From a young age, I have always been infatuated with the science of dentistry. Since I was just nine years old, I’ve dreamed of becoming a dentist, and as time passed that dream slowly evolved into a passionate and unwavering goal. Today, as I enter college to pursue my biology degree, I am more determined than ever to accomplish this aspiration, knowing that it is not only a personal achievement but also a means to positively impact those around me; as I aim to serve as a role model to inspire young Black and Brown children of the future, so they are able to realize that a career in dentistry is well within their reach. Too often we see a lack of representation in this field, especially among African Americans. With Black dentists making up only 3.8% of the U.S. Dental workforce, it is more than evident that more needs to be done to change this narrative, and I want to be a part of that change. Growing up, the career options presented to me were often limited to roles that seemed to align with the stereotypical expectations of society. Becoming a basketball phenom, a maintenance worker, or holding down a regular 9-to-5. However, I always knew I wanted something more. Even as a child, I yearned for a future that stretched beyond the usual expectations placed upon me. While others may have been satisfied with the path laid before them, I pushed myself to think bigger. From researching oral diseases to learning how today's modern medicines collaborate with dentistry to improve patient results, I have directly dedicated myself to learning as much as possible. During even my own dental appointments, I have taken every opportunity available to engage with my dentist. Asking thoughtful questions and seeking advice about how to pursue a career in their field, as they walk in the scrubs I too want to be standing in someday. This proactive approach to learning and growth has been more than beneficial in shaping my knowledge. However, my passion for dentistry is not just about my personal success. It is also about my responsibility to pave a path for those who are to follow. Especially those who may never have considered dentistry as a viable career, not due to the lack of interest, but instead the lack of inclusion. Growing up, I've seen and know firsthand how lack of representation in this field can discourage young people from pursuing careers in healthcare. One of my goals is to organize workshops and community events where successful African American dentists can share their stories of resilience, grit, and triumph. These panels will not only showcase the success stories of Black dentists, but also provide young students with tangible insights into the skills and experiences needed to excel in the field. By exposing young boys and girls to a variety of role models, I hope to empower them to pursue careers they may have previously thought were only imaginable. In addition to inspiring their minds, these events would teach practical skills, such as the basics of dental care, and promote an understanding of the diverse career paths within dentistry. By giving students the tools and knowledge they need, I can help them get a head start on their journey toward becoming dentists or other healthcare professionals. Moreover, these workshops would offer the unwavering support and motivation that many young people lack when pursuing careers in fields where they are underrepresented. I want to show them that they belong in these spaces and that their dreams are possible.

Community involvement has always been a core part of my life, and when reflecting on my journey, I find myself inspired by the life and legacy of Gregory Chase Carter. His commitment to community events will forever leave a lasting mark on those around him. Like Greg, I believe community service is a way to shape both the lives of others and our own. This scholarship represents an opportunity to continue that legacy, and I hope to honor Greg’s memory by giving back to my community. Growing up in Boston, Massachusetts, I witnessed firsthand the challenges that many people in my community faced. I remember driving home with my mother and noticing people living in the most inhumane conditions possible. As a child, I couldn’t understand why these people didn’t have homes or why they needed help. I asked my mom why it was happening, and she explained the complexities of poverty and homelessness. Even at such a young age that conversation left an earnest impact on me, and it was in that moment that I realized I couldn’t idly stand by; I had to act on it. This realization sparked my passion for helping others, and. With the support of my mom and a few relatives, I organized small events to provide aid to those in need within my community. Whether it was collecting coats for winter or distributing care packages to people in shelters, these experiences helped me understand that community service was no longer just a desire, but my purpose. In 2020, I took a significant step by founding my nonprofit, the “Each 1 Teach 1 Foundation.” Created on the belief that we all have the power to lift one another up. It focuses on providing resources and support to those facing adversity. What began as a small initiative has grown into a community driven movement aimed at creating lasting change. Through the foundation, we’ve provided essential resources such as food and clothing to those in need. Our last event was held in late October. I gathered two van loads of volunteers to help distribute care packages at my hometown's homeless shelter. I will never be able to forget the faces and even some names of those that we were able to help that day. The immense expression of gratitude that I received warmed my heart, as I knew this small act was making a huge feat in their lives. The most meaningful impact, however, has been the empowerment of those we help. We aim to give people the tools they need to succeed. This approach creates a culture of self-reliance, which is the change I hope to see more of in my community. Running the foundation has been a transformative experience for me. I’ve learned invaluable lessons about leadership, perseverance, and the importance of building a culture of empathy. I’ve seen firsthand how small acts of kindness can spark positive change, and how one individual’s dedication can inspire others to make a difference. These experiences have fueled my passion for continuing my work with the foundation, and I’m determined to expand our reach to serve even more people in need. If selected for this scholarship, I will use the funds to further my education, and with the connections I build, put myself in rooms where I can help my non-profit thrive. I believe that education combined with community service can create opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background. Just as Gregory Chase Carter dedicated his life to improving his community, I hope to honor his legacy by continuing his mission of service, empowerment, and lasting change.

