By Cindy Adams

She started slowly, one class per semester. Her nagging fear was that she would be the same student she was in her early twenties, and that was not stellar. But she was not the same. Not at all.

Stephanie Humphreys had life experience now. She understood sacrifice and determination. Her role at Roanoke Minnick, working with students in an adaptive program, helped clarify her priorities. She loved this work and wanted more. Before long, she carried a full schedule of online classes, in addition to a full-time job and parenting a toddler and a baby.

Her journey started in 2017. In 2025, she held a Bachelor's degree in Special Education - Adaptive from Old Dominion University. It felt surreal.

"I never believed in myself like that," Stephanie said. "If I didn't have family and co-workers telling me I could do it, I am not sure I would have."

Roanoke Minnick Principal Becca Bays and Assistant Principal Chris Conner were among Stephanie's most consistent and ardent supporters. They saw her skills and growth every day. And they made sure to point it out. Their encouragement deeply mattered.

"I am extremely proud of Stephanie," Chris said. "It’s not easy to work and go to school and do well at both. When people feel fully supported, it helps them reach their full potential."

Stephanie has been with Minnick for 12 years and says she uses what she has learned from her professors in her classroom. And it works! Especially tools related to building routines.

"It may start a little rocky," Stephanie said, "but I haven't started something that I later had to ditch, at least not yet."

Part of that success may be because Stephanie is "a Minnick All-Star," according to Ashley Wittl-Osborne, director of education. "Stephanie is always fully engaged with her students and a bright spot in the school, even on the most difficult days," she added.

Stephanie is now contemplating going for her master's degree. Her nagging fear has mostly resolved and she recognizes she is not the same! She now knows she can do this. Instead of worrying, she is soul-searching to determine exactly what she wants to pursue. A vast difference from where she started her educational journey.

"The truth is, you can do anything you put your mind to," Stephanie said. "As long as you keep motivated and have a good support system, your dreams are attainable."

Stephanie utilized enCircle’s Educational Assistance Program which is available to all employees who are regularly scheduled to work a minimum of 30 hours per week. For eligible staff, this benefit may help pay for registration fees, tuition, lab fees, textbooks and required course materials. Learn more about working at enCircle.