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Sara Smith, a recent ���Ĵ�ý graduate, has a beautiful story of how God’s faithfulness and unique plan led her to complete her nonprofit management degree online after taking an eight-year break from the program.

How Smith became interested in nonprofit 

One of Smith’s first jobs post-undergrad was at a nonprofit, which initiated her passion for nonprofit organizations. Later, Smith worked as a house parent, someone who offers in-home care for students to lead them through schoolwork, household chores, and other various activities. She worked in Amarillo, Texas, where she learned about areas within the country that needed change. 

“I learned that I wanted to help!” said Smith. “I trusted that earning my nonprofit management degree online would lead me into avenues that would allow me to do this, so I began researching online programs.”

���Ĵ�ý’s master’s degree in nonprofit management consistently appeared within her Google searches, and after connecting with Dr. Stephen Grill, the director of the nonprofit management degree online program at ���Ĵ�ý, she knew it was the program for her.

“Dr. Grill had a contagious passion for the nonprofit program,” said Smith. “He shared his love and joy with me for the program, and I felt confirmation that I should earn my master’s degree in nonprofit management.”

Smith’s experience with the master’s degree in nonprofit management

Smith began the nonprofit degree program in 2016, but due to an unexpected life event, she was forced to walk away from the program after taking only three classes. 

“During my break from the program, I became a teacher to support myself and my children,” said Smith. “It was a good experience, but I knew that wasn’t where my passion was. The nonprofit management degree online was completely off my radar, but God brought the program back into my life after about eight years of being away,” Smith said. 

In 2022, Smith had a breakthrough that altered her vision and direction of life, allowing her to jump back into the nonprofit program in the spring semester. 

Smith was able to speak with Grill again. He was overjoyed to welcome Smith back into the program. Grill’s support and encouragement were confirmation of God’s leading. 

“I was shocked that God brought this program back into my life, but I am so grateful that serving in a nonprofit remained a passion of mine,” said Smith. “It took a great amount of determination and drive to resume the program, but I graduated in August of 2024 with my nonprofit management degree online.”

What Smith learned about God through her journey 

Smith learned about the Lord’s timing, care, and grace. She developed her relationship with Him throughout her journey with the nonprofit management degree online. 

In Smith’s marketing class, they had weekly Zoom meetings that allowed students to connect and pray for one another. It lifted Smith’s spirits knowing that her classmates were rooting for her, too. 

“I learned that what’s important to me is important to God. He values me and the things I care about!” said Smith. “Even when we face doubt, the Lord has never doubted or forgotten the plans He has for us.”

Smith’s story is a testament to God’s perseverance. The Lord stays faithful to His people and works out His plans in the most beautiful and unique ways.

Above all, Smith trusts God and the plan He has for her life. Smith desires to help people heal in whatever capacity they need. Wherever God leads her after graduation, she knows she’s called to help others heal. 

Learn more about ���Ĵ�ý’s nonprofit degree �ٴǻ岹��!��