Ready for some wheel-y exciting news? The 6th Annual Virtual Lime Connect Ride just kicked off! Offered to all levels of riders, this month-long event brings together passionate riders and supporters of Lime and helps fund our Pathways Scholarship for high school seniors who have disabilities. Those looking for an in-person experience can also join us on October 7th for an in person ride through the scenic streets of Northern Virginia.

To celebrate and encourage our riders, we spoke with Kaitlyn Purvis, one of last year’s scholarship recipients!

So Kaitlyn, What does “Rebranding Disability Through Achievement” mean to you? What achievements are you most proud of?

To me, “Rebranding Disability Through Achievement” means that my disabilities are not a weakness; rather, they are a source of strength. My disabilities help me to develop a muscle of fortitude and a competitive spirit that propels me to never give up. As a result, my disabilities have contributed to my accomplishments inside and outside of the classroom.

Despite challenges with my disabilities, I am most proud of becoming a member of the National Honor Society, being a nationally-ranked track athlete in high school, and being one of 16 finalists from across the state to receive the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame Student-Athlete Achievement Award for my academic, athletic, and community service successes. All of my achievements opened the door for me to attend Virginia Tech.

What are your goals for the future?

I plan to study Advertising and pursue a minor in Digital Marketing. My goal is to use my education and creativity to promote positive products and services in our society to solve problems. In particular, I like to help produce content that elevates and supports women.

Why did you decide to apply for the Lime Connect Pathways Scholarship? How will it help you reach your goals?

I applied because I saw that the scholarship was for high school seniors with a disability who planned to attend college, that was me. This scholarship is helping me to overcome financial obstacles in funding my college education, so I can focus on my studies and start a future with no debt.

What are you looking forward to as a new Lime Network member? 

I look forward to getting to know the Lime Network community, and I aspire to apply for the Lime Connect Fellowship Program For Students with Disabilities in my sophomore year.

Do you have a message for the Lime Connect Ride riders and fundraisers who helped fund the Pathways Scholarship?

Thank you so much for funding the Pathways Scholarship and honoring me with the scholarship this year!  Receiving this scholarship has confirmed to me that my disabilities are a valuable part of who I am. Furthermore, knowing that your organization creates opportunities like mentoring and recruitment programs to support students like me with disabilities is inspiring. It helps me be more confident in knowing there is nothing that can stop me from achieving my goals and building a positive, healthy future.