I’m officially heading to the University of Michigan to pursue my Master’s in Environment and Sustainability, with a focus on Environmental Justice — and this moment means everything to me.

For years, I’ve poured into others — mentoring, building community, and showing up wherever I was needed. Now, I’m stepping fully into the dream I’ve spoken out loud a hundred times: advocating for environmental justice at the highest level and being a force for change in the communities that raised me.

But I need your help to get there.

I’ve been awarded full tuition to one of the top Environmental Justice programs in the country — a blessing I don’t take lightly. After everything I’ve overcome to reach this point, all I need now is housing.

I had secured a place with a roommate, but due to unexpected visa issues, she’s leaving the country and the lease can’t be transferred. With just three weeks left, I’m in a race against the clock to relocate to the Midwest, find new housing, and get settled before orientation.

I’m asking for support from anyone who’s ever believed in me — and especially from those I’ve shown up for. If I’ve ever encouraged you, helped you find your way, celebrated your wins, or simply held space for you when you needed it — I need that energy returned right now. I’ve always given what I could to help others move forward, and now I’m asking for help so I can do the same. This isn’t easy to ask, but this moment is too important to go it alone. Every donation, every share, every kind word brings me one step closer to making this move and stepping into my purpose fully.

Your support will help cover:

• First month’s rent + deposit

• Travel and moving expenses

• Basic necessities to get started

I’ve worked so hard to make it to this moment, and I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to chase this dream. Your support doesn’t just help me move — it helps me show up for the mission I was built for.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Let’s Go Blue!

– With love,

Jo