In the fall semester of 2022, first-year student Tori arrived on campus with a contagious spunk in her step. I knew right away that Tori was fearless and high-spirited. I was thrilled when she was added to my advising caseload shortly before the school year started! I looked forward to getting to know this intelligent…
Alex was born 17 weeks early; I was only 23 weeks and three days into my pregnancy when he was born. My due date was December 23rd, and I was looking forward to a Christmas baby, but Alex had other plans. He decided he wanted to be a summer baby. That August, I found out…
Every school year, the staff at Shepherds College® see the impact of an education designed specifically for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities; we see growth in our students. It’s one of the most incredible things about working at Shepherds College! There is so much joy in knowing that our investment of time and knowledge…
As one of the first students at Shepherds College, I learned how to get a job in the community and how to live independently. As a Horticulture graduate, I worked as a groundskeeper for many years. Now, I work at Dollar General, helping wherever I’m needed. I live in an apartment with a roommate. I…
When I started Shepherds College, I was told to enjoy the journey, to enjoy college life because it goes by quickly. To get every bit out of your life as you can. During my time in college, I learned how to balance my work life with my social life and still have time for God,…
Nikki’s journey to Shepherds College® started at an expo for parents of adults with special needs at Lon Solomon’s Ministries in Fall’s Church, Virginia, in the spring of 2008. Nikki had recently graduated from high school, and we were struggling with the next steps for her. Denise, Nikki’s mom, heard a speaker talk about a…
Attending Shepherds College has forever changed my life. Fifteen years ago, my aunt told my mom that Shepherds Ministries was starting a new school called Shepherds College in the fall of 2008. I was about to graduate high school that year, so the timing was perfect. God provided the tuition money through my parents and…
There was so much to learn at Shepherds College®. The most important thing I learned is that I am made on purpose and for a purpose and that God created me to be uniquely used by Him. I was thankful to learn how to interview for a job and work well with other employees. After…
This year in Technology was a delight as an instructor. All three classes showed significant growth. There were first-year students like James, who showed tremendous growth in focus and diligence over the year. David, a 2nd-year student, showed an intrinsic motivation to dedicate himself to improving daily. Finally, the entire 3rd-year class, Daniel, Austin, Lilly,…
PJ came to Shepherds College® with a smile and an eagerness to learn. His contagious grin and cheery attitude didn’t come easy. He has poured hard work, sweat, and tears into overcoming incredible obstacles since he was a young child with disabilities living in an orphanage in Thailand. With the loving support of his adoptive…