Ashley's Story

Upon enrollment, Ashley, STARS scholar from 2013-2015, had completed her GED through the Youth Program at IWCC and continued on to receive her associates in Human Services. In 2015 she relocated to Cedar Falls, IA where she completed her Bachelors in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa and is now studying for her Masters in Mental Health Counseling.

Ashley knows first-hand the challenges that come with being a single mom while pursuing her college degree. Ashley says, “STARS was more than a scholarship opportunity, the one-on-one meetings, guiding and assistance in navigating community recourses was also beneficial. For example, childcare was one barrier that Ashley faced and needed to find a solution so that she could make it to classes. "STARS was able to refer me to the Head Start Program for my two boys and alleviate a large expense and I could focus more on my academics and other living expenses.” Ashley was recently promoted to a COR Care Manager at CenterPoint Campus for Hope where she currently has the opportunity to share her story in hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams.