Employee Giving: From Hardship to Hope

SLCC student Paul Hakizimana

Growing up in Rwanda, Paul Hakizimana experienced unimaginable hardship living in a country torn apart by genocide. The atrocities took his family and friends, and left children on the streets. Paul was one of those children, but it didn’t keep him from dreaming of a better life and a better future. 

After coming to the United States, Paul soon began his new life in Utah. From his time in Rwanda, he saw how having an education can change a person’s life as well as their community. However, he didn’t know how he was going to afford college. 

When he found out he has been awarded a scholarship, everything changed. “I was overwhelmed with excitement when I received the email announcing I had been awarded this prestigious scholarship!” said Paul. “I was so thankful to the generous donors who have made it possible for me, and many others, to have a wonderful college experience.” 

Paul was first drawn to the Salt Lake Community because of the friendliness and support from the faculty and staff to all students. “There are students with backgrounds similar to mine at SLCC,” said Paul. “Many of our stories have been heavily impacted by generous donors and changed from stories of hardship to stories of hope, light and vision.”

Completing his final year at SLCC, Paul is earning his associate’s degree in business. He plans on transferring to a four-year university after graduation and is looking forward to a career in public relations where he can inspire and influence many generations to come. 

Your support through SLCC’s Employee Giving Campaign is crucial to our students’ success. Every dollar donated goes to supporting our hardworking students, like Paul. Please join us in making a difference. Simply give now.