Willis was nominated for the contest by her grandparents and aunt, who shared:

"Willis has helped so much in her community and church while her dad was deployed, in addition to helping her mother and brother move off-base into a new home.  She is such a blessing to not only her family but the community programs in which she volunteers, her homeschool community, and church community.

Willis has a strong moral compass and determined self-discipline.  She is a role model in school, homeschool co-ops, and church camp.  She also volunteers for Project Zero and The Call, which helps open foster homes.

Willis has helped with many facets of the foster care program, including wrapping gifts at Christmas.  She loves being involved in church activities and has been brave in demonstrating her musical talents at summer camp. Willis is an avid reader, artist, and musician.  She has been active in soccer, dance, church plays, piano lessons, and orchestra.

Willis has assisted with cooking and cleaning duties, taken care of her dogs, and helped her brothers with their studies.  It was a lot while her dad was deployed, but she never complained.”