Paying it Forward - 2006 Profiles
Dr. Brenda Nelson-Porter
Alumna - Newnan, Georgia
Brenda, a graduate of University of Phoenix’s Doctor of Management program, attributes her University experience to her own success and her desire to help other women achieve their educational dreams. She not only mentors single mothers seeking degrees, she also reaches out to doctoral students to counsel them in their dissertation development to ensure they finish their programs. In 2006, she created the Alumni Association Network, which aims to support alumni associations, universities and doctoral learners across the nation. She is also motivating her friend by paying forward an opportunity for her to pursue a master’s degree in education.
Marcia Lemon Atkins
Recipient - Jonesboro, Georgia
Marcia is a mother of two, a grandmother, and a wife of 35 years, and will be retiring from Northwest Airlines as a reservation sales agent this year. Her passion for helping others can be seen in all facets of her life. In 1997, Atkins founded Hope Family Ministries, a non-profit faith-based organization to encourage underserved families, mentally challenged individuals, juvenile first offenders, children of incarcerated parents, and the elderly. Atkins is the owner of The Taxi Mom – Grandma on the Go, an errand and transportation service for working parents and the elderly. Atkins’ next step is to begin an outreach program designed to provide alternative education for troubled teens.