Growing up in Boston, I had been raised solely by my mother, who worked tirelessly to support my brother and me, sacrificing so much so that we could pursue greater opportunities. I learned from an early age the importance of hard work, resilience, and giving back. Her devotion and selflessness instilled in me a deep commitment not only to pursue the highest level of education but also to create a future where I can give back to her and the broader community that raised me. These values are at the heart of my ambition to enter the field of dentistry. Since I was nine years old, I have been captivated by the art of dentistry. What began as a childhood curiosity has become a passionate and unwavering goal: becoming a dentist. For me, this dream goes beyond personal success; it is about breaking barriers and inspiring young Black and Brown children to see dentistry as a career within their reach. With Black dentists making up only 3.8% of the U.S. dental workforce, it is clear that more must be done to change this narrative. I am determined to be part of that change. Growing up, the career options presented to me were often limited to roles that aligned with societal stereotypes, becoming a basketball star, or a maintenance worker. However, I always knew I wanted more for my future. I pushed myself to think beyond those expectations. I immersed myself in learning about oral diseases, explored how modern medicines enhance dental care, and took every opportunity during my dental appointments to ask questions and seek advice. I envisioned myself standing in the same scrubs as my dentist, treating patients, and making a difference. To achieve my goals, I plan to pursue an education in the biological sciences and develop the skills necessary to excel in dentistry. I will work hard to graduate from college and apply to dental school, where I will gain the knowledge and experience to make a powerful impact in the field. Beyond my academic journey, I also aim to become an advocate for underrepresented communities in healthcare. I believe it is my responsibility to pave a path for those who follow, particularly in the dental field, where representation matters deeply. As part of this mission, I plan to organize workshops and community events where successful Black dentists can share their stories of resilience and triumph. These events will not only highlight the achievements of Black dentists but also offer young students tangible insights into the skills and experiences needed to excel in the field. Additionally, these workshops will provide practical dental care skills and expose students to the diverse career paths within dentistry. By equipping students with knowledge and inspiration, I hope to give them a head start on their journeys toward becoming dentists or other healthcare professionals. Ultimately, my ambition is to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse dental workforce while inspiring the young people in my community to dream big and pursue careers in fields that have often felt out of reach for them. My commitment to education, advocacy, and representation will drive me as I work toward a future where young people of all backgrounds can see themselves reflected in the dental field, just as I strive to do today.

Earning the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship would provide me with the vital financial support I need as I pursue my dream of becoming a dentist. From as young as nine, I’ve always been passionate about the science of dentistry, a dream that has now grown into a life goal. As I enter college to study biology, I’m determined to not only achieve personal success but also to serve as a role model for young Black and Brown children, showing them that a career in dentistry is more than possible. Growing up, I was often faced with limited career options that didn’t reflect my ambitions, yet I always knew I wanted something more. Rather than succumbing to these confines, I pushed myself further and found my passion. From researching oral diseases on my own to asking my dentist questions during appointments. These efforts have shaped my knowledge and reinforced my unwavering commitment to this path. But my journey is not only about personal success, it is also about addressing the lack of representation in the field as a whole. With Black dentists making up only 3.8% of the workforce, I feel a deep responsibility to change that. Inspired by Kalia’s resilience and her commitment to creating a legacy of excellence, I aspire to organize community events and workshops that expose young students to Black dentists as role models. These events would not only inspire but also provide practical skills and guidance, showing students that dentistry is a viable and empowering career. In my own life, loss has taught me the fragility of time. Losing someone close to me has instilled a sense of urgency and purpose to make the most of every moment, just as Kalia's memory may have taught many of us. The grief that lingers after a loss often fuels a determination to not only carry on but to do so with meaning. In this way, Kalia’s legacy resonates deeply with me. Her story serves as a reminder of how fragile and precious life is, motivating me to work tirelessly toward my dreams and use my success to uplift others. This scholarship would do more than help fund my education; it would allow me to carry forward Kalia’s spirit of ambition, resilience, and kindness. It would provide me with the financial stability needed to continue my studies, but more importantly, it would empower me to further my mission of giving back to the community. With this support, I would be able to continue my journey of not just becoming a dentist, but also working to inspire the next generation to see themselves in this field, and with the help of the Kalia D. Davis Memorial Scholarship I would be more than humbled to honor her legacy by channeling my passions into meaningful action. Thank you for considering my application. I am committed to continuing Kalia’s legacy of striving for excellence, kindness, and ambition in all areas of my life.

