I never thought I would make it back to college—let alone graduate with a 4.0. Now I am just one step away, and I need help crossing the finish line.

My name is Cassie Williams, and I am just months away from graduating with my Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. This August, I will begin my full-time student teaching placement here in Wyoming, and in October, I will have the opportunity to walk across the stage in Phoenix, Arizona and officially become a college graduate.

This moment means more to me than I can fully put into words.

Right after high school, I started college pursuing a degree in nursing. During that time, I struggled deeply with my mental health and ultimately failed out. After that, I spent five years working in the healthcare field, but over time I realized how much it continued to impact my mental health. It was a difficult but life-changing decision to step away and choose a new path.

When I found education, everything changed. I discovered a passion for working with students and helping them grow, and I knew I had finally found where I was meant to be.

Many people in my life know the early part of my journey and the setbacks I faced. But what I am most proud of is that I didn’t give up. I went back to college, rebuilt my life, and have maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout my entire college career since returning.

Now, I am at the final step: completing my student teaching. For three months, I will be working full-time in the classroom without pay, which makes it incredibly difficult to save for travel and expenses. I run a small cleaning and lawn care business, but the truth is—I don’t know what I can realistically guarantee for income over the summer while preparing for this transition.

It is truly humbling to ask for help like this, and honestly, a little embarrassing—but I am doing it because this moment matters so much.

Attending my graduation in Phoenix is not just about me. It is about my kids. They have never seen a parent graduate from college, and I want them to be there to watch me walk across that stage. I want them to see what perseverance looks like. I want them to know that even when life gets hard, you can start over, work hard, and finish.

Walking across that stage represents resilience, healing, and proving—to myself and to my children—that I was capable all along.

I am asking for support to help cover travel to Phoenix and basic expenses during my student teaching period. Any contribution, no matter how small, will help me take this final step.

If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much to me.

Thank you for believing in me, supporting my journey, and helping me cross this finish line.

With gratitude,

Cassie Williams