At 75 years old, Loretta Wiley walked across the stage at 糖心传媒
to receive her master鈥檚 degree in counseling and guidance with a specialization in
human services, completing a goal nearly twenty years in the making.
鈥淚鈥檝e always had a passion to help people and make a positive impact on lives,鈥� Wiley said. 鈥淭his degree is something I鈥檝e wanted for a long time.鈥�
Wiley first enrolled in the program in 2006 but was unable to finish at that time. Life circumstances forced her to step away from the classroom, but the desire to finish never left her. In 2021, she returned to the College of Education and Human Sciences and began working toward her educational goal.
She first earned an undergraduate certificate in forensic psychology, followed by a graduate certificate in domestic violence. Those accomplishments led her to re-enroll in the master鈥檚 program and complete the degree she originally set out to earn.
While balancing school, Wiley continued to work as a substitute teacher in Bossier Parish schools. She says the classroom is where she finds purpose.
鈥淓very day, I try to show the students that there are so many opportunities out there for them,鈥� Wiley added. 鈥淚 want them to know that with hard work, they can accomplish anything.鈥�
鈥淪he has the biggest heart in helping others and has shown great determination in pursuing her graduate work,鈥� Dr. Mary Livingston, professor in the Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, said. 鈥淚 believe she will always be a great asset to her community.鈥�
Wiley leaned heavily on her faith, family, and support system to push through the tough moments during her education.
鈥淢y biggest supporters were God, who gave me the strength and guidance to keep going, and my family, who believed in me,鈥� Wiley said. 鈥淚鈥檓 especially thankful for Dr. Livingston, my advisor. She gave me courage, wisdom, and support every step of the way. I鈥檓 also grateful to the instructors and staff who created an environment where I could learn and grow.鈥�
Wiley鈥檚 story made an impact far beyond the classroom. Her determination and perseverance inspired fellow graduates and faculty alike, resulting in a standing ovation as she accepted her diploma at the 2025 Spring Commencement ceremony.
Now, with her degree in hand, Wiley plans to continue substitute teaching while exploring other opportunities to support and guide others through counseling or mentoring.
鈥淚 hope others can look at my story and see that it鈥檚 never too late to pursue something meaningful,鈥� Wiley said.