Impact Stories
Every Story Is a Journey, and the Journey Itself Is Home
When we reflect on the Horizon Scholars Program, we envision resilient young individuals who have overcome numerous adversities in their lives. We believe that each Horizon Scholar has a unique voice, ready to share their inspiring stories of experiencing empowerment and support. By exploring these journeys of resilience and strength, discover how you can make a lasting impact on the lives of both current and future Horizon Scholars.
Horizon Scholar Journeys
Isabella Smith (’23)
From Beneficiary to Graduate: An Art Degree Achieved With a Grateful Heart
Isabella's Story“During my time at Pepperdine, I discovered a lot about myself; I became an artist, embraced Christianity, and developed into a scholar. I am eternally grateful for the opportunities and support that Pepperdine and the Horizon Scholars Program provided.”
Please share a bit about yourself. What is your background story?
I grew up in Louisiana with my father. Around the age of 13, I began moving back and forth between my father's house and my mother's house in Los Angeles, with the result that I switched schools multiple times. At the age of 16, I entered the Los Angeles foster care system due to parental drug use. Regardless of the challenging circumstances, I worked diligently to earn money through various sales associate jobs at clothing stores and strived to achieve good grades, hoping to improve my situation.
I aged out of the foster system at 18 and moved back to live with my father to complete my final year of high school. I successfully graduated from high school and was fortunate enough to receive a full scholarship with funding through federal, state, institiontional, and the Horizon Scholars program at Pepperdine. This was a significant blessing and my first real opportunity to change my life for the better.
Upon arriving at Pepperdine, I felt fully supported and safe, which allowed me to grow and discover more about myself. I decided to major in art and minor in multimedia design, which enabled me to explore my creative talents in various mediums, including digital art, photography, videography, sculpture, painting, and drawing. I thoroughly enjoyed creating artwork during my time at Pepperdine, hiking in the nearby Malibu hills and connecting with nature at the beach. Additionally, I gained work experiences, working as a freelance graphic designer, content creator, stylist, and art department production assistant. I even embarked on my own venture by starting an online vintage clothing store.
Lastly, I embraced Christianity during my college years, which has had a major impact on how I live my life.
Why did you decide to come to Pepperdine University?
I chose to attend Pepperdine because it was the only school that offered me a full need-based scholarship. Without this financial support, I wouldn't have been able to pursue a college education. As I mentioned earlier, Pepperdine was an incredible blessing, because its financial support allowed me to break free from the “fight or flight” way of life that I had been accustomed to for most of my life.
Pepperdine provided me not only with an education but also with food and housing, ensuring that my basic needs were met and more. This sense of security allowed me to fully immerse myself in the student experience without worrying about my well-being. During my time at Pepperdine, I discovered a lot about myself; I became an artist, embraced Christianity, and developed into a scholar. I am eternally grateful for the opportunities and support that Pepperdine provided.
In what ways does the Horizon Scholar Program support students at Pepperdine?
Horizon Scholars supported me by covering my full tuition through loan forgiveness and various aid, allowing me to graduate from Pepperdine without accumulating any student loans. I am truly thankful for their assistance. They provided on-campus housing for me, and when I was able to live off campus, they helped me with my rent. This was particularly special to me because having a safe and financially stable home was a source of worry during my upbringing.
While living on campus, they fully covered my meal expenses, and I also had access to Pepperdine's health insurance, which allowed me to receive medical care from good doctors at affordable rates—a true blessing. In times of financial emergencies, they provided me with emergency stipends. The financial support from Horizon Scholars was so abundant that I could relax and fully enjoy my college experience, something I will always cherish.
Moreover, Horizon Scholars introduced me to Deborah Armstrong, the director of the Horizon Scholars Program, who has been a nurturing mother figure in my life. I always felt comfortable turning to her for help or advice, knowing that she would provide me with the support and encouragement I needed.
What specific challenges did you face as a foster student during your time at Pepperdine, and how did the Horizon Scholar program help you?
I believe the most significant challenge as a foster youth, at least in my situation, was the lack of parental financial support. However, the Horizon Scholar Program was always there for me in that regard. They cared for me like a parent would, providing assistance with tuition, housing, food, health insurance, emergency funds, job opportunities, and more.
