Dream Scholarship Winner 2022

The Merrill Law Dream Scholarship

We are happy to announce the Dream Scholarship Winner for 2022. First we will share a little bit of information about this award.

The Dream Scholarship was started in 2016 to help support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.

Applicants were asked to submit a picture with a caption that in combination shares their dream and shows how it makes a difference.

Each year we present a $1500 scholarship to applicant who provides the most creative photo or image with a caption to explain their dream.

Congratulations to our 2022 Dream Scholarship Winner.

Rebecka Goranson

Rebecka Goranson, who dreams of being a Speech and Language Disorder Pathologist.

I will be graduating high school with my Associate’s degree, then I plan to obtain my Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. After completing my Bachelor’s, I plan to get my Master’s degree in Speech Pathology. It’s always been a personal goal in my career to help other people.

I attended speech therapy in early elementary school and having these first-hand experiences led me to discover my passion. Seeing for myself what a speech pathologist does, and how much of a positive impact they make in people’s lives was a definite addition to my passion.

Another factor that guided me to this major is frequently babysitting a boy with severe autism, which causes him to be mostly nonverbal. When I first started taking care of him it was frustrating not being able to understand what he needed or what he was asking for. And I’m certain it’s just as frustrating for him, his family, and other people, such as his teachers.

It would be fulfilling for me to become a speech pathologist due to the rewards (and challenges) of working with individuals and their families to discover the most efficient way that they could communicate with families and others.

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To see other opportunities that are available to help in our local community. We are accepting nominations for the Merrill Law Library and planning a Shred Event and Food Drive in January 2023.

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2021 Runner Up Winners Round 3

The Attorney Rick Merrill Dream Scholarship

The Dream Scholarship was started in 2016 to help support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.

Applicants were asked to submit a picture with a caption that in combination shares their dream and shows how it makes a difference.

Each year we present a $1500 scholarship to applicant who provides the most creative photo or image with a caption to  explain their dream.

This year we are excited to announce that we have a multitude of winners to share with you. You will want to check back each week of July to share in more of the Dreams that were selected for an assortment of scholarships.

Congratulations to our Runner up Winners.

Mia Nelson Natural World Advocate

Mia Nelson

In Kindergarten, I was asked “what do you want to be when you grow up?” In front of everyone, I said “a mad scientist!” While I no longer want to be a mad scientist, I still am intrigued by the unknown. I will be uncovering the unknown natural world in the College of Environment at the UW. 

The gate seen in this picture is called a “Torii”(toe-ree). It is found by the entrances of shrines all over Japan. While they are pretty to look at, they have been attributed the meaning of a transition. More specifically, the transition from the mundane to the sacred. While college may not be the most sacred thing one can think of, the symbolism of transitioning from one thing to the next is something that can be applied to me. Transitioning from a high school student to a college student is perhaps the biggest change I will go through until I get married or learn that I’m actually royalty Princess Diaries style. Aside from becoming a princess, my dream is to protect our home from a fiery future induced by global warming. So, with this scholarship, I will hopefully save us all. You’re welcome.

Nhu Nguyen Public Health Professional

Nhu Nguyen

Growing up in a low-income family in Vietnam and immigrating to the U.S. at the age of 15, I had no idea how the K-12 education system, let alone higher education, worked in America. Neither of my parents speaks English, nor has had an opportunity to complete high school, so I was entirely on my own feet when it came to academics. Thus, I was advised not to attend a four-year college straight out of high school. Against all odds, getting accepted to the University of Washington was a huge milestone for me.

Throughout my college career, whenever I encountered an obstacle, I looked at this photo that I took during my UW Advising & Orientation in June 2017 and reminded myself that I am pursuing my American Dream not only for myself but also for my parents’ innumerable sacrifices.

Upon graduation, I intend to complete a Master of Public Health degree. I will not let anything interfere with my educational goals of becoming a public health leader because my strive for success driven by the potential impact I will make on the lives of so many others is so much greater than any hardship life may present me with.

