CECU will be celebrating Black History Month by sharing student, faculty, and leadership stories.
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Student Stories
Naomia Rivera - Occupational Therapy Assistant Program graduate from Pima Medical Institute
I served in the US Air Force for over 12 years, working in biomedical engineering and after medically retiring, I continued in the biomedical field, working up to director level. But, I found myself feeling unfulfilled. While in the Air Force, I had been injured and received occupational therapy (OT) for almost two years. Long story short, I was an OT patient who fell in love with OT … so I decided to take the risk of a career switch.
While researching Pima Medical Institute’s Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program, I could not find one bad review. One day while feeling brave, I enrolled in the OTA program. The instructors were amazing, they all brought different perspectives and their breadth of experience added so much value. The way they handled us educationally was very OT like; lots of empathy, flexibility, individualized learning and challenges. By the end of my very first day of field work, I knew I had found my place and was meant to be an OTA. Finding a job was a seamless process. I had choices and I was able to leverage my previous experience into a nice entry-level salary. I am currently an OTA in Prescott Valley, AZ at an inpatient rehabilitation hospital that specializes in neuro and spine and I just love my job!
Because my parents taught me the value of community involvement, I have been actively involved in our state and national OT professional associations. I serve on a justice, diversity, equity and inclusion national committee. Recently, I was surprised and honored to receive the Arizona OTA of the Year Award. I received a quality education from amazing instructors at Pima Medical Institute. My daughter is currently enrolled in their OTA program and that’s about the best endorsement a mom could give!
While researching Pima Medical Institute’s Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program, I could not find one bad review. One day while feeling brave, I enrolled in the OTA program. The instructors were amazing, they all brought different perspectives and their breadth of experience added so much value. The way they handled us educationally was very OT like; lots of empathy, flexibility, individualized learning and challenges. By the end of my very first day of field work, I knew I had found my place and was meant to be an OTA. Finding a job was a seamless process. I had choices and I was able to leverage my previous experience into a nice entry-level salary. I am currently an OTA in Prescott Valley, AZ at an inpatient rehabilitation hospital that specializes in neuro and spine and I just love my job!
Because my parents taught me the value of community involvement, I have been actively involved in our state and national OT professional associations. I serve on a justice, diversity, equity and inclusion national committee. Recently, I was surprised and honored to receive the Arizona OTA of the Year Award. I received a quality education from amazing instructors at Pima Medical Institute. My daughter is currently enrolled in their OTA program and that’s about the best endorsement a mom could give!
Geanette Parker - Medical Billing and Coding certificate program graduate from Carrington College
I’ve worked in the medical field for 25 years. I started off as a certified nursing assistant, then worked as an emergency medical technician and a medical liaison. Medical Billing and Coding has always been a skillset I wanted to acquire, but I never felt I had the time to do it well. When you’re working full time, committing to a full-time college program is tough. But when I lost my job last February, new opportunities presented themselves. I was able to collect unemployment and I also qualified for the New Mexico Workforce Program, which offers grants to help retrain employees. That program covered the cost of my Carrington education, so it felt like the perfect time to make myself more employable once life started returning to normal.
I had heard about Carrington through local TV commercials. I really wanted to do something productive during the pandemic, so I checked out the Carrington website. I decided that returning to school when I wasn’t likely to find a job anyway made a lot of sense. Believe it or not, I was hired three weeks before I graduated! I started my new position as Business Office Manager at Genesis Health in Albuquerque on February 8—exactly one year to the day from when I lost my last job. I graduated on February 26. Even though I hadn’t yet completed my program when I interviewed, I knew having that education and training on my resume would prove valuable—and it did. I’m now managing a team of four and am really enjoying it. And since I live only six minutes from the office, I love my commute, too!
I had heard about Carrington through local TV commercials. I really wanted to do something productive during the pandemic, so I checked out the Carrington website. I decided that returning to school when I wasn’t likely to find a job anyway made a lot of sense. Believe it or not, I was hired three weeks before I graduated! I started my new position as Business Office Manager at Genesis Health in Albuquerque on February 8—exactly one year to the day from when I lost my last job. I graduated on February 26. Even though I hadn’t yet completed my program when I interviewed, I knew having that education and training on my resume would prove valuable—and it did. I’m now managing a team of four and am really enjoying it. And since I live only six minutes from the office, I love my commute, too!
