I am dependable, resilient, and driven — traits I’ve developed not just in athletics, but in life. As a single mother, first-generation college student, and aspiring nurse, I’ve faced barriers that could have kept me from pursuing my goals. Instead, I’ve learned to push forward no matter the obstacles. I show up for myself, my son, and my community every day, whether that’s in the classroom, at work as a CNA, or in moments where others need encouragement. This scholarship would help cover the costs of tuition and childcare so I can focus on my nursing degree and continue building a future where I can give back to others. Tell us about the sport you compete in, how long you’ve been involved, and any accomplishments or awards you’ve received during your athletic career. In high school, I participated in track and field and recreational volleyball. Track taught me the discipline of setting personal records and pushing through mental barriers, while volleyball built my skills as a teammate and communicator. While I did not pursue sports at the collegiate level, the lessons I learned — perseverance, accountability, and teamwork — have carried into every area of my life, from my career in healthcare to my role as a mother. Can you share a time when you faced a challenge or setback and how you turned it into a moment of growth and empowerment? One of my greatest challenges came when I had to drop out of high school in my junior year to help support my family. Later, I became a young mother in an unhealthy relationship, facing domestic violence and instability. These experiences could have stopped me in my tracks — but instead, I used them as fuel to rebuild my life. I earned my GED at a college-ready level, began working full-time in healthcare, and enrolled in college to pursue nursing. These setbacks taught me resilience and self-belief, qualities I now carry into every goal I set for myself. Who is someone you admire and look up to, and what about them inspires you? I deeply admire my closest sister, Brittany. She battled a severe heroin addiction for years, losing custody of her daughter and nearly losing her life. After years of struggle, she found the strength to get sober, rebuild her family, and now she’s thriving — married, in nursing school, and raising her children in a healthy environment. Her journey inspires me because it’s a reminder that no matter how far you’ve fallen, redemption and change are always possible with faith, perseverance, and determination. At YGIG, we believe in backing future athletes building towards something bigger. How would this scholarship support your journey? This scholarship would help me afford tuition, textbooks, and childcare so I can continue my nursing education without sacrificing financial stability for my son and me. By reducing my financial burden, I can focus on my studies and clinical work, gaining the knowledge and skills I need to serve my future patients with excellence and compassion. My journey is about more than my success — it’s about showing my son and others that you can overcome adversity and build something better, no matter where you start. Is there anything else you’d like to share? While I may not currently compete in organized sports, I approach life with the mindset of an athlete: setting goals, working through challenges, and showing up with discipline and perseverance. The lessons I learned in sports continue to influence my teamwork in healthcare, my leadership in my church community, and my determination in my education. I believe the “You Got It Girl” spirit is about grit, resilience, and lifting others as you climb — and that’s exactly how I aim to live every day.

My faith is the foundation of who I am and how I lead. After experiencing some of the darkest and most difficult seasons of my life — from growing up in an unstable home to surviving domestic violence — I found myself broken, exhausted, and unsure of my future. It was in that brokenness that I truly reconnected with God. He became my source of strength, my guide, and my reason to persevere. This deep, personal faith has shaped my values, my actions, and the way I seek to uplift others. I lead with compassion, humility, and a servant’s heart because I know what it feels like to be unseen and unheard. I understand that leadership isn’t just about directing people — it’s about walking alongside them, encouraging them, and pointing them toward hope when life feels heavy. My faith continually reminds me that my purpose is bigger than myself and that leadership means using my gifts to bless and build others up. One of the most meaningful ways I have led through faith has been by sharing my testimony with others, especially new believers. When I tell my story — the struggles I faced, the seasons of doubt, the moments where I thought I had no way forward — I can connect with people in a way that’s deeply personal and authentic. I’ve seen God use my story to encourage others who are going through their hardships, reminding them that there is always hope and that their present circumstances don’t define their future. One specific example was during a Bible study at my church. A young woman who had recently joined was struggling with feelings of shame and uncertainty about her place in God’s plan. As she shared her story, I could see so much of myself in her — the fear, the self-doubt, the exhaustion. I felt God prompting me to share openly about my journey: dropping out of high school to support my family, becoming a young mother, enduring abuse, and feeling like my life was falling apart — and how God met me in that brokenness. I explained how He gave me the courage to rebuild my life, return to school, and pursue my dream of becoming a nurse. By the end of our conversation, she was in tears, but she was also smiling, saying she felt renewed and encouraged. That moment reaffirmed for me that leadership through faith is not about titles or positions — it’s about showing up for people when they need hope. This experience has shaped my vision for the future. As I pursue my nursing degree, I see my career as another avenue for ministry. I want to be a light in a field where patients often feel vulnerable and afraid, using both my skills and my faith to bring comfort, dignity, and hope. Whether I’m mentoring a fellow student, encouraging a patient, or speaking with someone about my journey, I will continue to lead with the love of Christ at the center of everything I do.

