Money Matters March '18- May '18 | Page 10

RIDING OFF INTO THE SUNSET

by Paul Goebel, SMMC Director

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, during the 2017–18 school year, colleges and universities are expected to award 1.0 million associate's degrees; 1.9 million bachelor's degrees; 790,000 master's degrees; and 183,000 doctor's degrees. Among these graduates will be three SMMC team members – Gabby, Cyle, and Vernisha.

Their contributions to our department and service to students have collectively touched the lives of several thousand students over the years. Their impact on their fellow team members has also left a legacy of service. The difference they have made in our lives can best be summed up in the words of our newest peer mentor, “They are all passionate about their work and believe that our work here at the SMMC makes a difference in students’ lives.”

“What we will remember most about Gabby is her enthusiasm for getting connected to students and willingness to try out new ideas and projects. With her contagious spirit she is able to get other team members on board. Her positivity can be felt no matter what she is working on. “

Gabby joined the SMMC team as our graduate assistant. She will be completing her Master of Education (ME) program in August. Gabby has been instrumental in developing and expanding the center’s social media and marketing efforts this past year. She also served as one of the co-chairs for the center’s annual signature event – Money Month. After graduating Gabby hopes to start a career in higher education with a focus on college access and student success programming.

As the Byrds sang, “To everything. There is a season. And a time to every purpose, under heaven.”

GABBY