In 2023, Michelle Creach achieved a significant milestone. She earned her Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership from Southern Nazarene University (SNU) through their online program. This accomplishment is a personal victory and a testament to her perseverance, dedication, and the importance of lifelong learning.
Michelle is married to fellow SNU alum Brett Creach. Married for 24 years, they have two children together, Carson, 20, and Carter, 17. For Michelle, finishing her degree was a personal goal and a powerful message to her children. "I wanted to show my kids that you finish what you start, and they can do it too," she explained, emphasizing the importance setting an example for Carson and Carter.
Michelle's journey to earning her Bachelor's degree was not without its challenges. Balancing work, family, and school was no easy feat, but she remained determined and focused on her goal. With the support of her family and the flexibility of SNU's online program, she was able to successfully complete her degree.
Her dedication to lifelong learning is evident in her commitment to personal and professional growth. Michelle believes that education is a powerful tool that can open doors and create opportunities for individuals. She hopes that her own educational journey will inspire others to pursue their dreams and never give up on their goals.
In her professional life, Michelle was concerned that the absence of a bachelor's degree hindered her career growth. She had much work experience and worked diligently, but she couldn't move up in her career to the position she wanted. Although she held an associate degree, her dream job required a higher level of education. This realization propelled her to revisit a long-held aspiration.
"I originally filled out an application for this exact program back in 2002 and never got to do it," Michelle recalled, adding, "I always saved the paper to remind myself of my goal to finish one day." In 2023, she finally fulfilled that 20-year-old dream, proving that it is never too late to pursue your goals.
Michelle enrolled in the program she had always dreamed of, determined to further her education and advance her career. Despite the challenges of balancing work, family, and school, she remained focused and dedicated to her studies. With each passing semester, she gained new knowledge and skills that she could apply in her current job. As she neared the end of the program, Michelle felt a sense of accomplishment and pride in herself for never giving up on her dream. Finally, in 2023, she graduated with a bachelor's degree in her desired field, ready to take on new opportunities and reach even greater heights in her career. Michelle's story serves as a reminder that with perseverance and determination, anything is possible.
Michelle's journey to completing her degree was also deeply rooted in her family's legacy with SNU. Her grandparents met on campus when it was known as Bethany Peniel College in the 1940s, and her grandpa graduated from there. Her mother also attended SNU for a semester before graduating from another college.
Finishing her degree was a tribute to her grandmother, who never had the chance to complete her education. "I not only wanted to do this for me but for her as well," Michelle said. She felt a profound connection to her family's history and knew they would be proud of her achievement.
Family is extremely important to Michelle, and she found this value represented at SNU as well. Her father, who passed away in April 2024, was battling cancer the whole time Michelle was completing her degree. Faculty and staff worked with Michelle so that she could complete her degree even faster. She doubled up on classes so that her father could see her graduate.
Choosing SNU was important to Michelle for both personal and spiritual reasons. The university's culture of Christian values resonated with her, making the online learning experience feel more personal and supportive. "Being able to include devotions, prayer, and being able to listen and be there for other students as we all encouraged each other along the way was what made the distance learning atmosphere more personal," she explained.
Michelle found that the sense of community at SNU was exactly what she needed to thrive in her studies. The support from her professors and classmates made her feel like she was part of something bigger than herself. She was able to connect with others who shared her faith and values, creating a network of like-minded individuals who uplifted and motivated each other. This sense of belonging gave her the confidence to push herself academically and pursue her dreams with determination. Michelle knew that her decision to enroll at SNU was the right one, not just for her education but for her spiritual growth and personal development as well.
The support from her professors and peers was instrumental in her success. "It was nice to be able to do this all online, and yet I still felt connected to my fellow students," said Michelle. "I always felt like the professors cared about me and my success."
Earning her Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership has already begun to open new doors for Michelle. She believes the program made her a better leader and gave her the skills to build strong teams and reach goals. "I could not have achieved my career goals without this," she stated proudly.
Michelle says earning a degree in organizational leadership equipped her with skills crucial for advancement in Human Resources. "I gained a deeper understanding of organizational dynamics, leadership principles, and effective communication," she explains. Her degree also expanded her professional network. She is able to connect with peers and mentors who continue to support and guide her on her career path.
Michelle's dedication to her education has not only enhanced her career prospects but has also boosted her confidence in her abilities as a leader. She now feels more equipped to take on challenges and lead her team to success. With her newfound knowledge and skills, Michelle is excited to see where her career in Human Resources will take her. She is grateful for the opportunities that her degree in organizational leadership has provided and looks forward to continuing to grow and develop in her field.
The impact of Michelle's experience at SNU goes beyond just her professional life. It has also enriched her personal life, giving her a sense of accomplishment and pride. The support she received from the faculty and staff at SNU has made a lasting impression on her, and she is grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of such a supportive community, especially as her courses were completed online.
Michelle's experience at SNU has left a lasting impact on her professional and personal life. "I appreciate everyone there! Thank you for helping me achieve my dream of finishing my degree," she concluded, reflecting on her gratitude for the support she received along the way.
Thanks to her degree, Michelle was able to sign on with Tinker Air Force Civilian Services to be a part of their Palace Acquire Program. "[I will] train to be an Acquisition Program Manager which is my dream job!" she says. She is grateful for the knowledge and skills she has gained through her studies and is eager to apply them in her career and personal life.
Michelle's journey is a testament that it is never too late to pursue your dreams and make a positive change in your life. Her dedication to her education and her willingness to overcome obstacles serve as an inspiration to those around her.
Michelle powerfully reminds us that dreams can be realized at any stage in life with determination and support. She inspires her family, fellow SNU alumni, and anyone who believes in the power of education and perseverance.
