Kareem Jenkins: Pandemic hiatus leads to new career direction
Having his work hours drastically reduced due to the pandemic led Kareem Jenkins to take a serious look at what he wanted to do with his life. The Manassas resident…
Michael Mallery: Formerly homeless student now studying to become a history professor
2018 Laurel Ridge graduate Michael Mallery’s keychain has a special significance. On it, are the keys to the homes of families who saved him from homelessness. A 2015 graduate of…
Donna Kelley: LPN to RN grad earns top nursing and veteran honors
The past year has been a challenging one for so many people, including 2021 Laurel Ridge graduate Donna Kelley. The newly-minted registered nurse overcame significant hurdles with grit and grace,…
Azriel Lee: Drawn to art school
Before coming to Laurel Ridge, Azriel Lee had never had a formal art class. This fall, she will be heading off to the highly-regarded Ringling College of Art and Design…
Cynthia Schneider: A fresh start later in life thanks to Laurel Ridge
Seven years ago, Top of Virginia Regional Chamber CEO Cynthia Schneider found herself at a crossroads. Her job had ended and she was 58, but she wasn’t ready for retirement….
Kelly Himelwright: 2021 TRIO Graduate of the Year
When Cross Junction resident Kelly Himelwright first started studying cybersecurity at Laurel Ridge, he only planned to get a career studies certificate. This Saturday he’s graduating with his bachelor’s degree, plus three career studies certificates, and transferring to Old Dominion University to finish his bachelor’s degree.
Andrea Portillo: Class of 2021 member first in her family to graduate college
This Saturday, Winchester resident Andrea Portillo will become the first person in her family to graduate from college. She is one of about 1340 students celebrating their commencement this week….
Stonewall Jackson graduate giving commencement speech
Faith Dellinger has dedicated much of her life so far to community service, and she plans to stay on that path of service in her future. This fall, she is…
Amy Russo: From laid off due to covid to giving covid shots
Had it not been for the pandemic, Amy Russo wouldn’t be in a new career right now, doing what she loves – which now includes inoculating people against the Covid-19…
Kristine Villatoro: Recreation and Outdoor Leadership Career Beckons
For Kristine Villatoro, hiking has helped assuage her grief and put her on the path of a new career. Villatoro had been a hiker for most of her life, having…