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A Wrong Turn Doesn’t Always Lead to a Dead End

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t the age of 18, Lamont Moore found himself with a 15-year sentence after choosing a path not destined for greatness. He was incarcerated from 1995 to 2006 and he explains that the time was tough but allowed him time for refection and soul searching. He decided he wanted to walk a better path that would lead him to a brighter future.

When he was released, Lamont spent a few years working but with no real direction. He met Crystal Chambers, who would later become his wife, who made a profound impression on him. Through her own successes as an employed college graduate, Lamont was inspired to pursue his own education.

He was immediately sold upon visiting ECPI University’s Innsbrook campus. However, he was concerned his past would hinder his career ambitions and didn’t want to make the investment if he wouldn’t be able to put his schooling to use. “I wasn’t flled with empty promises from the people at ECPI University,” explained Lamont. “I was given encouragement to not let my past discourage me from moving forward.”

It was through his Principles of Speech class with Ms. Borland that Lamont gained the confdence and skills to be able to share his story with others. As part of his probation, he speaks with others following his initial path and encourages them to stop the process and follow their own dreams to a brighter

future. “ECPI University has really helped me and I want to help others. If I can inspire just one person, my job is done,” shared Lamont.

Lamont walked in the Richmond graduation ceremony in June. He will fnalize his classes in October and receive his Associate’s in Electronics Engineering Technology. In April 2012 Lamont plans to open his own franchise of UNE, a computer company, where he started as a volunteer while pursuing his education. Lamont declares, “Everything has worked out for me.”

Collin Elane, A Stand-Out MCI 2011 Graduate

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s an employee of AmeriGroup for the past eight years and the current Director of Nursing, Collin Elane is used to making presentations to large groups. In those situations it’s about education, direction and inspiration. When asked to speak at the recent graduation in Virginia Beach on May 21, his speech would also need to entertain.

Collin was flattered to be given the opportunity having been selected by MCI, ECPI University’s School of Health Science

Campus President, Matt Albano, for his leadership abilities, over-all character and an ideal representation of an MCI graduate.

As a licensed practical nurse for 13 years, Collin felt that being a registered nurse would position him for more management positions. He selected MCI for his education because it had the greatest flexibility within his already busy schedule.

It was the complexity of his schedule that led Andrea Lipsmeyer, MCI’s Director of Nursing program, to really focus Collin to evaluate if he would be able to work full-time and attend school full-time. “I really appreciated that she didn’t have any reservations about telling me what to expect,” said Collin. “I had to really consider if it was the right program for me because of the time commitment, would I be okay with the sacrifices of time with family and friends.” Ultimately the decision was to proceed with his education.

Collin’s message to his fellow graduates was a reflection on the commitment and perseverance to complete an education. “I didn’t want graduates to get lost in the moment of graduation,” said Collin. “I wanted them to really think about the barriers they had to overcome and the courage and intelligence it takes to be a successful ECPI University graduate. The programs are fast-paced and aren’t meant for those looking for slow and relaxed. I think that says a lot about my fellow graduates.”

Lamont and his wife, Crystal Chambers-Moore on graduation day.

Collin and fellow graduates wave in appreciation to guests who supported them through their education.

GRADUATION 2011