2022-2023 Scholarship Recipients

We are happy to announce the 2023 Our Scholarship Recipients! Learn more about the winners by reading their bios below.  

High School Pathfinder Scholarship – Arin Moua

Sponsor: Ab Kue from RPM Bodywork

Hello, my name is Arin Moua, and I am a 2023 graduate of the Hmong American Peace Academy. I am the fifth oldest of eleven children; I have eight sisters and three brothers. During my senior year, I took numerous college courses at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Mount Mary University. Growing up, I dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but when I took a Mock Trial class at school, I realized that it wasn’t my cup of tea. I then began exploring the medical field and took a big interest in the occupation of a Physician. Thus, my goal is to pursue my higher education to study Biology on the Pre-Medicine Track and Business at Macalester College. After college, I plan on opening my own clinic to provide low-income families with a less expensive option for healthcare. I highly enjoy volunteering and helping underrepresented communities. In high school, I was the President of the National Honor Society and the Founder and President of Key Club. I am certain that I will continue serving others out of the goodness of my heart to help alleviate their burdens. Thank you to “Our Scholarships” for this opportunity and their investment in my future and education. 

College Pathfinder Scholarship – Nhia Thao

Sponsor: Mekong Fresh Meats

Nyob Zoo and Hello! My name is Nhia Thao and I was born in Thailand and moved to Milwaukee, WI in 2005. I am a student at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point (UWSP), double majoring in Studio of Art and Interior Architecture; and minor in International Studies - Emphasis in Asia because these studies will arm me in the next chapter of my professional development.

As I am studying interior architecture, I am working towards creating spaces where our Hmong culture can thrive in our new homeland of America. I hope to keep vernacular architecture and provide a means in interpreting spaces to suit Hmong cultural norms and practices. I want to help design spaces for Hmong cultural needs and envision that our future as Hmong Americans has a future here.

Hmong Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Business Scholarship –
Sylvia Chang

Sponsor: Hmong Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce

Hello! I am Sylvia Chang and I will be a graduating Senior from Appleton West High School. Some of the various things I enjoy doing are listening to music during car rides or when I’m working on projects, and I also enjoy painting. I also enjoy playing soccer and volleyball with friends and/or family. In this coming fall, I am looking forward to attending UWGB to learn more and advance in a Business Major, to fulfill my dreams of being an entrepreneur. 

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leadership Scholarship – Jouhara Ali

Sponsor: Chingcha Vang & E Her Vang

My name is Jouhara Ali and I am a senior in Salam High School. I am a Burmese Muslim American and can speak three languages (English, Burmese, and Rohingya). In the coming fall of 2023, I plan on attending UW-Madison and majoring in biochemistry to later become a physician assistant. Outside of school, I enjoy playing volleyball, going on walks, and hanging out with my friends.

Bachelor of Arts Scholarship– Cynthia Nag Tshia Yang

Sponsor: Anonymous

Hello! My name is Cynthia Nag Tshia Yang and I am a student at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I am a BA Media Studies major/Business Administration minor. I am also a Public Affairs Specialist in the Air National Guard. After I finish my degree, I hope to go active-duty military so I can travel the world and do humanitarian work. In my future travels and missions, I hope to use my degree to raise awareness about issues affecting marginalized groups in third-world countries and all over the world.

I enjoy reading, writing, and running. I love baking and hanging out with family and friends. I also love to travel and try new things. One of the most interesting places I have visited within the last year was Washington D.C., where I spent six months in the Northeast for my military technical training. I am the second oldest child and oldest daughter and sister to my funny, loving, amazing, and supportive siblings. I want to thank my parents who are my sun, moon, and rock. It is because of my parents' hard work, love, and everlasting support that I can come as far and achieve as much as I can. Mom and Dad, you both are so strong and are the reasons why I am strong and why I never stop trying. Thank you both for paving the way and laying the foundation so I can pursue my education and chase my dreams. I love you both!