I decided to pursue higher education in healthcare because I have seen firsthand the difference a compassionate, skilled provider can make in a person’s life. From a young age, I watched my own family members struggle with health issues and witnessed both the best and worst sides of the healthcare system. I learned that technical skill is essential, but so is empathy, and too often, the latter is missing. That realization, along with my own life experiences, inspired me to enter the nursing field so I can be part of the change I want to see in patient care. My journey here has been shaped by perseverance. I am a 20-year-old biracial woman, a first-generation college student, and a single mother. I dropped out of high school in my junior year to help support my family financially, and for a time, I believed my dream of becoming a nurse was no longer possible. In 2025, I earned my GED at a college-ready level and began my prerequisites for an associate degree in nursing. Today, I work full-time as a CNA/CMA in a geriatric nursing home, gaining hands-on experience and developing the skills, patience, and compassion I will carry into my future career. Working as a CNA has reaffirmed my calling. Every day, I am reminded that healthcare is not just about treating conditions — it’s about treating people. I have learned to connect with patients on a personal level, to listen to their stories, and to provide comfort in moments of fear or frustration. I believe that as a nurse, I can be a beacon of light in moments that feel dark, offering both professional care and human kindness. My ultimate goal is to become a labor and delivery nurse. I want to be there during one of the most important and vulnerable times in a person’s life — helping mothers bring new life into the world with dignity, respect, and compassion. In the long term, I hope to mentor other nurses, advocate for patient-centered care, and volunteer internationally in underserved communities to promote safe birthing practices and maternal health. Higher education is the bridge between where I am now and the career I envision. However, the financial cost of tuition, books, and childcare can be overwhelming as a single mother working full-time. The Beacon of Light Scholarship would help alleviate that burden, allowing me to focus on excelling academically and gaining the clinical experience I need to serve my future patients well. To me, nursing is more than a profession — it is a calling to serve, to comfort, and to advocate. It is a way to bring hope where there is fear, and light where there is uncertainty. By pursuing my degree in nursing, I am not only building a better future for my son and myself, but I am also preparing to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. With the support of this scholarship, I can continue my journey toward becoming the kind of healthcare provider that every patient deserves — one who heals with both skill and heart.

Like a rose growing through concrete, I was never supposed to make it this far. The odds were stacked against me — teenage motherhood, leaving high school, unstable housing, and the daily pressure to survive — yet my roots found a way to take hold. I learned to push upward toward the light, even when life felt cold and unwelcoming. Every thorn I’ve grown has been forged by resilience, and every petal is a reflection of the hope I carry for my future. I am a 20-year-old biracial woman, first-generation college student, and single mother to my one-and-a-half-year-old son. My journey to this point has been anything but easy, but every challenge I have faced has fueled my passion, deepened my resilience, and strengthened my drive to succeed. I became a mother at a young age, in the middle of an unhealthy relationship marked by instability and abuse. For a time, my world revolved around survival — keeping a roof over our heads, finding childcare, and making sure my son had what he needed. I had dropped out of high school in my junior year to help my mother financially, and at times I believed my dreams of higher education had slipped away for good. Yet somewhere inside me, a quiet determination remained: I would not allow my circumstances to define my future. In 2025, I earned my GED at a college-ready level. That moment was more than just an academic milestone — it was proof to myself that I could rewrite my story. Soon after, I enrolled in prerequisite courses toward an associate degree in nursing. I currently work full-time as a CNA/CMA in a geriatric nursing home, gaining hands-on experience in patient care. These experiences have confirmed my calling: to become a labor and delivery nurse. For me, nursing is not just a career; it is a way to create impact every single day. I want to be the kind of nurse who listens without judgment, advocates fiercely for patients, and ensures that mothers — especially young and underserved mothers — feel supported, respected, and safe. My long-term vision is to not only work in labor and delivery but also to mentor new nurses and one day volunteer internationally, bringing maternal care and safe birthing practices to communities with limited resources. The Concrete Rose Scholarship would help me continue building the foundation I need to make this vision a reality. As a single mother working full-time while attending college, every financial resource makes a tangible difference. Tuition, textbooks, and childcare costs can be overwhelming, but with support, I can focus on excelling in my studies and clinical training without sacrificing the stability my son depends on. Education is the key that will allow me to break generational cycles and create a life of security and purpose for my family. It will also give me the skills and knowledge to pour back into my community and beyond. Like a rose that defied the concrete, I will continue to grow upward, not just for my own sake, but for every life I will touch as a nurse.

