To the members of Grace Lutheran Church,
This past year, I received a scholarship from the church that assisted in me being able to further my education. I want to begin by stating how thankful I am to have been presented with that opportunity as well as receiving that scholarship. I wouldn’t have been able to do that without all of the members of this congregation. Because of this scholarship, not only was I able to begin my studies into the areas I am passionate about, but I was able to find another place that I belong. Grace has been considered home for me for the longest time, and I admit that I was nervous about going out into the world to find a new community like Grace has been to me. The truth is that the community that has been built here is one of a kind, and I am not going to find that anywhere else no matter where I go. There are other communities that are similar and do good work, but the reason Grace is like home because I've grown up here and have come to recognize all of you as family.
Because of the opportunity I was graciously offered, I was able to find another community that I consider part of my family. I have a wonderful group of friends up in Washington that have helped me grow as a person and in my faith. We’ve had discussions on how God has impacted our lives and we’ve supported each other throughout all the struggles of being in college and away from home. I am on the dance team at Pacific Lutheran University, and I have made the most of forming connections with others that share the same passions as I do. I have the support of all my professors who encourage me to push myself and go beyond my comfort level, in fact, I am currently working on an essay with my Philosophy professor so that I can write at a graduate level for my philosophy papers and gain a better understanding of my views and the views of some philosophers coincide or contradict. I have found a new home where I am surrounded by people who care for me and support me.
I am able to be where I am and pursue my passions because of the Grace community, and for that I sincerely thank you.
Hannah Khatter