Highs and Lows: Class of 2022 Overcomes
This year, The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation will award about $400,000 in the form of more than 260 scholarships this spring. More than 200 individuals help us review thousands of applications. Through this process, we see the best of each class. We read about their accomplishments, involvements, highs and on occasion, lows. I wanted to share some passages from essays that stood out.
“Today when I look in the mirror I see a young woman who pursues not what everyone else expects of her, but one who has the confidence to do what is right for her. My journey continues as I work towards becoming the woman I want to be and to love, not what others want her to be.”
“At this point it would take an apocalypse to prevent me from reaching my goal, because I refuse to let anything slow me down.”
“I will use my creativity to inspire and enrich others, help them through difficult times like I've endured, and simply to make this life less boring. For my friends, for my mom's sacrifices, and my own self-worth, I promise I won't let them down. I will overcome and succeed.”
“I believe my calling and life work is helping the future generation of our community celebrate their differences. I want to make positive contributions to the larger society in this area. I cannot do this alone. I hope to find many partners who share my vision and work toward the same goals together.”
These are just a few examples of why scholarship season is one of my favorite times of the year at the Foundation. These students and hundreds of others will graduate and write the next chapter in their book of life. Some are moving directly into the workforce, others planning to attend a college or university, still, others are enrolling in a trade or technical school. Regardless of their plans, they are chasing their dreams with assistance from so many donors who have established scholarships through the Foundation.
Something all graduates have in common this year is that more than half of their high school career was spent in a global pandemic. Schooling was virtual, then masked, and there was the uncertainty of extracurricular activities. The pandemic has forever impacted this class. On top of everything else students face – grades, friends, work, activities – these students overcame significant challenges. Each persevered through obstacles most adults would struggle with, and they came through on the other side. Their stories inspire and give me hope.
For this reason and so many more, I am incredibly proud of the Class of 2022. You persisted through incredible challenges – shared and unique – and made it. No matter what’s next for you, know we at The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation are rooting for you!
If you are interested in helping future students achieve their dreams, contact us or call (419) 425-1100.
This editorial was originally printed in The Courier Friday, May 27, 2022.