I am a 20-year-old single mother, first-generation college student, and certified CNA/CMA working full-time in a geriatric nursing home. My life has been shaped by challenges most would consider overwhelming, but those challenges have also fueled my ambition, strengthened my drive, and solidified my commitment to making a difference through nursing. I grew up in a home where stability was rare and resources were limited. My parents were both high school dropouts, and at times we experienced homelessness. I often went without basic utilities, slept in a car during the winter, and ate ramen for weeks at a time. By my junior year of high school, my mother asked me to drop out to help financially. I did, but I never lost the dream of finishing my education. That dream stayed alive through every hardship — from family division to surviving domestic violence — because I wanted to create a better future for myself and my son. In 2025, I earned my GED at a college-ready level, proving to myself that the door to education was never truly closed. Today, I am taking my prerequisites for an associate degree in nursing, with plans to apply to the nursing program in Spring 2026. Education has already transformed my life — it has given me the ability to plan for a stable career, the confidence to dream bigger, and the opportunity to show my son that no matter where you start, you can still succeed. My career goal is to become a labor and delivery nurse. I believe that helping to bring life into the world is one of the most beautiful and profound callings in healthcare. My time as a CNA has shown me the importance of compassion, patience, and treating every patient with dignity. I want to carry these values into labor and delivery, ensuring that every mother feels heard, respected, and cared for during one of the most vulnerable moments of her life. My long-term vision includes mentoring new nurses, advocating for patient-centered care, and eventually volunteering my skills in underserved communities — both in the U.S. and internationally — to teach safe birthing practices and support maternal health. I know firsthand the power of education to change a life. Without it, I would still be trapped in the cycle I was born into. With it, I can break that cycle, not just for myself but for my son. I can give him a role model who shows that perseverance, faith, and hard work lead to transformation. I want my career to be a living example of how one person can create ripples of change. Whether it’s comforting a nervous mother, guiding a new nurse, or teaching life-saving skills in a rural clinic, my work will be driven by the belief that every life matters. Through nursing, I will honor the opportunities education has given me by using my skills to bring hope, healing, and compassion to others, just as I once needed them myself.

I’ve always believed that beauty is more than skin deep—it’s a reflection of confidence, identity, and the freedom to embrace who you are. As a biracial woman with a deep love for makeup, hair, and self-care, I’ve seen firsthand how the beauty industry can be both a source of empowerment and a space where representation is still evolving. My fascination with cosmetology and aesthetics comes from a place of wanting to help women—especially women of color—feel not only beautiful, but truly seen. Growing up, I often noticed how limited the options were for people who looked like me—makeup shades that didn’t match, hair care products that didn’t cater to our unique textures, and a noticeable lack of representation in the industry. It made me realize how important it is to have diverse voices and skilled professionals who understand the unique beauty needs of all people. What inspired me to choose this career path is the belief that everyone deserves to feel confident in their skin and that beauty should be inclusive. My goal is to become a cosmetic nurse who specializes in working with diverse skin tones and features. I want to create a welcoming space where women of all backgrounds can come to enhance their natural beauty, knowing they’re in the hands of someone who understands and celebrates their uniqueness. As a single mother and a first-generation college student, I’ve faced my share of obstacles. Balancing work, school, and parenting while navigating my mental health challenges has been a journey of resilience. But it’s also strengthened my resolve to make a difference. I want to show my son and others that you can overcome adversity and turn your passions into a career that uplifts and inspires. The Brown Skin Agenda Aesthetics and Cosmetology Scholarship is an opportunity to further my education and contribute to a more inclusive beauty industry. With the knowledge and skills I gain, I hope to be part of a new wave of professionals who understand the unique needs of clients of color and who can offer safe, effective, and confidence-boosting treatments. In the end, I chose this career path because I want to be a part of the change I wish to see. I want to help women see that it’s okay to enhance their features, embrace their natural beauty, and feel proud of who they are. This scholarship would be a vital step toward turning that passion into a reality.

For me, beauty has never been about vanity—it’s about transformation, confidence, and the courage to feel good in your skin. That’s why my dream is to become a cosmetic nurse, blending the precision of healthcare with the artistry of aesthetics. While my journey into this field hasn’t been traditional, it has been deeply personal, shaped by challenges that taught me the true meaning of resilience, self-worth, and empowerment. I grew up in a low-income household, raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her children. My parents are both high school dropouts, and at times, we lived without electricity or running water. There were periods of homelessness when we slept in a car during winter nights and ate whatever we could afford. In my junior year of high school, I was encouraged to drop out to help my family financially—a decision I made out of necessity, not lack of ambition. Life’s hardships didn’t stop there. I survived a domestic violence relationship, and leaving it was one of the hardest yet most defining moments of my life. I left with my young son, Kylo, determined to build a stable future for him—a future free from fear, instability, and the limitations of my past. That chapter reconnected me to my faith in God, reminded me of my worth, and inspired me to chase dreams I once thought were out of reach. I earned my GED at a college-ready level and now work full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide in a geriatric nursing home. My role is more than a job—it’s a calling. I care for my patients with the same compassion, dignity, and respect I would want for my own family. My supervisors have recognized my work ethic through multiple raises, but my greatest reward is knowing I’ve brought comfort to someone on their hardest days. My passion for beauty has always been a part of who I am. I’ve loved makeup, hair, and self-care for as long as I can remember, and I’ve seen firsthand how even small changes in appearance can transform how someone feels about themselves. Cosmetic nursing is the perfect path for me because it combines my medical skills with my love for aesthetics, allowing me to help people feel confident, renewed, and empowered. I hope to one day open my cosmetic practice, offering services that help people look and feel their best while fostering a safe, uplifting environment. This scholarship would remove some of the financial barriers I face as a single mother balancing work, school, and parenting. Tuition, books, and necessary supplies add up quickly, and this support would allow me to focus more on excelling academically and perfecting my craft. I believe beauty is more than skin deep—it’s about how you see yourself and the confidence you carry into the world. My journey has been one of transformation, and through cosmetic nursing, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own. With this scholarship, I can take the next step toward turning that vision into a reality.

