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Sophia Jensen

1,225

Bold Points

2x

Finalist

Bio

My life goals are to make the most positive impact, by contributing to society in a meaningful way, to achieve personal and professional growth, by learning from my own mistakes, and to continuously learn and develop new skills. I am most passionate about self-improvement. I'm the best candidate that you will find, because I have very strong skills and highly ranked qualifications. I want people to know that I am a very motivated and social person, as well.

Education

Freeman High School

Bachelor's degree program
2014 - 2024
  • Majors:
    • Education, General
  • Minors:
    • Business/Commerce, General
  • GPA:
    3.6

Freeman High School

High School
2014 - 2024
  • GPA:
    3.6

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Education, General
    • Business/Commerce, General
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Education

    • Dream career goals:

      My goal is to change lives, while teaching.

      Sports

      Track & Field

      Varsity
      2018 – Present6 years

      Awards

      • Lettered

      Volleyball

      Junior Varsity
      2020 – Present4 years

      Awards

      • Participation

      Arts

      • Freeman High School Art

        Visual Arts
        Art
        2022 – Present

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Buddy Ball — Volunteering
        2022 – Present
      • Volunteering

        Freeman High School Basketball — Manager
        2020 – Present

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Volunteering

      Arin Kel Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed.
      Walking In Authority International Ministry Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Nintendo Super Fan Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Sunni E. Fagan Memorial Music Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Frank and Patty Skerl Educational Scholarship for the Physically Disabled
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Marie Humphries Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Jennifer Gephart Memorial Working Mothers Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Jose Montanez Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Hicks Scholarship Award
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Virginia Jeanette Drummond Kissane Women in STEM Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      LGBTQ+ Wellness in Action Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      “The Office” Obsessed! Fan Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Selma Luna Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane.
      River City Ringers of Omaha Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Hampton Roads Unity "Be a Pillar" Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Journey 180 Planner Changemaker Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Chris Ford Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Brian J Boley Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Dylan's Journey Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      STAR Scholarship - Students Taking Alternative Routes
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Zendaya Superfan Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      HeavenCent Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Jerzee Foundation Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Ojeda Multi-County Youth Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Nick Lindblad Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      “I Matter” Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Fall Favs: A Starbucks Stan Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Kerry Kennedy Life Is Good Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Martin Simutis Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Anthony Bruder Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Shays Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Dan Gramatic Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary.
      KC R. Sandidge Photography Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane.
      Once Upon a #BookTok Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      1989 (Taylor's Version) Fan Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      William A. Stuart Dream Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Janean D. Watkins Overcoming Adversity Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Goobie-Ramlal Education Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Youth Equine Service Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Rebecca Hunter Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Tim Watabe Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Justin Moeller Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Top Watch Newsletter Movie Fanatics Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Law Family Single Parent Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      "The Summer I Turned Pretty" Fan Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Bald Eagle Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Mental Health Scholarship for Women
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      RonranGlee Literary Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges. I come from a very strong literary place and I have always loved my English classes in school. I certainly hope that I am well fitted for this scholarship.
      Students with Congenital Heart Defects Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Eras Tour Farewell Fan Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Eden Alaine Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      A Man Helping Women Helping Women Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Xavier M. Monroe Heart of Gold Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      STEM & Medicine Passion Essay
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Joseph A. Terbrack ALS Memorial Scholarship Fund
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Adam Montes Pride Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      William Griggs Memorial Scholarship for Science and Math
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Joe Ford Trade Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Elizabeth Schalk Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Harriett Russell Carr Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Aserina Hill Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary.
      Jessie Koci Future Entrepreneurs Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Russell Koci Skilled Trade Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Elijah's Helping Hand Scholarship Award
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Patriots Path Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      West Family Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Dr. Soronnadi Nnaji Legacy Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Essenmacher Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      AHS Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      David Hinsdale Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Joanne Pransky Celebration of Women in Robotics
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Hakim Mendez Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      David Foster Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Uniball's Skilled Trades Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Gabriel Martin Memorial Annual Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane.
      Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Caring 4 Carrie (C4C) Kidney Advocacy Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Sean Carroll's Mindscape Big Picture Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Carol S. Comeau Environmental Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Scholarship Institute’s Annual Women’s Leadership Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      VNutrition & Wellness’ Annual LGBTQ+ Vitality Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Individualized Education Pathway Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Big Picture Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Project Kennedy Fighting Cancers of All Colors Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Linda Fontenot-Williams Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      E.R.I.C.A. Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Joshua’s Home Remodeling Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Zakita D. Bond Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      PRIDE in Education Award
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Monroe Justice and Equality Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Hester Richardson Powell Memorial Service Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Derk Golden Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Eco-Warrior Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Trever David Clark Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Richard P. Mullen Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Windward Spirit Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Wild Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      James Gabriel Memorial Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      La Matriz Sagrada Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      New Kids Can Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.
      Sacha Curry Warrior Scholarship
      My name is Sophia Jensen, and I am a Senior at Freeman High School. I believe God allows hurdles to be put in front of us, and those hurdles represent things that either completely stop us in our tracks, trip us up or make us stronger. The “hurdles” in my life have represented some pretty significant obstacles. I was born in Spokane to a single mother; my father lived in Spokane, literally blocks away, but was not involved in my life once he and my mom decided their relationship was not going to work out. My mom and I clung to one another. I am mixed-race as my mother was mixed-race; we look so much alike. My mom was amazing, and she loved me well. Mom received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, and she understood that my future (with no family able to step in) was uncertain. She knew she needed to find a family for me, so she reached out to a Spokane adoption agency, and we began to interview prospective families together. I met the Jensens (a local family of 4) during that search. I had been an only child for the first eight years of my life (I loved the adventures my mom and I had together!), and the prospect of having sisters was exciting! I spent weekdays with the Jensens (they ran me back and forth to school) and weekends with my mom. This went on until my mom passed away, at which time I was adopted and officially became a Jensen. Figuring out a new family is not easy. It requires hard work by all involved. It demands empathy, communication, and most of all forgiveness. Shortly after I was adopted, my oldest sister was shot in a school shooting at Freeman High School. I found myself once again shuffled between homes as Mom and Dad tried to balance work, family and stays at the hospital. I tell you these stories to say I have experienced a lot. Life has thrown some high hurdles in front of me. If I have learned anything, it would be to run hard between the hurdles. When life gives you a clear path, and the wind is at your back, run! Enjoy the race between the obstacles but prepare yourself for the upcoming hurdle. Hurdles are inevitable; they will end up in your lane. Listen to the cheers; hear those who are rooting for you. Train for the race. Remember the hurdles you have already cleared; nothing can stand in my way considering what I have overcome. Envision the finish line; I want to cross it knowing I left it all on the “track”. I love where I am in my life, and I am so proud of the things I have accomplished. I persevered. I did not let life run me over. I learned to forgive. My biological father is now a part of my life. I have been taught significant life skills needed to succeed. My biological mother had a miscarriage a couple of years before having me. It is crazy and very exciting for me to think that I have a biological sibling waiting to meet me in heaven. I always thought my childhood was very ordinary, but I have come to learn that it was extraordinary. Extraordinary hardship. Extraordinary perseverance. Extraordinary grace. Ultimately, an extraordinary blessing. My life is in no way ordinary, and neither am I! I wanted to share my inspiring life story with you because I feel like this has shown courage when I was facing life challenges.