Tuition fund for Native student at Massart College
Donation protected
Yá'át'ééh (Hello) shik'éí dóó shidine'é (my family, people and friends)
Shí éí Chasity Benally yinishyé (my name is...)
I am 18 years old and from Lukachukai, AZ. I am currently finishing my senior year in high school.
I am proud to share that I have been accepted into MassArt (Massachusetts College of Art and Design) this Fall 2023 in Boston! I would be immensely grateful for your help in setting me up for my next step.
Funding the rest of the tuition through contributions will enable me to get started without the financial burden of loan repayments. I’m sharing a little bit more below about my story, what I want to do and my specific funding needs. Thanks for reading and considering making a contribution.
A little about me:
As a first-generation college student, being accepted into my dream college across the country is a significant achievement.
Growing up, my parents were hardly around due to alcohol, which is unfortunately common in rural communities with limited job opportunities and support. I had to be independent and rely on my own strength. Art has been my outlet to express myself and overcome the emotional struggles that came with my upbringing.
My grandparents were my first teachers of art and expression. My grandfather (may he rest in peace) used to design head feathers, and I would watch him as he created them. He encouraged me to explore art, and we started painting together when I was a kid. His influence has had a significant impact on my life and has given me the drive to pursue my passion for art.
Last year, I had the privilege of going on a retreat with Hawaiian MMA fighter, Ilima Lei McFarlane, who is a big advocate for MMIW (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women). She has done a lot for her community and family and has taken notice of my artwork. I designed her MMA fight shirt with pride, and she has become a significant source of inspiration for me. I aspire to be like her, using my art to inspire Indigenous youth to create and express themselves freely.
Currently I am developing my skills in digital art and recently had the opportunity to apprentice as a tattoo artist under my older brother, who is the dopest tattoo artist I know. He has inspired me to pursue a career in tattoo artistry and someday I wish to be as skilled as he is.
I have been fortunate to have many role models and sources of inspiration in my life who have fueled my passion for art. Going to Boston not only presents an opportunity for growth and more open doors but to share my culture and traditions through art and to create awareness for my people's history.
Funding Needs: $6000 to pay the remaining tuition ($4820) plus traveling expenses.
Although I am currently working (two jobs part-time and taking care of my grandma), my current responsibilities leave me with insufficient funds to cover my expenses. I am awaiting answers from a few scholarships I have applied to and looking for others. I have applied to Big Future, the American Indian College Fund and Society Native.
The deadline to have payment for the upcoming Fall Semester at MASSART is June 1, 2023. They have allowed an extension to June 10th if needed.
I am grateful for any contributions towards my education.
Ahéhee - Thank you!
Organizer
Chasity Thompson
Organizer
Tempe, AZ