Living with severe anxiety and seasonal depression has been one of the defining challenges of my life. There was a time when panic attacks would overwhelm me, lasting hours or even days before I could find calm. These experiences were not just difficult—they shaped the way I view resilience, empathy, and the importance of mental health awareness. My name is Sierra Vernon, and I am a 20-year-old first-generation college student, a single mother, and an aspiring nurse. Growing up in a low-income household with parents who were high school dropouts, I faced many obstacles. We endured times without electricity or water and periods of homelessness, often surviving on very little. These experiences were tough, but they also made me more determined to build a better future for myself and my son, Kylo. Anxiety and depression have been constant companions on this journey. My anxiety used to be so intense that calming down felt impossible at times. My depression tends to ebb and flow with the seasons, growing heavier in the winter months. Yet, through faith and support, I’ve learned to navigate these challenges and transform them into sources of strength. These experiences have profoundly shaped my beliefs about resilience and empathy. They’ve taught me the importance of understanding others’ struggles and offering compassion. This is why I chose to become a nurse. Working as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide in a geriatric nursing home, I’ve seen firsthand how empathy and patience can make a world of difference. My battles with mental health have made me a more compassionate caregiver, able to connect deeply with those I serve. I’m currently working on my prerequisites to apply to a nursing program in Spring 2026. My career aspirations include specializing in labor and delivery or cosmetic nursing, fields where I can make a meaningful impact. I want to show my son and others that even with mental health challenges, you can achieve your dreams through perseverance and faith. This scholarship would be an incredible support. As a single mother working full-time, the financial burden of tuition and supplies can be overwhelming. Receiving this support would allow me to focus more on my studies and my patients, and less on the financial stress. In the end, my journey has taught me that challenges can be transformed into strengths. I believe in the power of “I can and I will,” and I am committed to using my experiences to inspire and help others. This scholarship would be a vital step on that path.

If someone had told me five years ago that I’d be a full-time college student, a single mom, and working in healthcare—all at the same time—I might have laughed in disbelief. My life has been anything but easy, but every challenge I’ve faced has shaped me into the resilient, compassionate, and ambitious person I am today. I grew up in a low-income household, raised by a single mother who worked multiple jobs to provide for her children. Both of my parents are high school dropouts, and I became a first-generation college student by earning my GED at a college-ready level in 2025. But getting there wasn’t simple. At times, we lived without electricity or water. There were periods of homelessness when we slept in a car in the winter. We often survived on the bare minimum, but even in those moments, I learned the value of persistence and faith. During my junior year of high school, I was encouraged to drop out to help support my family financially. I entered the workforce at a young age and eventually found my passion in healthcare. I now work full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide in a geriatric nursing home. My job is more than a paycheck—it’s a daily reminder of why I chose nursing. My strongest quality is my compassion for others, and I take pride in connecting with my patients on a personal level, treating them with dignity and kindness. I’ve received multiple raises based on my work ethic, but the true reward is knowing I’ve made someone’s day a little brighter. My personal life has had its own battles. I survived a domestic violence relationship and left with my young son, Kylo, determined to give him the stability I didn’t have growing up. It was a turning point in my life—one that reconnected me to my faith in God and renewed my belief that I was meant for more. Now, every decision I make is rooted in creating a better future for my son and showing him that no matter where you start, you can rise above your circumstances. I am currently working on my prerequisite courses for nursing school, which I plan to apply to in Spring 2026. My dream is to become either a labor and delivery nurse or a cosmetic nurse, and eventually own my cosmetic practice. Labor and delivery inspire me because bringing life into the world is a beautiful, life-changing moment to witness. Cosmetic nursing speaks to me because helping people feel confident and renewed is just as powerful in its way. This scholarship would be life-changing. Balancing full-time work, school, and motherhood is challenging enough without the added stress of tuition, books, and supplies. Receiving this support would allow me to focus more on my studies and my patients, and less on how I’m going to afford the next semester. My story is one of challenges, but also one of perseverance. I’ve learned that even in the hardest seasons, you can find the strength to keep moving forward. This scholarship would not only help me reach my goals—it would help me prove to my son, and to others like me, that with ambition, faith, and determination, there is no dream too big to achieve.

