Shannan Builds a Brighter Future Through The Academy at Goodwill
meet KOREA DISMUKE ACADEMY GRADUATE
After 17 years working in fast food, Shannan Brink knew she wanted something more—but like many adults seeking a new path, she didn’t know where to begin. That’s when she discov- ered The Academy at Goodwill. “The Academy gave me the opportunity to do something I never thought I’d be able to do,” Shannan shared. She enrolled in the Cer- tified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) pro- gram, earning both her certification and multi - ple digital skills creden- tials through GTEC. Thanks to her train-
When Korea Dismuke enrolled in our Construction Trades program, he had one clear goal: to turn his passion for home renovations into a career. “I’ve always loved working with my hands and seeing the transformation of
ACADEMY CONSTRUCTION VIDEO
SHANNAN BRINK VIDEO
a space,” he said. “Taking this course is giving me the skills I need to do renovations and remodels professionally.” From mastering power tools to reading blueprints, Korea is gaining hands-on experience that will help him launch into the home improvement industry after graduation. We’re proud to support students like Korea who are building bright fu- tures—one project at a time. April 28 was a day of celebration – with over 20 students graduating from various Academy programs. Friends, family and Academy staff gathered to honor graduates from our healthcare, welding and con- struction programs. Congratulations, graduates! over 20 students graduate at spring commencement
ing and determination, Shannan was hired at CSL Plasma Donation in Springdale. While the starting pay for her role is $13.00 per hour, her CCMA certification and additional skills earned at Goodwill helped her secure a starting wage of $15.10 per hour—with opportunities for raises and bo- nuses as she advances. Balancing life, classes, and career goals wasn’t easy, but Shannan’s perseverance and the support of The Acad- emy’s staff made all the difference. Today, she’s not just starting a job—she’s building a career and a brighter future for herself and her family. “I feel proud of myself,” Shannan said. “I’ve shown my kids that no matter how long it takes, you can always pur- sue your dreams.” At The Academy, we believe one’s future should reflect their potential—not their past.
SCHOLARSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE FOR ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES
Goodwill believes in investing in our employees by providing education and training to further their careers. The Academy at Goodwill Employee Scholarship provides a full scholarship into one of the certification programs. Employees who work full-time for Goodwill, who are in good standing and who have been with #TeamBlueAR for at least 90 days are eligible to apply.
learn more at goodwillar.org/academy
ACADEMY GRADUATION RECAP VIDEO
13 mission magazine / volume 2 / sUMMER 2025 mission magazine / volume 2 / summer 2025
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