Deborah Vanko

I am a psychotherapist and artist. I am giving this scholarship, because I am the 1st generation of my family to go to college and I am so grateful to have my education. Since I do not have children, I want to give this opportunity to others. I come from a family that struggled financially for many years-my dad was handicapped and could only work part-time and my mom worked full-time as a secretary to pay most of our bills. My father didn’t have a high school education.
I have seen how a decent income not only prevents poverty, but raises up your self-esteem, makes you curious and helps you understand more about the world. Learning expands the mind so you can see reality better and become more aware and open-minded about equality as it helps create tolerance. I pride myself in being open-minded, but we have our growing edges. I value peace, justice and beauty. I am a feminist, progressive and believe in the empowerment of all people.