The Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards assist women who provide the primary source of financial support for their families, by giving them resources they need to improve their education skills and employment prospects. Each year more than $2.1 million in education grants are awarded to nearly 15,000 women. Many of these awardees have overcome enormous obstacles including poverty, domestic violence and/or drug and alcohol abuse. Award recipients may use the cash award to offset any costs associated with their efforts to attain higher education. Some examples would be books, childcare, tuition, and transportation.
Meet our Awardees
ANGEL FINEFROCK/BLISS
I am twenty years old, and a junior at Chico State studying Political Science with a focus in sustainability. I am very passionate about environmental issues. After I graduate, I plan to work as a paralegal as a way to do my part to protect the planet and natural resources.
Throughout my life, I have overcome numerous hardships. I am a survivor of domestic violence from my childhood home. At fifteen I moved out and couched-surfed with friends before entering Foster Care. I strongly believe that women can do absolutely anything we set our minds to. I have always valued the importance of higher education. My motivation to succeed and earn my college degree is fueled by my desire to provide for my family. I even made it through finals one semester while giving birth. I am a proud single mom to a one- year-old boy, and we have a dog and cat.
SONADA TAVIZON
I am currently completing my two-year RN program through Butte College. With over one thousand hours of clinical practice in a hospital, I know I am well prepared. I will finish in December of 2022. My dream is to work in the emergency room at Enloe Hospital.
I also work as a care provider, a position I’ve held proudly for the past fifteen years. Serving
as a health professional has given me great insight into the medical field.
As a single mom, working part-time while going to school has been a struggle. But I know our future will be better when I have finished my degree.
MAI XIONG
I am currently attending Butte College. Eventually, I plan to finish a bachelor’s degree in creative arts and then launch my own photography business.
After five years, I broke the barriers of domestic abuse and found myself single with three young children. Then my brother committed suicide. I am finding healing through my walk with God.
Being the sole provider for my family gives me the determination to continue my education pursuits and use my personal struggle as a motivation to overcome the obstacles that cross my path.
