2017
Bessie
Bessie is from Olathe, KS and a graduate from Olathe Northwest High School. Bessie lost her father in 2014 to Sarcoma. In high school, Bessie was Student Council president, a part of the debate team and in order to continue her father’s legacy, a tutor at the Kansas School for the Deaf. Bessie feels that through her father’s death, she was able to grow and mature significantly. “I able to convert what was once paralyzing sadness into action that made me happier and more compassionate.” She discovered her passion for economics and understanding it in a way to “offer plausible solutions to society.” Since her father’s passing, Bessie has decided to attend Yale University with the goal of majoring in Economics and eventually becoming a lawyer.
Braden
Braden is from St. Peters, MO and attended Forth Zumwalt South High School. Braden’s father passed away from colon cancer in 2002, leaving behind three young children. He was a part of the varsity swim team, basketball team and National Honors Society. He also is a member of Calvary Church as well as volunteering for THRIVE. Braden plans to attend University of Missouri to study engineering. He is passionate to become an engineer because he wants to enter a field to “solve problems that can improve the lives of so many people.” Although Braden lost his father at a young age, he still works to honor is father’s legacy. “I will always work for the good of my fellow people, in humble reverence of everyone who has ever lost a loved one to cancer, and prove that great successes are still capable of great tragedies.”
Molly
Molly attended Lee’s Summit High School and is from Lee’s Summit, MO. She lost her father to pancreatic cancer in 2006. In high school, Molly was a part of the National Honors Society and Earth Club. She earned Principal's Honor Roll all four years and was a volunteer for Special Olympics and the Kansas City Black Light Run. After the death of her father, her perception on life changed. She loves her family and helps her mom who works hard to raise her and her siblings. “Losing someone helps you realize that you have to cherish every second with others because life can be unexpected.” Molly will be attending the University of Arkansas- Fayetteville to pursue a degree in Graphic Design. With this, she hopes to work with kids in her career and share her passion for art.