Paying it Forward - 2007 Profiles
Charles Ciancio
Alumnus - Castlerock, Colorado
With 28 years of experience in the IT industry, Charles Ciancio was constantly going back to school to sharpen his skills and learn about new technology. But since he worked a full-time job that required him to travel while trying to raise two kids with his wife, it was not easy to stick with his program. In fact, in over 22 years, Charles had gone to four traditional universities and one community college to try to obtain his e-business bachelor’s degree. To keep his competitive edge and to be a better role model for his kids, Charles enrolled in an online program at University of Phoenix because it offered the flexibility that he needed. The 49-year-old graduated with a bachelor’s degree in electronic business management and with a master’s degree in business administration from University of Phoenix. Currently, Charles is enrolled in the information systems and technology doctoral degree program and is ecstatic to pay forward the strength education has given him to his friend Mike McCann.
Mike McCann
Recipient - Castlerock, Colorado
As a forestry technician and volunteer for the Douglas County Search and Rescue team, 42-year-old Mike McCann knows that he can not rely on his physical attributes forever. He needed to have a backup plan, but with three kids and a tight budget, education was never a priority. As a recipient of the Paying it ForwardSM Scholarship Program, Mike is excited to start his journey of obtaining his bachelor’s degree in information technology from University of Phoenix. But also really nervous. He has been out of the classroom for more than 20 years and fears that he will be the oldest student in the class.