Moriah Martin - Medical Assistant Program graduate from Pima Medical Institute
I was a stay-at-home mom with four children under the age of five. I saw a commercial for Pima Medical Institute and decided to pursue my dream of a career in the medical field. From my first day I felt welcomed, my classmates were friendly, the course load was manageable and I realized this is what I was meant to do. Life was challenging as I was working full time at night to pay the bills, catching a few hours of sleep, and then going to school and caring for my kids during the day.
And then the pandemic hit. I lost my job. Our landlord sold the trailer we were living in and my family was forced out of our home. My husband and I and our little ones ages 5, 3, 2 and 1 slept in our van until we were able to move into an extended stay. It was rough! I got a job at the hotel where we were staying and began taking my classes virtually. It was difficult, but we were eventually able to move into our own apartment. Then I needed to give up my job to start my full-time externship and the bills started piling up. We barely had money for diapers. There was one day that it all felt overwhelming and I wanted to quit. I couldn’t see the long term and I was worried we might be homeless again. I called my mom and she reminded me that I was almost finished and encouraged me to continue. So I didn’t quit!
This has been the hardest year of my life! But recently, I was offered a job at Arizona Community Physicians and I am so excited to be doing a job I love. I set an example for my kids and my mom is so proud of me. I am grateful for Pima Medical. So many people there cared about me and helped me complete this journey. Thank you Pima Medical for jump starting my career in the medical field.
And then the pandemic hit. I lost my job. Our landlord sold the trailer we were living in and my family was forced out of our home. My husband and I and our little ones ages 5, 3, 2 and 1 slept in our van until we were able to move into an extended stay. It was rough! I got a job at the hotel where we were staying and began taking my classes virtually. It was difficult, but we were eventually able to move into our own apartment. Then I needed to give up my job to start my full-time externship and the bills started piling up. We barely had money for diapers. There was one day that it all felt overwhelming and I wanted to quit. I couldn’t see the long term and I was worried we might be homeless again. I called my mom and she reminded me that I was almost finished and encouraged me to continue. So I didn’t quit!
This has been the hardest year of my life! But recently, I was offered a job at Arizona Community Physicians and I am so excited to be doing a job I love. I set an example for my kids and my mom is so proud of me. I am grateful for Pima Medical. So many people there cared about me and helped me complete this journey. Thank you Pima Medical for jump starting my career in the medical field.
Ronald Staten - Pharmacy Technology graduate from San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC)
I’m an impatient person, so I just Googled ‘trade school’ and went for the first one I saw, SJVC. I wanted something really different. I’d heard Pharmacy Technicians made good money, so I was basically sold on that. My research showed potential income way above minimum wage and that you could also work in prison settings, making even better money. That environment (prison) is not intimidating to me at all. I’ve always been adventuresome, and I feel like I’m pretty comfortable wherever I am. I enrolled in SJVC’s Pharmacy Technology program in Lancaster without visiting the campus. Because of Covid, a lot of the classes were online studies. But the in-person classes definitely helped because there are some things you don’t instantly get, so that was a good balance.
I found out there are a lot of other things a Pharmacy Tech can do. You can work in an outpatient pharmacy, inpatient pharmacy, or you can do it from home, which is basically talking with customers about their prescriptions. And just because you’re not strong in one area doesn’t determine that you’re not going to find your groove in another part.
I started my new job in August (after completing the Pharmacy Technology program in July) as a Pharmacy Clerk and when my license goes through, I will become a Pharmacy Technician. Right now, my main responsibility is doing mail-out of prescriptions. Accuracy is definitely important. I also have deliveries, using mail, UPS and a carrier service. It’s a mixture of ringing up in-person customers and taking phone calls from patients or nurses about patients’ medications. I also make sure we have ice for drugs that have to be kept cold.
I found out there are a lot of other things a Pharmacy Tech can do. You can work in an outpatient pharmacy, inpatient pharmacy, or you can do it from home, which is basically talking with customers about their prescriptions. And just because you’re not strong in one area doesn’t determine that you’re not going to find your groove in another part.
I started my new job in August (after completing the Pharmacy Technology program in July) as a Pharmacy Clerk and when my license goes through, I will become a Pharmacy Technician. Right now, my main responsibility is doing mail-out of prescriptions. Accuracy is definitely important. I also have deliveries, using mail, UPS and a carrier service. It’s a mixture of ringing up in-person customers and taking phone calls from patients or nurses about patients’ medications. I also make sure we have ice for drugs that have to be kept cold.
