When life brings unimaginable loss, the path forward can often seem unclear. For Annika Johnson, who received one of Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse and Caregiver fall Scholarships, finding purpose and strength has been a journey deeply intertwined with community, faith, and education.
Annika is pursuing a degree in history at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, a journey sparked by her involvement in her church’s history and archives ministry. “It’s funny how things happen,” she mused, recalling how her work in the ministry connected her with a professor leading a grant to study religious diversity in her city. This opportunity opened doors to a Graduate Student Research Assistant role, a position she hopes will lead to a career in museums, archives, or research. Her ultimate dream is to continue working at the university, contributing to establishing a Center for the Study of Evangelicalism.
Annika discovered Hope For The Warriors through
the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). Despite initial surprise at receiving the scholarship, she expressed deep gratitude, noting how the financial support arrived when she needed it most. “It was very well-timed,” she said, emphasizing how the scholarship eased the burden of unexpected expenses and allowed her to continue her education without interruption.
Annika’s journey has not been without challenges. Her husband, Brian, suffered from a service-related disability, which led to him losing his battle with the trauma that comes from war. It was an unexpected loss that left Annika grappling with anger and sorrow. However, attending a Gala for Angels of America’s Fallen—a Colorado-based organization supporting children of fallen service members—proved to be a turning point. Annika felt something within her shift when she watched a young girl dance with her father’s flag. “I was finally able to be sad and miss my husband,” she shared. This emotional breakthrough led her to seek support through a grief group, helping her move from anger to a place where she could feel warmth and connection with Brian once more.
The community has played a pivotal role in Annika’s healing and growth. After moving back to Colorado Springs, where she and Brian met, Annika found solace and support in her church and among old friends. She joined a choir like the one she was in with Brian, rediscovering the healing power of music and fellowship. “Something is healing about singing together with other people,” she reflected, highlighting how choir provides emotional comfort and builds a sense of belonging.
Annika is keenly aware of the importance of giving back as she continues her education. Now, she can mentor and is eager to guide and support others as she has been supported. This role is about academic growth, fostering connections, and sharing the wisdom she has gained through her own experiences.
Annika’s decision to return to school was fueled by a desire to follow her passion rather than pursue a marketable skill. Encouraged by her mentor, she embraced her love for history and, in doing so, found doors opening in ways she never anticipated. “It just happened,” she said, marveling at the alignment of opportunities that have come her way. Despite past hardships, Annika is learning to live in the moment, be grateful for the present, and trust in the path ahead.
Annika has created a space in her home to honor Brian, a place where his memory lives, through a poem she wrote and a digital picture frame displaying his photos. This personal tribute reflects their deep love and connection, a bond that inspires her as she navigates life without him.
Annika’s story is one of resilience, community, and the power of education to transform lives. She has found financial support and a renewed sense of purpose through her scholarship. As she looks to the future, Annika carries with her the lessons of the past, the love of her community, and the enduring memory of her husband, guiding her every step of the way.
Since 2006, the Spouse/Caregiver Scholarship Program has awarded over 250 scholarships totaling more than $641,607.
These scholarships aid in continuing education at reputable, accredited universities, colleges, or trade schools.
Currently, HOPE offers the following scholarships.
- Honorary Scholarship – Awarded to those seeking graduate or post-graduate degree.
- New Beginnings Scholarship – Awarded to those pursuing associates and entry-level classes or training.
- Restoring Family Scholarship – Awarded to spouses of the Fallen.
- Restoring Hope Scholarship – Awarded to those pursuing a master’s or doctorate of social work, psychology counseling, or mental health counseling-related field.
- Restoring Self Scholarship – Awarded to those seeking a bachelor’s degree.
Eligibility
Eligibility is based on a spouse or caregiver’s ability to show their post-9/11 service member or veteran sustained a combat-related injury and/or has a 100% permanent and total VA disability rating to include Individual Unemployability. The Hope For The Warriors Scholarship Program considers a combat-related injury to be an injury caused by armed conflict, hazardous duty, instrumentality of war, and simulated war.
Scholarship awards are made payable to the recipient’s institution for payment of tuition, books, and supplies. The scholarship is for U.S. colleges and universities only.
