2026 Scholarship Winner- Larissa Belle

 Every dream begins with a story. As part of the Barber Gibbs Dream Memorial Scholarship application, applicants are asked to share their heart, their goals, and the impact they hope to make. We are honored to share the Letter of Intent from our 2026 Scholarship Recipient, Larissa, whose words reflect determination, resilience, and a passion for creating a brighter future.

    Hello, my name is Larissa Belle. I am a recent graduate of Ramsay High School located in Birmingham,

Alabama. I will also be attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham majoring in Public Health

this upcoming fall. My long-term goal is to become an epidemiologist and use my education to improve

health outcomes in underserved communities.

Growing up in Birmingham, I have witnessed the challenges many families face when trying to access

healthy food, quality healthcare, and reliable health information. These experiences inspired my passion

for public health and community service. My interest in public health was further strengthened through

my internship with Jones Valley Teaching Farm, where I helped support efforts to increase access to fresh

produce and nutrition education within the community.

Receiving this scholarship will do more than fund my education; it will empower me to step confidently

into my academic journey and future career goals in healthcare. It will help cover educational expenses

such as books, room and board, meal plan, transportation and personal fees. Pursuing a four-year degree

in Public Health on the path to becoming an epidemiologist requires a significant financial commitment,

and without assistance, I would face the burden of balancing rigorous academics with financial instability.

This scholarship will also help alleviate the financial burden on both my family and me, allowing me to

focus on my studies and make a meaningful difference in my community.

While on my collegiate journey, I have plans to join organizations such as Pre-Health Society, TRIO

Academic Services and National Society of Black Women in Medicine. I am also proud to already be a

member of the Honors College at UAB. As an epidemiologist, I hope to have community workshops to

expand knowledge of noncommunicative diseases and how modifiable behaviors, such as nutrition and

physical activity can lower risk. I also desire to educate the community about medical malpractice laws,

insurance rights, and billing protections. Additionally, I aim to improve local food access by starting a

community garden and supporting a food pantry. Overall, I strive to be a changemaker who utilizes their

voice to turn their lived experience into something that can impact others in a positive way.

Sincerely,

Larissa Belle