I enrolled at Martin University in 2002 because I was encouraged by my friend and boss, former Sheriff Jack Cottey, who himself was attending at the time. Jack told me that obtaining a Martin University degree would be quicker and cheaper than conventional methods because of its PLA program. I enrolled in the program and it helped me gain valuable credit hours and literally saved me thousands of dollars. But, more importantly, it helped me rediscover all the education I had received over the course of my professional life.

I began my journey with a course named Emancipatory Narratives taught by Melvin Greene. On the first day of class he said, ''You are all academic scholars just by simply being here today.'' Instructor Greene understood how hard it was to go back to school later in life and he made us all feel comfortable and important, not just another number.

I always felt welcomed at Martin University and will forever cherish my experiences, but especially my college degree. Now when I tell my children the importance of obtaining their college degrees, I can simply point to the wall with pride and say, ''I graduated from college and so can you.''