VHCC Alumna Kaitlyn Dearen Honored with STRONG ACC Resilience Award
Virginia Highlands Community College (VHCC) is proud to announce that recent graduate Kaitlyn Dearen has been named a recipient of a STRONG ACC Resilience Award. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional resilience and perseverance in their professional lives and education.
Kaitlyn, who graduated this past spring with an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN-RN) degree, was one of three individuals chosen for the award from a wide field of nominees across the STRONG ACC partner organizations. The award celebrates qualities such as overcoming adversity, adaptability, and unwavering determination.
In her acceptance speech, Kaitlyn shared her inspiring journey, highlighting the challenges she faced while pursuing her degree. “I would not let my circumstances define me,” she stated. "Through the struggles, I held onto the vision of a better life for myself and for my son.”
Kaitlyn's achievement is particularly meaningful as she is a first-generation graduate and the first nurse in her family. Her story is a testament to the power of grit and the support systems that help individuals succeed. She acknowledged the support of her family and VHCC faculty.
“This award is not just mine,” Kaitlyn said. "It belongs to every person who has ever had to start over, who has ever kept going when giving up felt easier.” She dedicated her award to her son, Parker, who she called her greatest motivation.
Kaitlyn Dearen's journey exemplifies the core values of Virginia Highlands Community College. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and the powerful message she shared. Her success serves as a profound inspiration to our entire college community, demonstrating that with resilience and determination, any obstacle can be overcome.