think that as a young girl, I wouldn’t be able to change the world until I was an adult. It was through my business and volunteering with MARL that I have found my purpose, my life’s mission, to help others and spread love. The Grace and Growth Scholarship will enable me to pursue Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship in college in order to prepare myself to become an Entrepreneur. With my Apparel by Sienna Rae experience, I know that I want to build a company that helps others in their lives. My dream is to have a pharmaceutical equipment company in which I can help people in hospitals. Besides my love for animals, I am passionate about medicine because in the beginning of 2024, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with injuries and health needs. Unfortunately, my dad’s illness has also cost my family most of my college savings, due to expensive surges and appointments his insurance does not cover. But I refuse to stop seeing the good in my situations. I am so blessed in every way, and I wish to spread my blessings. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Of course, I will remain a donor to MARL throughout my career. I no longer live for myself, for my own desires and aspirations. Now, because of MARL, I live for my family, my community, and those in need. I will help others, one person (or cat) at a time.

My purpose in life is to help others. I discovered my purpose in the dawn of the pandemic in 2020. As a seventh grader suddenly thrust into online school, I became lonely. I struggled to find joy in my mundane and isolated routine. This is when I first learned of the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL), a non-profit animal shelter in my community.    With so much time on my hands, I looked into the shelter more. I learned that during Covid-19, MARL was facing a cut in funding and could barely support their animals. I knew I had to do something. I refused to just continue to sit in my room when I knew that there were kittens with no food to eat, dogs without a bed to sleep on. So, I created Apparel by Sienna Rae, my tie-dye clothing brand in which 100% of my profits go to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. I researched extensively on how to start my own business, made a business plan and presented it to my parents for funds. I built my website and began networking in order to spread the word about my work. Once I began to make a profit, I immediately reached out to MARL to tell them about my business and drop off my first donation. The manager personally invited me to visit with the kittens and discuss the future of our partnership.   I grew my business, began shipping internationally, and became an official donor for MARL on their website, right next to Kroger and Chewy. I realized that while I had been feeling sorry for myself, there were animals actually suffering and in desperate need of help.   These animals and the people of MARL have changed my life forever. They have shown me what true strength and perseverance is. I used to think that as a young girl, I wouldn’t be able to change the world until I was an adult. It was through my business and volunteering with MARL that I have found my purpose, my life’s mission, to help others and spread love.    I want to pursue Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship in college in order to prepare myself to become an Entrepreneur. With my Apparel by Sienna Rae experience, I know that I want to build a company that helps others in their lives. My dream is to have a pharmaceutical equipment company in which I can help people in hospitals. Besides my love for animals, I am passionate about medicine because in the beginning of 2024, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with injuries and health needs. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help give other families the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Of course, I will remain a donor to MARL throughout my career.  I no longer live for myself, for my own desires and aspirations. Now, because of MARL, I live for my family, my community, and those in need. I will help others, one person (or cat) at a time.

My purpose in life is to help others. I discovered my purpose in the dawn of the pandemic in 2020. As a seventh grader suddenly thrust into online school, I became lonely. I struggled to find joy in my mundane and isolated routine. This is when I first learned of the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL), a non-profit animal shelter in my community.    With so much time on my hands, I looked into the shelter more. I learned that during Covid-19, MARL was facing a cut in funding and could barely support their animals. I knew I had to do something. I refused to just continue to sit in my room when I knew that there were kittens with no food to eat, dogs without a bed to sleep on. So, I created Apparel by Sienna Rae, my tie-dye clothing brand in which 100% of my profits go to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. I researched extensively on how to start my own business, made a business plan and presented it to my parents for funds. Once I began to make a profit, I immediately reached out to MARL to tell them about my business and drop off my first donation. The manager personally invited me to visit with the kittens and discuss the future of our partnership.   These animals and the people of MARL have changed my life forever. They have shown me what true strength and perseverance is. I used to think that as a young girl, I wouldn’t be able to change the world until I was an adult. It was through my business and volunteering with MARL that I have found my purpose, my life’s mission, to help others and spread love.    The JT Lampert Scholarship will enable me to pursue Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship in college in order to prepare myself to become an Entrepreneur. With my Apparel by Sienna Rae experience, I know that I want to build a company that helps others in their lives. My dream is to have a pharmaceutical equipment company in which I can help people in hospitals. Besides my love for animals, I am passionate about medicine because in the beginning of 2024, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with injuries and health needs. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help give other families the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Of course, I will remain a donor to MARL throughout my career.  I no longer live for myself, for my own desires and aspirations. Now, because of MARL, I live for my family, my community, and those in need. I will help others, one person (or cat) at a time.

My purpose in life is to help others. I discovered my purpose in the dawn of the pandemic in 2020. As a seventh grader suddenly thrust into online school, I became lonely. I struggled to find joy in my mundane and isolated routine. This is when I first learned of the Michigan Animal Rescue League (MARL), a non-profit animal shelter in my community.    With so much time on my hands, I looked into the shelter more. I learned that during Covid-19, MARL was facing a cut in funding and could barely support their animals. I knew I had to do something. I refused to just continue to sit in my room when I knew that there were kittens with no food to eat, dogs without a bed to sleep on. So, I created Apparel by Sienna Rae, my tie-dye clothing brand in which 100% of my profits go to the Michigan Animal Rescue League. I researched extensively on how to start my own business, made a business plan and presented it to my parents for funds. I built my website and began networking in order to spread the word about my work. Once I began to make a profit, I immediately reached out to MARL to tell them about my business and drop off my first donation. The manager personally invited me to visit with the kittens and discuss the future of our partnership.   I grew my business, began shipping internationally, and became an official donor for MARL on their website, right next to Kroger and Chewy. I realized that while I had been feeling sorry for myself, there were animals actually suffering and in desperate need of help.   These animals and the people of MARL have changed my life forever. They have shown me what true strength and perseverance is. I used to think that as a young girl, I wouldn’t be able to change the world until I was an adult. It was through my business and volunteering with MARL that I have found my purpose, my life’s mission, to help others and spread love.    The North Star Dreamers Memorial Scholarship will enable me to pursue Business Administration with a minor in Entrepreneurship in college in order to prepare myself to become an Entrepreneur. With my Apparel by Sienna Rae experience, I know that I want to build a company that helps others in their lives. My dream is to have a pharmaceutical equipment company in which I can help people in hospitals. Besides my love for animals, I am passionate about medicine because in the beginning of 2024, my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Seeing his hardworking nurses and doctors made me see that I, too, wanted to help those with injuries and health needs. I plan to produce and distribute pharmaceutical equipment to hospitals world-wide. If it wasn’t for this innovative equipment and technology, we may have never found out my dad had cancer. I want to help other families gain the same opportunity my family was given—a chance to fight. Of course, I will remain a donor to MARL throughout my career.  I no longer live for myself, for my own desires and aspirations. Now, because of MARL, I live for my family, my community, and those in need. I will help others, one person (or cat) at a time.