Dreaming of Three Awards $10,000 in Scholarships to Three Inspiring Students

At Dreaming of Three, one of our greatest privileges each year is awarding scholarships to young people who have faced extraordinary challenges and continue to pursue their dreams through higher education.

This year, we received more than 100 applications from students who met our scholarship requirements. As I sat down to read through each application, I was reminded once again of the incredible strength, resilience, and determination that exists within this community. These students have faced life-threatening illnesses, countless medical appointments, hospital stays, uncertainty, and challenges that most people their age should never have to experience.

Choosing just three recipients was not easy. In truth, it was heartbreaking.

Every applicant had a story. Every applicant had dreams. Every applicant was deserving of support. While we wish we could help every student who applied, we are incredibly proud that Dreaming of Three has grown to the point where we can now award scholarships to three recipients each year.

Thanks to the proceeds raised through our annual A Bucking Nightmare event, along with the support of our sponsors, volunteers, contestants, and attendees, Dreaming of Three awarded a total of $10,000 in scholarships for 2026.

We are honored to introduce this year's recipients.

First Place Recipient - Payton Walsh

$5,000 Scholarship

Payton Walsh has been selected as the First Place Recipient of the 2026 Dreaming of Three Scholarship.

Payton plans to attend Stark State College and pursue a career as a Registered Nurse. Drawing from her own experiences, she hopes to focus on neurological diseases, including epilepsy, and help others facing similar challenges.

"I am plan on attending Stark State College to pursue my RN. I plan on focusing on neurological diseases such as epilepsy to help people just like me."

Payton's desire to use her experiences to improve the lives of others embodies the spirit of this scholarship program. We are excited to see where her educational journey takes her and the impact she will make on future patients and families.

Second Place Recipient - Ryan Mason

$3,000 Scholarship

Ryan Mason has been selected as the Second Place Recipient of the 2026 Dreaming of Three Scholarship.

Ryan plans to pursue a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering and has set ambitious goals for his future.

"I hope to graduate in 5 years with a Master's in Mechanical Engineering. It'll be a lot of work but I promise to do my best!"

When Ryan learned he had been selected, his response reminded us exactly why this program exists.

"I am so honored to be a recipient of The Dreaming of Three Scholarship Program! I don't think I've ever smiled so wide in my life until I read your email. Thank you so much for this great opportunity and for allowing me to have more time to focus on my studies instead of costs. Really, it means a lot to me!"

Ryan's gratitude, determination, and positive outlook are inspiring, and we look forward to watching him achieve his goals.

Third Place Recipient - Josephine Corbin

$2,000 Scholarship

Josephine Corbin has been selected as the Third Place Recipient of the 2026 Dreaming of Three Scholarship.

Josephine plans to attend the University of Washington in Seattle, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Leadership. Her future goals focus on helping young people navigate medical, emotional, and life challenges.

"I plan to attend the University of Washington in Seattle, where I will major in psychology with a minor in leadership. I hope to improve support systems for young people facing medical, emotional, and life challenges. My long-term goal is to help create programs and opportunities that empower others and improve the experiences of those navigating difficult circumstances."

Josephine's passion for serving others and creating meaningful change demonstrates the type of leadership our world needs more of. We are honored to support her educational journey.

Looking Forward

To all of the students who applied this year, thank you for sharing your stories with us. Your courage, perseverance, and determination inspired everyone involved in the selection process.