Jaden Roskelley Pilot

Jaden Roskelley

The excitement I feel in the Sky is like no other.

Jacob Uradnik Marketing manager

Jacob Uradnik

The attached photo is of me climbing Glacier Peak in Washington State. I have also climbed Mt. Baker, but my dream is to climb Mt. Rainier. With an elevation of 14,411 feet, Mt. Rainier is the tallest mountain in Washington State. Growing up, being the shortest kid on the playground did not bode well for me. I was always picked last for sports teams and was never as good as some of my peers. Between, soccer, baseball, lacrosse, and football, I was never able to find a sport that suited me. However, when I got into backpacking, I realized none of that matters. My physical strength was only important to me and no matter how long it took me to climb a mountain, I would be able to do it. Climbing Glacier Peak was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. It took four days through thunderstorms, but I was able to appreciate myself even more after. Discovering a newfound love for climbing and myself, I made it my goal to one day climb Mt. Rainier. This dream is not for anyone besides myself which is why it is so special to me.

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2021 Runner Up Winners Round 2

The Attorney Rick Merrill Dream Scholarship

The Dream Scholarship was started in 2016 to help support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.

Applicants were asked to submit a picture with a caption that in combination shares their dream and shows how it makes a difference.

Each year we present a $1500 scholarship to applicant who provides the most creative photo or image with a caption to  explain their dream.

This year we are excited to announce that we have a multitude of winners to share with you. You will want to check back each week of July to share in more of the Dreams that were selected for an assortment of scholarships.

Congratulations to more of our Runner Up Winners.

Jacob Hanigan LAD (Leader, Advocate, Doer) eager to make schools and offices pet-friendly and stress-free.

Jacob Hanigan

Whether I major in Business (Entrepreneurship) or Health Sciences (Physical Therapy), my dream is to assist others in fulfilling their best lives. This picture taken in March 2021 in the midst of the pandemic demonstrates my commitment to achieve this goal. Here I am training dogs to listen and stay.
In September 2019, I founded a K9 Training Club at my school. In January 2020, we received approval to bring comfort dogs to our campus during finals week. Students loved the stress relief. Presently, I am researching whether the college program I am enrolling in – University of Washington Honors – can allow this proposal, too.
During this past one-year quarantine, these pets alleviated anxiety and loneliness for their owners at home. My desire to help others propelled me to propose a canine comfort club not just at my high school and college, but ultimately at my place of employment. Whether I pursue my major in Business or Health Sciences, I would love to create a program where there is a therapy dog/pet program at the workplace.
I am a LAD (Leader, Advocate, Doer) eager to make schools and offices pet-friendly and stress-free.

Tamara Huckabone Professor or Policy Writer

Tamara Huckabone

My picture symbolizes my continued efforts to better myself and the world around me through education. I am the first person in my family to obtain a Master’s and the first to strive towards my Doctored. In obtaining my Ph.D. I plan on developing policies that will have a positive outcome for those that have been legally involved. I have gained this motivation through my time in the Department of Corrections, and the Department of Health and Human Services. I have found from my experience that individuals that have been legally involved are left to their own devices once released from the Department of Corrections and find themselves back in the same situations that got them in trouble in the first place. I believe that when someone has previous experience with legally involved individuals, they have better experience and understanding of how the different policies work for the employees and the individuals of these facilities. I hope to continue to work towards my Doctored to set an example for my children and grandchildren that no matter the age, you can continue to build your education and strive for what you believe in.

