To call Bobijean a recent graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Integrated Studies program is true, but far from the whole story. Her path to higher education has been anything but linear—marked by starts, stops, setbacks and new beginnings. Yet through it all, Bobijean never let go of her love for learning. For her, education wasn’t just a goal; it was a calling, a constant reminder that growth and resilience can define a life just as much as circumstances.
Her story is one of persistence, courage and the belief that it’s never too late to finish what you’ve started.
From Speedway to Southport – A Childhood in Motion
Bobijean grew up in Speedway, Indiana, just blocks away from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The roar of race cars was the soundtrack of her early years, and with it came a fascination for racing. Yet it was her mother’s influence that left the deepest mark.
“My mother always encouraged me,” she recalled. “She wanted to be a doctor, but life took her in another direction. She never stopped pushing me to pursue my education.”
When her family moved to Southport, Indiana, Bobijean discovered new outlets for her creativity and intellect. She joined choir, explored journalism and found a community that encouraged her to think beyond the racing world that had once consumed her.
Education on Pause and Life’s Detours
Like many, Bobijean dreamed of going straight to college after high school. But marriage and motherhood shifted her priorities. Though she took classes here and there, life’s demands(raising a son, supporting her husband’s business and working)made it difficult to pursue a degree consistently.
“I call it a salt and pepper life,the shadows and the light,” she said. “I had ups and downs, but I never gave up trying.”
Her determination carried her through many chapters, from working at a TV station that supported her studies at Butler University, to earning an associate’s degree from Indianapolis University in the early 1990s. Yet setbacks continued. A severe wrist injury caused permanent nerve damage and made attending classes difficult. Later, she moved across states, working in real estate and home renovation before eventually landing in Texas to be closer to her son.
Finding a Home at ACU Online
By the time she discovered ACU Online, Bobijean was ready for a fresh start. The idea of online education appealed to her, and she felt drawn to ACU because of its reputation and spiritual foundation.“I knew the name Abilene Christian from church,” she said. “And I thought, it’s got to be a good place. Choosing Integrated Studies gave her the broad, diverse education she craved. From British literature to Bible courses, every class felt like a gift.
“It was like opening a package at Christmas,” she laughed. “I love knowledge, and ACU gave me both knowledge and inspiration. It helped me shift my mindset from looking back at old baggage to focusing on possibilities.”
A Family’s Pride and a Personal Victory
While Bobijean’s parents were no longer living to see her achievement, her son, daughter-in-law and granddaughters proudly celebrated with her at graduation.“They were thrilled for me,” she said. “For them to take two days out of their lives to support me meant the world.”For Bobijean, walking the stage wasn’t just about a degree—it was about closure, fulfillment and proof that perseverance pays off.“Even if I don’t work another day in my life, I’m glad I did this,” she said. “I completed what I started, and that is enough for me.”
Looking Forward with Courage
Today, Bobijean is grateful, content and hopeful about the future. Whether she uses her degree for new work opportunities or simply enjoys the satisfaction of completing a lifelong goal, she knows the journey was worth it.
Her closing message is one of encouragement:
“We don’t know where our lives will take us, and we may not always have someone to take care of us. We need to make sure we have the skills and the tools to take care of ourselves. Always reach out, always try and know that you can make it.”
Bobijean’s story is proof that education is not bound by age, circumstances or setbacks. It’s a gift, and it’s never too late to give that gift to yourself.
