Christina Scott-Ford had a clear vision of why she chose to pursue a degree. “I knew if I ever wanted to change my life for the better, that a degree is what it would take.” Now as Northland Pioneer College’s 2015 Outstanding Graduate for the Associate of Business degree, Scott-Ford is optimistic as she looks ahead to the future.
Originally from Kansas City, Mo., Scott-Ford moved to Arizona three years ago and felt the need to take the opportunity and go to NPC. “I’ve worked at several jobs, and I got nowhere fast,” she said. “I wanted to build my career and build my future.”
Looking for a college nearby, Scott-Ford chose NPC with a desire to stay close to Holbrook. “It was one of the only options, but I am so glad it was NPC! NPC has changed my life forever.”
Choosing business as her field of study, she loved the idea that business was a universal language, and saw it as an opportunity for herself and her family. She now considers one day opening her own business.
Inspiring her to continue in the field of business and also graduate, Scott-Ford acknowledges many NPC faculty and staff members who have assisted her, including Brian Burson, Ruth Creek-Rhoades and Shandiin Deputee. “I’ve been able to receive so much help, I think everyone at NPC inspired me to graduate. Everyone!” she noted.
While obtaining a degree, Scott-Ford reflects back on the obstacles she had to overcome to graduate. “I’d say there were many challenges I had to go through. There was balancing time with children; I’m a type 1 diabetic; there were money issues; etc.” But she says that it was family support and “consistent, genuine, effort” that helped her get to where she is today. “The help and support from my family were a key factor in helping me graduate,” she said. “I know if I can get a degree with the challenges I’ve had stacked up against me, I believe anyone can. Just stick with it every day and give consistent, genuine effort.”
At NPC, Scott-Ford was able to maintain a high grade point average, be inducted into Phi Theta Kappa and receive the All-Arizona Academic Team tuition waiver. With that waiver, she has chosen to attend Arizona State University for its nationally recognized business school to continue pursuing a degree in business management.
NPC’s 41st Commencement will be held on Saturday, May 9, at the Show Low School District Auditorium, 500 W. Old Linden Road in Show Low. Admission to the ceremony, which begins at 1 p.m., is restricted to individuals with reserved seat tickets. Doors to the auditorium open at noon.
Navajo County Manager James Jayne is the guest speaker for this year’s ceremony.
Scott-Ford and the other four outstanding graduates will also be addressing their peers during the ceremony. Moira Hamilton of Concho is the top Associate of Arts graduate.. Duane Harris of Show Low is the top Associate of Science graduate. Isaac Schimmel of Pinetop will represent the Associate of General Studies students. Tammy Brown of Show Low is the top Associate of Applied Science graduate.
Guests and the graduates are invited to a President’s Reception immediately following the ceremony.
Candidates for graduation are listed on azjournal.com.
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Editor’s note: NPC staff writers Michael Nilsson and Everett Robinson contributed to this article.