How has Pepperdine University impacted your career and future?
Pepperdine University, with the support of Horizon Scholars, has transformed my life. I am now a college graduate with a bachelor's degree in art. Without the generosity of our donors, I wouldn't be able to make that statement. I wouldn't have had the opportunity to attend college without Pepperdine's incredible support. Because of what they have done for me through the Horizon Scholars Program and through other generous services along the way, I was able to learn, discover my passion, and, most importantly, find salvation through Jesus. Now, I feel prepared to enter the world and begin a career in the arts, using my talents for good and ultimately giving back to this incredible program.
Manuel Raya
How the Horizon Scholars Program Helped Manny Become a Prospective Leader
Manuel's Story“Pepperdine’s Global Leadership program made me look at my future job endeavors, my academic goals, and my life in a holistic manner, and it is this perspective that is going to shape the next 20 years of my life.”
Please share a bit about yourself. What is your background story?
I grew up in Santa Barbara, the son of an immigrant mother. I graduated from both Santa Barbara City College and the University of California, Santa Barbara. During the early years of my college journey, I developed a passion for personal growth and community advancement. This led me to establish a nonprofit organization called Homies Turf 2 Surf, which organized a surf camp aimed at providing at-risk youth with a fresh perspective on life. My goal was to help these young participants make better life choices by showing them the world in a new light.
After completing my undergraduate studies at a local university, I yearned to explore the world and engage in philosophical contemplation to better understand the world and myself. This desire led me to pursue and successfully earn a master’s degree in philosophy at San Francisco State University. My time there is a cherished experience. The philosophy department not only honed my critical thinking skills but also exposed me to multiple perspectives toward understanding the world.
In the past, I have served as an adjunct faculty member at institutions like Antioch University, Santa Barbara, and Santa Barbara City College. Currently, I am pursuing my PhD in the Global Leadership and Change program at Pepperdine University.
Why did you decide to come to Pepperdine University?
I attended the Graduate School of Education and Psychology Global Leadership and Change program as a stepping stone toward the next chapter of my life. As an adjunct instructor who placed second in a full-time tenure tract position, I knew that a higher degree was the next logical step in my career path. What I didn’t know was the broad perspective that my education at Pepperdine would afford me and the goals that would follow thereafter. I came to Pepperdine with the idea of a better job in mind, and I’m leaving Pepperdine with the idea of a better life as the ultimate goal. The Global Leadership and Change program made me look at my future job endeavors, my academic goals, and my life in a holistic manner, and it is this perspective that is going to shape the next 20 years of my life.
In what ways does Horizon Scholar Program support students at Pepperdine?
The Horizon Scholar Program helps in a myriad of ways, including financial, emotional, and academic support. For me personally, the relationship I’ve developed with Deborah Armstrong has been a godsend. My friendship with Deborah is a two-way street—I know that she’s only a text or a phone call away and vice versa. She’s been there for me when I’ve had troubling times in my life, and I’ve been there for her to lend support to the program and other students. There aren’t many programs that are like this, let alone programs like this that are led by a person with a heart of gold.
What specific challenges did you face as a foster student during your time at Pepperdine, and how did the Horizon Scholar program help you?
Horizon Scholars has helped me better understand that, as prospective leaders, those who experienced foster care are already in a position to help those who come from similar backgrounds.
How has Pepperdine University impacted your career and future?
Pepperdine has served as a unifying force in my academic career. It has helped me place my ideas, dreams, and goals into a collective unit rather than a fragmented set of ideas.
James Evans (MS ’06)
An Education Graduate Shares His Story of Resilience and Triumph Over Adversity
James' Story“Being part of the Horizon Scholars program holds great significance because it allows me to meet new people, make friends, and dispel the loneliness that can often accompany the challenges foster youth face."
Why did you decide to come to Pepperdine University?
