Tonya Thomas Willis always had a soft spot for the underdog. As someone who overcame lots of adversity, she vowed that she would one day use her experiences and education to help others triumph over their own challenges.

But getting there would not take the straight path she dreamed for herself. “I wanted to go to college straight out of high school, but when my father became ill, my plans changed.” Marriage and children soon followed and like many Indiana University Northwest students, Willis found herself putting her family responsibilities first. “Babies take up a lot of time,” she said, smiling.

As the years went by, Willis never let go of her dream, so when her children went off to college, she decided, “Now it’s my time.” She enrolled in school and received her associate degree in business, but soon realized, “No, this is not enough.”

Three years ago, she enrolled in the social work program at IU Northwest and quickly found her groove. “When I came here, I came alive,” said Willis.

With a renewed spirit, she began seeking and finding support all over campus. “I practically lived at the library. I got plenty of help from the front desk staff. They were eager to assist me any way they could and that’s what made me want to continue to come back every day.”

She also cites the support of her professors, advisors, and classmates for helping her realize her potential and encouraging her to complete her degree.

“What really touched my heart was that my fellow students really embraced me. They were intrigued by me, they loved having me around, and wanted to hear my stories. It made me feel wanted and that I had a purpose,” she added.

Today this future family counselor looks forward to continuing to deliver on that purpose. After graduating with a bachelor of science degree in social work this May, Willis begins working on her master’s degree at IU Northwest in the fall—bringing her one step closer to fulfilling her own promise.

About the Class of 2018: Indiana University Northwest will confer 777 degrees at the 52nd Annual Commencement ceremonies on May 10, 2018. The Class of 2018 will collectively receive 49 associate’s degrees, 638 bachelor’s degrees and 90 master’s degrees. The oldest student graduating is 62 years old and the youngest is 19. More than 70 percent of the graduating class is female.