Application for the Pillar of the Community Award

People often ask me how I manage to accomplish so much. My answer is simple: I have turned my struggles into strength. After facing mental health adversity as a youth, I found purpose in my pain and dedicated my life to advocating for others. My journey has been one of resilience, made possible by the unwavering support of those who invested in me and the resources I was privileged to access. Now, as a master’s student at the University of South Florida (USF), I work tirelessly toward building a more just society.

Leadership at USF: Transforming the Social Work Society

As President of the USF Social Work Society, I have redefined student engagement by launching the School of Social Work newsletter (March Newsletter), a resource that keeps students informed and connected. What began as a solo effort has grown into a full-fledged team, ensuring the newsletter’s sustainability beyond my tenure. To foster mentorship and community, I initiated the “Gather for Growth” keynote speaker series, providing students with direct access to faculty insights. These conversations are then shared on the Social Work Society Podcast, which I created, manage, and run, making vital information accessible to all students.

Advocacy and Student Representation

Serving as a cohort representative for my class, I actively participate in MSW Committee meetings, advocating for student needs and implementing solutions. My efforts have led to significant improvements within the School of Social Work, including:

• Establishing an organizational system for all cohorts within the school

• Implementing Field Work office hours with field coordinators

• Creating a student-friendly Field Work Cheat Sheet to simplify a complex 200-page manual

• Advocating for clear fieldwork timelines

• Introducing supplemental hours for students facing challenges at their field placement sites, ensuring they stay on track for graduation

  
  

Legislative Advocacy and Student Empowerment

As President of the Social Work Society, I have spearheaded efforts for LEAD, an annual trip to Tallahassee where students engage in the legislative process. I have recruited students, formed a LEAD student committee, hosted weekly meetings, organized fundraising efforts, and secured record participation.

Though my roles are unpaid, I dedicate part-time hours to enhancing the student experience at the School of Social Work.

Research and Community Engagement

Beyond my campus leadership, I serve as a Graduate Research Assistant for the USF College of Behavioral Health under the STAY research grant, which addresses chronic absenteeism among youth with disabilities/disorders. I also work with RISE Community Solutions for my field placement, implementing evidence-based prevention programs at the Children’s Advocacy Center of Osceola.

Commitment to Professional Development and Community Involvement

In 2025 alone, I have completed five professional training programs, including:

• Stewards of Children Darkness to Light (preventing childhood sexual violence)

• COPE: The Cost of Poverty Experience

• Interprofessional Education Simulation Training with USF Health

• Activist Bootcamp with the USF Activist Lab

• Relate-A-Bull Graduate Student Mentor Certification

I also serve on the Hillsborough County Public Schools Mental Health Advisory Council and the TampaWell Positive Mental Wellness Committee, furthering my advocacy for youth mental health.

Youth Mentorship and Public Advocacy

My passion for youth mental health extends beyond the university. As a mentor with the Ryan Nece Foundation and an active volunteer at youth-focused community events, I work diligently to uplift young voices. I have personally delivered resilience presentations to thousands of students in Hillsborough County Public Schools, reinforcing my commitment to empowering the next generation.

Using Pageantry and Social Media for Advocacy

As Miss Tampa 2022 during my USF undergraduate years and an active participant in pageantry today, I leverage my platform to advocate for social change, volunteer, and mentor young people. With over 2,000 followers on LinkedIn and the ability to reach tens of thousands through social media, events, and community efforts, I have built connections with key leaders in Tampa Bay and beyond. My goal is to leave a legacy of impact—helping others and improving every space I step into.

Conclusion

I am deeply honored to be considered for the Pillar of the Community Award. My journey at USF has been defined by leadership, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. From transforming student organizations to championing policy change, my efforts reflect the very essence of what it means to be a pillar in the community. This recognition would not only affirm my dedication but also inspire others to continue making a difference in the lives of those around me.