Some people are born into opportunity. I was born into survival. From a young age, I learned what it meant to go without—without electricity or running water, without enough food, without the safety and stability most children take for granted. I also learned what it meant to fight for something better. Today, I am a 20-year-old first-generation college student, a single mother to my son, Kylo, and a future nurse determined to turn every hardship I have faced into hope for others. I was raised in a low-income household by a single mother who worked tirelessly to keep our family afloat. Both of my parents are high school dropouts, and by my junior year, the financial strain became so heavy that I was encouraged to leave school and work. We experienced homelessness, sleeping in a car during winter nights, and surviving weeks on instant noodles. There were times when the weight of our circumstances could have crushed my dreams, but instead, it shaped my determination. Against the odds, I earned my GED at a college-ready level. That accomplishment wasn’t just a test score; it was proof that I could rewrite the story I was born into. I now work full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide in a skilled nursing facility specializing in geriatric care. In this role, I’ve learned that true care is more than clinical skill—it’s empathy, patience, and treating every patient as if they were a member of my own family. My supervisors have recognized my work ethic through multiple raises, but my greatest reward is knowing I’ve made someone feel seen, respected, and loved. My journey has not been without pain. I survived a domestic violence relationship, and leaving it was one of the hardest yet most important decisions I have ever made. In the aftermath, I reconnected with God in a way that transformed my life. My faith fuels everything I do, reminding me that nursing is not just a profession—it’s a calling. I am currently completing my prerequisite courses to apply to the nursing program in Spring 2026. My ultimate goal is to specialize in either labor and delivery or cosmetic nursing. Labor and delivery would allow me to witness and support one of life’s most beautiful moments: welcoming new life into the world. Cosmetic nursing would allow me to help people feel confident, renewed, and empowered. Both paths align with my belief that care should heal both body and spirit. This scholarship would help remove the financial barriers that stand between me and my degree. As a single mother working full-time, the costs of tuition, books, and supplies can feel overwhelming. Your support would not only help me continue my education but also ensure I can balance school, work, and raising my son without compromising the quality of my efforts. Kalia’s story deeply moves me. Like her, I believe in giving my all in every area of life—whether in the classroom, the workplace, or my community. If chosen, I will honor her legacy by continuing to work hard, serve others wholeheartedly, and inspire those around me to believe that no dream is too far to reach.

Why I Am Worth the Dreams I Aspire to Achieve I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve because my journey has been defined by resilience, faith, and unwavering determination. As a 20-year-old first-generation college student, single mother, and aspiring nurse, I have faced and overcome challenges that could have easily derailed my future. Instead, these experiences have shaped me into a woman who knows her value and refuses to settle for less than what she deserves. Growing up in a home marked by financial hardship, instability, and trauma, I learned early on that my circumstances did not define my potential. I endured periods of homelessness, emotional abuse, and the heartbreak of an abusive relationship. Yet, through it all, I held onto my faith in God and the belief that I am created with purpose and worth. That belief gave me the strength to leave harmful situations and rebuild my life with intention. I earned my GED at a college-ready level in 2025 while balancing full-time work as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide and caring for my son. This speaks to my ambition and work ethic — qualities that fuel my pursuit of a nursing degree with a focus on labor and delivery. I am passionate about providing compassionate care to women during one of life’s most vulnerable and sacred moments, ensuring they feel seen, respected, and empowered. Beyond my academic and professional goals, I am deeply committed to personal growth and community impact. My involvement with my nondenominational church allows me to serve others and grow spiritually, further strengthening my sense of purpose. I believe that my worth is not only in what I achieve but also in how I lift others up along the way. I am worth these dreams because I embody the values of perseverance, compassion, and leadership. I am unapologetic in my desire to succeed and in my belief that my voice and story matter. I want to inspire other women, especially single mothers and those facing adversity, to embrace their worth and pursue their dreams without apology or fear. The Woman’s Worth Scholarship would not only ease the financial burden of my education but also affirm the value of my journey and the importance of investing in women like me — women who are ready to lead, serve, and make lasting change. I am worth these dreams because I refuse to let my past define my future. I am worth these dreams because I am ready to rise, to grow, and to serve with all my heart. And I am worth these dreams because the world needs the strength, compassion, and leadership of women who know their worth and are ready to claim their place.

Faith in Action: How My Church Involvement Fuels My Community Service My faith has always been the foundation of who I am and how I serve others. As a 20-year-old single mother, first-generation college student, and aspiring nurse, my involvement with my local church — The Church Without Walls — has profoundly shaped my commitment to community service and compassionate care. At church, I volunteer regularly to help with Bible study preparation, meal making, and assisting during Sunday services. These experiences are more than just volunteer hours — they are opportunities to live out my faith in tangible ways. Preparing meals and supporting church events allows me to meet the practical needs of my community, while Bible study helps me grow spiritually and develop the patience, empathy, and understanding I bring to my nursing work. My church involvement has taught me the importance of servant leadership. Serving others without expecting anything in return, offering a listening ear, and acting with kindness and respect are principles that guide all aspects of my life. These lessons carry directly into my work as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide, where every interaction with a patient is a chance to show dignity and care. Being part of a faith community has also connected me to a broader support system — friends, mentors, and fellow volunteers — who inspire me to keep striving for my goals, even when balancing the demands of school, work, and single motherhood feels overwhelming. This network reminds me that serving others is a collective effort and that my contributions, no matter how small, matter. Through my nursing career, I plan to continue this cycle of service by providing compassionate, patient-centered care to those who need it most. My faith fuels my ambition to be a nurse who not only treats medical conditions but also uplifts spirits and strengthens hope. I want to support families during life’s most vulnerable moments — especially mothers in labor and delivery — and be a source of comfort and strength. The Sherman S. Howard Legacy Foundation Scholarship would enable me to focus more fully on my education and community involvement by easing financial pressures. As a single mother working full-time, every bit of support makes a difference in balancing my responsibilities and pursuing my dreams. My involvement in The Church Without Walls is a testament to my belief that faith and service go hand in hand. Together, they empower me to make a positive impact on my community and live out the values of compassion, resilience, and hope.

