Sophia Whittingham – University of Nevada, Las Vegas Project F.O.C.U.S. (Ella Mae Scholarship Award)

Sophia is a two-time Rockin’ Recipient and this year’s recipient of the Ruby’s Rainbow Ella Mae Scholarship Award. She is a sophomore in Project F.O.C.U.S. at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where she is studying written and verbal communication. Her goal is to work in a library after graduation. She also plans to turn 10 years’ worth of personal journals into a book about the inner thoughts of a girl with Down syndrome.

Along with writing, Sophia loves to dance, read and watch movies. She is also an active self-advocate who works to promote inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome. She says, “I would really like to inspire other girls like me to just be proud of who they are. I want to do that by spreading the word of inclusion for all with the slogan, ‘ICU…DOUCME? #INCLUSION.’ I want people to know that persons with Down syndrome may look different, but we are just another version of themselves.”

We agree, Sophia! We think you’re amazing, and we believe in you!