HR Professional Appreciates Personalized Attention She Received Through Online Program

How did you decide to enroll at Anderson University?

I decided to enroll at Anderson University after reaching a point in my career where, despite years of experience in human resources, I felt stuck. I had the drive and the practical knowledge, but I realized that to break through to a director-level role, I needed to further my education and sharpen my leadership skills.

Anderson University stood out for several reasons—most notably, its strong Christian foundation. Having spent my entire life in Christian education, AU felt like a natural extension of the values and community that have always been important to me. The university’s commitment to both academic excellence and spiritual growth made it the right fit. Being a native of Anderson, South Carolina, also made the decision feel like a meaningful return to my roots—pursuing my goals in a place that has always been home.

I was also blessed with the encouragement of a former advisor who never stopped believing in my potential. She consistently pushed me to strive for more and still sends uplifting messages that remind me why I started this journey. With her support, I returned to AU to pursue my master’s degree—and proudly graduated in Spring 2025.

Now, as I explore the possibility of pursuing a Ph.D. or DBA, I feel energized and inspired by the path ahead. Enrolling at Anderson University was one of the best decisions I’ve made—not just for my career, but for my personal growth and purpose.

What got you interested in organizational leadership?

What sparked my interest in organizational leadership was a combination of early career experiences and a deep desire to lead with purpose and effectiveness. I began my professional journey in 1999, working part-time with a staffing agency at a manufacturing facility where my father had been employed for 37 years. His recent retirement—with 35 years of perfect attendance—left a lasting impression on me about commitment, integrity, and the value of work.

That role introduced me to the staffing industry, which naturally led me into the broader field of human resources. As I grew in the HR space, I noticed something important: while many professionals hold degrees in business or HR, not all leaders have the necessary skills to lead well. I saw firsthand how a lack of effective leadership could impact team morale, productivity, and organizational success.

That realization drove me to pursue formal education in organizational leadership. I didn’t just want to work in HR—I wanted to influence culture, mentor others, and build environments where people thrive. Developing strong leadership competencies was essential—not only to complement my HR knowledge, but to prepare me to lead in a way that’s ethical, empathetic, and impactful.

Did you go straight from undergrad to your graduate school? 

I didn’t go directly to graduate school after completing my undergraduate degree in 2021. Although I had initially planned to enroll soon after, unforeseen family circumstances arose that made it necessary to postpone my plans.

Still, I never saw this as the end of my academic journey—just a temporary delay. Those challenges, while significant, gave me the space to regain my focus and reaffirm my goals. In 2024, I returned to pursue my master’s degree, and I know I’m just getting started. My journey is far from over, and I’m excited for what lies ahead.

Tell me a little bit about your experience with Anderson University and how you feel you’ve been helped professionally at this point.

My experience at Anderson University has been nothing short of transformative—both personally and professionally. When I first enrolled, I was navigating significant life changes, including the loss of my husband in 2013 and the responsibilities of raising three children while working full-time. AU provided not just an academic foundation, but a supportive environment that encouraged me to keep going, even when the path was tough.

The faculty and advisors genuinely cared about my success. They didn’t just see me as a student—they saw me as a professional, a parent, and a person with real-world challenges. Their encouragement and flexibility made it possible for me to continue my education without compromising my responsibilities.

Professionally, my time at AU gave me the tools and confidence to grow in my career, especially in human resources and talent acquisition. The coursework, mentorship, and leadership development helped me refine my skills, expand my network, and ultimately elevate my credibility in the field. I now feel equipped—not just with knowledge, but with the confidence to lead, influence, and pursue higher goals like a Ph.D. or DBA.

Anderson University didn’t just help me earn a degree—it helped me step fully into who I’m becoming.

Let’s talk about juggling family and career and school.

Shortly after the passing of my husband, I began my studies at Anderson University, seeking a renewed focus and purpose. Before attending AU, I spent two years at Tri-County Technical College. As a result, my academic journey has been nontraditional—marked by pauses and restarts as life circumstances demanded.

Throughout this time, I was raising three children, working full-time, and actively volunteering as a firefighter, with Habitat for Humanity, and the American Red Cross. Balancing these responsibilities was undoubtedly challenging, but each role contributed significantly to my personal and professional growth.

How did you become involved in firefighting, Habitat for Humanity, and the American Red Cross?