My name is Tyron Boswell, and I am a first-generation college student raised in Boston, Massachusetts. Raised by my mother, who worked tirelessly to support my brother and me, sacrificing so much so that we could pursue greater opportunities; I learned the importance of hard work, resilience, and giving back. Her devotion and selflessness instilled in me a deep commitment not only to pursue the highest level of education but also to create a future where I can give back to her and the broader community that raised me. These values are at the heart of my ambition to enter the field of dentistry. Since I was nine years old, I have always been infatuated with the art of dentistry. What began as a childhood curiosity has now become a passionate and unwavering goal, to become a dentist. This dream is about more than personal success however, it is a mission to break barriers and inspire young Black and Brown children to see dentistry as a career within their reach. With Black dentists making up only 3.8% of the U.S. dental workforce, it is clear that more must be done to change this narrative. I am determined to be part of that change. Growing up, the career options presented to me were often limited to roles that aligned with societal stereotypes. Becoming a basketball star, becoming a maintenance worker, or just holding a typical 9-to-5 job. However, I always knew I wanted more for my future. I pushed myself to think beyond those expectations. I immersed myself in learning about oral diseases, explored how modern medicines enhance dental care, and took every opportunity during my own dental appointments to ask questions and seek advice. I envisioned myself standing in the same scrubs as my dentist, treating patients, and making a difference. I believe it is my responsibility to pave a path for those who follow. Representation matters, and I want to show young people from all underrepresented backgrounds that they belong in the healthcare field. Growing up I rarely saw those that looked like me in the dental field and I plan to change that. My goal is to organize workshops and community events where successful African American dentists can share their stories of resilience and triumph. These events will not only showcase the success stories of Black dentists but also provide young students with tangible insights into the skills and experiences needed to excel in the field. In addition to inspiration, these workshops will teach practical dental skills, such as basic dental care, and an understanding of the diverse career paths wisthin dentistry. By providing students with the tools and knowledge they need, I hope to give them a head start on their journey toward becoming dentists or other healthcare professionals. Moreover, these events will offer the support and motivation that many young people lack when pursuing careers in underrepresented fields. I want to show them that their dreams are possible and that they deserve to occupy these spaces.

