One gift. One student. A lifetime of impact.

Balancing work, motherhood, and loss, I knew pursuing a degree had to fit my real life. An online program made that possible, but it was donor support that truly carried me through.

When grief and financial strain made me question everything, that support reminded me I wasn’t alone. Because someone believed in me, I found the strength to keep going, and to give back. Today, I lead and support students like me, ensuring they feel seen, capable, and that they belong.

Your generosity does more than fund education. It restores hope, strengthens families, and changes futures.

Many students are just one setback away from stopping out. You can change that.

Make a gift today and help a student keep going.

With gratitude,

Vanessa Rivera-Tirado '26