Human resources and staffing are inherently aligned; those who work in staffing often have strong feelings about the field—either a deep appreciation or a strong aversion. The same can be said for human resources. I have always harbored a passion for helping others, and my experience as a volunteer firefighter allowed me to assist people in a different capacity. During the day, I support individuals within the office environment, and at night, I engage in life-saving efforts. This dual commitment provides a continuous source of adrenaline that I thoroughly enjoy. However, I took a step back from firefighting to focus on my graduation and other responsibilities, recognizing that sometimes life presents hurdles. The key is to remain committed to getting back on track, regardless of the challenges faced.

What's been the best part of your AU education?

Earning my degree has significantly expanded my professional opportunities. For example, my volunteer work with the Red Cross, when combined with my human resources background, has allowed organizations to better understand my qualifications and identify roles where I can contribute most effectively. Graduating with my undergraduate degree in 2021 has already opened many doors—and now, with a graduate degree on the horizon, I look forward to even more exciting opportunities ahead.

In my career in talent acquisition, it's common for others to research my profile on social media platforms after receiving my business card. With both degrees under my belt, I feel like I now carry a "stamp of approval"—a formal recognition of the skills I've developed throughout my career, whether self-taught or gained through professional experience. This validation not only enhances my credibility but also confirms that I am qualified and capable. Walking across the graduation stage—not once, but twice—has been an incredibly gratifying milestone that affirms my journey and achievements.

Any shout-outs to professors or others at AU?

First and foremost, I wish to express my gratitude and praise to God for guiding me throughout this journey in my career. His support has been instrumental in helping me remain focused and dedicated to achieving this significant milestone in my life.

Next, I’d like to thank Dr. Gilbert Eyabi for playing a pivotal role in my academic journey. I must admit that mathematics has never been my favorite subject, but he consistently encouraged me by saying that math is beautiful. On graduation day, I shared with him, "You know, there is only one thing you were wrong about." When he inquired what that was, I replied, "Math is not beautiful; math is of the devil." We both erupted in laughter, and I have a memorable photo capturing that joyful moment that I will cherish forever.

In addition, I would like to express my gratitude to my parents for their invaluable support throughout my academic journey. They helped with my children during times when I needed to study or attend to matters on campus. Their support has been crucial, not only in a financial capacity but also emotionally, serving as an overall foundation that helped me remain focused on my goals.

Most importantly, I would like to acknowledge my children, who played a vital role in encouraging me to persevere with my online exams and homework when they were very young, at ages 11 and 8, as I began this journey in 2010. Their willingness to assist with their younger sibling, born in 2009, provided me with the necessary support to continue my education. There were times when they would literally need to nudge me awake after I had dozed off during my studies. Their reminders were essential in helping me maintain focus and engagement in my academic pursuits.

Lastly and certainly not the least, I would like to acknowledge the additional support I have received, I would like to extend a special thank you to my friends who helped during the days I needed it most. Whether it was treating me to lunch, offering soup and gifts on my migraine days, or providing a bit of financial aid to help me through the semester, their kindness made a significant difference. Thank you.

At the end of the day, what gives you a real feeling of accomplishment?

What gives me a real feeling of accomplishment as a leader is seeing the direct impact of perseverance, purpose, and service—both in my own journey and in those I’ve had the privilege to support. I’ve navigated personal loss, balanced full-time work and parenthood, returned to school after delays, and still made time to serve my community. Every challenge has sharpened my ability to lead with empathy, determination, and clarity.

True accomplishment isn’t just about titles or degrees—it’s about growth, integrity, and influence. It’s about watching someone I mentor step confidently into a new role or knowing that a project I helped guide made a meaningful difference. It’s about showing others, by example, that setbacks don’t define your story—resilience does.

What advice would you give to someone who is working, they've got a family, they're raising their kids. Why go to college? 

My advice? Go to college—because you’re worth the investment.

I know what it’s like to work full-time, raise children, face unexpected life challenges, and still carry the quiet hope of finishing a degree. It’s not easy. But earning your education isn't just about a piece of paper—it’s about growth, confidence, and creating more options for yourself and your family.

College gives you more than knowledge. It gives you a voice in rooms you might have been excluded from. It gives you credibility when you're already doing the work but want to be recognized for it. And most importantly, it models resilience and determination for your children. When they see you juggling responsibilities and still pushing forward, they learn what strength, sacrifice, and ambition look like.

You don’t have to do it all at once. Take one class. Then another. Progress is progress. And every step you take is a step toward a future where you’re not just surviving—you’re leading, building, and thriving.