From Norfolk, Virginia: Attending Radford University.

Majoring in Social Work, Minoring in Religious Studies.

“There are too many tragedies to count off of all the fingers and toes from bodies of eccentric queer youth whose lives just needed an accepting environment and support system. It’s about making sure that the amount of lives lost goes down. I know that with the right opportunities and a proper college education, I can become the change I’ve always wanted to see, and aid in the constant battle to keep our community and members, not only alive, but thriving to the point of them knowing that they’ve earned the right to take up as much space as they possibly can. All I want, with my college education, is to eventually provide a home for the youth that can’t return to theirs and to learn how to best provide the love and encouragement that everyone deserves.”

From Ponte Verde, Florida: Attending University of Central Florida.

Majoring in Political Science and Psychology.

Sued school board with Lambda Legal over transgender bathroom ban and won (case now pending appeal from school board), President of high school’s Gay Straight Alliance, Youth Social Media Ambassador for the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

“I have been fortunate enough to have a supportive family as I have fought for my rights, but far too many LGBTQ youth aren’t as lucky. I promise to keep using my voice to lift up the voiceless and keep being visible for those who can’t be.”

From Youngstown, Ohio: Attends Old Dominion University.

Pursuing a Masters in Higher Education.

“As I am incredibly grateful to be a scholarship recipient, I would like to thank Hampton Roads Pride and the community who make this possible for LGBTQ folk. In believing in me as a student, I can continue my education to learn how to create diverse, culturally sensitive, inclusive environments that will give intersectional people – people like us – an opportunity to live full, equitable lives.”

From Colorado: Attending University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Doctor of Medicine.

“I am humbled and deeply appreciative to receive the Hampton Roads Pride scholarship. Thank you! I will use this scholarship to continue my medical education and serve LGBTQ+ patients.”