Mark Wilkinson - Graduate of Pennsylvania Gunsmith School
In 2012, I was stationed at McChord Air Force Base. That year defined who I was to become as a person. It was my first duty station, my first time living alone, the year I became a U.S. Citizen and the year I bought my first gun. Fast forward to 2013; By this point, I had built up a small collection of guns and some knowledge. It was also in 2013 that I deployed for the first time and had to be away from my collection. Naturally I resorted to watching gun videos on YouTube to gain more knowledge and gather opinions. I could not wait to get back home and make modifications and upgrades to my treasured collection. But one thing clicked in me after passing so much time watching so many gun reviews; “I want to make guns better” I drew up several concepts that I planned on making but had no knowledge or means to do so. I then looked up several gunsmith schools and after comparing schools, I decided that the Pennsylvania Gunsmith School was going to be my Alma Mater.
Fast Forward to 2017. I had completed my enlistment in the Air Force. I was a new student at PGS and the GI Bill was covering my tuition and living expenses. I worked part-time for extra money but for the most part, I was completely free and ready to learn and experiment with the gunsmithing craft. From the very beginning, my classmates and I were taught the importance of knowing how to fabricate by hand. We then moved on to metal refinishing followed by heat treatment, wood stock making, machining, welding, custom gun building, business practices and several other courses accompanied by industry wide certifications and very informative, straight forward reading material. Another course was Social Media Management which helped me overcome my lack of interest in online self-promotion. Because of PGS’s encouragement, I now have a platform on YouTube & Instagram where I have been able to interact with several big names in the firearms industry.
Being an Alumnus of PGS has become my proudest achievement. I graduated with Honors, a scholarship and recognition from the American Pistolsmith Guild for my custom 1911 project. I made several friends and colleagues who I can call on and share information with at any time. I also know that if I ever need any further assistance, the staff at the Pennsylvania School will be willing to help. My time at PGS has pushed my abilities and imagination to new heights and there is still a lot more to come, both from me and my fellow innovative PGS Gunsmiths.
Fast Forward to 2017. I had completed my enlistment in the Air Force. I was a new student at PGS and the GI Bill was covering my tuition and living expenses. I worked part-time for extra money but for the most part, I was completely free and ready to learn and experiment with the gunsmithing craft. From the very beginning, my classmates and I were taught the importance of knowing how to fabricate by hand. We then moved on to metal refinishing followed by heat treatment, wood stock making, machining, welding, custom gun building, business practices and several other courses accompanied by industry wide certifications and very informative, straight forward reading material. Another course was Social Media Management which helped me overcome my lack of interest in online self-promotion. Because of PGS’s encouragement, I now have a platform on YouTube & Instagram where I have been able to interact with several big names in the firearms industry.
Being an Alumnus of PGS has become my proudest achievement. I graduated with Honors, a scholarship and recognition from the American Pistolsmith Guild for my custom 1911 project. I made several friends and colleagues who I can call on and share information with at any time. I also know that if I ever need any further assistance, the staff at the Pennsylvania School will be willing to help. My time at PGS has pushed my abilities and imagination to new heights and there is still a lot more to come, both from me and my fellow innovative PGS Gunsmiths.
Winston Banks - Pharmacy Technician Program graduate from Pima Medical Institute
After graduating from high school, I was afraid of going to the university and ending up $60,000 in debt, so I got a job instead. It didn’t take long for me to realize my job held no future for me and that’s when I decided to look into the medical field where I could have a stable career and growth opportunities. I’ve always been good at math, so I was looking into pharmacy when I heard a commercial for Pima Medical Institute and decided to enroll in the Pharmacy Technician program. My instructors were accomplished in their field and everyone there wanted me to succeed. I didn’t own a car at the time so each day I would ride the bus for two hours, attend four hours of class, and then ride the bus two hours home. Yep – it was an eight-hour day for me, but I loved it!
Over the years, I’ve held a variety of positions but currently, I am working as a pharmacy liaison at University of Colorado’s health transplant clinic. Because I want to grow in the medical field, I recently obtained my bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration from Colorado State University and I plan next to get my MBA. My eventual dream is to be the director of a clinic, urgent care or even hospital.
