SCC gave me the confidence to navigate life. I learned to ask questions and advocate for myself and others.
Tell us about your involvement at SCC.
My participation in SPPF provided me with an in-depth experience of how government works and culminated in my travel to Washington, D.C., where I had the opportunity to lobby members of Congress on higher education issues that mattered to me. It was also affirming to be honored at Excellence Under the Stars for my hard work and talent, and to be asked to submit a speech for consideration to be the SCC Commencement Student Speaker. I was recognized for my investment of time, energy, and talent in my schoolwork, and for that, I am most grateful.
What made SCC the right fit for you?
Working full-time, I knew that someday I would return to school. Relatively new to married life, still working part-time and consumed with the role of caregiver for my mother (who was recovering from brain surgery), I realized that I needed to do something for myself. I had always loved riding horses and realized that my interest in horses could be an outlet and an opportunity for personal and professional growth, not to mention some much-needed self-care. Thus began my educational journey at SCC with a focus on Equine Science.
Tell us about your favorite memory of SCC.
My favorite memory is a one-to-one meeting with the SCC President, Dr. Jan Gehler, upon being selected to participate in the Student Public Policy Forum (SPPF). This opportunity was both rewarding and validating. Taking a class from the State Historian, Marshall Trimble, was also a very impactful experience. I was elated to receive one of his books, an acknowledgment of my commitment to learning all about Arizona history.
Tell us about your time at SCC.
My employment and caregiver responsibilities necessitated taking one or two classes a semester. At this pace, it was a long and challenging journey as I juggled multiple roles of employee, student, wife, and caregiver. While at SCC, I focused mostly on my Equine curriculum; however, I had several stand-out professors in my core education. I loved film, Spanish, English, and my amazing speech class with Professor Judy Balan.
What value has SCC brought to your personal life and/or career?
SCC gave me the confidence to navigate life. I learned to ask questions and advocate for myself and others. I have continued my advocacy role as a Volunteer with Camelot Therapeutic Horsemanship, my appointment and service to both the Parks and Recreation Commission and Tourism Development Commission for the City of Scottsdale.
List any scholarship(s) you received while attending SCC.
I received several scholarships while at SCC as an adult re-entry student. My philanthropic spirit exemplifies my gratitude. I am now the proud donor of two scholarships established in 2021 to memorialize my parents and extend to others the financial support I received along my educational journey. These scholarships are: Robert Henry Karla Scholarship - Fish and Game, Sustainability, and Animal Husbandry, and Peggy Jane Karla Scholarship - Equine Science.
Tell us about your journey after graduating from SCC.
Upon retiring after 30 years of service with Grainger Industrial Supply Company, I pursued my interest in travel and am now an independent Travel Advisor with ties to Virtuoso, providing the best travel experiences for my clients. I have volunteered with the Camelot Therapeutic Horsemanship program for over 20 years. Camelot offers horsemanship-related services to children and adults with physical disabilities, a bridge leading to a life of freedom and self-fulfillment.
What advice would you give others embarking on their college journey?
The warm embrace you will receive from professors, instructors, counselors, and the staff is amazing. Everyone at SCC is ready to make your dreams come true. You are ageless as a member of the SCC campus community. I am very grateful to all the people who supported my journey. As someone who has invested significantly in the care of others, it’s very affirming to receive the care and support offered at SCC.