Lori Slaven

bachelor’s degree

At the age of 54, Lori Slaven was the first in her family to graduate from college with a bachelor’s degree. While Lori said the decision to go back to school was outside of her comfort zone, she did not let that stand in the way of earning the necessary credentials to advance her career. “You can’t let fear get in the way,” she said. “When I first went back, it was intimidating and a little scary… but all the students, of all age ranges, were so kind. They were so welcoming.”

Lori said earning her degree definitely played a role in attaining her job as Executive Director of the Lee Conlee House, a local domestic violence shelter. “A formal education is key to being in this type of position,” she said.