Jailene Jewell Paralegal or Attorney

Jailene Jewell

I have always felt alone. I have spent my life surrounded by people, and yet I have always felt as though I only had my own strength to draw on. My experiences have shaped me, from seed to bloom, shattering layer after layer of seemingly unbreakable bonds. It has taken me years to escape the shell of my childhood trauma and abusive relationships, but now that I have, I can see much more clearly. My family, my children, and my future have been the sun all along, coaxing me out of the ground to be able to face them and stand tall and proud and bright. After years of sitting, seemingly alone in the dark, I am finally understanding that I am not alone, and that I have always had a bright future available to me; I only needed to see it. The pain of my journey so far has inspired me to push myself further, to go to school and get the education I need to help others who need help breaking through the edge of the darkness to stand tall in their own light and take back their lives.

Boray Koung Environmental Engineer to address climate change.

Boray Koung

“I grew up in a relatively arid climate before moving to Washington. Ever since then, I have been consistently surprised by how high temperatures have risen in those relatively few years after I left—what heavy heat I felt before, I imagine, can only feel more intense nowadays. More recently, I remember waking late summer last year to a smoky haze that would linger around the Pacific Northwest for days and reading about the simultaneous wildfires that had scorched the Californian landscape.
These drastic changes had concerned me, and I felt driven to pursue a career involved with sustainability to help preserve the environment for future generations. The photo is of a flower; it’s simple, but it is a reminder that the environment remains resilient and its challenges can be overcome. Currently a student at Edmonds College, I have enjoyed taking math and science courses in pursuit of my degree, intrigued by the patterns and discoveries that characterize natural processes.”

Robert Krieger Artist

Robert Krieger

I have been always inspired to create art. The inspiration comes from those around me; my family, my significant other, and my friends. Some of my paintings are done as gifts, some are just for my own enjoyment and vision, while others have been commissioned by generous friends. To help support my dream, I have begun to paint commissions such as the sketched bee in the photo, as well as seeking higher education through the University of Washington Bothell. This picture was actually taken a month or so ago as I have now completed that painting, but it shows my process well. This dream is important to me as it is my way of sharing with the world and creating something beautiful that conveys my personality and ideas. I seek my schooling goal because while I am not studying art, the science career path I am working towards will be something I enjoy that can support my art dreams as well. For me, it is a multi-faceted way to get the most out of life and fulfill my passions as a human being.

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2021 Runner Up Winners Round 1

The Attorney Rick Merrill Dream Scholarship

The Dream Scholarship was started in 2016 to help support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.

Applicants were asked to submit a picture with a caption that in combination shares their dream and shows how it makes a difference.

Congratulations to our Runner Up Winners.

This year we are excited to announce that we have a multitude of winners to share with you. You will want to check back each week of July to share in more of the Dreams that were selected for an assortment of scholarships.

Annika Brockett Doctor

Annika Brockett

The blurred lights in the photo represent my doubts and fears of which career path I should pursue and the goblet, held up in a toast, represents the success and happiness I am seeking. Currently, I am interested in studying neurology as a doctor. I am always inspired by the kindness and intelligence of my mother, who studied biology in college. In the fall I will attend the University of Washington where I will complete the pre-medicine track and prepare for medical school. I  believe that becoming a doctor will enable me to feel fulfilled because my job will consist of compassionately caring for others.

Ian Brown Chiropractor

Ian Brown

The person that has inspired me most to become a chiropractor is my grandfather, who has been a well-established practicing doctor in Tacoma for over 40 years. It would mean everything to me if I was able to follow in his footsteps and carry his legacy onward. I have taken many steps to support this dreams fruition through studying hard in school, going above and beyond to gain an expansive knowledge in anatomy and physiology, as well as shadowing my grandfather in his clinic. This photo is representative of the present, where I have been admitted into a heavily research-based school, the University of Utah, where I will receive my BS in Biology before moving onto a chiropractic college. Being a chiropractor is important to me because I know first-hand the pain of spinal misalignment, and how relieving care can be. I want to share my talents and care with others and make sure my community stays well-adjusted. I came to the goal of attending a chiropractic college through identifying my drive to become a chiropractor, but also through identifying what discipline of science interested me most, which is the area of anatomy and physiology, and more generally, biological science.

