Date published: February 18, 2026
Honey Brook, Pa.
“For me, the greatest success has been showing that it is never too late to pursue education and growth and that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for personal and professional purpose.”
Before Jessie arrived at HACC, she faced a number of challenges. In 2012, she survived a near-fatal car accident that led to years of physical recovery and emotional healing. “There were moments when it felt impossible to move forward,” she said. “Yet, through that pain, I discovered a strength I never knew I had. The experience taught me to live with gratitude, to value each day and to see perseverance as a way of life rather than just a word.”
Later, Jessie was diagnosed as neurodivergent, which she said opened her eyes in a different way. “Instead of wondering why I experienced the world differently, I began to understand my mind as a source of creativity and perspective. What once felt like a challenge became a gift that shaped how I learn, how I solve problems and how I lead with empathy and compassion. These experiences changed me at my core. They taught me that even in the darkest seasons there can be growth, and that every obstacle carries within it the possibility of transformation. They made me who I am today: someone who sees challenges not as the end of a path but as a chance to build resilience, inspire others and keep moving toward a greater purpose.”
After earning an associate degree in general studies at HACC, Jessie transferred to Thomas Jefferson University’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies. She graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership, earning several awards and honors, including the Jefferson’s Spirit of Continuing Education Award, which recognized Jessie for academic excellence and leadership ability.
Today, Jessie is a director of advancement programs and projects for Jefferson’s Office of Institutional Advancement. As part of her career, Jessie designs and leads enterprise-level donor engagement programs that connect philanthropy with organizational priorities.
In 2026, she was accepted into Brown University’s inaugural cohort for its Master of Science in organizational leadership program and received a merit scholarship.
“For me, the greatest success has been showing that it is never too late to pursue education and growth and that challenges can be transformed into opportunities for personal and professional purpose,” she said.
She credits HACC with helping her build a solid academic and professional foundation. “HACC gave me the opportunity to spread my wings in a supportive and welcoming environment. As an adult learner, the smaller classes and personal connections with faculty helped me feel seen and encouraged. That experience built my confidence, reminded me of my potential and gave me the foundation to continue growing in my academic and professional journey.”
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