I pursued my master’s degree at Pepperdine University after visiting Reverend Price's church on Vermont Avenue. The church’s campus [the location of the original Pepperdine College] made a strong impression on me, and upon learning its history, I became increasingly intrigued by Pepperdine. It advertised satellite campuses in West Los Angeles, Long Beach, and various other locations, and in 2003 to 2006, the concept of online courses with weekend meetings appealed to me. It seemed like the right fit for my lifestyle at the time, as I was heavily focused on planning for marriage and starting a family.
Starting my master's degree online took about two years, which was manageable for me. It wasn't nearly as challenging as my doctoral studies, where I was competing with myself to excel. I consistently earned high grades and successfully passed the entrance exams for the program, which solidified my commitment to pursuing further education. Initially, I aspired to become an assistant principal, but I got sidetracked by a difficult marriage and the responsibilities of raising my son.
I attended classes at the West Los Angeles campus, where the Los Angeles Unified School District used to hold professional development sessions. After completing the master's program in 2006, I realized that I held a lifetime credential for administration, which could be used at any time. It wasn't until 2017 that I began considering a career change. My master's degree had already made a significant impact on my life; it allowed me to increase my income, travel, provide for my child, save money, purchase a new car, and move into a new townhouse.
As I looked at my son's future, I became determined to provide him with a stable life, full of opportunities and the option of attending college that were not provided to me as a foster child. I want the same legacy of opportunities for his children. Ultimately, my goal is to purchase a house to secure a stable future for my family legacy.
In what ways does the Horizon Scholar Program support students at Pepperdine?
One of the most significant ways that the Horizon Scholar Program supports students at Pepperdine is by providing a sense of family. I often feel closer to program members than to my own neighbors because we share similar experiences in foster care, and together, we form a strong voice in this area. Each of us has overcome significant challenges and can be considered a success story, despite the trauma we've endured.
It's truly fascinating to meet individuals who have survived similar circumstances, reassuring me that I'm not alone in my journey. I eagerly anticipate meeting everyone in person and connecting via Zoom. During our interactions, we openly discuss our highs and lows, offering one another unwavering support. We've formed a network of valuable information and business connections, each of us specializing in different fields of study. Being part of this program holds great significance for me because it allows me to meet new people, make friends, and dispel the loneliness that can often accompany the challenges foster youth face."
What specific challenges did you face as a foster student at Pepperdine, and how did the Horizon Scholar program help you?
Challenges:
- multiple placements in the foster system causing numerous childhood traumas
- homelessness
- divorce
- raising a child by myself
- facing deadlines at work and at school
- post-COVID-19 return to school
- my father’s death
- racism at work
- attending school and keeping my grades high
How the program helped:
- online conversations with other Horizon Scholars students
- online presentations
- celebrating holidays
- gifts to keep us going during the semester
- a safe space for each of us to share and listen; our opinions and suggestions for each other matter
- new friendships with students who have similar interests
- realizing my energy and my presence mean something to others and that I don’t give myself the credit I deserve
- teaching me how to better communicate with my classmates and associates
- helping me see how fragile everyone is, and that I am not alone
How has Pepperdine University impacted your career and future?
- provided me with an important group of people who believe in me and know my value
- increased my earnings after receiving a master's and doctoral degree
- inspired me to start my own LLC, market myself, and share my story with whoever will listen
- others respect me more
- people are not afraid to ask me for advice
- more individuals are under my supervision at work
- allowed me to get over my Imposter syndrome by showing me that I deserve great things
- opened my eyes to what accomplishments I have made
- recognition from those at prestigious universities
- provided me with greater confidence than before; I now believe in myself
Dave Montoya
A Military Veteran and Psychology Graduate Student Shares His Mission to Care for Foster Students
Dave's Story“I didn't realize how much healing I needed, both from a psychological and, even more importantly, a spiritual perspective. Pepperdine and the Horizon Scholars Program is a community that embraces both aspects of students’ development, and in today's age, it is much needed.”
Please share a bit about yourself. What is your background story?
I was in the foster system in Los Angeles County from infancy, around three months old, until I enlisted in the military at the age of 17. My biological mother cared for me during the first few months of my life, but she attempted to end my life twice. After the second occasion, she was institutionalized for mental health treatment, and I was placed in the foster care system. I did not know my biological father at the time and did not meet him until recently, at the age of 36.
