One of the most compelling graduation stories I’ve heard this year is that of Chelesa Fearce, aptly nicknamed the homeless valedictorian. This inspirational teen is graduating at the top of her high school class, and is set to enter college in the Fall as a junior, despite having lived in homeless shelters and the family car for much of her high school career.

Chelesa, her mother, and her siblings not only survived, but thrived when faced with job losses that left them without a place to call home. In fact, Chelesa is not the only outstanding student in the family…her sister is also graduating salutatorian of her high school. Chelsea and her familys story is an example in courage, perseverance, and above all, determination and drive. While their dire circumstances could have caused them all to break down, give up, and lose hope, they did just the opposite. They excelled and pushed themselves to do more and achieve more…and that’s exactly what happened.

Thank you, Chelesa, for showing us that WOW is not reserved for those with success handed to them on silver platters. Thanks for reminding us that the road to your dreams isn’t always smooth…it’s often paved with dirt and stones and potholes. If you rise above the obstacles, setbacks, and challenges, rather than letting them keep you down, you’ll know the pomp despite your circumstance.

–Sheri Staak