We’d like to formally introduce our Spring 2025 1st Place Scholarship Recipient, Maya Ratledge. The Lisa Michelle Memorial Fund was established to assist and recognize students who have lost a parent, guardian, grandparent, sibling, and/or spouse to substance abuse. We are proud to award a $1,000 scholarship to assist Maya this year. Maya is majoring in Culinary Arts at Utah Valley University.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Maya Ratledge and I’m from Aurora, Colorado. I graduated from high school in 2023 feeling awfully lost regarding my future, due to my Mother’s struggles with alcohol during that time. After some difficult self-discovery and grieving, I decided to pursue Culinary Arts. I currently attend Utah Valley University’s culinary arts program, a two-year associate’s program which I will end with a certified culinarian certificate.
Q: Imagine yourself 10 years from now. What goals and ambitions do you have for yourself, personally, academically, and professionally?
Ten years from now, I hope to be working as a live-in private chef or for a resort in a beautiful location. I want to honor cultures while bringing communities and families together throughout my cooking. Additionally, I hope to further my education through more degrees and certifications throughout the span of my career. Personally, I hope to be in a financial and positional situation suitable for starting a family.
Q: Aside from a college degree, what do you hope to gain from your college experience?
In college, I hope to gain the knowledge necessary to become a successful young adult. Not only in school, but in my personal life. College is a time of hardship for most, going through experiences that end up teaching you lifelong lessons. I hope to gain helpful information during these times of hardships to carry with me throughout my life.
Q: What motivates you to continue working towards accomplishing your goals?
Acknowledging the endless possibilities that my future holds motivates me to accomplish my goals. Having a strong sense of self-discipline has helped push me to pursue many accomplishments already. Additionally, the thought that I am making my Mother proud throughout my daily life in ways she probably would’ve never thought possible pushes me to accomplish more and more every day.
Q: What advice would you give to other students who have been through circumstances similar to yours?
Although you hear you’re not the only one from just about everyone, it is hard to believe you aren’t when all those around you have typical lives. It’s difficult to be motivated in life when you feel there is no positive future for you. Regardless, you can make what you desire from yourself and your family or past does not define who you’ll become. Surround yourself with family and loved ones in times of sorrow or loss and remember there can always be a bright future.
The Lisa Michelle Memorial Fund 