Kaitlyn Cramer Financial Analyst

Kaitlyn Cramer

The funny thing about dreams is that they are always changing. If you would’ve asked me what my dream life was a few months ago I would have told you something completely different than today. My whole life I had one plan only for college and that was to attend the University of Washington, after being waitlisted and committing to Seattle Pacific University I now realize that I am going somewhere so much better for me. So, now when I’m asked about my dreams I say something about how I am officially attending my dream college at SPU, studying my dream major which is Business Administration, and that will help me achieve my dream job in finance after.

I have so many people to thank for getting me to where I am and where I’m going, first are my parents who help me through everything, followed by my siblings who understand each struggle I go through because they’ve gone through it too, then my friends who are going through this crazy experience we call high school with me, and finally the incredible support system I am so lucky to have found in my school through the teachers and staff. 

Adah Hall Forensic Psychologist

Adah Hall

The person most inspirational in my life was my great grandmother. She was a shining light and worked tirelessly to make it to the top. She retired as a school Principal and she was very proud of that accomplishment.

The rule in my house was 90’s and above. I have worked hard throughout my school career to keep my grades above a 90%. I haven’t always succeeded but I continue to focus and currently have a GPA of 3.82.

I am competitive and will do everything in my power to make it to the top. Being a woman makes me have to work a little harder, a little longer and play on my strengths but I love the challenge.

Everyone should dream, big and small dreams. My dream of being in the top tiers of the psychology field, is very important. I want to prove that I can make my dreams a reality.

I came to this goal after dealing with my own mental health challenges. Psychology has helped me understand my own mental health and I hope that one day I can pay it forward as I continue to work toward my goals of making it to the top.

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2021 Third Place Scholarship Winners

The Attorney Rick Merrill Dream Scholarship

The Dream Scholarship was started in 2016 to help support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.

Applicants were asked to submit a picture with a caption that in combination shares their dream and shows how it makes a difference.

Each year we present a $1500 scholarship to applicant who provides the most creative photo or image with a caption to  explain their dream.

This year we are excited to announce that we have a multitude of winners to share with you. You will want to check back each week of July to share in more of the Dreams that were selected for an assortment of scholarships.

Congratulations to our Third Place Winners.

Faith Murray Public relations, non-profit work, or environmental science.

Faith Murray

I was born with a rare inflammatory disease that often moves me to a wheelchair to get around the house because of intense pain. I remember speaking to an elementary school counselor about an idea I had for an anti-bullying campaign at our school- when she told me, “how about we focus on something small”. I wanted to work on BIG things! At that point, I decided that kids could do big things on their own. I started finding opportunities to serve my community, started speaking in classrooms about community service, made my birthdays service oriented and even started my own youth service group.

Then the pandemic hit and many people said their serving days were over…but I knew it was a perfect chance to continue making a difference! Since then I’ve raised funds to build libraries in Africa, plant trees in Madagascar, clean our waterways, collect food and clothing for those in need and spoken on the radio and tv about overcoming challenges.

My dream is to inspire people to take action, never taking “no” (you’re too young, sick, or inexperienced to succeed) for an answer and truly believing that dreams can become a reality with love.

Jacob Kesling choir director at the high school or community college level.

Jacob Kesling

The picture I submitted is me in seventh grade singing a solo at an annual combined choir concert for all the schools in my district. It was my first interaction with the Curtis HS choir director, Mr. Dickerson, who inspired me to become a choir director. 

       Once I attended high school, we developed a strong bond similar to my middle school choir director. I made friends, set goals, and met accomplishments. I feel proud of my progress in singing and being a better person. I learned to be a leader in these classes and to motivate my peers. I encouraged people to work hard in choir by showing them how beautiful it can be to put our minds together. I’m very grateful for the home that choir has given me. I can’t imagine living my life without it.