To help broaden my experience in the health care field, I took a position as an evening Career Prep instructor at Pima Medical’s Aurora Campus. I am able to encourage and motivate my students as well as be understanding. For example, evening classes are a struggle for many of my students who work all day and I can totally relate since I also have a day job. I have found that I love teaching! I am grateful for Pima Medical Institute. Their education is top notch!
Over the years, I’ve held a variety of positions but currently, I am working as a pharmacy liaison at University of Colorado’s health transplant clinic. Because I want to grow in the medical field, I recently obtained my bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration from Colorado State University and I plan next to get my MBA. My eventual dream is to be the director of a clinic, urgent care or even hospital.
To help broaden my experience in the health care field, I took a position as an evening Career Prep instructor at Pima Medical’s Aurora Campus. I am able to encourage and motivate my students as well as be understanding. For example, evening classes are a struggle for many of my students who work all day and I can totally relate since I also have a day job. I have found that I love teaching! I am grateful for Pima Medical Institute. Their education is top notch!
Sekayi Scott - Nursing Graduate of Brookline College
I chose Brookline as the location to complete my Bachelor’s degree due to the kindness of the people that worked there. As soon as I walked through the doors and made clear of my intentions of becoming a nurse, the Nursing Faculty and Staff made sure I had everything I needed to succeed. They also were invested in getting to know me as a person and not as a number to determine school pass rates. That alone was more than what other colleges in the area were willing to do.
The Brookline College Nursing Faculty and Staff have been involved in nurturing me as a student from the beginning. Not only did they provide an environment to study, but also ensured that troubles I faced (academic or otherwise) were met quickly. They allowed guidance to prevail so that when I struggled (as any nursing student does) they were there beside me with a guiding hand.
Education has always played an active role in my life. Both of my parents, as well as extended family members, have various degrees in a variety of career paths. I have learned from my family that education leads to opportunity and the ability to make choices, which in turn allows generations after you more opportunities to make the most of their lives.
The Brookline College Nursing Faculty and Staff have been involved in nurturing me as a student from the beginning. Not only did they provide an environment to study, but also ensured that troubles I faced (academic or otherwise) were met quickly. They allowed guidance to prevail so that when I struggled (as any nursing student does) they were there beside me with a guiding hand.
Education has always played an active role in my life. Both of my parents, as well as extended family members, have various degrees in a variety of career paths. I have learned from my family that education leads to opportunity and the ability to make choices, which in turn allows generations after you more opportunities to make the most of their lives.
Keishawn Abney - Criminal Justice Corrections graduate from San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC)
My childhood mentor, Randy Simmons, was a LAPD officer and SWAT team member. He had brought it (career in law enforcement) up in church and when I got interested, he talked with me about it. Sadly, Officer Simmons died in the line of duty on a LAPD SWAT call out in 2008. And I wanted to emulate my uncle Joseph who was also in law enforcement. He gave me my first ballistic vest when I was just nineteen. Later, I used that vest as a private contractor for the Federal government before I became a federal employee. When I went to work, I always had it on.
I worked for Lockheed Martin as a security guard but saw lots of opportunities if I had higher credentials. I saw an ad for SJVC (Criminal Justice Corrections program) on Facebook. I decided to schedule an appointment with an Admissions Advisor (Jessica), and I saw the opportunity I could get from doing the CJC program. It tied in with my security background and helped me move into a supervisor position at Lockheed Martin (where I was working at that time).
I worked for Lockheed Martin as a security guard but saw lots of opportunities if I had higher credentials. I saw an ad for SJVC (Criminal Justice Corrections program) on Facebook. I decided to schedule an appointment with an Admissions Advisor (Jessica), and I saw the opportunity I could get from doing the CJC program. It tied in with my security background and helped me move into a supervisor position at Lockheed Martin (where I was working at that time).
Sholanda (McGill) Henry - Respiratory Therapy Program graduate from Pima Medical Institute
I was raising four children and getting away from a domestic abuse situation when I moved to Las Vegas. I had been to college for accounting and business, but knew I needed a new direction. Through my daughter’s asthma and my exposure to the medical field, I realized I wanted to help others. After researching, I found Pima Medical Institute’s Respiratory Therapy program and ended up getting the last spot in my class.
Toward the end of the program, my daughter was kidnapped. I still made it to my clinical site after looking for her all over Vegas and putting up posters. I was so close to graduation and didn’t want to quit. It is certainly an accelerated program and wasn’t easy, but my instructors saw potential in me and pushed me. In fact, one of my instructors spent extra time tutoring me on mechanical ventilation so I wouldn’t fail. Thankfully, we ended up finding my daughter. It was such a painful time in my life, but when I walked across that stage at graduation, I felt so fulfilled.
