As we continue our alumni series, “Where Are They Now,” travel in time with us as we follow our graduates on their journeys and discover how An Achievable Dream made a positive impact on their lives. Also featured in this series are each graduating class’s sponsor to share their inspiration for supporting their class and a reflection from AAD president and CEO, Dr. Lee Vreeland, on each alumni. In this feature, we are highlighting class of 2005 graduate, Alicia Brown.
Tell us where you are, what you’re doing now, and the accomplishment or life milestones you’re most proud of!
I am transitioning back into the education field after taking a year off to complete military obligations. I am currently employed as a Juvenile Justice Corrections Officer for the remainder of the summer. Afterwards I will return to the classroom as an 8th grade Special Education Teacher in Concord, NC.
I have successfully completed company command time while assigned to the 414th Transportation Company (Army Reserve) in Orangeburg, SC. I was responsible for 165 soldiers and transportation assets totaling over $25 million dollars. Upon completion, I was selected to serve as the Rear Detachment Commander for 846th Transportation Company in Salisbury, NC.
What about An Achievable Dream do you feel most prepared you for the career and life you have now?
An Achievable Dream has instilled the importance of education and community service. As you can tell in my career choices, I feel that my purpose in life is to help others, particularly at-risk children. Their success, big or small, brings me so much gratitude and fulfillment.
What is next for you?
Over the next few years I plan to dedicate time to focus more on myself. I’ve given and sacrificed so much that I put my personal goals on hold. I am working on completing my master’s degree and starting a family. My husband and I are excited for the arrival of our first child in October.
Now, you will read a reflection from our President and CEO, Dr. Lee Vreeland on Alicia’s journey.
Alicia always had spunk…. Quiet and reserved spunk but if you knew her well you knew when she felt strongly about something. I think it most often was obvious on the basketball court. This spunk was often balanced with a complete heart of gold and a determination to succeed. The success she has achieved in life and her desire to always help others does not surprise me at all. These traits were instilled in her from birth. Alicia, my pride in you runs deep. Continue with your greatness.
– Lee Vreeland, Ed.D., President/CEO, An Achievable Dream
Continue reading to learn about why the graduating class sponsor from 2005, Caleb and Virginia West and Dollar Tree Stores, chose to invest in the Dream.
Our parents, Caleb and Virginia, chose to sponsor a class of An Achievable Dream students because they believed strongly in the mission and have supported the program since its inception in 1992. By motivating students to excel in academics, instill respect for themselves and adult leaders, and teaching them core human values, An Achievable Dream is making a big difference in our community. We are grateful to Walter Segaloff for having the vision, motivation, and means to create such a worthwhile organization.
– Dwight and Jonathan West, Co-Sponsors of the Class of 2005 with Dollar Tree, Inc.