Letter From Samuel Johnson, Class of 2028
My name is Samuel Johnson and I am a graduate student at National Louis University pursuing a degree in Special Education. I am writing to share my story and to ask you to consider a year-end gift in support of NLU. Your generosity makes it possible for students like me to grow as leaders and bring more compassion and innovation into education.
I am currently a high school social studies teacher with an ambition to move into administration to explore how learning differences can shape a student’s entire future. Members of my own family have struggled with learning disabilities, and those experiences motivated me to pursue special education. I want to walk alongside students with unique learning needs, build truly inclusive classrooms and eventually advocate for broader systems change in education.
At NLU, I am challenged to think deeply about inclusion and equity, from how technology can expand opportunities for students with disabilities, to how empathy and strong support systems help them thrive. These lessons will guide me as I prepare to lead with both knowledge and compassion.
Scholarships make it possible for me to continue this work. They not only ease the financial burden of graduate study but also give me the freedom to focus on big questions: How can we make schools more inclusive? How can technology serve students with disabilities, and not leave them behind? Your support helps me, and others like me, find the answers.
Thank you for investing in NLU students and in the future of education.
With gratitude, Samuel Johnson Class of 2028
P.S. As we close the year, I invite you to make a gift of $140 in honor of NLU’s 140th Anniversary ($12 per month or any amount that is meaningful to you). Your support ensures that graduate students like me have the resources to prepare for leadership and create classrooms where all students belong.
