By Emily Jamieson | Observer Contributor
Ann Reynolds
As a student at Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) since the spring semester of 2020, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the invaluable support offered by a remarkable staff member—Ann Reynolds. Ann’s unwavering dedication and advocacy for students, especially parents like myself, has been the cornerstone of my success. Her efforts have not only helped me overcome significant challenges but have also made a lasting impact on my journey toward earning a degree.
When I first learned about the CCAMPIS program during MWCC’s 2019 orientation, I was thrilled to discover a resource designed specifically for parents attending school. As a young mom, balancing school, work, and raising a child felt almost impossible. The CCAMPIS program, which provided financial assistance for childcare, became a lifeline that allowed me to continue my education. While I pursued my studies, my daughter also benefited from the program, advancing her own education at the Garrison Center. The teachers there were exceptional, and the lessons they imparted on my daughter, especially about friendship and kindness, are values that continue to shape her today, now nearing eight years old.
Ann Reynolds, in particular, played an instrumental role in my experience at MWCC. As a passionate advocate for student parents, Ann went above and beyond to ensure that I had the resources and support I needed. Throughout my time in the CCAMPIS program, she regularly checked in with me, asking how I was doing, if there was anything I needed, and how she could help. Even after my daughter started kindergarten and I no longer required child care assistance, Ann continued to stay in touch, offering her help whenever I encountered obstacles.
Last summer, just before the start of the Fall semester, Ann reached out to me, reminding me that I was close to finishing my degree with only three classes remaining. However, I had not signed up for courses, and she wanted to know how she could assist. I explained my dilemma: two of the remaining classes conflicted with my work schedule, and when I sought guidance from the advising office, I was told that transferring to another school might be my only option. The thought of starting over at a new institution was heartbreaking after all the hard work I had already put into my degree.
I attempted to transfer to Quinsigamond Community College (QCC) in Worcester, but after a lengthy wait to meet with an advisor, I learned that transferring would require taking many more classes than I had anticipated. After exploring various options, we thought we had found a solution: I would take the remaining courses at QCC and then transfer back to MWCC to apply for my degree. But when I went to register for the courses, they were all full.
At that point, I felt like I had two choices: quit school or delay my degree even further. The road to completing my degree had been much slower than I expected, as I had always chosen classes based on my schedule, which sometimes meant sacrificing my pace of progress. I shared my frustration with Ann, and once again, she took immediate action.
Ann didn’t hesitate. She reached out to professors and administrators to explore the possibility of an independent study for me, securing approval from all parties involved. She also identified an online course that was flexible enough for my needs and worked diligently with faculty to ensure I could finish my degree. Thanks to her tireless efforts, I submitted my final exam this past Wednesday and officially completed my degree.
I can confidently say that without Ann’s dedication and support, I would not have graduated from college. She was a constant source of encouragement, reaching out when I felt lost, offering help when no one else did, and pushing me to stay focused while also respecting when I needed a break. Ann truly embodies what it means to be an advocate for students, and MWCC is incredibly fortunate to have someone of her caliber on staff.
Her efforts have not only helped me but have undoubtedly made a difference for many other students. Ann Reynolds is a rare gem in higher education, and it is important that her contributions are recognized. Without her unwavering support, my journey to earning a degree would not have been possible. For that, I will be forever grateful.
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