Laila O’Connor
Career Aspirations
“Regardless of what field I steer towards, I’ve always wanted to help others or benefit the world
in some way. I aspire to work in the medical field to use my research, clinical exposure, and
volunteer experience in diverse communities to change medicine and impact the specialty I
desire. I intend to continue my academic and career goals at Rhodes College in the fall as a
biology major in the pre dental track.“
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Meet Our 2026 Scholarship Recipients
Mikaela Lacivita
Career Aspirations
“My career aspirations are to open a vegan cafe or an alternative fashion store.”
Surprise Abolade
Career Aspirations
“I aspire to be Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)”
Kennedy Jackson
Career Aspirations
“My career aspiration is to become a young woman who strives to help people who need it. Also,
I want to make sure I can help the sick people in need.”
Tiffani Skinner
Career Aspirations
“My career aspiration is to become a Physician Assistant”
Janila Garrett
Career Aspirations
“My career aspiration is to become a professional dancer, performing in musicals, concerts, and
productions around the world while continuing to grow as an artist. Through dance, I hope to
inspire others and share my passion with diverse audiences. In the future, I plan to open my own
dance studio, creating a supportive and inclusive space where young dancers can receive quality
training, build confidence, and pursue their dreams regardless of their background. By
combining performance and education, I hope to make a lasting impact both on stage and in my
community.”
Deane’ Halsey
Career Aspirations
“My goal is to be a social worker to work with children in the system, later furthering my
education in criminal justice to become psychologist for those in juvenile detention centers.”