Adoria Wilson

When Adoria Wilson first came to KCKCC, she loved it. She chose the community college because it was close to home and many of her high school classmates also attended. However, her first experience at KCKCC did not end well as she failed that first year. But that did not stop her.

Many years later, Wilson made the choice to return to KCKCC. She enrolled in what was then called the Adult Pace Program, which was an adult education program designed for students who worked during the day and had a family.

“It was wonderful and convenient for me and my family,” she said of the program. “I had a wonderful counselor, Carla Pestock and wonderful instructors such as Betty Frogley, Jennifer Gieschen and many more. I felt very comfortable with the instructors, and they all were patient and understanding. They were there to help you get through your classes and be successful. I felt so proud of myself - setting an example for my children by reaching my goal to graduate in 1997 with an associates degree in general studies, majoring in elementary education.”

Attending KCKCC has been a family affair for Wilson. Her father, retired Deputy Chief Harold E. Brown Sr., took courses at KCKCC and graduated from the college in the 1960s. Wilson’s sister attended the original KCKCC location at 8^th and State Ave. Wilson’s daughter-in-law graduated from KCKCC in 2003 and later, her son, Tenzie Wilson Sr. graduated in 2005. They both received scholarships to attend KCKCC. Shortly after her son graduated, Wilson’s daughter, An’Drienna Wilson, who is currently the records coordinator at KCKCC, graduated in 2006. Wilson herself is now employed at the college and is currently working in the Learning Commons.

“I have worked at KCKCC for almost five years and have thoroughly enjoyed my time working in the Learning Commons. This building has progressed and changed since I was a student and it was the library,” she said. “First, I have the best supervisor (Dr. Amanda Williams). She is so innovative and student-centered and continues to wow our students by not making the space a study area, but a learning space. Our dean, Cecelia Brewer, is also amazing and continues to be the best motivator for our staff because of her years of service in higher education. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to KCKCC.”

Wilson said KCKCC is such an important part of the community because of the many things it has to offer not only students, but those who work at and visit the campus. She said it continues to make an impact on her life and is thankful for her time spent learning and working at the campus.

“Even to this day, I always tell my kids, stay focused on your goals, dreams and follow your heart. Always keep your eyes on the prize and that is exactly what all three of my kids did and continue to do in their respective careers,” she said. “Everyone was so supportive with me while I was furthering my education, and they still are. KCKCC is a great place to be. The instructors are sincere, dedicated and are always working with you to help you reach your goals. I was so excited to graduate from KCKCC.”