Empowering the future: WellSky paves the way for aspiring STEM scholars
The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement has been at the forefront of advocating for women’s health, but it’s not just about raising awareness for heart health. The organization is also empowering young women interested in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) through the Kansas City STEM Goes Red Scholarship program. With support from the WellSky Foundation, this scholarship aims to bridge the gap between student interests and their ambitions in the world of STEM.
Meet the inspiring young women who have been awarded the 2022-2023 STEM Goes Red Scholarships:
Alexis Sher
Future nursing major at Lipscomb University
Alexis Sher, a graduate of Saint James Academy, was inspired by medical professionals’ kindness during her childhood, leading her to pursue a career in nursing. With a passion for caregiving and the long-term goal of becoming a nurse practitioner, Alexis aims to serve her community and make a difference in healthcare.
In her words:
“As a child, I endured several medical conditions that led me to spend hours in hospitals and doctor’s offices. The kindness of medical professionals inspired me to pursue a STEM-based career in nursing. This degree will provide me with the opportunity to reciprocate the love I have received from nurses throughout my numerous doctors’ visits and provide me with the opportunity to continue learning each day.”
Diana Tran
Future biology & chemistry major at the University of Missouri-Kansas City
Diana Tran, a graduate of Lincoln College Preparatory Academy, aspires to help underserved communities through a STEM major. Accepted into UMKC’s 6-year medical program, Diana’s determination to provide equal healthcare access drives her dedication to a STEM-related degree.
In her words:
“Being part of a lower-class family, I witnessed my father neglecting his health due to healthcare expenses. As a young adult, I strongly believe that pursuing a STEM major will allow me an opportunity to provide equal healthcare access to everyone at a lower cost. Pursuing a STEM related degree allows me to challenge myself.”
Emily Poynter
Future science/healthcare major
Emily Poynter, a student at Blue Springs South High School, experienced a personal loss when her uncle passed away from a pulmonary embolism. The experience taught her about the importance of organ donation. Her desire to create change and save lives in healthcare fuels her interest in pursuing a biology degree or a degree in healthcare.
In her words:
“Hearts are not like other organs that can regenerate. With the need so high and the supply so few, we must create or discover a new way. That is why I want to go into the healthcare field. I want to create change and make discoveries that will make a difference.”
Kelsea Kilmer
Future biology/pre-med major at the University of Kansas
Kelsea Kilmer, a graduate of Blue Springs South High School, is captivated by biology and aims to make a difference in the field of oncology. Her aspiration to be part of life-saving innovations drives her passion for a STEM-related degree.
In her words:
“I want to cure cancer. Growing up, my best friend lost her mother to metastatic breast cancer. Another close friend and mentor lost her father to colon cancer. After seeing the impact cancer has caused on my own and other’s loved ones, oncology has become a compelling interest of mine. Being involved in the search for a cure would be both fulfilling and deeply meaningful. STEM is crucial to our society because it saves lives. It broadens the horizons of our minds. Through STEM, we combat real-world, pressing issues with systematic approach. My intention for pursuing a STEM-related degree is to be a part of this live-saving innovation.”
Lily Sowle
Future biochemistry and nursing major at Rockhurst University
Lily is an athlete and honor roll student who recently graduated from Saint Pius X. Her love of the sciences and compassion for others was the impetus to start her charity organization, Lily’s League, when she was just 12 years old. In the last six years, Lily’s League has donated over $230,000 to underserved Haitian children.
In her words:
“My experience at Camp Cardiac at UMKC in the summer of 2019 played a role in my decision to pursue a career as a nurse anesthetist. I had the opportunity to learn about the different types of cardiac procedures that patients undergo. I was fascinated learning about how anesthesia is used during these procedures to temporarily stop or slow down the heart, giving surgeons the ability to perform delicate procedures while keeping the heart functioning properly. As I was developing an affinity for neurology, I also realized I have a sense of compassion to help people.”
The WellSky Foundation’s support for the Kansas City STEM Goes Red Scholarships has proven to be a catalyst in empowering young women to pursue their dreams in STEM fields. As these young women step into the world of STEM with their passion, dedication, and vision, they are poised to make remarkable contributions and create a positive impact on society.
The WellSky Foundation firmly believes in the power of education and fostering a diverse and inclusive community. We are committed to supporting initiatives like the Kansas City STEM Goes Red Scholarship, which aligns with our mission to create a meaningful difference within our communities. Together, we can turn potential into success.