Reinvent Yourself

By Cheri Gyuro, External Relations. Photos by Joshua Lamoreaux, External Relations.

For 22 years, Stacie Williams was a certified nursing assistant. When the pandemic hit, she found herself struggling and wanted a change.

“It took a very big toll on my mind and also my body,” Williams said.

Williams reinvented her career and joined the Pima Community College Health Information Technology (HIT) program. She stuck with the medical theme studying medical billing and coding. But going back to college at an older age was a bit intimidating, according to Williams.

“Oh my goodness, I’m going to be in a classroom or on campus with all these young people and here I am. But I took one step at a time.”

Williams is the first to admit, she’s quite a go-getter, but raising a family and finances were tremendous obstacles to finishing her new direction at college. Luckily, her instructor, Kelly O’Keefe stepped in for support.

“She did not see anything holding her back. She’s extremely warm and friendly. Just the type of person you want in the medical field,” said O’Keefe.

Williams said she is thankful for the support and the programs offered at Pima.

“It sets you up for greater things.”

After receiving a merit scholarship, Williams made it all the way to the finish line and is set to walk across the stage to receive her diploma. What a hit! (No pun intended.)