Joelle Stever Nurse

Joelle Stever

Change of Plans After a successful freshman year in which I achieved my first High School Varsity letter. I suffered a devastating knee injury, a torn ACL Ligament and Meniscus while playing the sport I loved. I knew my playing days were over, this hurdle has provided me the strength and determination to achieve my goals, no matter what I have to overcome. After having two knee surgeries it has helped me find my direction for college, I knew I wanted to help people. My ultimate goal is to work in the nursing field serving the people that are in need of a hand to overcome their hurdles.

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2021 Winners Attorney Rick Merrill Scholarship

The Attorney Rick Merrill Dream Scholarship

The Dream Scholarship was started in 2016 to help support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.

Applicants were asked to submit a picture with a caption that in combination shares their dream and shows how it makes a difference.

Each year we present a $1500 scholarship to applicant who provides the most creative photo or image with a caption to  explain their dream.

This year we are excited to announce that we have a multitude of winners to share with you. You will want to check back each week of July to share in more of the Dreams that were selected for an assortment of scholarships.

Congratulations to our First Place Winners.

Colton Dunc Dreams of being a Financial Planner.

Colton Dunc

A dream starts with a moment that lights a spark in your soul to accomplish something great. For me, that fire was lit when I stepped onto the baseball field. Baseball has been a staple in my childhood and has taught me a lot of very important things. It has taught me the power of teamwork, commitment, and persistence. My parents, teammates, and coaches have always held me to a high standard and have encouraged and pushed me to achieve great things on and off the field. As I look to my future, my dream is to attend college, get a bachelor’s degree in Financial Markets, start a family, and pass the lessons I have learned throughout my life onto my kids. I still have a long way to go before I achieve this dream, but the hard work that I have put into my academics thus far through Running Start, and committing to WSU, are necessary steppingstones on the path to achieving my dream. My ultimate goal in life is to inspire and help people in the same way that my family and peers have helped me.

Dylan Scanes Dreams of being a Dentist.

Dylan Scanes

In the first grade we had a writing assignment about what we would like to do when we grow up. My answer has been and will always be – a dentist!
I have a passion for medicine, people, engineering, technology and research, what better career than dentistry! Dentistry requires a mastery of science and technical skill, as well as the ability to think creatively. You’re not just limited to fixing teeth and filling cavities. You’re working with people so that they develop a positive mindset about their dental health.
One of the most rewarding aspects of dentistry by far, is the part we play in a person’s makeover. The confidence they walk out with, especially if they’ve been hiding their teeth for years, is a fantastic feeling. I work for two dental clinics as a dental assistant and as a receptionist. On the weekends I volunteer at a clinic to help the most vulnerable and I love going into classrooms and teaching great dental hygiene practices.
I am honored to say that I will be attending the University of Utah School of Dentistry this fall. This scholarship would mean the world to me.

Congratulations to our 2nd place Winner.

Maria Dailey Dreams of working in Human Service.

Maria Dailey

When I was a young child my dreams were affected by how I felt others saw me.   I look back now and realize I let people have too much power over my dreams. But the great thing about dreams is that they grow with you. I am inspired by my parents who taught me that, in order to make your dreams come true, you have to work for them. My parents heard God’s call to adopt me and my life was changed. I was given the opportunity to make my dreams come true.

My dream today may seem odd, but for me this dream is everything. I want to empower others to reach their own goals.  I was encouraged to participate in athletics despite my fear. Now athletics is giving me the opportunity to complete a degree in Human Services. I want to help people because I was helped. Many people are left behind because they never received the help they needed to reach their goals. Helping others allows all of us to become stronger and grow in character. There are so many people in this world who are forgotten like I was. I want to give them a chance. 

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The Winners of the Rick Merrill Attorney Dream Scholarship

The Attorney Rick Merrill Dream Scholarship was started in 2016 to help support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.

The Attorney Rick Merrill Dream Scholarship exists to support the dreams of a current high school or college student looking to make a difference through the pursuit of their passion.  

