By Matthew Koopman
My mother, Ann, is one of the most amazing women I have known. She taught me everything I know about hard work and success. Since my mother started her own business at age 19, I learned firsthand from her what it takes to be successful. I am grateful to have a strong woman like this in my life to show me that hard work truly does pay off.
I owe a lot of my character and morals to my grandmother, Toni, since she practically raised me. Because my parents worked long days, my grandmother would come over and babysit me and my siblings five days a week, it was practically a full time job. Because of this, all the kids in my family call her Nanny. I will never forget the selflessness she showed in raising us. She taught me the importance of kindness and gratitude in life. I will forever be grateful for my Grandmother and her help in raising me.
My grandmother Vera passed away about 7 years ago but her affect on me has not faded at all. She was one of the nicest people I have ever met. She has shaped the way I treat others and shown me that kindness is truly one of the most important things in life. I also owe my love of food to her. She was one of the greatest cooks I have known, and has passed down this love of food to my whole family. My love of food and the importance of it in my life is due to her. I will always remember the holidays celebrated at her house and the amazing meals she made during them.
Matthew Koopman is a Help Desk Specialist at Consulvation and graduated from Marist College in 2024 with a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity.