Change Agents: Scholarship Winners Choose Careers to Advocate for the Underserved

 
 

Scholarship Winners: Estefany Calderon, Kristie Hebert, Sasha Butler, Anna Verrett


Estefany Calderon
Hoping to use her Degree in Business Administration to Empower Marginalized Communities

As a first generation college student, Estefany Calderon is exceptionally motivated to maximize the opportunities presented to her. Her parents immigrated to the United States when she was one year old, and she demonstrates immense gratitude for their sacrifices that “fuel my courage and eagerness to make a difference.”

Estefany, a graduate of East Jefferson High School in Metairie, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration – finance. She plans to use her degree to promote financial literacy among minorities and empower marginalized communities to achieve economic independence. “I hope to reduce the economic disparity in the Black and Hispanic communities and provide these communities with the tools and knowledge to build wealth, improve financial stability and create a more equitable future for the next generations.”

She commends The 431 Exchange for empowering adult learners. “The 431 Exchange’s mission to break down educational barriers and create opportunities for personal and community growth…is a powerful way to drive positive change and create a more equitable society.”

 

Kristie Hebert
Working to Drive Positive Change with a Master’s of Business Administration

Kristie Hebert is seeking to contribute to the well-being of others, and to use her skills to drive change. She is studying at LSU Shreveport to earn an MBA with a concentration in Human Resources.

A graduate of Assumption High and Nicholls State University, where she received an associate’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, Kristie says LSU’s MBA program’s emphasis on real-world applications and case studies and ability to foster critical thinking will allow her to address the complex challenges human resources professionals face.

An ambitious and outgoing student, Kristie is inspired by The 431 Exchange’s commitment to empowering people and communities through education and collaboration. “The organization’s focus on creating meaningful connections and providing resources for positive change reflects a deep dedication to fostering growth and resilience.”

 

Sasha Butler
Seeking a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing to Uplift and Heal Others

Advocating for others is a key motivation for Sasha Butler as she works toward a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Chamberlain University in New Orleans.

A graduate of L.E. Rabouin Career Magnet School in New Orleans in 2006, Sasha returned to school in 2018 and obtained a Clinical Medical Assistant certificate from Bluecliff College in 2019. A resourceful and persistent student, she chose to go back to school to receive her bachelor’s degree. She said she was drawn to nursing for the opportunity to learn both the science and compassionate care that define it. She strives to make a tangible difference in the lives of her patients.

“My plan is to use this education not only to excel as a nurse but also to advocate for underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has access to the quality care they deserve,” she says. “I’m committed to using my training to uplift and heal others.”

Sasha applauds The 431 Exchange’s mission to bridge educational gaps and empower young people through mentorship and resources.

 

Anna Verrett
Becoming a Speech Pathologist to Help People Communicate and Gain Confidence

Anna Verrett says her life was changed forever when she worked with a speech pathologist as a child to overcome a speech disorder that hindered her confidence and caused her to be shy and introverted. This transformative experience compelled her to want to become a speech pathologist from the age of seven. Her goal is to improve children’s lives by helping them to communicate clearly and gain confidence.

“There were many times that I wanted to say things that I felt so overwhelmed by the fact that only my parents seemed to understand me,” says Anna, a graduate of Dutchtown High School in Geismar who now attends Southeastern Louisiana University. “My speech pathologist helped me to learn to speak clearly. I was able to overcome my speech disorder. I became more confident, I was able to communicate clearly with my peers, and even became captain of my high school dance team.

“This interaction inspired me to become a speech pathologist and change the lives of children,” says Anna, a natural leader. “I know I will make a true difference in someone’s day-to-day life.”

A poised and mature student, she is inspired by The 431 Exchange’s generosity in helping to cover some of the cost of school and reducing winners’ dependence on student loans.