Shae Hughes’s story is a masterclass in resilience and the power of a second chance. At thirty years old, feeling trapped in a dead-end job in Jonesboro, she made the defining decision to reclaim her future for the sake of her family.

"I realized I needed to make a change for myself and my daughter, so I decided to go back to school."

Her academic path began at Arkansas State University, where she earned her associate degree, before transferring to UA Little Rock to complete her bachelor’s degree in communications and professional sales. Today, she works as the Marketing and Community Engagement Manager at Park Plaza. When she was first interviewed for the role, she reached a career milestone she will never forget.

"When they asked if I had a college degree during the interview, I was proudly able to say, 'Yes, I do!'"

The ...