Sarah strives to give a voice to persons unable to speak for themselves, and to minister to communities in desperate need of resources for the caring of persons with disabilities.
Paula Verret, Close Family Friend Long-time family friend, Paula Verret, shares similar remembrances of Sarah: From very early on, she had the kindest heart. Even at six years old, she gravitated to little children and was always helping them. She protected them on the playground and in class. Watching her grow, I always knew she would become a force for good in people’s lives. Some things you can just tell from the beginning. Her mother, Arlene, was a wonderful influence, and always promoted her daughters’ education.
Patricia Delcambre, Carencro High School English Teacher for 32 Years During Patricia Delcambre’s longstanding career as an educator, thousands of children have sat in her classroom. Although over a decade has passed since Sarah graduated from Carencro High School, Delcambre’s memories of her and her family remain vivid: When I learned Sarah had gone to Haiti, I was not surprised she was drawn to missionary work. Sarah was very active in student council, civic minded, connected to the community, and cognizant of the greater good. She was not raised to follow the traditional culture of adolescence. She did not date. It was Sarah’s choice. You could see she was in no hurry to get serious…Her parents encouraged her to be her own person. I believe that Sarah was being prepared to take a different path. And so she has. I so admire her self sacrifice, and how she has advocated on behalf of Nika and the children of Haiti.
A Mother’s Guidance Arlene Conque believes that instilling an early love for learning profoundly shaped Sarah’s character and career path: When my daughters were still in grammar school, I explained that when they got older, high school was a time to prepare for their future, not find a boyfriend. So when the time came, they were very comfortable with that idea. They enjoyed school and looked forward to college. By the time Sarah was pursuing her masters at the University of Mississippi, she already knew her path. I trust her judgment and support her dream to help the children of Haiti. I admire her so much.
A Daughter’s Gratitude Conque often expresses admiration and gratitude for her parents, whose example, belief, support and inspiration, encouraged her to pursue her dream: [They] have always beautifully modeled what it means to put others first…I’ve watched them serve their community and encourage others to love. I’m extremely lucky to have been taught and nurtured by parents who are unwavering in their beliefs. They raised me with a solid foundation from which to build, and have always supported my following my dreams. My gratitude is infinite for their love and support.