A Personal Letter Says a Lot

Last month, we celebrated the college graduation of PowHERful scholar Naina Mishra. Today, we’d like to share the passionate, full-hearted letter that Naina wrote to PowHERful’s founder after receiving her diploma:

Dear Soledad O'Brien,

My name is Naina Mishra. I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support provided by your foundation. I recently graduated from the University of Connecticut, an achievement made possible solely through your generous assistance. Coming from a refugee background, the dream of attending college often seemed out of reach. However, your foundation stepped in at a critical moment when I needed support the most.

My parents have always dreamed of seeing me complete my education, and with your help, this dream has become a reality. I cannot fully express how much your support has meant to me and my family. You have not only contributed to my education but have also given me hope and a path forward.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and belief in my potential. You are truly making a profound difference in the lives of individuals like myself. Inspired by your example, I aspire to one day help others as you have helped me, for your compassion and dedication are truly exemplary.

With deepest gratitude,

Naina Mishra

Naina’s letter to Soledad is a beautiful and heartfelt expression of the deep gratitude that PowHERful Foundation’s scholars have communicated time and again, acknowledging what all of you—PowHERful’s supporters and mentors—have made possible.

There's no question: this year’s graduates have had it rough. They've graduated amid campus protests; seen the devastation of wars in Gaza and Ukraine; gone through a once-in-100-years pandemic with school and campus life interrupted; were faced with the abrupt dismantling of student loan forgiveness; witnessed racial injustices like Breonna Taylor’s and George Floyd’s murders at the hands of police; experienced an American insurrection, violent political divisiveness and our democracy in peril; watched the overturning of women’s rights and attacks on their healthcare; and know first-hand the encroaching perils of climate change. They've faced—and learned—a lot.

Through it all, PowHERful scholars have kept true to their nature. They’re courageous. They get back up, try again, and address unexpected roadblocks with grace and ingenuity. In the face of myriad challenges, PowHERful scholars keep the faith and finish their degree. Hats off to them!