After growing up in the foster care system, Samantha has dedicated her career to advocating for systemic change and empowering young people with lived experiences. Through her work in policy advocacy and direct service, she has witnessed firsthand the gaps in mental health care and the profound impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). These experiences have fueled her passion for clinical social work, leading her to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) at the University of Oklahoma. Her goal is to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), specializing in evidence-based therapies to provide trauma-informed care for vulnerable communities. This scholarship would support her academic journey and help her advance her lifelong mission of making mental health services more accessible. In her free time, Samantha enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog, staying active, and continuously developing new skills.