Support Zoe's journey for a National Competition

Hello my name is Hazel Hurd. I am here to commend my daughter Zoe Hurd Andaya for not only graduating 8th grade at St. Lucy Catholic School this June, but for accomplishing a once in a lifetime journey.

As a mother, we are naturally proud of our children. But Zoe has done more than amazing things that is beyond words. Zoe has competed in her school's Speech and Science Competition, placing 1st place consistently over and over. She is an active Volleyball player for the school and club in Orange County. And believe it or not, the only female to join the Co-ed Flag football team 2 years in a row. She is a friend, a mentor to the younger generations, as well as the 2022-2023 St. Lucy School Student Council President. Not only is Zoe an astound student all around the school, she excels in her academic acheivements as well.

This year, Zoe recently attended and competed among local catholic school students, participating in the PIE Program, inventors convention of the future. This new program is the first for St. Lucy School, which Zoe and her classmates from all levels competed. I can still remember the days and nights she worked tirelessly on her invention project, laughing with her uncle saying, "what are we making, this is nuts." I recall saying "it would be crazy if you actually win this invention." Moving along the award ceremony, we patiently and nervously wait. In her grade level, Zoe did not place 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. However, Zoe along with her invention was specially invited to compete in the state of California. She was awarded the Thinker Tank Award by Program Director Gretchen Castello, and I tell you, there were no words! Zoe and I were in awe, but as her mom, win or lose, she is wonderful and amazing.

After this journey, Zoe was to compete against thousands of students within the state of California representing St. Lucy Catholic School. All students across California was required to submit a video of their invention, awaiting the results on May 5, 2023. I cannot tell you how many times she edited her video. I think the entire family even left the house so she can focus to re-do her presentations.

As I create this go fund me for Zoe, as her mother, tears run down my face because I can only remember her so vividly when she was just barely walking into St. Lucy and here we are graduating 8th grade soon. If anything I think I am more emotional than her for this journey.

May 5th just passed us by, and never to our surprise, Zoe Hurd Andaya has WON against other inventors, not only to represent St. Lucy Catholic School, but to represent the STATE OF CALIFORNIA!!! Her invention led the way to move on to Nationals. This year’s exciting event will be held June 7-9 at Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn, Michigan.

I ask of your financial support for Zoe to participate in this once in a lifetime event and a deserving trip for her. We are beyond proud, as there are literally no words for her creation, her idea, her persistence and determination. The motivation, inspiration, along with her mentors during this journey have helped her excel to becoming the new future inventors of today.

We are so thankful for the mentors, Mrs. Edwards (principal), Mrs. Gonzalez (coordinator/mentor), all faculty, and Gretchen Castello (Thinker Tank Program Director) for guiding the children of GOD.

Thank you for your support and being a part of our story.