Meet Jacqueline DeCambre
When Jacqueline DeCambre walked across the stage to receive her Media Production Career Studies Certificate, her children and grandchildren were in the audience cheering her on. For Jacqueline, it wasn’t just a piece of paper—it was a symbol of determination and faith. At 64 years old, she proved to herself and to everyone watching that it’s never too late to walk in your purpose.
“I’m a proud mother, grandmother, community servant, and non-traditional student who returned to college later in life to finish what I started,” she said. “What inspired me most was my deep desire to use storytelling as a tool for healing, faith, and encouragement. I’ve lived through a lot, and I want others to know that it’s never too late to start over.”
Choosing Reynolds
When Jacqueline was ready to return to school, she knew she needed a place that would truly support adult learners. She found that in Reynolds Community College.
“Reynolds felt like a second chance wrapped in hope,” she said. “From my very first conversation with my advisor, I felt seen. I knew this was a college that cared about people like me.”
Pamphlets, program details, and the encouragement of staff all made a difference, but what sealed the deal was the personal support she felt the moment she set foot on campus. “My advisors and professors gave me the information, guidance, and confidence to know this was the right place for me,” she said. “The support system here is huge—and that’s what made it work for me.”
Jacqueline chose Media Production because of her lifelong love of storytelling. She wanted to launch a podcast, write books, and create content that reflects real life and real faith. She credits Reynolds for giving her both the technical skills and the confidence to dream bigger.
She now produces a faith-based podcast, with a goal of speaking at events, and mentoring others.
Balancing Life and School
Jacqueline’s journey was not without challenges. She balanced caregiving for her 90-year-old aunt, raising children in school and college, working, and serving in her community—all while studying full time.
“It was very challenging,” she admitted. “But my passion and my faith gave me the resilience to keep going. I knew what the end result was supposed to look like, and that helped me push through.”
She managed her busy schedule with planners, checklists, prayer, and grace. “I’ve learned that rest is just as important as the work,” she said. “And I reminded myself daily that I was doing this not just for me, but for every dream I’ve ever had.”
Support Along the Way
While her faith grounded her, Jacqueline is quick to point out that she didn’t do it alone. She credits professors, advisors, and mentors with encouraging her along the way.
Special thanks go to Katelyn Eden, her advisor and Reynolds’ Director of Advising and Transfer Services, who helped her navigate her path with clarity and care. She also recognizes Rhonda Crosby, Scholarship Coordinator, for her guidance and support.
Advice to Others
Jacqueline encourages anyone considering Reynolds to take the leap. “Don’t hesitate—jump in,” she said. “Reynolds is more than a college; it’s a community. There are people here who care deeply about your success and are ready to walk with you every step of the way.”
For students struggling with balance or motivation, her advice is simple but powerful: “It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, but don’t give up. Use your resources, talk to your advisors, and take things one step at a time. Your story isn’t over yet, and sometimes the biggest growth comes from the hardest seasons.”
Walking in Her Purpose
Looking back, Jacqueline says the secret to her success has been faith, resilience, and support. “The support of advisors, professors, and mentors has made all the difference. I believe in giving yourself permission to grow, fall, get back up, and never stop believing in your own story.”
With a Media Production certificate in hand, and an A.S. in Liberal Arts on the horizon, Jacqueline is already living the future she once only dreamed of. “Sometimes you don’t need to wait for others to say they’re proud of you,” she said. “Be proud of yourself. That’s where I am now—walking in my purpose.”
For more about the Media Production Career Studies Program at Reynolds, visit our website.