HDS communications reached out to our 2021 graduating students to hear from them in their own words about their experiences at HDS, the people who've helped and inspired them along their grad school journeys, and their plans for the future.
How I've Changed
Since coming to HDS, I have become more confident in my pursuit for justice. Being in a community that affirms you for who you are, meets you where you are, and encourages you to go further than your could possibly dream—it was amazing. I felt seen, heard, and collectively held while attending Harvard Divinity School. This space allowed me to grow in my faith and future aspirations. I am now not only confident in my lived experience, but in my identity as well. When entering a room, I am proud to be the woman I am: Black, Native, and an activist at heart. HDS helped uncover my true passion, liberating others from oppressive infrastructures.
Message of Thanks
Overwhelmingly, I cannot make a list of people to thank. The amount of love and support that has carried me thus far is insurmountable. In short, I want to thank my mom. For the many sacrifices made to provide for my sister and me. For the late nights of counting change, the long drives, and early mornings. For the love, support, and encouragement. Thank you to my Grandma for the emotional and financial support, my best friend at heart.
Thank you to Dr. Dan Deffenbaugh who encouraged me to apply for Harvard Divinity School. To Dr. Furrer, Dr. Logan, and Jia Johnson for your mentorship and guidance. To Dr. Braude, Margaret Okada-Scheck and Marcus Briggs-Cloud. Thank you to my friends who saw me in times where I could hardly see myself. To my niece and nephew who reminded me what little eyes feel like, in the good times and bad. To my accountable community, for always keeping me in check, and for your love, mercy, and wisdom. Thank you to all and any in-between. Your words and effort has molded me into the woman I am today. Without the influence and story-weaving of others, this celebration would not be possible.
What I Hope to Be Remembered By
In the passing days, months, and years, I hope nothing more than to be remembered for kindness. For my constant love and smile. I hope when people think of me, they think of their stories and the importance of story-weaving for relationships, community building, and contextual understanding. I hope people think of justice. The many ways in which we can love and be loved. I hope people think of liberation, individually and collectively. The power in the struggle and the passion in the fight.
Overall, I hope people remember me not for what I did, but what I will do. The potential and passion in my dreams. My willingness to co-create, connect, and push for better. I hope people remember me for my passion, my go-getter attitude, and my love in doing-so.
Future Plans
Currently, I have signed to work for Metro State University as their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Talent Recruitment Program Manager. In addition to that, I am on track to work with a local nonprofit called CommunityWorks. Both careers are centered in my life's passion: to improve and progress the individual and collective wellbeing of marginalized and underrepresented communities, breaking the cycle of poverty and liberating them from the bonds of racial inequality.
As a passion project, I am working alongside another Harvard scholar to create an after-school program for children impacted by incarceration, deportation, and state-sanctioned violence. This program will offer resources, foster healing spaces, and develop classroom curriculum that works to destigmatize homelife for children in our American education system. For the next few years, I anticipate being located in Colorado where I will continue to serve my accountable communities.