Beginning in 2020, Rowan College at Burlington County student Sherria Hannah faced challenges that few could have imagined. First, she lost her mother. A week later, she had a stroke, from which she fortunately recovered. The next year, in 2021, she developed Guillain-Barré syndrome, an autoimmune disease that affects the body’s nervous system, taking from her the ability to walk for nine months.
However, what began as a period marked by loss and illness has set Hannah on a new course of self-improvement. In 2023, she returned to RCBC, where she had previously attended to earn her degree.
“I’ve been out of work now for quite a while, for six years due to the medical crisis,” Hannah said. “So I sought out RCBC for an education to get a degree so that when I do return to work, I’ll have some education behind me.”
Hannah graduated from Burlington Township High School in 1997 and spent the subsequent years working, including roles in administration in the medical field and as a realtor. At RCBC, she enrolled in the 3+1 Business Administration program, a choice influenced by her previous administrative role, which also gives her the most flexibility to navigate which field to enter when she returns to work.
But stepping into the classroom again was not going to be easy for Hannah.
“I was very scared,” Hannah admitted. “I didn’t know if I could afford it… I didn’t know if I would go through another health crisis that would stop my progression.”
Hannah held fast to meeting her goal, first completing classes online due to her medical conditions. Soon, she was back in person for certain classes, such as algebra. While on campus, she also took the time to participate in the various Student Life activities held in the Student Success Center, including creative wellness workshops and activities.
Helping her in her return to school was the college’s Office of Student Support. One counselor, Reagan Copeland, was especially helpful. Through the Office, Hannah was able to secure accommodations available to students with disabilities.
Hannah will be graduating with her associate degree at winter commencement. With the conclusion of her studies, she has found herself a different person than she was just two years ago.
“I’m definitely smarter, more confident in my abilities versus what my disabilities are,” Hannah said. “I’m more understanding of the diversity in different walks of life that people have gone through to get to where we are… I quickly learned that there were people older than me who were still pursuing education, and it really just opened the possibilities for me.”
Hannah earned the President’s Award for her accomplishments and will be speaking at the 1 pm commencement on Wednesday, Dec. 17. She hopes to relay the message of perseverance to her cohort.
“I hope that they get there are no limits. There’s no limits. It’s never too late.”
Learn more about RCBC winter commencement at rcbc.edu/commencement.