Following a Path of Compassionate Healthcare My name is Sierra Vernon, a 20-year-old first-generation college student, single mother, and aspiring nurse. In 2025, I earned my GED at a college-ready level, and I currently work full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide in a geriatrics nursing home. My experiences have shaped my passion for healthcare and strengthened my ambition to serve others in meaningful ways. Though Christina Taylese Singh’s career as an occupational therapist was cut tragically short, her dedication to improving lives and empowering patients deeply resonates with me. Like Christina, I am committed to pursuing a career that not only provides medical care but also fosters healing, dignity, and hope. I plan to enter the nursing field, with a focus on labor and delivery nursing. Bringing new life into the world is one of the most profound experiences a person can have, and I want to support mothers during this vulnerable time with compassionate, skilled care. My role will be to ensure that every mother feels respected, empowered, and safe throughout her birth journey. My ambition to become a nurse is deeply personal. I grew up in a challenging environment marked by instability, periods of homelessness, and hardship. I survived domestic violence and rebuilt my life for the sake of my son, Kylo. My faith in God and my determination to create a better future fuel my every step forward. Working as a CNA and CMA, I have witnessed firsthand how critical empathy and attention are to patient outcomes. I’ve also seen how healthcare professionals’ attitudes impact patient experience — sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. I want to be the nurse who lifts patients up with kindness and care, who listens deeply, and who advocates for their needs. Beyond labor and delivery, I am also drawn to cosmetic nursing as a way to help people feel confident and renewed. Both fields, in their own way, offer opportunities to improve not only physical health but also emotional well-being. The path ahead is challenging, but I am focused and intentional. I plan to complete my nursing prerequisites and apply to the nursing program in spring 2026. With every step, I am building the knowledge, skills, and resilience needed to thrive in nursing school and beyond. Receiving the Christina Taylese Singh Memorial Scholarship would be an incredible support. As a single mother working full-time, balancing education, work, and parenting is demanding both financially and emotionally. This scholarship would relieve some of the financial burdens, allowing me to focus more on my studies and clinical experiences. I am honored to follow in the footsteps of a passionate healthcare professional like Christina. My ambition is not just to succeed personally but to carry forward her legacy of compassionate care, making a positive difference in the lives of my patients and community.

Creating Change Through Compassionate Nursing My name is Sierra Vernon, and I am a 20-year-old first-generation college student, single mother, and aspiring nurse. In 2025, I earned my GED at a college-ready level, and I now work full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide in a geriatrics nursing home. Every day, I witness the difference genuine compassion can make in a patient’s life. My path to medicine has been shaped by hardship and resilience. I grew up in a home marked by instability, financial hardship, and periods of homelessness. At seventeen, I entered an abusive relationship that lasted for years. When I finally found the courage to leave, I walked away with my son, reconnected with my faith in God, and rebuilt my life from the ground up. These experiences have not made me bitter — they have given me a deep empathy for others and a determination to make my career in healthcare a force for good. I plan to become a labor and delivery nurse, a field that allows me to combine skill with compassion in one of the most important moments of a person’s life. Too often, women — particularly in rural or underserved communities — face barriers to receiving respectful, high-quality maternity care. These barriers can be the result of financial strain, lack of access to providers, or even discrimination. My goal is to help remove those barriers, ensuring that every woman, regardless of her background, receives the care and dignity she deserves. The impact I want to make extends beyond the hospital room. I envision developing outreach programs that provide prenatal education, emotional support for survivors of domestic violence, and access to postpartum resources. I also want to advocate for policies that improve healthcare access for rural populations and low-income families. My own experiences with instability, abuse, and financial hardship allow me to understand the urgency of these issues on a personal level. Pursuing higher education is essential to achieving this vision. Earning my Bachelor of Science in Nursing will equip me with the clinical skills, leadership abilities, and professional credibility to influence change at both the individual and systemic levels. However, as a single mother working full-time, the financial challenge is significant. I am responsible for supporting my son, covering childcare, housing, transportation, and daily living expenses, while also paying for tuition, books, and supplies. Scholarships like the Katrina Celestine Aquino Memorial Scholarship make it possible for me to continue my education without compromising my ability to provide for my son. Katrina’s life and work remind me that making a difference in the world means serving with both skill and heart. Just as she believed justice should be accessible to all, I believe healthcare should be accessible, compassionate, and respectful for all. My ambition is not only to succeed personally, but to create a ripple effect that uplifts my patients, inspires my son, and strengthens my community. Through my nursing career, I hope to leave a legacy of care that empowers others, just as Katrina left a legacy of justice that continues to inspire.

