Ware Shoals Resident Overcomes Adversity to Pursue Degree and Community Service

Ware Shoals Resident Makes Remarkable Comeback

Princetta Richmond of Ware Shoals, South Carolina, is the embodiment of resilience and determination. At the age of 62, Richmond is on the brink of a significant milestone – she is about to earn an Associate in Applied Science degree with a major in Human Services from Piedmont Technical College (PTC). Her journey hasn’t been a walk in the park. Nine years ago, Richmond was involved in a life-altering accident when she was hit by a forklift at work. The incident resulted in 11 surgeries and a challenging recovery process, where she had to relearn how to walk.

Turning Adversity Into Opportunity

But Richmond has never been one to back down from a challenge. Driven by the desire to help others, she embraced her “second chance at life” and pursued a career path that allows her to serve those in need. “I got a second chance at life,” she shares, “and I’m here to serve.” This sentiment led her to the Human Services program at PTC, which is designed to prepare students for a variety of *helping professions* such as case workers, community organizers, and support workers.

A Heart Committed to Service

Richmond’s commitment to service extends beyond the classroom. She is active in numerous roles, such as a juvenile arbitrator with the Eighth Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office, a certified volunteer ombudsman with the Upper Savannah Area Agency on Aging, and a volunteer with several community organizations. On the PTC campus, Richmond wears many hats, including that of a Presidential Ambassador and the president of the Human Services Club. Her involvement in these varied roles demonstrates her passion for community service and her ability to lead by example.

Leading by Example

Many at PTC have been inspired by her positivity and energy. Kristi Byrd, Richmond’s academic program director, remarks on how Richmond often goes above and beyond in her studies and volunteer efforts. “There’s nothing that I’ve ever asked her to do that she hasn’t done,” Byrd notes. Richmond is more than willing to share her experiences with her peers and guide students needing assistance, reinforcing her role as a mentor and friend.

A Family Affair

Family is central in Richmond’s life and education journey. Her children are her biggest cheerleaders, and through her encouragement, several family members have joined her in pursuing education at PTC. With pride, she recalls attending classes with her daughter and three grandchildren. Laughter seems to accompany her journey, as she fondly remembers the look of surprise on her professor’s face when her grandson called her “Grandma” in class. “I’m proud that I instilled the love of learning in my family,” Richmond smiles.

Looking to the Future

As Richmond looks towards graduation, her ambitions continue to soar high. She aims to become a case manager working with juveniles, earn a certification in equine therapy, and possibly pursue a master’s degree and even a Ph.D. “Maybe I’ll go all the way to Ph.D.,” she says with a hopeful lilt in her voice. Richmond’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and the ability to overcome challenges with a heart focused on serving others.