"There are not enough words to express my gratitude for Disciples Seminary Foundation and the countless ways I felt held, covered, cared for, nurtured and supported during my time as a seminary student. I was working full time as an executive in a non-profit organization, pastoring full time and studying full time through the first year and a half. DSF understood the dynamics in my life and found creative ways to keep me engaged in student life and worked intentionally to keep me connected as a hybrid student at CST. There is something embedded in the DSF culture that embraces each student from within their own context and culture and this is a true gift. Students represent diverse backgrounds and beliefs and this culture intentionally support students to be who they are authentically without the need to assimilate into some dominant culture. As a Hispanic female pastor this was critical for me and helped me to continue to walk in my call without compromise and know that I was loved, appreciated, and supported along the way. I will be forever grateful to the generous supporters and donors of DSF for they enabled me to answer my call to seminary through providing financial support. I don’t know that I could have done it without it. On graduation day I was honored to receive the Disciples Seminary Foundation Award as this was simply a reflection of the job well done by DSF in instilling in me the DSF values of innovation, collaboration and integrity. I am DSF!"