In recognition of Nontraditional Student Week this November, Temple University celebrates the students who remind us that it’s never too late to learn, grow and pursue something new. Through our noncredit programs, these learners are building skills, strengthening their communities and creating opportunities for themselves and others.
Dominique Howard
Temple program: Community Health Worker Training Program
Dominique pursued community health worker training because she loves helping people, learning new things and finding ways to better herself. While working full-time and caring for three children, she sometimes felt overwhelmed by the demands of school, work and home. Her children were one of her biggest motivations to keep going. After graduating, she was hired as a Community Health Worker at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, where she enjoys supporting families and connecting them with resources.
In their own words:
"My message to anyone who is thinking about taking the next step is to believe in yourself and don’t let fear or doubt stop you. It may feel overwhelming in the beginning, but you are capable of more than you think."
Brian A. Jones
Temple programs: Community Health Worker Training Program; Grant Writing Certificate Program
Brian wanted to be further equipped to serve our community. He sets aside time to take classes, read and study, starting as early as 5 a.m. He is proud to be credentialed as a Certified Community Health Worker and Board-Certified Patient Advocate and to have completed Temple’s Grant Writing Certificate Program.
In their own words:
“Over the years I have learned the importance of being a lifelong learner. With the ever-changing dynamics of the world and technology, it is essential in my mind to stay current with the changes thru adult education.”
Tess Forte
Temple program: Grant Writing Certificate Program
As a career copywriter and creative director in arts and media, Tess sought a new professional pathway that would allow her to continue working while gaining new skills. She appreciated having weekend classes that fit around her full-time job and family responsibilities. Today, she is proud to have “an almost entirely different career” than she did two years ago while continuing to build on her existing experience and connections.
In their own words:
“This takes courage and commitment, but if I could do it, you can!”
Tyrell Whitehead
Temple program: Grant Writing Certificate Program
Tyrell wants to grow personally and professionally, build on his experience working with youth and supporting his community, and create new opportunities for himself. He approaches balancing learning with other responsibilities through discipline, planning and intentional time management. He is proud of continuing to push himself, invest in his future and use his experience as motivation to keep learning and growing.
In their own words:
“My learning journey means growth, purpose, and creating new opportunities for myself. It reminds me that it’s never too late to invest in yourself or take your life to another level.”
Voneé Hill
Temple program: Nonprofit Management Certificate Program
As the founder and executive director of Linked Family Services, Voneé wanted to intentionally strengthen her knowledge of nonprofit leadership and build a sustainable organization. Balancing her responsibilities as a wife, mother, nonprofit leader and CEO, she completed coursework early in the morning, late at night, on weekends and whenever she could find the time. She is most proud of applying what she learned to strengthen her organization's policies, governance practices and strategic plans.
In their own words:
“Experience is invaluable, but I believe strong leaders also have to remain teachable.”
Tynisha Nicole Anderson
Temple program: Grant Writing Certificate Program
Tynisha wants to lead by example, showing her children that “it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.” As a full-time employee, single parent and sports mom, she is determined to continue her education as time allows. She is proud of taking the leap back into learning at age 44 and is working toward her goal of becoming a certified public accountant.
In their own words:
“Whatever you do in life, do it for you! Don’t let society or human opinion control your destiny. You’re never too old to learn; the world is constantly changing, be sure to stay on top of the current times we’re in.”
Lissette Berrios
Temple program: Nonprofit Management Certificate Program
Lissette wanted guidance to be taken seriously as a passionate nonprofit founder and director. She encourages learners to seek out resources and support, communicate with the people around them and establish a schedule that works for their responsibilities. She is most proud of finishing her course and putting what she learned to use, recognizing that completing the program was a meaningful accomplishment in itself.
In their own words:
“Keep focused on what you want to do and it's not easy but it’s a feeling FINALLY! I can go to the next level!”
Paige Lyles-Edge
Temple programs: Community Health Worker Training Program; Community Organizing Workshop
Paige had always wanted to return to school and finish her education but had struggled to find the time. She made room for learning by setting aside time after work to read chapters and complete assignments before taking care of her usual responsibilities. After more than 10 years away from the classroom, she is especially proud of completing the Community Health Worker certification program.
In their own words:
“I know it feels scary especially when you've been away for a while but the classroom is waiting for you.”
Kristin Green-Hayes
Temple program: Grant Writing Certificate Program
After being away from the classroom for about 15 years, Kristin wanted to add to her technical skill set. An avid reader who puts everything on her calendar, she values learning from how others navigate their careers and experiences while maintaining a healthy, realistic work-life balance. She is now excited about applying for a grant to support her summer literacy programming.
In their own words:
“My learning journey means developing in multiple and diverse capacities to add to my value in knowledgeability.”
Lauralee Buerk
Temple program: Community Health Worker Training Program
Lauralee loves what she does and wanted to advance within her company to reach a position where she could make a difference. She works to stay organized and balance her responsibilities while continuing to move forward. One accomplishment she is especially proud of is passing the Administrator course for Personal Care after working hard to achieve her goal.
In their own words:
“I would share with others that they should just go for it. Go as far as you want and don't let anything stop you or make you doubt yourself.”
Shelten Green
Temple program: Strengths-based Family Worker Certificate Program
Shelten has always wanted to own a business while advancing in their professional career. They describe balancing learning with family, expenses, work and new journeys as challenging but doable. Through it all, Shelten is proud of the effort they continue to put in, no matter how difficult the journey gets.
In their own words:
“It is never too late for growth. Always believe in yourself.”
Adriane Basarab
Temple programs: Nonprofit Management Certificate Program; Strengths-based Leadership Certificate
Adriane is motivated to continue learning because she wants to “grow professionally, stay current in my field, and continue becoming the best leader and professional I can be.” Working in a helping profession, she makes learning a priority by scheduling time for herself and recognizing the importance of self-care. She is especially proud of earning her MSW from Temple while working full-time and continuing to grow as a leader and mental health professional.
In their own words:
“My learning journey reminds me that you are never too old or too experienced to keep growing. If you think you can’t, you can.”
Delilah Casanova
Temple programs: Community Health Worker Training Program; Strengths-based Family Worker Certificate Program
For Delilah, the motivation behind learning is simple: helping others. When describing what her learning journey means to her, she emphasizes the importance of remembering why you started. Her proudest accomplishment reflects that same determination to keep moving forward, even when the journey is difficult.
In their own words:
“Obstacle Okay Remember Why U Here”
Whether you're looking to advance your career, explore a new direction or develop skills to better serve your community, Temple University's noncredit programs can help you move forward. Explore our programs and take your next step today.