I had several job offers, but chose to accept a respiratory therapist position at UMC where I had completed my clinicals. Later, my career took me to the Veterans Affair where I ran a C-Pap Clinic for a time. Currently, my husband and I own our own company, Simply Medical Recruiting. We even work with Pima Medical’s career services department to help find positions for their graduates. Pima Medical is a gateway to a better life. It has changed my life and has continued to open doors for me.
Toward the end of the program, my daughter was kidnapped. I still made it to my clinical site after looking for her all over Vegas and putting up posters. I was so close to graduation and didn’t want to quit. It is certainly an accelerated program and wasn’t easy, but my instructors saw potential in me and pushed me. In fact, one of my instructors spent extra time tutoring me on mechanical ventilation so I wouldn’t fail. Thankfully, we ended up finding my daughter. It was such a painful time in my life, but when I walked across that stage at graduation, I felt so fulfilled.
I had several job offers, but chose to accept a respiratory therapist position at UMC where I had completed my clinicals. Later, my career took me to the Veterans Affair where I ran a C-Pap Clinic for a time. Currently, my husband and I own our own company, Simply Medical Recruiting. We even work with Pima Medical’s career services department to help find positions for their graduates. Pima Medical is a gateway to a better life. It has changed my life and has continued to open doors for me.
Andrea Borras-Reed - Nursing graduate from Unitek
For me school has always been an option; it was just a matter of gaining the finances to do it. Being a mom at an early age, I wanted to set a good example for my kids and provide them with the life that I knew they deserved. Working in the healthcare field has always been a dream for me; it was just a matter of making it my reality. The first time I inquired about attending the nursing program at Unitek, financial aid was not available, and at that time I didn't have enough money. Because of the financial aspect, I decided to start off as a CNA. Once I was working as a CNA, I realized how much I wanted to be a nurse. My patients would often tell me how good of a nurse I would be and how they admired my resilience. Once I started attending school for my LVN, I became more confident, not just as a student, but as a person. I started believing in myself, knowing that I could make a difference was enough to drive me to keep going through the difficult tasks set in place. Once I graduated from Unitek, my degree allowed me to obtain jobs that would have been impossible to secure without education. Attending school has also inspired me to be the leader that I was destined to be.
Throughout my journey, I have been blessed with phenomenal relationships that have provided me with a great support system. In addition, I have been able to connect with people from around the world who share the same love for nursing, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Throughout my journey, I have been blessed with phenomenal relationships that have provided me with a great support system. In addition, I have been able to connect with people from around the world who share the same love for nursing, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Video Stories
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Faculty Stories
Arlene Lyons - Founder/Owner, Paul Mitchell School Esani & Paul Mitchell School Sacramento
Black History Month is a time to pay homage to not only the larger-than-life historical figures, like Martin Luther King Jr., who transformed the lives of Black people for generations, but also, the much lesser known black “Hidden Figures,” many of whom have transformed the way of life for not just America, but for the world. Like Dr. Gladys West who played a key role in inventing GPS technology and Dr. Patricia E. Bath who helped invent laser eye surgery. And in more modern life-saving history, we cannot forget black female immunologist, 34-year-old Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, who helped develop the mRNA COVID vaccine.
In the beauty industry, we are inspired by Madam C. J. Walker, a black woman of very modest means who in the 1910s became the first female self-made millionaire in the U.S. with her homemade haircare products and enterprising spirit.
However, the heroes that we must also never forget are the ones we see every day in our schools, some of whom come to us with big dreams but broken spirits; having had to battle unimaginable odds like homelessness, domestic abuse, and so much more. In many cases, our schools are their only safe haven, our care and compassion are the only motivation they have, and their chosen trade is (in their minds at least) their only ticket to a happy and productive life.
So, as we celebrate Black History Month, I want to pay homage to our School’s heroes – like Migdalia, Ida, Shawnese, Gaza, Tina, Christie, Champ, Tuson, Camela, Tia, Ray, Za, Kreshia, and the many other diverse students who walked into our doors with only a small ray of hope, and today are making a name for themselves excelling at doing a trade that they love.
I am humbled to be in an industry that attracts a significant number of black women and other diverse people, where my success as a black female entrepreneur could be a shining example and a credible inspiration. I can’t think of a better way to honor Black History than to contribute each and every day to Black History in the making.
