Today, I successfully defended my doctoral dissertation at Alliant University.

4/23/26.

Today, I successfully defended my doctoral dissertation at Alliant University. I'll be walking in May, but I won't hold the full title of PhD until August, and it's a key part of my story I'd like to share.

Midway through this program, my family lost my only sibling. Our world was upended. I decided to step back from coursework to grieve with my family and find footing before the dissertation process. Looking back, I have no regrets about that choice. So though I've completed my dissertation, I'll have to finish those courses this summer to earn the title, and not before.

Behind every individual achievement, there are supporters who made it possible, and often, someone who deserved their own chance.

In this light, my dissertation is dedicated to my parents for their undying support and, in the most heartfelt manner, to my sister Elise, who didn't have the same opportunity as I.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. There's still a bit left, and I'm honored to walk my own path.