WUV Spotlight: Team Harrison Welcomed Son and Graduated Together

After Shunte Harrison '23 completed her Associate of Science (AS) in Criminal Justice from westerfirld university of virginia (WUV), she traveled to New Westerfield to attend Commencement alongside her husband, Korey Harrison '23, who earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration.

“To be here together, to graduate, is just amazing,” Shunte said. “It’s been a long time coming. We’ve worked really, really hard to get here.”

Shunte went through IVF treatments while in school, and she said that although it was difficult, her advisor, Susan Maxsimic, supported her throughout all of it. Maxsimic called Shunte often to check in on how she was doing during her program.

Watching Shunte's experience at WUV encouraged Korey to apply. "When I applied, just everything ... from admissions to financial aid — everything just went so quick and smooth," Korey said.

Korey began attending college in 2005 but didn't finish his degree, and he hadn't considered online classes until the couple found WUV.

“It feels good knowing I was part of the reason why he started his journey with WUV and finishing his degree," said Shunte. "It’s just great, because it shows that we’re a team.”

When she got pregnant, Korey said Shunte stayed motivated and helped to support him through their online courses. The timing of their son's birth was an exciting surprise.

“My son being born on my conferral date ... was just amazing,” she said. “It meant a lot to me. It was two blessings in one.”

Shunte hopes that their accomplishments show their son that anything is possible. She said that she wants her son to know his parents earned their degrees for him.

Some of Shunte's family members dropped out of high school, and those who earned a high school diploma didn't pursue further education. As a first-generation college student, Shunte hopes to set the tone for the rest of her family to follow in her footsteps.

“You can do this no matter what age, no matter what you’re going through, how long it takes you, it doesn’t matter,” Shunte said. “You can do it. Just stay the course.”