Stories of Community Impact
Fatima Stansell
Fatima Stansell's journey of impact began at UCCS, where she found more than an education—she discovered her purpose. As a first-generation college student and mother of two, she found a community that nurtured her passion for inclusivity and literacy. Guided by mentors like Henrietta Williams Pichon and supported by scholarships such as the Chancellor's Award, Fatima thrived—graduating with distinction (magna cum laud) with a degree in Inclusive Elementary Education and endorsements in Special Education and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education.
At UCCS, she founded Krimson Kourt Inc., a multicultural community service organization that fostered connection and leadership among first-generation and diverse students. This spirit of service became the foundation of her platform, Bridging the Literacy Gap, which she champions as Ms. Black Colorado USA 2025. Today, as an educator in Colorado Springs, Fatima inspires her students not just to read, but to believe in themselves—proving that with resilience, support, and education, the ripple effect of one's impact can reach far beyond the classroom.
Degree Earned
Inclusive Elementary Education
Derek Wheeler
Derek Wheeler first stepped onto campus in 1998 as a young firefighter pursuing paramedic training. His dedication to public service and leadership throughout his career propelled him through the ranks, eventually becoming Battalion Chief for the Colorado Springs Fire Department. After 24 years of service and a wealth of front-line experience, Derek returned to UCCS to earn a degree in Public Administration, equipping himself with the knowledge and leadership skills to continue making a meaningful impact.
For Derek, UCCS was more than a university—it was a catalyst for his success. His time at UCCS gave him the knowledge and leadership foundation to turn his passion for public service into lasting community impact. As Battalion Chief, Derek applied his education to navigate complex public safety challenges including emergency response strategies and crisis decision-making. With a confident and supportive leadership style, he fostered collaboration among first responders, local government, and community organizations and strengthened public safety efforts across the region. Beyond the firehouse, Derek shaped local policies, developing outreach programs, and mentoring future leaders in public service. His journey is a testament to lifelong learning and the power of education to transform not just careers, but entire communities.
Degree Earned
Master of Public Administration
Sophia Hovis
Sophia Hovis never anticipated the profound impact her journey in the RN to BSN program at UCCS would have on her career. Faced with the challenge of bridging the gap between her associate and bachelor's degrees, Sophia found a rare solution in UCCS' co-enrollment option, which allowed her to pursue both simultaneously advancing in her career without losing momentum.
As she progressed through the program, she discovered an unexpected passion for research that reshaped her career trajectory. Driven by a deep commitment to mental health and suicide prevention, Sophia partnered with a mentor through the Undergraduate Research Academy to investigate the effects of COVID-19 on suicide risk factors in healthcare workers. Their research was published in the Journal of Clinical Nursing and led to an invitation to present at the International Association for Suicide Prevention’s 32nd World Congress in Slovenia, where she shared her findings with over 800 experts from more than 30 countries.
Now, Sophia is taking action. As a pre-op nurse at CommonSpirit Penrose Hospital, she is leading suicide prevention efforts by implementing evidence-based training for 250 healthcare leaders—an initiative never before studied. With grant funding and support from UCCS, she is conducting groundbreaking research to measure the effectiveness of these interventions, ensuring that healthcare workers are equipped to recognize and support colleagues at risk.
From research to real-world application, Sophia's work is creating a ripple effect, touching not just her colleagues but their families, friends, and patients—proving that one nurse’s dedication can change the course of lives.
Degree Earned
RN to BSN
Nikki Patton
When Nicole Patton enrolled at UCCS, she had a passion for criminal justice but didn't yet know the full potential of what she could achieve. It was at UCCS that she discovered the depth of her capabilities and how far her dedication could take her. The university became more than just a place of learning for Nichole; it was a place where her passion was nurtured, challenged, and amplified. Through courses in victimology, domestic violence, and criminal theory, Nicole gained a deeper understanding of the systemic challenges within the justice system. She learned how education can empower both professionals and communities, fueling her passion for bridging knowledge gaps.
Nicole's commitment to serving victims extends beyond her leadership role—it's a personal mission fueled by the knowledge she gained at UCCS. Understanding the complexities of victimology and domestic violence, she works tirelessly to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve. By leading training sessions for officers, she ensures they have the tools to approach cases with empathy and awareness. She speaks to school counselors, equipping them with critical resources to support students in crisis. Through her outreach, Nicole empowers victims by making sure they know their rights and the support systems available to them. Her work is a testament to her belief that education is not just about personal growth—it’s about creating meaningful change for those who need it most.
Degree Earned
Master of Criminal Justice