My name is John Otieno, and I’m a 22-year-old nursing student from Nairobi, Kenya. I was born and raised in a small, close-knit neighborhood where family, community, and hard work are core values. I come from a family of four children, and I’m the second-born. My three siblings still live in Kenya, and they continue to inspire me every day. In August 2022, I moved to the United States to pursue higher education, driven by the belief that knowledge and opportunity could help me make a lasting impact in not only my life, but on the lives of others around me.

For the past three years, I’ve been studying at Elmhurst University as a nursing major, working toward my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, with plans to graduate in May 2026. Adjusting to life in a new country came with challenges, but it has also been an incredible period of growth.

I’ve lived with the Kuipers family, who have graciously welcomed me into their home and supported me through this journey. I’ve worked hard both in and out of the classroom, taking on jobs as a CNA and a painter, all while maintaining strong grades, forming new friendships, and building a supportive community. I enjoy staying active by playing soccer and basketball with my friends, going to the gym, and trying new experiences whenever I can. I consider myself a kind, easygoing, and funny person who loves people and values learning something new every day.

My goal is to become a compassionate, skilled, and culturally aware nurse who truly makes a difference in patients’ lives. I believe nursing is not just about treating illnesses. It's about understanding people, showing empathy, and providing care that respects their humanity. One day, I hope to take the knowledge and experience I’ve gained in the U.S. and bring it back to Kenya or anywhere in the world, where I can contribute to improving healthcare in underserved communities like the one I came from. I want to inspire others, support my family, and build a life of service, purpose, and impact. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given so far, and I’m committed to using them to uplift others, both here and at home.

How much will John's education cost?

It will cost about $20,000 to fund Year 4 of John's education:

Tuition & Fees: $44,000

Medical Insurance: $1,200

Flights: $1,200

Car (Insurance & Maintanence): $3,500

Ongoing Expenses (Textbooks, nursing supplies, phone): $1,600

Elmhurst Scholarships: ($29,500.00)

Community Scholarships: ($4,00.00)

John received renewable scholarships from Elmhurst. Most notably, John earned half-tuition through the International Chairman's Award, and he was also awarded the Stig P. Orum Memorial Scholarship. John contributes financially to his education and by commuting, he has found the most affordable way to accomplish his educational goals.

Why Elmhurst University?

Elmhurst University is a great fit for John on many levels. Elmhurst nursing graduates are awarded the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and have a high passing rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which enables them to apply for a license as a Registered Nurse (RN).

Small class sizes and an active international student community make for a rich learning environment. The Director of International Student Admissions and Student Services is invested in John's success both academically and socially. With other African students on campus, John will have an opportunity to broaden his friend group while still finding a familiar community in a new place.

An unmatched feature of Elmhurst University is its affiliations with the United Church of Christ (UCC), the Christian denomination in which Josh serves as an ordained minister. Elmhurst strikes a unique balance of academic rigor while elevating spiritual and moral grounding that is reflective of the UCC denomination.

What role does the Kuipers Family play in John's education?

As the sponsors of this campaign, we (Josh and Julia Kuipers) are deeply invested in John and his family. To understand our connection to John, we rewind 20 years ago, when Josh was 19 years old and about to board his first flight.

Josh left his home in western Canada to work with a mission organization in Kenya. During his year there, Josh met an inspiring mentor and life-long friend, Sheth Otieno. Sheth was a pastor and community leader in Kibera, Kenya, the largest slum in sub-Saharan Africa. Living in Kibera and learning from Sheth ignited Josh’s sense of calling and profoundly changed the trajectory of his life. Josh also developed relationships with the Otieno family, including 3-year-old John.

Along with our three children, John is part of our family. John lives with us and commutes to Elmhurst University. Beyond familial support, we are John's financial sponsors. We will continue to help John secure additional support through outside scholarships and this GoFundMe campaign.

How can you get involved?

Please make a donation today and help us get the word out. Tell John's story. Share this GoFundMe campaign. Think about people in your life who might like to support John's journey- nurses, Elmhurst Alumni, friends who have traveled to Eastern Africa, UCC leaders. As the African proverb goes, "It takes a village..." If you would like to be part of John's village, follow his journey, and learn about more tangible ways to help him, click HERE to receive his newsletter.

To view past fundraisers, click here.