From SNAP Benefits to Valedictorian: Goodwin University Celebrates the Remarkable Journey of Susan Johnson

EAST HARTFORD, Conn., June 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Goodwin University is proud to shine a spotlight on Susan Johnson, an extraordinary member of the class of 2025 whose perseverance, academic excellence, and personal resilience have earned her not only the title of valedictorian but also the school's Award for Academic Excellence in the Bachelor of Science in Human Services program.

A single mother of four, Susan spent years working tirelessly as a nanny while receiving SNAP benefits to make ends meet — but she knew she was capable of more. When Susan received a flyer in the mail about free associate degree programs offered through Goodwin University's partnership with the state SNAP program, she saw a pathway to a brighter future for her and her young family.

Susan officially enrolled in Goodwin's associate degree program in human services in 2018 — and everything changed.

By the end of her program, Susan earned her associate degree summa cum laude. Soon after, she joined the University staff as a senior administrative assistant, a role that empowered her to pursue her bachelor's degree in Human Services while working full-time and raising her daughters. Her GPA? An astonishing 4.0, and she is presently pursuing a master's degree in Public Health.

Susan's story reaches its pinnacle this week as she prepares to represent her fellow 2025 graduates as valedictorian, carrying the Goodwin University flag and ringing the Goodwin Bell during commencement ceremonies.

"You have it in you to make the end of your story better than how it began," says Susan. "No matter where you start, you have the power to rewrite the future — and I am living proof of that." University leaders agree. "Susan's journey from SNAP recipient to University graduate and employee exemplifies the transformative power of education and determination," said Goodwin's Human Services program director, Liz Lane. "She is an inspiration for those who cross the stage at commencement this week, as well as those who sit in the stands."

University President Mark Scheinberg echoes this sentiment. "Susan reminds us what's possible when opportunity meets resilience and the support of an educational community. She embodies the mission of Goodwin University at its best: removing barriers to education, championing learners of all ages and backgrounds, and helping students write new chapters in their lives filled with purpose and potential."

Media outlets are invited to cover Susan's story and the award presentation. Interviews with Susan and University representatives are available by request.

Commencement Information:
Date: Thursday, June 12
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: Rentschler Field, East Hartford, Connecticut
Visuals: Susan addressing the crowd, receiving the Academic Excellence Award, ringing the bell, and carrying the university flag.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:

• One-on-one interviews with Susan Johnson
• Interviews with Liz Lane and university leaders about Susan's recognition
• Footage and photos from commencement

About Goodwin University: 

Goodwin University in East Hartford, Connecticut, is an innovative learning community that empowers hard-working students to become sought-after employees. We tailor our programs to address the needs of employers, and we shape them to fit the lives of students. Classes are conveniently offered year-round — days, evenings, weekends, and online. Degrees may be flexibly layered across certificate, associate, bachelor's, and master's programs in a variety of in-demand fields. Better still, we surround our students with the personal support and the professional guidance they need — not just to earn degrees, but to change lives for themselves, their families, and their communities. For more information, please visit www.goodwin.edu. 

To schedule interviews or request media access, contact: 
Peter Decoteau, [email protected], 860-748-8246

SOURCE Goodwin University