Bay Helps Kingsford Mom Receive Degree

News

Photo by the Iron Mountain Daily News

Kellie Sexton was born and raised in Kingsford and does not regret it, in fact, it is where she wished to raise her own family. She moved from place to place for nearly six years after high school working in the travel industry. However, when Sexton found out she was expecting to be a mother she found herself wanting to move back to her home town.

Today, Sexton is grateful for the opportunities Dickinson County has brought her family’s way. In November, she took on the position of Project Manager at Lake Shore Systems Inc., where she has been employed for five years and started as a receptionist.

“Lake Shore Systems has so many career paths and departments that provide employees with the opportunity to move into different departments while utilizing and developing new skills. Lake Shore offers amazing benefits, a family atmosphere, strong values and a clear vision.”

As a single mother and full-time employee Sexton struggled to find the time to attend college. Although she went through training programs when she worked in the travel industry, she never got to experience college like many of her friends. “One day I received a flyer from Bay College that said what are you waiting for? I realized I did not have a good answer anymore,” said Sexton.

Sexton took advantage of Bay College’s tuition breaks for Dickinson County residents and enrolled in classes for her associate’s degree in business administration. She is set to graduate in May 2018. “Bay helped prepare me for a four-year school by offering a wide range of classes online so I could continue working full-time while working on my degree. The affordability and location was also a huge part of what made going to school possible for me,” said Sexton.

She went on to say how caring and supportive many of the staff members are at Bay. Specifically pointing out SI leader, Joseph Reath and Academic Advisor Director, Laura Moloney for their dedication to their students. After graduating in May, Sexton plans to pursue her bachelor’s degree in business management through the Lake Superior State University’s transfer program also offered at Bay College.

Sexton’s advice for someone pursing a career in business is, “Start with Bay College and transfer to a four-year university to get your bachelor’s degree. Even if you do not think you can afford college, I would recommend meeting with an advisor. Utilize resources and look for employers that provide education assistance. Most of all, remember it is never to late to go back and get a degree.”