Degrees, Diapers, Deadlines — CICS Moms Make It Happen

This Mother’s Day, we proudly honor the extraordinary women of the College of Interdisciplinary and Continuing Studies (CICS) who are proving every day that it is possible to balance motherhood, ambition, and academic success. From newborns to grown children, these mothers are living examples of what it means to finish what you started—for themselves and for their families.

Ebony Reddix, a May 2025 graduate in Interdisciplinary Health and Human Sciences, paused her academic journey to raise her children—and now she’s back, leading by example. “I apply the same encouragement I gave my children to myself. The CICS program has been a family of support... This journey would not have been possible without them.”

Blair Green, majoring in Interdisciplinary Organizational Administration, returned to school to create more opportunities for her family. “CICS makes me feel confident as an adult learner,” she said. “To any parent thinking about going back to school — you can do this, and you’ll be so proud you did.”

Ciara Thomas, an Interdisciplinary Engineering major, finds motivation in her daughter’s eyes. “Going back to school is hard, but I want to show her that education is a priority.”

Heather Alysia McNeil, an Interdisciplinary Health and Human Sciences major, returned to school after raising six children and becoming a grandmother to 15. “Without CICS, this academic journey would not be possible,” she says. “Let this be your affirmation—your destiny is calling you to return to your academic achievements.”

Veronica Washington, a student in Interdisciplinary Health and Human Sciences, saw her son transform once she returned to school. “His confidence and grades improved. That shift motivated me more than he knows. You’re not just earning a degree—you’re building a legacy.”

Shanarra Coley, a new mother and Interdisciplinary Educational Studies major, returned to school to fulfill a promise to herself, her parents, and her newborn daughter, Serenity. “I want to encourage all new moms and dads to push through and never give up on your dream. This milestone will be essential to our babies’ lives,” she shared.

At CICS, we understand that life doesn’t stop when school begins. That’s why we offer flexible programs, personalized advising, and an encouraging community to help moms—and all adult learners—succeed.

This week, we celebrate the moms who make it all happen.

From Bedtime Stories to Graduation Stories—CICS Moms Rise.