Carrie Goad

After becoming pregnant at age 17 and dropping out of high school, Carrie Goad realized that she lacked the required skills to obtain gainful employment. She passed the GED and began taking classes at a community college in Richmond, Va., while continuing to work.

When Carrie, her husband and three daughters moved to Gore, Va., in February 2005, she decided to continue her education. She attended LFCC, where she ultimately received her associate degree in liberal arts in spring 2006. “Although it has taken me five years to finally earn my associate degree, I did it — and with honors credit and magna cum laude!”

Ann Currie, associate professor of art at LFCC, speaks highly of Carrie and her work: “She is an outstanding artist who produces beautiful work, while at the same time being a mother of three children. To me, this is phenomenal.”

Carrie now attends George Washington University, where she is pursuing her bachelor’s degree in fine arts. After she receives her degree, she plans to pursue her master’s degree in art therapy.

“When I was 17, 18 and 19, the thought of going to a university and being able to have a job making more than minimum wage seemed like a distant dream. But because of community colleges and caring teachers and staff, that dream has become a reality for me. I have much appreciation and gratitude for the people who donate funds to the community colleges to make them what they are.”

- Written Sept. 6, 2006