Applicants were asked to submit a picture with a caption that in combination shares their dream and shows how it makes a difference.

Each year we present a $1500 scholarship to applicant who provides the most creative photo or image with a caption to  explain their dream.

2019 Winners

My name is Jack Gardner, and my dream is to write children’s books that inspire kids to think differently about the world, to let their imaginations fly beyond where our “grownup” minds can take us.   I realized that I had the ability to incite this feeling in other people through my writing.

When I was 12 years old my teacher gave us an assignment to write and illustrate a picture book to be presented in class. I entitled mine The Biggelow. 

I’m currently a student at EVCC in the running start program. I’m excited to take English and Literature classes that will help me a better writer. 

Runner Up Winners

Isabel Hulme: Dentist

We are ecstatic to support our Runner up winner Isabel Hulme with her dream of becoming a Dentist!

My dream is to have a pediatric dental practice kids will love coming to. I want to create positive dental experiences, so as they grow up they aren’t afraid to see a dentist.

Natalie Grimm: Nurse

We are ecstatic to support our Runner up winner Natalie Grimm with her dream of becoming a  Nurse!

That nurse who advocated. That nurse who went the extra mile. I met that nurse in the Swedish ICU. I strive to be that nurse. With every exam, lecture, paper, and clinical experience I move closer to my dream.

Alexa Kazen: Speech Pathologist

We are ecstatic to support our Runner up winner Alexa Kazen with her  dream of becoming a Speech Pathologist!

My dream of becoming a speech pathologist is important to me because I see the chance to make a difference in children’s confidence and communication skills. I look forward to being a part of children’s lives as they learn to communicate more clearly and easily!

McKenzie Allinson: Physician

We are ecstatic to support our Runner up winner MacKenzie Allinson with her  dream of becoming a Physician!

I’ve always been interested in how the human body works. It is my goal to become a physician who treats others with respect and assists in providing effective treatment that improves people’s lives.    

2018 Winners

Casey Benson: Geneticist

We are ecstatic to support Casey Benson with her dream-Geneticist

Seeing people, like one of these children, suffer every day from disease inspires me to become a geneticist. Genetics has the potential to positively affect the quality of life in our society . This dream is important to me, because of the potential to cure diseases and perhaps destructive habits and addictions.  I am working to change the lives of all people through advancements in genetics.

June Chang: Psychology & Economics

We are ecstatic to support June Chang with her dream- Psychology and Economics

This statue shows a grandchild with his grandfather sitting on a bench, expressing feelings of love and familial bond represents what many are hoping for: love, acceptance, healing, and strength in times of adversity.

I want to help others discover their capabilities and potential. I hope to open my own private practice, find ways to end the marginalization of mental illnesses, better an individual’s life, and encourage resources that help those in need.

Runner up winners

Hannah Hitterdal: Criminal Justice & Sociology

We are ecstatic to support Hannah Hitterdal with her dream-Criminal Justice and Sociology

I have a passion to change the correctional facilities to help inmates. I believe that giving the inmates an education, a highschool diploma or a higher education degree, is an effective way of setting them up on the right foot. Animal Therapy has been proven to be one of the most effective ways of rehabilitating inmates.  They train animals for many purposes and give them back to the community they hurt.  

Nora Dennelly: Harpist

We are ecstatic to support Nora Dennelly with her dream- Harpist

I am pursuing my dream not only because it is what I love.  I plan to attend Western Washington University in the Fall of 2018 where I will study under Jill Whitman and major in Music Performance on the harp.

Corrine Booth: Choir Teacher

We are ecstatic to support Corrine Booth with her dream- Choir Teacher

My dream is to go to college for the music education program to be a choir director. 

Nursing homes have always had a special place in my heart so at the end of every month, we go sing for them. Nothing makes me smile more than when an elder grabs my hand after performing and tells me how thankful they are.  Using my talents to brighten someone’s day brings me so much joy.