From a young age, I have been infatuated with the science of dentistry. Since I was just nine years old, I’ve dreamed of becoming a dentist, a dream that slowly has evolved into a passionate and unwavering goal. Today, as I enter college to pursue a biology degree, I am more determined than ever to accomplish this aspiration, knowing that it is not only a personal achievement but also a means to positively impact those around me; as I aim to serve as a role model and inspire young Black and Brown children of the future to realize that a career in dentistry is within their reach. Too often do we see a lack of representation in this field, especially among African Americans. With Black dentists making up only 3.8% of the U.S. dental workforce, it’s clear that more needs to be done to change this narrative. I want to be a part of that change. Growing up, the career options presented to me were often limited to roles that seemed to align with the stereotypical expectations of society. Becoming a basketball phenom, a maintenance worker, or holding down a regular 9-to-5. However, I always knew I wanted something more. Even as a child, I yearned for a future that stretched beyond the usual expectations placed upon me. While others may have been satisfied with the path laid before them, I pushed myself to think bigger. From researching oral diseases to learning how today's modern medicines collaborate with dentistry to improve patient results, I have directly dedicated myself to learning as much as possible. During even my own dental appointments, I have taken every opportunity available to engage with my dentist. Asking thoughtful questions and seeking advice about how to pursue a career in their field, as they walk in the scrubs I too want to be standing in someday. This proactive approach to learning and growth has been more than beneficial in shaping my knowledge as well. However, my passion for dentistry is not just about my personal success. It is also about my responsibility to pave a path for those who are to follow. Especially those who may never have considered dentistry as a viable career, not due to the lack of interest, but instead the lack of inclusion. Growing up, I've seen and know firsthand how lack of representation in this field can discourage young people from pursuing careers in healthcare. One of my goals is to organize workshops and community events where successful African American dentists can share their stories of resilience, grit, and triumph. These panels will not only showcase the success stories of Black dentists but also provide young students with tangible insights into the skills and experiences needed to excel in the field. By exposing young boys and girls to a variety of role models, I hope to empower them to pursue careers they may have previously thought were only imaginable. In addition to inspiring their minds, these events would teach practical skills, such as the basics of dental care, and promote an understanding of the diverse career paths within dentistry. By giving students the tools and knowledge they need, I can help them get a head start on their journey toward becoming dentists or other healthcare professionals. Moreover, these workshops would offer the unwavering support and motivation that many young people lack when pursuing careers in fields where they are underrepresented. I want to show them that they belong in these spaces and that their dreams are possible.

Since I could remember, I had always been labeled a "worrier" when, in fact, it was much more than that, from jumping out of the shower screaming bloody murder to sweating out of my clothes and throwing up before any big event. I had constantly been trying to run away from the most inescapable thing; my mind. My parents tried everything they could to better something they had never experienced or seen. From therapy to yoga, to meditation, and even changing my diet. Nothing seemed to work as we'd hoped it would, and slowly, over time, my feelings and reactions became our new normal. However my experiences were far from normal, entering middle school with reports of school shootings at their peak. I found my self hiding my shoes, and curled over every toilet bowl in the house fearful for what may come. My worries were valid but the reactions were extreme, I knew this and so desperately wanted help. Fearful of the unknown I constantly isolated myself, missing out on experiences, friendships and opportunities I may never be able to face again. From having a panic attack at my winter formal to throwing up on my chromebook during MCAS testing. Anxiety had its hands on the wheel for so long when it came to my quality of life. As time carried on and I grew older, certain outbursts of mine became minuscule, and the management of it all was 100% easier. I could shower without being overtaken by my own thoughts, silence no longer made me anxious, and I was ultimately feeling as if I were in a better place mentally and I had maybe "grown out" of my anxious ways. That was until my sophomore year of high school. Which I could say was the most catastrophic year of my high school experience. I began the year feeling so heavily overwhelmed with new material, a brand new school building, and even greater responsibilities. The adjustment felt draining, and each day I came home, all I would want to do was cry and sleep. This cycle continued for some time, any anxious thoughts or feelings that came to mind were immediately met with my brain shutting down and me becoming overwhelmed, however, as time progressed and my heightened emotions became more frequent, I began to feel more alone than ever, and not even being able to go to my parents; with fear of consequences due to my now negatively impacted grades. I began to sulk and sit in isolation for days on end, not wanting to partake in anything not required of me, it got so bad to the point of me becoming physically ill. That, for me, was a sign to speak with my parents about all that was going on inside my head. In doing so they were able to hear, understand, and support me better than I had ever imagined. We began to work as a family, setting goals for me to accomplish each week, to better my relationship with anxiety and take back control over my life. That very next week, we met with my Doctor, who I told everything; from the countless sleepless nights, to being fearful of my own thoughts. I laid it all out start to finish. I left that hospital with two diagnoses and a prescription. The news, for some, may have been devastating to hear; however, I felt a bit of relief. Not knowing what I could truly do to better my mental state left me feeling as if I was a prisoner. Trapped in my mind, to battle day and night, for as long as I lived. It became tiring and left me with a constant fear in the back of my head. I had anxiety and, unfortunately, developed depression in the process of trying to aid myself. This experience has shown me that I cannot isolate myself in fear of the unknown, as missed opportunities and experience are things I am never able to get back. Fearing the unknown will do nothing but drive me mad, as it is not in my control. Focusing on what I have the ultimate control over is a way I able to claim my mental back, continuing to focus on my academics and flourish in life for as long I can.