I moved between family members, including my maternal grandmother and aunts, and eventually transitioned to several different group homes as I neared aging out of the system. Throughout my childhood, I was considered a ward of the court.
After serving eight years in the military, during which I was deployed multiple times, I left military service in 2009. At the conclusion of my military service, I became a Christian.
I began my undergraduate education at Mt. San Antonio College and then continued at Azusa Pacific University as a single parent and military veteran, starting at the age of 26.
Following my undergraduate studies, I began working and attended school part-time to pursue my master of business administration at the University of La Verne.
Why did you decide to come to Pepperdine University?
I was initially interested in the law school at Pepperdine, but I did not perform well on the LSAT exam. Subsequently, I was accepted into the PhD program in Global Change and Leadership. After the first term, I felt a calling from God to pursue a career in psychology, influenced by both my traumatic childhood experiences and the additional trauma I encountered in adulthood, particularly during my time in the military and in combat theaters/deployments.
In what ways does the Horizon Scholar Program support students at Pepperdine?
The Horizon Scholar Program provides a space for a community of children who likely do not have much parental guidance, love, or support. Support is not just financial but also spiritual, relational, and specific to each individual. Pepperdine, as a Christian institution, seeks to live out the calling of its founder and its message, along with the Christian duty to care for orphans and widows.
What specific challenges did you face as a foster student during your time at Pepperdine, and how did the Horizon Scholar program help you?
Sometimes it is hard to balance real life with being a student. Pepperdine is not an uncompetitive educational institution; you really have to put your mind to your studies. The Horizon Scholars community helps provide you with tools and support to achieve a better balance in your experience as a student at Pepperdine.
How has Pepperdine University impacted your career and future?
I will likely owe my career in psychology to Pepperdine, especially the Horizon Scholar Program and the related RISE community. I didn't realize how much healing I needed, both from a psychological and, even more importantly, from a spiritual perspective. Pepperdine is a community that embraces both aspects of students’ development, and in today's age, it is much needed.
Nadine Tapia (BSM ’19, MBA ’20, MDR ’20)
Double Alumna Finds Her Path and Passion to Become a Horizon Scholars Donor
Nadine's Story“As a mature, returning student who had already established myself, I was delighted to discover that this program was accessible to me. It was a gratifying experience to feel acknowledged. As a member of the Horizon Scholars Program, I found a welcoming and supportive community.”
Please share a bit about yourself. What is your background story?
My name is Nadine Tapia, and I grew up in Southern California as one of five siblings. Despite a rather tumultuous childhood, including experiences within the foster care system, I managed to persevere and graduate from high school. I always had an interest in attending college, but as a young person supporting myself and being on my own, other priorities took precedence, delaying my college aspirations.
I made a promise to myself that I would eventually return to college, but it would be many years before I could fulfill that promise. They say that things worth having are worth the wait, and it was when the right opportunity and timing aligned that I finally had the chance to attend Pepperdine University.
Why did you decide to come to Pepperdine University?
I chose the Pepperdine Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM) program because I had always dreamed of continuing my education, and the BSM program offered the perfect opportunity to do so. It provided me with the flexibility to work and attend classes simultaneously. I was highly satisfied with my Pepperdine Graziadio experience, which prompted me to pursue the MBAJ (joint BSM/MBA) program. Additionally, I obtained a master of dispute resolution from the Caruso School of Law and earned a SEER (socially, environmentally, and ethically responsible) certificate from the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School in Malibu.
In what ways does the Horizon Scholar Program support students at Pepperdine?
The Horizon Scholars Program provides a sense of belonging and vital support for its students. The program benefits from strong leadership, dedicated faculty, and supportive alumni who actively advocate for additional resources to ensure its continued legacy for years to come. Horizon Scholar students receive financial assistance through loan forgiveness from generous donors and have access to programs like RISE, which offers essential life skills, counseling, mentoring, and a supportive community.
What specific challenges did you face as a foster student during your time at Pepperdine, and how did the Horizon Scholars program help you?
