MARY COLLINS(mother): My mother is and always has been very loving and supportive. My mother is strong willed and has always taught me stand up for myself and what I believe in.  Because my mother is so strong willed she never allowed me to give up on anything.  To this very day I call my mother when I feel like giving up because I know she will not hesitate to snap my priorities back in order.  Because of my mother I am very strong, independent and determined.

GREGORY COLLINS(father): My father is one of those dads that can turn your worst day into your best 5 minutes after he enters a room. My dad is very outgoing and laid back, and has a great sense of humor.  After conversations with my dad I usually feel like I can conquer the world.  My dad never let me settle for less, because he always challenged me to take it a step further.  My dad is the main reason I feel like I can accomplish anything within my means.

LAWRENCE AMOS(favorite uncle):  My uncle was the absolute best.  There was never a time that I did not feel loved and appreciated by this man.  Although my parents and older siblings showered me with love, my uncle's love was different.  As a child I thought all parents and siblings loved each other so it was expected, but coming from a great uncle it was different.  My uncle read with me every single night, took me to the park, walked me to school, and spoiled me rotten.   When I have a bad day I can usually think of Uncle Lawrence and lift my spirits.  May he rest in Peace.....

NAKEISHA, NATASHA, and GREGORY JR. (3 older siblings):  The roles and relationships I had with each sibling was different but they fit perfectly together.  Because I am the youngest sibling I got spoiled often.  Nakeisha was the sibling that helped me with homework, and allowed me to help take care of her responsibilities.  Natasha taught me how to protect myself, and she also allowed me to teach her things.  Gregory is the only boy and because we are the closest in age he taught me the true definition of "anything you could do I can do better".  My dad use to joke with his friends and say "I won't have to worry about her because Jr. got her "Tonka Tough".  Because of my siblings I value education, responsibility, and helping others.

JUNE HUGHES:  Mrs. Hughes was my elementary teacher who valued each and every student.  Because of Mrs. Hughes I understand the importance of having a friend within your teacher.  She went well above and beyond her teaching duties to make sure her students and their families were safe and comfortable.  I can remember one of my classmates house catching on fire and Mrs. Hughes allowed them to stay in her basement apartment until they found a stable living condition.   Mrs. Hughes is the greatest teacher I ever had and the impact she has on my life is lasting and beneficial.  If I can touch the life of one child the way would Mrs.Hughes touched mines I would be honored.