Serving Women in Rural Communities Through Nursing My name is Sierra Vernon, and I am a 20-year-old first-generation college student, single mother, and aspiring nurse. In 2025, I earned my GED at a college-ready level, and I now work full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide in a geriatrics nursing home. Every day, I see the difference compassion, patience, and a listening ear can make in someone’s life — especially for those who may not have regular access to quality care. My path to nursing has been shaped by challenges that tested my resilience. I grew up in a home marked by instability and financial hardship, experienced periods of homelessness, and survived domestic violence. Leaving that abusive relationship was the turning point that allowed me to rebuild my life, reconnect with my faith in God, and create a safe, loving home for my son. My experiences have taught me the value of empathy, perseverance, and action — qualities I will carry into my nursing career. Living in a rural area, I understand the unique healthcare challenges women here face. Many have to travel long distances for specialized care, wait weeks for appointments, and often go without services like mental health counseling, prenatal support, or preventive screenings. For women impacted by poverty, abuse, or limited resources, these barriers can be life-threatening. My goal is to become a labor and delivery nurse, where I can support women during one of the most important and vulnerable times of their lives. In rural areas, access to skilled, compassionate maternity care can be the difference between a safe birth and a dangerous one. I want to be part of closing that gap — ensuring that women, no matter where they live, have access to respectful, high-quality care. Beyond the hospital, I envision working with community organizations and clinics to expand outreach programs in rural areas. These could include mobile health clinics, prenatal education classes, and trauma-informed support groups for women who have experienced abuse or loss. My own survival story allows me to connect with women who feel unseen or unheard and to assure them that their lives and health matter. Higher education will give me the skills to turn this vision into reality. With my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, I plan to advocate for policies that improve rural healthcare access, particularly in maternal health. I believe every woman should have the right to safe, compassionate, and competent care — regardless of geography, income, or circumstance. The Deena Collins Memorial Scholarship would help me move closer to this goal by easing the financial burden of tuition, books, and supplies. As a single mother providing for my son while working full-time, every bit of support allows me to focus more on my education and community impact. Through nursing, I want to honor the spirit of strong, resilient women like Deena Collins by making a lasting difference in rural communities — one patient, one conversation, and one act of compassion at a time.

From Survivor to Advocate: My Nursing Mission Domestic violence is not just a statistic to me, it is part of my lived experience. I entered a relationship as a teenager that quickly became mentally abusive. Over time, the manipulation escalated to stalking, infidelity, and substance abuse. When I became pregnant, I later learned that it had been intentional on his part to keep me from leaving. The final turning point came one night when, in front of our son, he became violent and then engaged in suicidal behavior. It was the most terrifying night of my life. Police intervened, and I walked away determined to rebuild my life. Leaving that relationship was the beginning of my transformation. I reconnected with my faith in God, surrounded myself with a strong support system, and rediscovered the dreams I thought I had lost. I became a CNA/CMA, working in a geriatrics nursing home where I saw firsthand the importance of compassion, communication, and coordinated care. My experiences have given me a deep empathy for others, especially women navigating crises similar to mine. Substance abuse was also a central part of my story. My former partner’s drug use, including methamphetamines and marijuana, fueled instability, paranoia, and further abuse. I saw how addiction not only destroys the individual but also ripples through families and communities. In healthcare, substance abuse often overlaps with domestic violence, creating unique barriers to care for women. These barriers can be even greater for African-American women, who may face systemic bias, lack of culturally competent care, and mistrust of medical institutions. My goal as a nurse is to help bridge those gaps. I plan to work in labor and delivery, where I can support women during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. My vision is to provide trauma-informed care, care that recognizes the signs of domestic violence and substance abuse, understands their impact on health, and responds with sensitivity and resources. I believe nurses play a critical role in identifying women at risk, connecting them with support services, and coordinating care across disciplines to ensure their safety and recovery. To improve outcomes for African-American women, I will focus on three key areas: Culturally competent communication — listening without judgment, respecting cultural values, and building trust between patients and providers. Care coordination — working closely with social workers, advocates, and community organizations to connect women with safe housing, counseling, and substance abuse treatment programs. Patient education and empowerment — ensuring women understand their options, their rights, and the resources available to them, so they can make informed decisions about their health and future. Higher education will give me the medical knowledge and leadership skills to put this vision into action. I plan to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and continue advocating for better training in trauma-informed care and domestic violence response within healthcare systems. My hope is to eventually develop or contribute to programs that train nurses and other healthcare providers to recognize and respond to the unique needs of African-American women facing domestic violence and substance abuse. I survived domestic violence, but many women do not. Some leave only to return because they lack resources, safety, or support. As a nurse, I will work to be the lifeline I once needed, someone who sees beyond the immediate injury, who hears the unspoken fear, and who provides a path toward safety and healing. My past has given me purpose. Through nursing, I will turn my survival into service, ensuring that more women, especially African-American women, not only survive but also thrive beyond domestic violence and substance abuse.

