In 2017, our beloved daughter, Nyla, was born with a congenital heart defect, Hypo-plastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) which resulted in the left side of her heart being under-developed. Since then, it has been a goal of our family to help bring awareness and help other heart families in need while they sit, wait, and pray for a miracle. In years past, during the month of February (Heart Month), we held fundraisers which donated books, toys, clothing, and personal hygiene items to Levine Children's Hospital in Charlotte. This was our way of paying it forward.
 

​Fast forward to the present day and our mission has evolved to making an impact on heart health through education. In large numbers, African Americans, Hispanic/Latinx, and Native/Indigenous American people are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and are less likely to receive quality care compared to their White counterparts. Additionally, there are workforce disparities which may affect academics, research, and overall care of some patients. Diversity in the workforce is vital as it may provide different perspectives, connections, and builds trust. 
 

Our scholarship is a way of encouraging more under-represented students to pursue cardiovascular health as a career choice. Providing more workforce diversity and representation is important for marginalized communities and we are doing our part to make a change.  Student debt disproportionately affects these communities making it more complex to pursue their dreams.