This Year's Winner: Stacey Hansen

We had a wonderful presentation by our Violet Richard Award winner, Stacey Hansen, at our February Program Meeting. She came with her grandfather, Norman Nielson, who was also a very charming man and very proud of his many accomplished grandchildren.

Stacey is a senior and Class Officer at Murray High School, along with her many other personal activities and accomplishments. She has been involved with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Following is an excerpt from Stacey’s own bio about her Make-A-Wish project:

“I’ve been able to help out with paperwork, publicity, and parties, but the biggest project that I’ve done for the Make-A-Wish Foundation was time consuming, difficult, stressful, and so rewarding. This summer I set a goal to raise $3,500 – enough for one whole wish. Through this goal, I was made the “Top Ducky Seller” in the entire state of Utah. I raised the money in increments from $5-$25. Raising the money meant spending all of my time that I wasn’t at dance (between 11 AM and 1 PM) going door to door. Getting doors slammed in my face was devastating – especially in the 105° weather. I even missed the finale of my favorite TV show, the only one I watch, “So You Think I Can Dance.” I also did odd jobs for my neighbors to earn money like mowing lawns. When I hadn’t reached my goal by my birthday, I decided that there was no better place for my birthday money than to go straight to Make-A-Wish. I didn’t get any physical presents this year, but I received the gift of service. I had to sacrifice so much to achieve my goal, but the reward was ten thousand times better.

Even though I learned so much through my experience, someone else gained through my goal. Tyson Busenbark – a boy my age – was able to go to Florida and meet the Tampa Bay Buccaneers because of my work. Unfortunately, I have not been able to meet him yet because his health conditions won’t allow it, but we plan to meet soon. On ABC New’s “The Power of a Wish,” he said that he now has a reason to stay alive – to help others.”

Stacey is a darling girl, and Pat Murdoch commented that her submission was the best one she has ever read. Stacy is participating in the upcoming Junior Miss Utah contest being held March 14 and 15. Anyone wanting to attend the competition should go and cheer her on. She is truly a remarkable young woman.

For tickets to Junior Miss, please contact Stacey at 856-STAR or 262-4795. Tickets may also be purchased at the event.

To request more information and an application, please contact
Pat Murdoch, 801-597-7889