Embodying Compassion in Nursing, Social Work & Counseling to Give Back
Scholarship Winners: Ariel Green, Itali Lundi, Alisha Crochet, Abigail Hicks
Ariel Green
Paying it Forward by Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Counseling to Help Young People
Having emerged from an economically disadvantaged background with grit and a passion for success, Ariel Green feels called to help young people achieve their goals. She is working toward a Master’s Degree in Counseling at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and wants to work as a counselor in a university or nonprofit organization.
A graduate of Scotlandville Magnet High School, she participated in Upward Bound, which inspired her to pursue higher education. Now at Southeastern Louisiana University, Ariel is a poised and mature student who works with younger students, teaching classes on healthy relationships and imparting life skills.
“God has chosen me to do this work,” she says. “The fulfillment I receive knowing I am uplifting students to unlock their potential is truly satisfying. My ultimate goal as a future counselor is to create a safe space for students to heal and learn so that they go out into the world and (become) successful individuals from the inside out.”
Ariel cites the courage of The Adult Education Center, the organization that inspired the creation of the 431 Exchange, as a source of hope for her and those she hopes to help. “Knowing that workers and students persevered despite social injustice inspires me to keep pushing. Hearing the stories about the respect, equality and care Alice Geoffray and the staff had for the students gives me hope that people still believe in doing good for their neighbor.”
Itali Lundi
Seeking a Degree in Social Work With a Goal of Transforming Lives
Raised by a grandmother who instilled compassion in her, Itali Lundi wants to serve people who are struggling with mental health. She hopes to eventually establish and run mental health facilities in underserved communities.
“I strive to embody my grandmother’s compassion and dedication in my career,” says Itali, a graduate of Grace King High School in Metairie who is now studying at Louisiana State University to earn a degree in social work. “She showed me that love and kindness can transform lives. I want others to feel the love my grandmother showed me. My mission is to ensure patients receive the utmost care and help in every way possible.”
Itali’s great aunt Brenda Wilson graduated from the Adult Education Center, the organization that inspired the creation of the 431 Exchange. A grateful and personable student, Itali was drawn to the 431 Exchange’s commitment to help adult students, instead of only focusing on recent high school graduates. “This demonstrates a deep sense of care and understanding for those who may be returning to education after a significant break, showing genuine love and support for the journey and the community.”
Alisha Crochet
Helping Patients During their Most Challenging Times
Alisha Crochet has been working as a licensed practical nurse for 20 years and recently returned to school to become a registered nurse. The 43-year-old student demonstrates the determination and confidence necessary to go back to school after being in the workforce for years.
“I always want to strive to be better. That’s why I want to further my career to become an R.N.,” says Alisha, a graduate of Terrebonne High School who is currently enrolled in Fletcher Technical Community College’s L.P.N. to R.N. program.
“It’s a journey of constant learning, growth and giving. As an L.P.N., I love to care for my patients and to help them during their most difficult times and lighten their load. It’s so rewarding to know I have made a difference in someone’s life.”
Alisha appreciates the 431 Exchange’s commitment to support students at all stages in their educational journeys. “I love that there are those who are looking to continue their education at all different stages of their life.”
Abigail Hicks
Pursuing a Nursing Degree to Give Back and Help Others
For nursing student Abigail Hicks, getting an education is the best way to give back and make a difference in the lives of others, as well as set an example for her siblings.
A graduate of Haughton High School in Haughton, Louisiana, Abigail is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches. A self-motivated and determined student, she hopes to eventually return to school to become a nurse anesthetist.
“Nursing gives me the opportunity to positively impact those around me,” she says. “Doing well can make a difference in so many people’s lives in the future. It gives me an opportunity to help others.”
Giving back to the community is what attracted Abigail to the 431 Exchange. “When a program makes this (effort) to help their own community, they make such a difference.”