As a mature, returning student who had already established myself, I was delighted to discover that this program was accessible to me. It was a gratifying experience to feel acknowledged. As a member of the Horizon Scholars Program, I found a welcoming and supportive community.
How has Pepperdine University impacted your career and future?
Pepperdine University was a game changer for me; it allowed me to further develop my strengths and grow my business, find and support causes I believe in, build a fantastic network, and make lifelong friendships. The supportive advisors, strong cohort, and great faculty have been a true blessing in my life.
I am a Pepperdine Graziadio alumna with a BSM, an MBA in entrepreneurship, and a master of dispute resolution, and I hold a SEER (socially, environmentally, ethically, and responsible) certificate. Go Waves!! I am a beauty executive and entrepreneur, having developed a line of skincare products for a brand that I intend to launch. In addition, I advise and consult other beauty brands, and in 2022, my company received a B Corp certification, a huge accomplishment I spent two years working on.
I hold a seat on the advisory board of the Salvation Army Malibu. I also chair the working board and hold a seat on the executive board of the Horizon Scholars Program. Since graduating, I became a donor to the Horizon Scholars Program, standing as the first alumna to support the program financially, which I am very proud of.
Tamara Rios (BSM ’23)
Nurtured by Support: Tamara's Journey from Foster Care to Higher Education
Tamara's Story“I sometimes feel overwhelmed as a full-time worker, student, and single parent. However, Horizon Scholars partnered with RISE to provide classes with tools and resources for time management, self-care, community, and other helpful information.”
My name is Tamara Rios, and I am a student at the Pepperdine Graziadio Business School. I will be receiving my bachelor of science in management in August 2023 and will begin the MBA program with Pepperdine in the fall, focusing on business analytics. I am the proud mother of an amazing 11-year-old son named Adrian.
I am also a former foster youth who was placed in legal guardianship through the kinship system at the age of 6 under the care of my grandmother. My grandmother and aunt served as my caretakers and maternal figures, providing guidance and support in my life, as well as in the lives of my nine siblings.
Why did you decide to come to Pepperdine University?
I made the decision to attend Pepperdine a little over two years ago, approximately four months before my enrollment. I had been studying at Pasadena City College (PCC) with the intention of transferring to the University of California. I had spent two years at PCC and anticipated another year there because, despite completing all the required business classes and additional prerequisites, I kept postponing math, particularly calculus courses.
Then, a coworker recommended an informational Zoom session about Pepperdine and invited me to join. I decided to participate and was impressed by what I heard. Without delay, I scheduled an appointment with the recruiter who hosted the session. She confirmed that I met all the requirements except for a math class, which I could complete during the summer. Encouraged by this, I submitted my application, received acceptance a few weeks later, and four months after that, I began the BSM program.
I believe that this decision was truly blessed by God, as it seamlessly fit into my schedule and worked out perfectly.
In what ways does Horizon Scholar Program support students at Pepperdine?
Horizon Scholars has provided a space for former foster youth to connect with others who have experienced foster care. This program is fantastic because it allows us to share our past, which was not something I used to do; it's an aspect of my life that I felt people couldn't relate to. Horizon Scholars offers opportunities to open up about our experiences, providing compassion and a listening ear. We've had gatherings, including a lovely dinner at Pepperdine's Malibu Campus, which was a memorable experience. Additionally, they send us thoughtful goodies through the mail. Lastly, we know that if we face any difficulties, we have someone to contact who can offer advice or connect us with valuable resources.
What specific challenges did you face as a foster student during your time at Pepperdine, and how did the Horizon Scholar program help you?
I sometimes feel overwhelmed as a full-time worker, student, and single parent. However, Horizon Scholars partnered with RISE to provide classes with tools and resources for time management, self-care, community, and other helpful information.
How has Pepperdine University impacted your career and future?
Pepperdine has offered me opportunities for both personal and professional growth. The skills and knowledge I’ve gained at Pepperdine have propelled me to excel further in my career in the healthcare industry. I’ve attained public speaking skills that have given me more confidence to give presentations at work. I started as an administrative assistant when I began attending Pepperdine, and I have recently secured a credentialing specialist position with a new company.