Claiming Purpose, Giving Generously; Jamie’s Path to a Full Life
Jamie Warren’s path to higher education was derailed long before college was even a possibility in her mind. Ten-year-old Jamie’s troubles began the night her world was shattered by the loss of both parents. From that moment, life unraveled into a succession of trials, each pulling her further from the safety and innocence of childhood. Shock and grief were constant companions and made her feel that college was never an option for someone like her. Growing up in small town, Wisconsin, Jamie and her older sister were embraced by loving relatives who did their best to provide stability amidst the chaos. Yet even in this caring home, Jamie’s childhood was marked by trauma, sadness, and the weight of survivor’s guilt. The emotional toll of that night cast a shadow over her, shaping her inner world far more than any plans for the future.
Over the years, Jamie battled trauma, survived abuse, and overcame depression—all while working multiple jobs to support her son, Devon. For decades, she focused on everyone else, always pouring herself into the needs of others, never stopping to consider her own dreams or needs. The busier she kept, the less she had to think about herself, a purposeful diversion. As she neared her 40th birthday, she realized something had to change. She was burnt out, emotionally drained from years of giving and sacrificing without taking time for herself. That’s when she made a bold and “selfish” decision—to leave her career and pursue her education at Western Technical College.
With the support of her family—her husband, Kyle, her son Devon, and Grandma Margie—Jamie enrolled in the Web and Software Development program in 2022. It wasn’t an easy choice. She gave up her income, and her family made sacrifices, both big and small, to make her dream possible. They cut back on luxuries and adjusted their lifestyle, and their encouragement never faltered. This opportunity meant everything to Jamie—a chance to rewrite her story and break free from the cycle of hardship that had defined so much of her life.
Western became more than just a place of learning for Jamie. It was a second home. She found herself embraced by a community that welcomed her and believed in her. Despite her initial fears of being surrounded by younger students, some the same age as her son, Jamie discovered that she effortlessly belonged. Instructors like Jason Rouvel helped her rediscover her love for math, while Emily Trenholm reignited her passion for writing. Each day, her confidence grew. She wasn’t just another student—she was part of a supportive network that cared deeply about her success.
A critical part of Jamie’s journey was the financial support she received through scholarships. The scholarships didn’t just ease the financial burden of tuition, books, and her hour-long commute—they represented something much more profound. For the first time in a long time, Jamie felt that someone outside of her immediate circle believed in her potential. That belief gave her the strength to work even harder, maintain a nearly perfect GPA, and prove to herself, her family, and those who believed in her that this risk was worth it.
Since graduating from the Web and Software Development program, Jamie has continued her education at Western, enrolling in both the Accounting and Business Management programs. But for her, this is about more than just a career. Jamie’s education is tied to her deep sense of purpose. She dreams of giving back—using her skills to create free or low-cost software for public schools and helping underserved communities with financial literacy, particularly those facing challenges like the ones she has overcome. Her education at Western has given her the tools not just to succeed, but to help others find their way as well.
Jamie’s decision to return to school wasn’t the easy choice. It wasn’t the safe choice. But it was the right one! Her journey is a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, no matter how impossible they might seem. Western Technical College, and the donors who made her scholarships possible, gave her the chance not only to change her life, but to inspire others who may think college is beyond their reach.
As Jamie reflects on her journey, she knows her story is far from over. The challenges she faced were real, but so is the hope she now feels for her future. With more chapters yet to be written, Jamie stands stronger, more confident, and determined to give back to the community that helped her find her way.
To the donors who made this possible, Jamie offers her heartfelt thanks. Their generosity is about more than money—it’s about believing in someone’s potential. For Jamie, that belief has made all the difference.
Through her journey at Western, Jamie has gained more than just an education—she’s found the freedom to explore who she truly is. For the first time in her life, she can focus on what brings her joy, not just what benefits others. Whether it’s discovering new passions or enjoying activities like baking—not for the task itself, which she considers a chore, but for the way it allows her to share appreciation through her treats. Jamie now has the space to ask herself, “What do I want out of life?” It’s a shift in mindset that Western has made possible, empowering her to live with intention and fulfillment. No longer defined by past challenges and self-doubt, Jamie embraces a life where her choices reflect what she values most. It’s a profound change—one that has brought her not just success, but the full, rich life she deserves.