How My Life Experiences Shaped My Calling to Nursing My decision to become a nurse is deeply rooted in the experiences that have shaped me into who I am today. I did not grow up with stability or security. My early life was marked by financial hardship, periods of homelessness, and a lack of consistent support. As a first-generation college student, I’ve had to build my path from the ground up without a roadmap to follow. At fifteen, I experienced a family fracture that left me feeling unseen and unheard. By my junior year of high school, I had to drop out to help my mother pay bills. At seventeen, I entered an abusive relationship that would test every part of my strength. When I became a mother to my son, Kylo, my world changed. My love for him gave me purpose, but I was still living in a cycle of fear, manipulation, and instability. The turning point came the night I finally found the courage to leave. That decision changed everything. I reconnected with my faith in God, found peace in walking with Him daily, and rebuilt a support system I didn’t realize I had. I began rediscovering the dreams I thought I had lost and setting new ones with intention and hope. Working as a Certified Nursing Assistant and Certified Medication Aide has been more than just a job — it has been the foundation for my future career. In my role at a geriatrics nursing home, I have cared for residents in their most vulnerable moments. I have seen the difference a smile, a listening ear, or an extra minute of patience can make in a person’s day. I have also seen the impact when compassion is missing, and that is something I refuse to allow in my own nursing practice. These experiences have shaped my philosophy: nursing is not only about skill, but also about human connection. I am pursuing labor and delivery nursing because I believe bringing life into the world is one of the most beautiful and sacred moments a person can experience. I want to support mothers physically and emotionally through that process, ensuring they feel safe, respected, and empowered. I also have a secondary interest in cosmetic nursing, which I see as another way to help people feel confident, refreshed, and renewed. Every hardship I have faced has fueled my ambition and drive. I know what it is like to feel hopeless, and I also know the transformative power of having someone believe in you. My goal is to be that person for my patients, for my son, and for others who need to see that it is possible to rise above any circumstance. Nursing is not just a career choice for me — it is a calling, a way to live out my faith, honor my family’s legacy, and build a life of purpose. I will continue pursuing my education with determination, knowing that every step brings me closer to the day I can wear my nurse’s badge with pride and gratitude.

Ambition, Intentionality, and My Nursing Goals My journey toward becoming a nurse is rooted in both personal passion and lived experience. I earned my GED at a college-ready level in 2025, and I currently work full-time as a Certified Nursing Assistant/Certified Medication Aide in a geriatrics nursing home. Every day, I am reminded of the difference compassionate care can make. I have witnessed how a nurse’s attitude can either lift a patient’s spirit or leave them feeling unseen. For me, nursing is not just a profession — it is a calling to treat every person with dignity, empathy, and respect. My inspiration to pursue my degree comes from multiple sources: my son, my faith, and my family’s history. I am a first-generation college student, raised in a home marked by instability, periods of homelessness, and hardship. Despite these challenges — or perhaps because of them — I developed a deep empathy for others. Surviving an abusive relationship became a turning point in my life. Once I found the courage to leave, I reconnected with my faith in God and began rebuilding my life from the ground up. That faith, along with my son’s future, motivates me to keep going even when the road is difficult. I have chosen labor and delivery nursing as my primary career goal. Bringing new life into the world is a beautiful and profound experience, and I want to be there to support mothers through one of the most vulnerable and important moments of their lives. I want my patients to feel safe, respected, and empowered, regardless of their background or circumstances. Alongside this goal, I have a secondary interest in cosmetic nursing. I believe that helping people feel confident in their own skin is another form of healing — one that can renew self-esteem and improve quality of life. My plan is intentional and structured. In the next year, I will complete my nursing prerequisites and apply to the nursing program in the spring of 2026. I will continue gaining hands-on experience through my work as a CNA/CMA, and I will seek mentorship from experienced nurses to guide me through the next stages of my education. Once I earn my degree, I plan to work in labor and delivery while completing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. My long-term vision is to either advance in the hospital setting or open my own cosmetic nursing business in the future. Receiving the Deshana K. McNeil Memorial Scholarship would bring me closer to these goals by easing the financial strain of tuition, books, and supplies. As a single mother, I provide for my son’s needs while working full-time and paying for childcare, housing, and daily expenses. This scholarship would allow me to focus more fully on my studies and clinical training without the constant weight of financial stress. Nursing is more than a career for me — it is my way of living out my faith, honoring my family’s legacy, and setting an example for my son. I want him to grow up knowing that no matter where you start in life, you can create a future worth fighting for.

My inspiration to continue my education comes from two places: my son and my desire to break the cycle I grew up in. Both of my parents were high school dropouts who never attended college. While they did the best they could, I’ve always known I wanted something different — a future with stability, opportunity, and the ability to provide my child with more than I ever had. Becoming a single mother has been the most challenging and most motivating experience of my life. I’ve survived domestic violence, rebuilt my life from the ground up, and learned to be both the provider and protector for my son. In the process, I discovered a strength in myself I didn’t know I had. That strength is what pushes me to keep going, even when life gets overwhelming. Returning to school to earn my GED and pursue college has not been easy, but every class I take feels like a step toward a better life for us. I am currently working on my prerequisites for the nursing program, with plans to apply in the spring of 2026. Nursing appeals to me because it combines compassion, critical thinking, and the ability to make a real difference in people’s lives. I want my son to grow up seeing his mother not just talk about dreams, but to follow through with them. This scholarship would play a vital role in helping me reach my goals. As a single mother balancing school, work, and parenting, financial obstacles are often the greatest barrier. Receiving the Linda Fontenot Memorial Scholarship would help cover the costs of my education, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on how to make ends meet. It would also bring me one step closer to achieving the stability I’ve been working so hard to create. I know the road ahead will still have challenges, but I also know that every bit of progress counts. My son is my daily reminder of why I cannot give up. By earning my nursing degree, I will be able to provide him with security, inspire him to chase his own goals, and honor the belief that no matter where you come from, you can create a future worth fighting for.