Meet the winners
With more than 100 scholarships awarded since 1988, HOPE Network is proud of our role in families’ futures. With help from HOPE Network, women are inspiring their children, completing degrees, and building family-supporting careers.
Our 2018 winners represent diverse circumstances, institutions, and areas of study. Keep reading for their stories.
Jenna Benson
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
Herzing University
Nursing
After becoming a single mother at 19, Jenna feared that her dream of a career in nursing was out of reach. With help from HOPE Network, she is earning her degree. She calls daughter Baylee her “blessing in disguise.” Read Jenna’s Story
Alejandra Castillo
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
Alverno College
Nursing
Kimberly Clayton
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
Midwest Bible College
Biblical Studies/Ministry
Graduated: 2018
Like all of the scholarship winners, Kimberly spent some time volunteering. Upon completing her studies, she’s continued to partner with HOPE and bring needed resources to the north side while setting a powerful example for daughter Elise. Read Kimberly’s story
Nicole Currie
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
MATC
Radiography
Nicole is working to support two sons while earning her degree. “My advice to any single mother is that anything is possible if you stay positive, be consistent, and work hard.” Read Nicole’s story
Lauren Davis
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
Alverno College
Nursing
Lauren dreams of becoming an oncology nurse some day and says inspiring her two year-old son motivates her. “I aspire to set a good example for him, so that one day when he’s older he will want to go to school and get an education.” Read Lauren’s story
Tracey Davis
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
Marquette University
Criminology & Law Studies
Tracey’s motivation comes from faith and family. She says of her four children, “I am their living example. That is where my strength and endurance comes from.” After finishing her undergraduate studies with help from HOPE Network, she pursuing a law degree. Read Tracey’s story
LaRhonda Goodwin
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
Upper Iowa University
Psychology
Graduated 2018
After earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology, LaRhonda is pursuing graduate studies. She also is supporting other parents in their journey with her job at The Parenting Network. Read LaRhonda’s story
Venecia Love
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
MATC
Nursing
Vanessa Meyers
Rachel Holley Sciortino Educational Grant
MATC
Radiation Therapy
Vanessa’s optimism and upbeat temperament are helping her pursue her goals of happiness and success for herself and daughter Ciara. With her scholarship, she is pursuing a career in radiation therapy “to give people a chance to believe in themselves.” Read Vanessa’s story
LaCreshia Thomas
Edmund Springman Educational Grant
MATC
Nursing