FIRST PLACE - $3,000

Julia Decker (Andover, New Jersey) was born in Enshi, China with a congenital disorder known as a bilateral cleft lip and palate. Julia underwent twelve surgeries and years of speech therapy during which she tried to avoid scrutiny from teachers and peers by speaking as little as possible. By high school, however, Julia had decided to seek opportunities to use her voice - on the field hockey team, as student council president, and as a community leader. Inspired by the care that she received, Julia started The Smile Project in partnership with the non-profit organization, Love Without Boundaries, to raise awareness and funds for cleft-affected children living in underserved communities throughout the world. The Smile Project has sponsored the cleft repair surgeries of seven children living in China and Cambodia. 

Read Julia’s winning essay here. 

RUNNER UP - $1,500

Sienna Torrez (Las Cruces, NM) received a liver transplant when she was just nine months old. The physical and emotional scars of countless doctor’s appointments, hospital visits, and medical challenges have impacted Sienna greatly, but so have the actions of her donor’s family. Motivated by her commitment to letting the legacy of her donor shine through her, Sienna volunteers with children and families experiencing housing insecurity, shares her story as a Donate Life Ambassador, and mentors youth transplant recipients like her. 

Read Sienna’s winning essay here.

HONORABLE MENTION - $500

Norah Carter (Gibsonia, PA) has not only overcome tethered spinal cord, hip dysplasia, a solitary kidney and scoliosis, but also the bullying, mistreatment, and prejudice she has experienced as a result of her physical disabilities. Whether developing and implementing a transitional independent equestrian class for therapeutic riders, designing and facilitating a positive mental health educational program targeting teens and tweens focused on resilience and coping, or serving as Vice President of Operations of the Pennsylvania’s State 4-H Council, Norah has grown into a dedicated role model, advocate, and leader in her community.

Read Norah’s winning essay here. 

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