Dear Theosophical Order of Service.

First of all, I would like to send a big heartfelt thank you for choosing me to be your scholarship recipient. I was very surprised this morning when I came into study for class and found the award letter in my folder.

My name is Angela Lynn Big Crow, I am 39 years old. I am a single mother of 3 children, 2 handsome sons Walter and Joseph (17 and 16 years old). And one beautiful daughter Trinity who is 8 years old.

I am an enrolled member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and have lived here most of my life. I attended Pine Ridge Elementary school and Graduated in 1993 from Pine Ridge High School as salutatorian.

I began pursuing my college degree after I graduated high school, I attended Black Hills state University for one year. I choose not to return to school the following year because of my dad becoming sick. I chose to stay home and take care of him. I began working at the Pine Ridge Indian Health service in 1998. I have worked in various positions at the Hospital, always learning more and more.

In 2012, I started to make my way back to pursuing my college degree. I resigned from my position with the Pine Ridge Indian Health Service after working for them for 15 years to attending Nursing school full time. It was a difficult choice and I told my children there would some difficult times ahead for us. I am ever so thankful that they are understanding and not selfish children.

In August of 2014, I have started my 2nd year of Nursing school. There are obstacles that I have overcome to get where I am today, with a lot of prayers, a lot of tears, and a lot of studying, I have arrived at this very moment in my life.

I am so very very thankful that you have chosen me as the recipient of your scholarship, with tears in my eyes and a big big hug, Thank you.