TALES OF THE BRAVE

Although it took a long time for Junah Castil to accomplish his dreams, he never gave up, and in 2022 he earned his MSN online from Maryville University.

Brenda Dinges almost lost her son when he was 12 — then graduated college alongside him in 2019, earning her nursing degree. Her journey has taken her from her rural family farm into leadership positions in busy emergency rooms.

Her love of the St. Louis Blues brought Danielle Van Komen to Maryville. But her commitment to finding greater purpose as a nurse pushed her to become a nurse practitioner and change lives in healthcare facilities.

Deborah Askey chose an online MSN so she could study and learn on her schedule, working around her demanding nursing career.

Dan Wooldridge started his career at 17 years old. After 39 years with the same company, he realized he still had plenty to learn — and new perspectives to discover.

Armanie began her studies with a focus on cybersecurity through international affairs. But upon realizing she could make a bigger impact behind a keyboard rather than through policy and diplomacy, she decided to focus solely on the technical and investigative aspect.

While things weren’t always easy for Jeremy Ramos, he knew that his hard work, focus, and dedication would one day pay off. Now, he’s using his education to pay it forward and help inspire others to thrive in their lives as well.

Marcy Bursac is using her business savvy, IT skills, and natural determination to help make the world a better place, one adopted child or sibling group at a time.

Jane Guida has a full schedule. She’s a mom of two young toddlers, works from home full time for an insurance company, and is in the process of starting real estate classes for a side career. But with online learning, she has found the flexibility to pursue her dreams in criminal justice and defense — on her terms.

When Kevin King hit his lowest point, he didn’t give up. His strength, courage, and dedication led him to a new career — and a college education.

Chris Vann made the brave leap of faith to pursue graduate school both to impact his career and inspire those around him.

Not only did Danny’s Maryville experience prepare him to land his dream job but it also renewed his self-confidence.

As a first-generation college student, it wasn’t easy committing to studying thousands of miles from home. But from the moment she applied to Maryville Online, Alison felt valued and supported.

Celena walked her own path to earn her nursing post-master’s certificate. But even though her experience was unique, the lessons she learned can help shape the journey for tomorrow’s aspiring nurses.

Nasu is no stranger to big life changes. So when her educational journey brought unprecedented twists and turns to her life, she was ready. By graduation, she had her MSN — and a whole family to root her on. 

For Jane, bettering herself meant learning how to help others. After graduating with her psychiatric mental health NP (PMHNP) certificate, she’s a rock for those pushing through rough patches with anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.

Ashley Lewis is a small-town woman who has always had big plans. Maryville University empowered her to teach, serve, and lead in the nursing field all while continuing to support her local community. 

Driven by a passion for caring for others, Krystal Donley’s nursing journey began in high school. Several career advancements and nursing degrees later, she’s leading by example — and caring for her fellow nurses as well as patients.

Felecia Washington overcame her fear of online learning to earn an education that can help her protect her community and world.

Lexy dreamed of following the footsteps of the compassionate nurses, including her mother, that she saw make a difference in her brother’s life. 

Despite working full time and caring for five children, Gina found success with the support of her family, professors, and peers.

It was scary when Darren decided to say yes to returning to school. But getting to set an example for his three daughters made it all worth it. 

Dee has experienced the life-changing benefits of a college education firsthand. Now, he’s dedicating his career to helping others like him do the same.

Discover how Angela Syphaseut found purpose-driven variety in her nursing career through the Maryville Online MSN FNP program, combining flexibility and expertise to inspire her daughter and elevate her career.

Air Force veteran Joseph Ensley pursued Maryville Online’s bachelor’s and master’s in accounting for job security and growth amid the pandemic. The flexible program allowed him to juggle work, family, and start his own accounting firm.

With over 20 years of experience, nurse practitioner Julie Bekius decided to fulfill her teaching aspirations by enrolling in the Maryville online DNP program. The program’s flexibility allowed her to juggle family, work, and learning while pursuing her passion.

Zachariah Seiden triumphed over obstacles to attain his Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership from Maryville Online, enhancing his expertise to bridge the education gap and empower marginalized students.

After pausing his career to raise his son, Miguel Montes found a new path with Maryville’s online Bachelor of Science in Data Science. Embracing flexibility and overcoming ADD, he’s now on track to graduate and pursue further studies.

As a first-generation student, Lillie Osborne overcame challenges to earn her Maryville Online Masters of Science in Accounting. Discover her inspiring journey from small-town Kentucky to aspiring CPA.

Megan felt grounded by anxiety and self-doubt. But her “grit, stubbornness, and determination” were stronger — so she pushed herself to go further. Now she’s discovering new heights in her nursing career.

As an occupational therapy assistant, Danielle Malan was already changing lives. But she wanted to do more. By earning her psychology degree, she’s transformed her own life — as well as those of the patients she serves.

Inspired by her own journey, as well as those of her family members, Kassidy Singh has dedicated herself to helping others who are struggling with mental health challenges.

Kathryn Funk’s bold decision to pursue a career in nursing — in her 40s — took her from practicing as an LPN to serving the public good as one of her state’s leading experts in stroke care. Now she’s making a difference for Virginians everywhere.