As we honor Black History Month, let us remember that “reflection without action” has no impact, and “celebration without contribution” has no purpose. So, let’s do our part to make “Black History Month” a personal call to service every day of our lives.
In the beauty industry, we are inspired by Madam C. J. Walker, a black woman of very modest means who in the 1910s became the first female self-made millionaire in the U.S. with her homemade haircare products and enterprising spirit.
However, the heroes that we must also never forget are the ones we see every day in our schools, some of whom come to us with big dreams but broken spirits; having had to battle unimaginable odds like homelessness, domestic abuse, and so much more. In many cases, our schools are their only safe haven, our care and compassion are the only motivation they have, and their chosen trade is (in their minds at least) their only ticket to a happy and productive life.
So, as we celebrate Black History Month, I want to pay homage to our School’s heroes – like Migdalia, Ida, Shawnese, Gaza, Tina, Christie, Champ, Tuson, Camela, Tia, Ray, Za, Kreshia, and the many other diverse students who walked into our doors with only a small ray of hope, and today are making a name for themselves excelling at doing a trade that they love.
I am humbled to be in an industry that attracts a significant number of black women and other diverse people, where my success as a black female entrepreneur could be a shining example and a credible inspiration. I can’t think of a better way to honor Black History than to contribute each and every day to Black History in the making.
As we honor Black History Month, let us remember that “reflection without action” has no impact, and “celebration without contribution” has no purpose. So, let’s do our part to make “Black History Month” a personal call to service every day of our lives.
Alice Sorrell-Thompson - Vocational Nursing Program Director at Integrity College of Health
Black History month for me is an opportunity for deep reflection and a time for me to measure how my actions have honored the legacy of our ancestors. I am the great-niece of Sylvia E. Reed, RN, who was the first black nurse allowed to work in an ICU in the U.S. She worked in Cleveland, OH, and at the time of her retirement in 1970, she was the nurse manager of that ICU. It is during Black History month that I reflect on whether I have effectively carried on her trailblazing legacy. Seeing role models in your chosen vocation is a motivator to actively engage in preparation for that role. It is a symbol that you can be successful and achieve your goal. While engaging with ICH nursing students I encourage them to search for the first person in nursing that looks like them, the importance of feeling and seeing a historic connection to your chosen field lights a fire in the student and lets them see that others before them achieved their goal and made a difference for others. February 2022, we remember Mary Eliza Mahoney-the first professional trained nurse in the U.S. Our first black R.N.! We currently honor Dr. Linda Burnes-Bolton DrPH, RN, FAAN who is the first senior vice-president and chief health equity officer for Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and one of my nursing mentors. We will as always give thanks to our ancestors upon who’s shoulders, we continue to stand.
Frederick Holland - Campus Director at Unitek
While there are many memories, and milestones over the past two centuries, I have a few favorites when I think of Black History. The dynamic voice of MLK, the subtle reaction of Rosa Parks, the brutal murder of Emmett Till and Brown vs the Board of Education. Though all different, they each in their own way moved Civil Rights forward. These hard-earned changes afforded me the opportunity to receive a completely different upbringing than the generation before me. As I moved through school and life, doors opened for me that were previously closed. When I interviewed to be an Admissions Rep for National Education Center, it never crossed my mind I would not be hired based on skin color. When I was promoted to Admissions Director 5 years later, it was based on the skills I had learned. Four years later I got my first opportunity to be a school director, at a school that only had one program and about 75 students. I have been in the industry for 30 years, and have been truly blessed by all the lives I have touched, and how in turn the many students whose paths I have crossed helped me become a better leader. When I was in Admissions, to experience the joy you feel when a student wants to introduce you to their family, and tell them how much they valued you is amazing. And it is hard to hold back tears of joy when a grandmother comes to you at graduation and says to you how much you have done for their family. As a leader, there is a feeling you get when you can promote from within that is hard to describe. And I experience extreme satisfaction when a colleague lets me know how much they learned while working for me. In a small way, I have truly had the opportunity to pay it forward, in a way that pays homage to those whose footsteps I walk in.
Shevonne Scott - Dean of Nursing at Brookline College
As an African American female, I have had to overcome many obstacles to get to where I am today. I call myself a walking statistic: black, female, raised by a single parent who gave birth as a teenager, low socioeconomic background, bad neighborhood, etc. By all standards, I wasn't supposed to succeed; I was supposed to stay where I was, repeating the actions of previous generations.
