Meet Dominique and William McLane

When Dominique and William McLane walked across the graduation stage together in the spring of 2025, the moment represented far more than the culmination of coursework and exams. It was a shared victory—years of perseverance, faith, and partnership coming full circle. The husband-and-wife duo earned their Substance Abuse Counseling Education – Career Studies Certificates side by side, marking a milestone in both their personal and professional journeys.

A Shared Calling

Both Dominique and William grew up in the inner city, where they witnessed the devastating effects of substance abuse and loss in their communities. Those early experiences planted a seed of purpose that would later define their lives. After spending more than a decade in the mental health field, the couple decided to turn their shared passion into purpose by launching their own ventures—eventually founding three companies, including a substance abuse program built in collaboration with a colleague.

Finding the Right Fit at Reynolds

Dominique’s connection to Reynolds began first. She earned her associate degree and completed the Behavioral Technician program before encouraging William to join her in the Substance Abuse Counseling Education, Career Studies Certificate (C-SAC) program. Her earlier experience with the college’s supportive environment made Reynolds the natural choice for both.

With a background as a correctional officer, William had witnessed addiction’s impact within the justice system, while Dominique’s nursing experience gave her firsthand insight into the medical and emotional dimensions of care.

Together, they found common ground in behavioral health—a field that combined their skills and their hearts for service.

Learning and Growing—Together

Balancing school, business, and family life wasn’t easy. The McLanes spent nearly half of their marriage in school together, often studying late into the night after long workdays. Dominique also cared for her mother, who lived with them for four years before passing away during the program. It was one of the most difficult seasons of her life.

That sense of unity became their strength. Whether tackling coursework, running their growing business, or managing family responsibilities, they approached everything as a team. “School didn’t just fit into our lives—it became part of our story,” Dominique said.

Guidance and Gratitude

The McLanes credit much of their success at Reynolds to supportive instructors who went above and beyond—especially Teresa Jordan, a mentor who guided them through the program. “She helped us find the right classes, offered constant encouragement, and truly cared about our success. Her belief in us made a lasting impact.”

Through hands-on learning and real-world application, Reynolds helped the couple develop essential skills—organizational, professional, and interpersonal—that prepared them to meet the challenges of the behavioral health field head-on. The experience also sparked new goals: Dominique plans to become a Licensed Social Worker, while William is preparing to pursue a master’s degree in Community Counseling.

A Celebration of Perseverance

Of all their Reynolds memories, one stands out above the rest: graduation day. Walking across the stage together symbolized more than an academic accomplishment—it was a shared triumph over adversity. “All the late nights, challenges, and sacrifices felt worth it in that moment,” Dominique said. “We were so proud knowing we’d done it together.”

Building a Legacy of Hope

Professionally, the McLanes continue to grow their reach. They now operate substance abuse programs in both Virginia and Ohio, and their business has become an extension of their shared faith and purpose.

Looking ahead, they hope to continue building programs that transform lives—and to leave behind a legacy rooted in service, compassion, and faith. “In one year, five years, or even thirty years,” Dominique said, “we want to look back and see the lives we’ve changed, the relationships we’ve nurtured, and the legacy we’ve built together.”

Words of Wisdom

For couples considering going back to school together, the McLanes offer simple but powerful advice: “Anything is possible. Keep your mind focused, your faith strong, and believe in yourselves,” Dominique said. “With love, support, and dedication, you can achieve more than you ever imagined.”

To students facing personal or academic challenges, their message is just as heartfelt: “Never give up,” Dominique urged. “No matter how difficult things may feel, there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger.”

Together, Dominique and William McLane embody the spirit of Reynolds—lifelong learners using their education to uplift others, and partners proving that when two hearts share one mission, anything is possible.

For more about the Substance Abuse Counseling Certificate Program at Reynolds, visit our website.