At the college, returning student and single mom Elena Brancato gained the confidence to soak up the full college experience. When she transferred to Virginia Commonwealth University to continue her studies in communications, she was ahead of the curve, having already completed a PR project for a real client.

After 15 years working in IT, one hospital stay inspired Anissa Ellis to change her career to help others. She earned her degree in nursing at Tyler, and is now a branch director with a home health company, helping nurses make an impact in lives across the area.