My ability to move beyond my background was based on faith, mentoring, and education. Faith allowed me to see past what I was told could not be done, to what was possible. Mentoring was crucial to helping me expand my viewpoint. Education allowed me to be confident and competent enough walk through the door that mentoring and faith told me existed. Earning a baccalaureate degree in nursing was the initial step towards my future success. I was later able to earn a master’s degree in nursing and am working towards a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership.
I’m proud to have served in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel after 20 years. The experience of serving broadened my mind along by taking me places that I had only ever read about. Now, through my work at Brookline College, I’m able to live out another passion of mine, which is to share my knowledge with others. As the Dean of Nursing for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program for the past 4 years, I’m able to make an impact, not only the lives of the students that are in my classroom, but also in their families and communities. I’m able to uniquely connect with students of various backgrounds letting them know that they can succeed and that nothing is beyond their grasp!
My ability to move beyond my background was based on faith, mentoring, and education. Faith allowed me to see past what I was told could not be done, to what was possible. Mentoring was crucial to helping me expand my viewpoint. Education allowed me to be confident and competent enough walk through the door that mentoring and faith told me existed. Earning a baccalaureate degree in nursing was the initial step towards my future success. I was later able to earn a master’s degree in nursing and am working towards a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership.
I’m proud to have served in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel after 20 years. The experience of serving broadened my mind along by taking me places that I had only ever read about. Now, through my work at Brookline College, I’m able to live out another passion of mine, which is to share my knowledge with others. As the Dean of Nursing for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program for the past 4 years, I’m able to make an impact, not only the lives of the students that are in my classroom, but also in their families and communities. I’m able to uniquely connect with students of various backgrounds letting them know that they can succeed and that nothing is beyond their grasp!
Brandon Egerton - Program Director, Recording Arts Degree Program, Full Sail University
Black History Month is an opportunity for me to pause and reflect on those whose shoulders I stand. Many of the opportunities that I enjoy today were not available to my ancestors—but it is their sacrifice, perseverance, and character that made it possible for me and so many others to do so. It is my responsibility to honor their legacy by being the best “me” that I can be and empowering others to do the same. Though my music industry career is what led me to Full Sail University, it is our shared philosophy of “If you’re serious about your dream, we’ll take your dream seriously,” that drives me. I love seeing people win at life and fulfill their purpose. I am the product of many people in my own life who saw things in me before I could see them in myself. I aim to be that source of encouragement and inspiration for others.
Black History Month is also a moment to recognize and celebrate the many contributions and achievements of African Americans. I come from a family who has served and contributed to our country in a variety of ways—military service, education, government, the medical field, clergy, athletics, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and many others. I want to do my part also. Working at this crossroads of education and entertainment provides me with the platform to do just that. As the leader of Full Sail’s flagship Recording Arts Program, it is my privilege to have the opportunity to help shape the future of our students—some of tomorrow’s leaders and influencers. My background allows me to relate and connect with many students in an authentic way and provides an opportunity to challenge them to realize their full potential. If I can help them make progress on their journey, then I’m doing my part to honor the legacy of those who have come before me.
Black History Month is also a moment to recognize and celebrate the many contributions and achievements of African Americans. I come from a family who has served and contributed to our country in a variety of ways—military service, education, government, the medical field, clergy, athletics, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and many others. I want to do my part also. Working at this crossroads of education and entertainment provides me with the platform to do just that. As the leader of Full Sail’s flagship Recording Arts Program, it is my privilege to have the opportunity to help shape the future of our students—some of tomorrow’s leaders and influencers. My background allows me to relate and connect with many students in an authentic way and provides an opportunity to challenge them to realize their full potential. If I can help them make progress on their journey, then I’m doing my part to honor the legacy of those who have come before me.
Debbie Barrett-Bryson - Professor at Brookline College
Black History Month means everything to me. It allows people to reflect on how far we have come, but also how much more we still need to go. When I first thought that I wanted to be an RN, I went to visit a college, but there were no faculty or students that looked like me. I was the only Black student in every class I have taken. From my Associate degree through my Master’s, once I passed the NCLEX, I was still, until recently, the only Black staff nurse and Educator everywhere I worked. It wasn’t until I got involved with the Ohio Nurses Association and I met my mentor. She was a Professor in Nursing and gave me my push to look into being an educator. Once I started, I loved it, and I keep in touch with her as my mentor.
