Florence Catlett, GCC

Last week, I had the pleasure of traveling to Richmond to meet with my state representatives, joined by several students and faculty from Germanna Community College.

I heard a variety of stories from students, ranging from a retired firefighter injured in the line of duty at the Pentagon on 9/11 to a mother attending college with her children, a nursing student transferring to the University of Mary Washington in the fall, and a younger generation of students enrolled in the dual enrollment program. 

I currently attend Germanna studying business management. Last semester was a turning point for me. After obtaining three career studies certificates (in accounting, small business management, and supervision) and being inducted into Psi Beta, I decided I would begin working toward a law degree by beginning my career studies in paralegal to transfer to UVA.

This was a tough decision for me to finally make. I am a single mother of two children, working two jobs (while attending Germanna) to make ends meet in an effort to better my future and that of my children. It is an honor to be a part of the community college system that makes these opportunities possible for us.

The biggest honor was being able to thank my state and local representatives for their continued support of our education system. Being able to express our appreciation in person helps make all the future efforts even more rewarding. Thank you to all who have helped make my dreams and the dreams of others possible.

Florence Catlett
Germanna Community College