Dejanah shared her story (to date) with our guests attending the annual Child of America gala on Friday, May 19, 2023.
See all the photos of the gala here.
Hello, everyone. Being here among friends, loved ones, and distinguished guests is an honor.
My name is Dejanah Lorthe, and I recently graduated from Norfolk State University with a bachelor’s degree in biology. I want to share with you my journey and the profound impact the Carver and many of you in this room this evening have had on my life.
If someone told me four years ago that I would spend my college years in Virginia, I would have dismissed the idea outright. I had my heart set on attending Howard University. But as they say, life has its own plans. Little did I know then the incredible opportunities that lay ahead, shaping me into the person I am today.
Growing up in Norwalk, the Carver was my second home. It was more than just a place to me. It was where I formed friendships and crucial relationships with mentors who saw my potential for success. It provided me with a community of individuals who cared for me and equipped me with the tools I needed to thrive. Through the Youth Development Program, I had countless activities to choose from, including the annual college tour. This tour allowed me to explore over 20 colleges and universities along the East Atlantic Coast, broadening my horizons and igniting my passion for higher education.
At the age of 14, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. However, I wasn't sure which specialty to choose. I explored various fields like Physical Therapy and Nursing. During my senior year of high school, I became a Certified Emergency Medical Technician. Working alongside paramedics and medical professionals, I honed my ability to react swiftly and effectively in challenging situations. It was during this time that I realized my true calling was in medical science, and I carried that passion with me to college.
Howard University in Washington D.C. has always been my dream since eighth grade. So, when I received the devastating news of my rejection, I began questioning everything.
Nevertheless, I applied to Norfolk State University's Biology program and was accepted. I was offered a place in their Science and Technology Academicians on the Road to Success or STARS program. I majored in Biology with a focus on the Pre-Professional track. I spent the summer on campus, taking courses that prepared me for my first semester.
A university staff member, who is now my forever mentor, spent hours coaching me. She assured me that, with the right guidance and support, the opportunities to build a successful career in science were limitless. She was right.
During my time at NSU, I achieved many milestones. I became a member of the Beta Kappa Chi National Scientific Honor Society. I interned as a Clinical Oncology Assistant at the Hampton Proton Therapy Institute. I conducted individual research on Developmental Biology and Toxicology, focusing on aquatic organisms, which I presented at three national conferences. I proudly represented the university as a Student Ambassador. I joined multiple organizations related to my major. And most recently, I became a Spring 23’ Initiate of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. I am happy to share that my journey will continue at Morehouse School of Medicine.
I want you to understand that none of these accomplishments would have been possible without the Carver. The Carver nurtured me, believed in me, and provided the opportunities I needed to succeed. The Carver gave me cherished memories and experiences that will stay with me forever, including the honor of sharing my story with you this evening.
And I want to express my deepest gratitude for the Athena Scholarship that the Carver awarded me - $10,000 per year for four years. This award blessed me with the enormous financial support and encouragement necessary to pursue my dreams.
You all have seen the EMT medic symbol, the blue Star of Life on ambulances, emergency medical equipment, and patches worn by the clinicians. It has become synonymous with emergency medical care around the globe. The reason why you never see us running to a patient is because that prevents us from spotting hazards on the way in. We're always walking into the unknown.
The Carver recently changed its name and logo from the Carver Foundation of Norwalk to simply The Carver, the name we students have always known it by. The Carver likewise keeps us from running into decisions and from running away from the unknown. The Carver logo is synonymous with the love of a second family for every Carver student and alumnus.
The EMT’s motto is to conserve life, alleviate suffering, promote health, do no harm. There is a more casual saying that it’s the ride of your life, one mission, one team, livin' life with lights & sirens blaring, and when in danger or doubt, get a chopper and fly 'em out. That’s The Carver in every way and the Athena Scholarship was just what I needed to fly up and out!
Today, I stand here as living proof of the incredible impact the Carver has on young lives, including mine. Together, we can continue to transform the lives of countless students, empowering them to achieve their dreams and create a better future for themselves and their communities.
The Carver offers students the ride of their lives, one mission, one team. It’s a great privilege for me to be here with you this evening.
Thank you for regarding your generous support of Carver Kids as a great privilege as well.
Let’s take a look through the lens of Carver students.
Thank you.