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When Alyse Giffin decided to reenroll in college, her sister Erin McCloskey was right there to cheer her on.

“The day I reenrolled, she sent me an OU t-shirt,” Alyse said. Over the years, it became a staple in her wardrobe—so much so that the logo wore off.

“I still have that shirt,” she said. “But now I have a degree to go with it.”

Giffin, who is from South Point, Ģ����Ƶ, graduates summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Management. With the support of her advisor, Sarah Blazier, she found a program that built on her existing education and aligned with her career goals.

She currently serves as director of family and youth ministries at Calvary Episcopal Church in Ashland, a role she loves and intends to continue.

“This degree makes it possible to continue my work with others in the community in stronger roles if that is where I’m called,” she said. “For now, it is an accomplishment that I am proud of.”

Her time at brought unexpected growth—both personal and professional.

“I’ve realized through adversity you can accomplish great things and be truly proud of what you have done,” she said. “While life skills are often learned through experience, education helps those skills flourish and gives you a leg up when it matters.”

One of her proudest moments came full circle in a class she nearly dropped early on.

“I was afraid of failing,” she admitted. “Not only did I not fail, but later I was asked to come back and help facilitate the class. Now, I help other students keep calm and continue to achieve their dream.”

She credits Associate Professor Michael Schor as a key influence on her journey.

“Mr. Schor’s classes were never easy, but they were fair. Assignments weren’t there to trick you, they were there to teach you,” she said. “He let you know you could accomplish things on your own or with help—but you would get there. That is what a true teacher does.”

Giffin has faced her share of challenges, but she learned an important lesson along the way.

“All adversity, no matter the size, can halt you if you allow it,” she said. “I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished and what I can show my daughter—it’s never too late, and you can.”

Her message to new students is one of patience and persistence.

“Don’t feel the need to rush. If something is pushing you away from getting a degree, know that you can accomplish it,” she said. “And don’t be afraid to reach out to fellow students and teachers for help.”

As she prepares to graduate, Giffin sees this achievement as a symbol of confidence and possibility. “Being an OHIO graduate means feeling accomplished, secure, and prepared for whatever comes next.”