Laura Miller Chen Endowed Scholarship

At the University of Washington, Laura committed herself to supporting and helping others in the UW community. She lived her life with purpose and joy, as well as a perspective on life that was well beyond her years. This commitment to others and perspective on life were shaped by the adversity and obstacles experienced during her time on this earth. She faced many challenges in her life, including cancer as a baby, a difficult childhood, and medical issues that continued into her adulthood. Yet she never let these hardships overshadow her optimistic outlook on life. Despite the challenges, she rose above them and shared her joy and talents with all around her. As one friend stated, “Laura had an ability to be untouched by all of the negative aspects of the world.” Instead she brought with her light and hope, and they radiated from her, touching those around her. She saw the beauty and wonder in the world and the good in humanity, embracing it all. She learned to live in the present and engaged fully in all that she did, as the future was never guaranteed.

What fueled her was her appreciation for life, its duality, and a desire to always learn, grow and serve others. As she encountered experiences that were positive and those that were challenging, she always believed that she was growing as a person. No matter how bright, positive, dark, mundane, challenging or difficult a situation might be, she always treated it as a growth opportunity to better herself so she could continue to help others. She made a commitment to give back to the community and help others overcome their obstacles because she was lucky enough that others had done the same for her.

Laura’s life was cut short due to unforeseen circumstances rooted in her cancer as a baby. She had been in remission for over 30 years. Multiple surgeries as an adult, including a heart valve replacement could not slow her down, and she continued to be grateful for everything she had. She never understood why some people became sad at the prospect of becoming one year older on their birthday, as she never believed she would live to see the age of 30. Because of this attitude, she treated every year after that as a bonus, up until her death at age 35. As I remember Laura, I will always think of her positivity, whimsical sense of humor, and kind, compassionate soul. She truly was a unique individual who embodied unconditional love. With the creation of this scholarship in her name, I know that she is smiling somewhere, proud that her memory will continue to shape and influence someone’s life in a positive way.”