"Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul
And sings the tune without the words
And never stops at all."
-- Emily Dickinson
During these challenging times, life can sometimes feel overwhelming. When will our students be able to return to classrooms and to their Corporate Work Study Program jobs? When will we gather together again for community building and service trips?
But yet we still look ahead to the uncertain future with hope and the belief that good things are still to come. Which is why we are so excited about building our permanent home—it will allow us to keep sharing our students' stories and celebrating their accomplishments.
At this moment we are celebrating how DLSNC teachers and students are adapting to online learning. We know that in addition to providing knowledge, we are providing connection, hope, and opportunity. We believe that every hardworking student who wants to achieve their dream of attending college and becoming a leader deserves a shot at making that happen.
Jonna Frater '06 worked at OHSU for her CWSP job, graduated from Southern Oregon University, and then returned to Portland where she was hired full-time by OHSU. She currently serves on DLSNC's Board of Trustees and says, "DLSNC is committed to the future of Portland’s youth."
Jonna sees the impact of a DLSNC education in the faces of her fellow alumni, many of whom are now teachers, city employees, and healthcare workers, working tirelessly to help this city and its residents weather this storm and thrive after it has passed
Currently working as a project coordinator for OHSU's Knight Cancer Institute, Jonna says, "I want to see DLSNC grow and continue to provide a college-prep education and real-life work experience that students cannot get anywhere else in the state of Oregon."
"I believe in the students of DLSNC and their futures and know you do too. I know from experience that sometimes all it takes is a little belief," says Jonna.
Thank you for being part of our community. Together, we all make Knight Nation strong. Together, we will get through this.
In solidarity,
Oscar Leong
President