My mother, Faith, embodies what it means to be a leader: she is a loving parent, an esteemed educator, and a resilient role model. Growing up in Boston, my mother faced significant challenges. She lived with her father, who was their family's sole provider. They moved frequently in and out of homes until she was around 13 years old, and the constant fear of packing up and moving her life around lingered with her for her entire school career, However, instead of succumbing to the weight of her challenges, she overcame her obstacles, and viewed her limited time, as opportunities to make lasting memories and an impact everywhere she went. With the burden of losing her own mom at the young age of 4, and her father constantly consumed by work. She didn't have many adult outlets, leaving her constantly navigating life on her own. Growing up my situation was slightly similar to hers, as my father was not in the picture. However, my mom never made me feel the absence of a father figure in my life. With few male role models in my life, she had to take on many roles. Whether it was driving me to sports practices, helping me with my homework, planning dinner, or reading bedtime stories. My mother was the jack of all trades, all whilst being able to grade her student's papers. As I grew older, I began to recognize the immense time, effort, and dedication my mom invested in my brother and me. It became a burning passion of mine, to repay her for all the sacrifices she has made thus far. She, as a strong, independent, educated, black woman; has motivated me my entire life to push through adversity, and has taught me a surplus of lessons along the way. My mother is a go-getter, who has proven time and time again that anything is possible when effort and dedication are applied. She has shown me that I can accomplish my goals without the help of others, and has demonstrated that though many paths in life are going to call for strength and resilience towards pressure, the outcome will always end out positive. Knowing her story, and the struggles she's faced, all while still managing to have a successful and stable life, pushes me to want better for my future family and generations to come. Inspired by my mother’s unwavering strength, I am committed to pursuing my education with purpose, ensuring that I not only achieve my own goals but also work to uplift others in my community. I aspire to create a legacy of resilience and impact, just as she has done.

Since I could remember, I had always been labeled a "worrier" when, in fact, it was much more than that, from jumping out of the shower screaming bloody murder to sweating out of my clothes and throwing up before any big event. I had constantly been trying to run away from the most inescapable thing; my mind. My parents tried everything they could to better something they had never experienced or seen. From therapy to yoga, to meditation, and even changing my diet, nothing seemed to work as we'd hoped it would, and slowly, over time, my feelings and reactions became our new normal. As time carried on and I grew older, certain outbursts of mine became minuscule, and the management of it all was 100% easier. I could shower without being overtaken by my own thoughts, silence no longer made me anxious, and I was ultimately feeling as if I were in a better place mentally. That was until my sophomore year of high school. Which I could say was the most catastrophic year of my high school experience. I began the year feeling so heavily overwhelmed with new material, a brand new school building, and even greater responsibilities. The adjustment felt draining, and each day I came home, all I would want to do was cry and sleep. I confided in my friends about my feelings, and they too shared their struggles; as we bonded and I expressed how I would constantly feel isolated and scared, my friend offered me their weed pen, stating, "It'll help calm you down." Naive and, at this point in time, extremely desperate for some type of remedy, I take the pen and use it. I slowly felt the pit in my stomach filling itself back to the brim, I felt my day's long headache disperse, and I even noticed my foot was no longer bouncing at 100 mph. I was finally at peace until I wasn't. This cycle continued for some time, any anxious thoughts or feelings that came to mind were immediately met with an inhale and exhale of my pen, however, as time progressed and my usage became more frequent, the relaxation effects slowly diminished, leaving me back where I started. However, with the duality of a new dependency on my pen and the constant feeling of anxiousness, I began to feel more alone than ever, and not being able to go to my parents with fear of consequences heightened this feeling even more. I began to sulk and sit in isolation for days on end, not wanting to partake in anything not required of me, it got so bad to the point of me becoming physically ill. That, for me, was a sign to speak with my parents about all that was going on inside my head, though I left out many details of ways I attempted to better my mental, they were able to hear, understand, and support me better than ever. That very week, we met with my Doctor, who I told everything; I left that hospital with two diagnoses and a prescription. The news, for some, may have been devastating to hear; however, I felt a bit of relief. Not knowing exactly what was making me act the way I did left me with constant fear in the back of my head. I had anxiety and, unfortunately, developed depression in the process of trying to help myself. This experience has shown me that I am not in isolation, It has taught me to accept my struggles and learn to better myself instead of sulking in defeat.