But I still find at many conferences and Universities that I am the only Black Educator in the crowd. I recently felt what being a Black Nursing Professor means to my Black students when I meet a student starting my class. Once I told her who I was, she embraced me so hard to where I could not breath. She stated, “a Black instructor, I didn’t know the school had any. Finally, a professor that looks like me.” I knew those word because I have spoken them myself. She brought tears to my eyes, to know that I can change a young Black student’s life.
But I still find at many conferences and Universities that I am the only Black Educator in the crowd. I recently felt what being a Black Nursing Professor means to my Black students when I meet a student starting my class. Once I told her who I was, she embraced me so hard to where I could not breath. She stated, “a Black instructor, I didn’t know the school had any. Finally, a professor that looks like me.” I knew those word because I have spoken them myself. She brought tears to my eyes, to know that I can change a young Black student’s life.
Maria Ferguson - Department Chair, Digital Marketing Master’s Degree, Full Sail University
Black History month, for me, is a reminder that change is possible. It encourages me to persevere no matter what obstacles I encounter or challenges I face. When I think of great change agents like Harriet Tubman, Thurgood Marshall, Rosa Parks, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I see evidence that change can happen and it is worth fighting for. However, I am also reminded that change can't be stagnant, it must involve consistent progression powered by continued commitment and ongoing development.
At Full Sail University, through real-world, hands-on education, we pride ourselves in encouraging students to become change agents. We embolden them to disrupt the music industry, transform the film industry, revolutionize business, and innovate technology.
It is my hope that our students will leverage their knowledge and expertise to bring about positive change, systemic change, and life altering change; change that will break down barriers to industries that once did not accept them, allow them to occupy positions that were once unattainable, and empower them to do things that were once deemed impossible. It is my hope that our students and other talented change leaders will one day be recognized and celebrated as contributors to Black History, not just for a month, but throughout the year.
At Full Sail University, through real-world, hands-on education, we pride ourselves in encouraging students to become change agents. We embolden them to disrupt the music industry, transform the film industry, revolutionize business, and innovate technology.
It is my hope that our students will leverage their knowledge and expertise to bring about positive change, systemic change, and life altering change; change that will break down barriers to industries that once did not accept them, allow them to occupy positions that were once unattainable, and empower them to do things that were once deemed impossible. It is my hope that our students and other talented change leaders will one day be recognized and celebrated as contributors to Black History, not just for a month, but throughout the year.
Judy Bacchus - Director of Financial Aid at Unitek
Black History is a time of celebration and thanking those African Americans like Martin Luther King for giving us hope and pathing a way for people of color. I grew up in Ohio in the sixties and seventies. I was bused to school outside of my neighborhood at the start of integration which looking back was a benefit for me. This would not have been possible without the sacrifice of MLK, Rosa Parks and all those Civil Rights Movements. As a result, I was able to attend college that would not have been afforded me. Over the past 40 years doors were opened that allowed me to be hired in positions of leadership at schools that hired me because of my abilities and not my color. I think about the sacrifice of my grandparents and my parents who did not get these opportunities but always pushed me to do my part and be any example for others like myself to stive. Working in education over the years has given me the chance to help so many students and staff reach their goals. Any when some of them tell you that what you have done made a difference, it really makes you feel good. I hope over the years I have also been a positive example to the many folks like those who came before me made a difference in my life.
Vonda Russell - Pharmacy Instructor at Brookline College
Black History Month means a multitude of things to me: It is a time to dispel myths and honor contributions that have been made in history, a time to celebrate and continue breaking barriers. During the month of February, it is important to enlighten others to help them gain knowledge that one can share for generations to come.
Society tends to speak of the hurt and pain we received in this world, and although it is part of the history, over the years I have changed my focus to reflect on the positivity that has come about and the fact that our younger generations will continue to contribute with advancements . With their intelligence, knowledge, and skill they are going to help change the world.
Never be limited by other people's limited imaginations – Mae Jemison, Astronaut
Society tends to speak of the hurt and pain we received in this world, and although it is part of the history, over the years I have changed my focus to reflect on the positivity that has come about and the fact that our younger generations will continue to contribute with advancements . With their intelligence, knowledge, and skill they are going to help change the world.
Never be limited by other people's limited imaginations – Mae Jemison, Astronaut