My name is Sophia and I am 16 years old. I'd like to share a little bit about myself. Music and theater are a big part of my life. 

I am president of the drama club and student director of both the band and chorus at school. I have an amazing family and amazing friends who have been so supportive throughout this campaign. 

I am participating in SOTY in honor of my grandmother. I lost my grandmother in January of 2019 to glioblastoma which is a rare and aggressive brain tumor. She was an amazing woman who was admired by many.

She recieved her Doctorate of Engineering from Old Dominion University and was the only woman in her graduating class. She spent nearly 25 years as senior director of engineering and safety for Universal Creative at Universal Studios Park and Resort. She was also a longtime member of the Society Of Women Engineers. She served as both first chair and coordinator of SWE's government relations and public policy committee. She truly was a leader for women in the world of engineering. She recieved 7 patents in her name during her lifetime. She also had a strong love for her family. Every time she visited we would sing karaoke and watch movies and go out shopping. It was always a good time with her. She inspired me with every accomplishment and I always looked forward to hearing about her latest project. I couldn't be prouder of her. Losing her was devastating. I wanted to do something about it. That is when I recieved an email from my cousin Holly nominating me for Student Of The Year. I knew that it was meant to be. It is a seven week fundrasing campaign for high school students. All of the proceeds go to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to help carry out their mission to cure blood cancers. LLS does amazing work. They fund research, provide financial assistance to families in need, provide education about blood cancers, and so much more. They have put in over 1.2 billion dollars to cancer research! It is truly an amazing cause and every donation helps. Thank you so much for your generosity and let's beat blood cancer!