Marisa Knox graduated high school in 1976 and had no desire to attend college, so she went to work as a unit secretary at a state hospital. Over the next two decades she faced many hardships, including the loss of three family members in nine months. At one point she was working three jobs to stay afloat.

During this time, Marisa heard about the adult learning program at UE, which would lead to a Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree. After much thought and counsel, she decided to take the leap. Over the course of three years, Marisa worked during the day and then took classes on UE’s campus three nights per week. In 1999, one day after turning 40, she earned her degree.

“At every position I have held since that day, I proudly display my diploma,” Marisa said. It was a difficult journey, but she is so happy with her accomplishments. Today, she serves as a member of the UE African American Alumni Association and recently became its treasurer.