Ruth Culbertson: Music Teacher

We are ecstatic to support Ruth Culbertson with her dream- Music Teacher

My dream after college is to become a music teacher. I have a passion for music as well as for working with youth. Working with kids can be very rewarding and provides many fun moments that shape students’ lives in a positive and exciting way! This is just one of many examples.

Emma Raker: Music Teacher

We are ecstatic to support Emma Raker with her dream- Music Teacher

Dreams do come true and I cannot wait for those dreams to happen. As a Music Teacher, I want to make a lasting impact in my future student’s lives. I hope to inspire them to make the world a better place, while educating them on musicianship and the values that I have been taught through my music teachers

My ultimate goal is to take a group of students to play at Carnegie Hall, just as I had the opportunity to because playing there greatly fostered my passion of music. 

Kayla Sprague: Computer Science

We are ecstatic to support Kayla Sprague with her dream- Computer Science and Software Engineering

I stared at my dad’s computer monitor, an unplugged computer keyboard in my reach. From toddler to adulthood, video games have given me the opportunity to be an adventurer fueled by curiosity and the desire to learn.  I have embarked on my path with an insatiable fascination with machine learning, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality to motivate me.

If videogames have taught me anything, it is that where there is a will, there is a way.  I am fortunate enough to have learned that in a high chair.

2017 Winners

Megan LaVelle: Photographer

2017 Winner Megan LaVelle- Photographer

My dream is to be a photographer who travels the world. I have loved photography and traveling since I was a little kid. I have been accepted to Western Washington University to study photography, environmental studies, and cultural studies so that I can better be prepared for opportunities that will allow me to travel. I want to take photos that will make people want to change things in the world 

Our Runner-Up Winners

Joshua Allinson: Musical Theater

Joshua Allinson Dream- Musical Theater

Heels Can Be Dangerous! As a performer I hope to bring joy and entertainment into the lives of others. I feel that I can improve the lives of others through my life as a singer and theatrical artist. 

Loryn Casey: Anesthesiologist

Loryn Casey Dream-Anesthesiologist

My dream is important to me because, If people do not feel comfortable in a medical environment, they will not seek care, which could have devastating consequences.  I want to be like my anesthesiologist; not remembered for my name, but instead for how I made the patients feel when they were vulnerable. 

Sarah DeYoung: Genetics

Sarah DeYoung Dream- Genetics

In my hands, I hold my future, the link to get me the internships that will lead me into a genetics company. I wish to help improve the future of this species.  Feed the animal, and help feed the people. The time is now to start the change that will take a lifetime to grow.

First game of the Marysville YMCA Miracle Basketball League.

Kristen Nehring: Pediatric Nurse

Kristen Nehring Dream- Pediatric Nurse for children with disabilities and special needs. 

With a nursing degree, I have the ability to work in so many different specialties involving children who have special needs.  I can continue to have a great influence in the lives of these children who are often marginalized by society.

2016 Winners

We are pleased to announce the inaugural Attorney Rick Merrill Dream Scholarship Winner

Krista Calender: Teacher

Krista Calender who dreams of becoming a teacher after she attends WWU.

“A Dream in the Balance” This photo represents my dream in each little detail.

The textbooks are an example of her education as a Running Start Student.

The apple is a reminder to look after her health and well being.

The identification tag shows that she is working to support her education.

The application is to Woodring College of Education at Western Washington University.

The poster is evidence of her current volunteer work in a 5th grade classroom.

When it comes to teaching, there is no doubt in my mind that I was born to be an educator. It is my goal to inspire kindness, hope, and confidence in kids as their teacher.

2016 Runner up winners

Cassandra Pellet who dreams of becoming a wildlife rehabilitator in Eastern Africa
Jackson Hogan who dreams of becoming a broadcast journalist
Lauren Serl who dreams of becoming a psychologist, helping others find bliss in their lives:
Dylan Scanes who dreams of working as an orthodontist to help children be proud of their smiles

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