Meet Cherokee King, an advocate, leader, and SNU graduate. King graduated in May 2023 with her Bachelor's in Family Studies and Gerontology and worked as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist and a Case Manager at A Chance to Change for over two years before becoming Director of Children's Ministry at Choctaw United Methodist Church.
A Chance to Change is a local nonprofit organization that has served the metro area for over forty years. Mental health and addiction services, educational classes and workshops, and prevention programs are all offered at a free or discounted rate. The organization is run by generous volunteers and donors who understand their vision of “A world that embraces mental health care as necessary and accessible to everyone.” There, King walked alongside patients through their addiction and mental health battles and celebrated with them as they reached recovery.
As Director of Children's Ministry, King works with children and families at Choctaw United Methodist Church (CUMC). "I am talking with the church to start an addiction recovery psych education group soon and also a kids' reading tutoring location for Choctaw, which I would run both programs," she explains. King also continues to work with individuals in recovery outside of her work at CUMC.
King’s situation is unique as she has been in recovery herself for over eleven years. Her personal struggles with addiction are what she believes led her to where she is now. She said, “When I came into my recovery, I craved knowledge and learned about family dynamics. I changed my life by coming to SNU.”
While King had a variety of schools to choose from when deciding to get her bachelor's degree, she chose to pursue her higher education at SNU because of the “culture, professionalism, and the kindness of [her] professors and cohort,” which stood out from other universities.
God’s provision in King’s life has been evident. She initially planned to pursue her bachelor's degree to learn more about psychology and mental health in more detail. She did all of that and more, graduating Summa Cum Laude and now working toward her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology. Once she completes her master's, King plans to complete her Doctorate in Human Behavior, furthering her advancement in the field.
When asked about the Family Studies and Gerontology program at SNU, she said, “[My Bachelors in Family Studies and Gerontology] allowed me to set myself up for the Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Program. I am now working in a counseling setting and enjoy my occupation.”
SNU’s impact did not stop after King's graduation. King said, “I am grateful for my experience at SNU. It changed my life and continues to set my life up for the vision I have for my future.”
King is an excellent example of resilience, kindness, and dedication. SNU is lucky to have had her as a student as she continues to impact those around her and lead them to recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or is in a crisis, tell someone who can help right away.
- Check into a rehabilitation center
- Call 911 for emergency services.
- Go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
- Call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Support is also available via live chat. Para ayuda en español, llame al 988.
Emma Dilbeck is a senior biology-chemistry major and English minor from Mustang, Oklahoma. She is very involved on campus and has held many roles over her time at SNU. She currently serves as The Echo (student newspaper) Editor-in-Chief, a student worker in the Health Center, a Presidential Leadership Scholar, and a member of SNU's Honors Program, premedical honors program, and biology honors program. Outside of SNU, she volunteers at Crossings Community Clinic as a volunteer medical assistant. Emma is planning to become a Physician Assistant (PA) and work in gastroenterology while also continuing her writing career.