ANSWER Scholarship Helps Dreams Come True For Moms At Queens University Charlotte
At Queens University of Charlotte, two remarkable students, RaeDeja Sawyer ’25 and alumna Nokisha Barringer ’23, embody the powerful narrative of overcoming obstacles to pursue higher education. Balancing the roles of motherhood, work, and academia, these women found their path back to college, fueled by their determination and the support of the ANSWER Scholarship.
Sawyer, initially set back by her father’s failing health, found renewed motivation after his passing. “I always seemed to have an excuse for why I couldn’t go back to school, like raising my children and working to support my family,” Sawyer shared. “It wasn’t until my father passed away in May 2021 that his words came back to haunt me.” Her journey restarted at Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC), leading her to discover the ANSWER Scholarship, a program that has awarded over $718,000 in scholarships to mothers in the Carolinas since 2006.
Susan Andersen, founder of the ANSWER Scholarship, is committed to the mission of helping mothers complete their education. “We strongly believe that when you educate a mom, you educate her children,” Andersen said. The program includes mentorship and professional development, offering comprehensive support to its scholars.
Barringer, working full-time as a surgical specialty nurse and juggling motherhood, faced similar challenges. “I always wanted to go back to school to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing, but I was worried about how I’d pay for school,” she recounted. Queens University, known for its healthcare network connections in Charlotte, was her chosen destination for advancing her nursing career.
Both women credit their success to the unwavering support of family, mentors, and professors at Queens. Assistant Professor Amy Sentementes, Ph.D., highlighted the unique contributions of non-traditional students like Sawyer and Barringer, saying, “Their many life experiences bring novel perspectives to discussions and allow the classroom environment to thrive.”
After graduation, Barringer plans to continue her career at the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. “I feel strongly about providing compassionate care to our veterans,” she emphasized. Meanwhile, Sawyer’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the resilience of mothers striving to rewrite their narratives.
Sawyer and Barringer join a growing list of ANSWER Scholars from Queens University, exemplifying the impact of determination and the life-changing benefits of higher education.