My name is Dr. Arkeria S. Wright, and I’m a proud mother asking for your support on behalf of my incredible daughter, Ashalah Wright, founder of Cook Me Up A Notch and a current full-time student at Hampton University.

Ashalah has been a force of nature since she was a teenager—launching her own Southern dessert and soul food business in 2016 at just 13 years old, and earning her Associate Degree in Business and a 4.2 GPA before even stepping foot on Hampton’s campus. She’s been known in our community for her unmatched work ethic, excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit.

But even the most determined journey can face obstacles.

The Challenge:

Due to an unfortunate transcript error from her high school in Fulton County, Ashalah missed out on scholarship opportunities she rightfully qualified for. And yet—she didn’t stop. She pressed forward, working two part-time jobs while maintaining her business and attending classes full-time.

In 2024, she lost access to crucial grant funding and internship stipends that helped cover her tuition. On top of that, Hampton University requires all students to purchase a meal plan, which Ashalah cannot use due to food sensitivities and previous illness—a cost she must still pay, on top of food she buys herself.

Despite these setbacks, she’s entering her final semesters—Summer and Fall 2025—with hope and unwavering determination to graduate. But now, she needs your help to get there.

Why This Matters:

This isn’t just about tuition. This is about believing in a young Black woman who has never given up, who continues to dream big, and who deserves to walk across that graduation stage free from the weight of financial strain.

What Your Donation Will Support:

Summer & Fall 2025 Tuition

Living Expenses & Food

Transportation to Work and Campus

Business Maintenance for Cook Me Up A Notch

Why Give?

Ashalah has poured into her community through her food, her leadership, and her heart. She’s shown what it means to persevere, to stay committed, and to rise—no matter the challenge. Let’s rally around her so she can focus on finishing strong and stepping into her next chapter with the dignity and celebration she deserves.

Your contribution—big or small—can change the course of her life. Every dollar brings her closer to graduating with her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Economics, and continuing to grow Cook Me Up A Notch into a thriving legacy.

From My Heart to Yours:

As her mother, it has broken my heart to watch someone so gifted have to fight so hard to simply stay in school. I’m asking on her behalf, because she’s too humble to ask for herself.

Let’s give Ashalah a reason to smile and celebrate—free from worry—as she walks across the stage in Fall 2025.

Goal: $5,000 Need: $14,000

Click donate and share if you believe in rewarding hard work, determination, and excellence. Help us help her cross the finish line.

Thank you for being part of her village.

With gratitude,

Dr. Arkeria S. Wright

(A Proud Mother & Advocate)