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 not just an education, but 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 magna cum laude 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. 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 strong leadership style, he fostered collaboration among first responders, local government, and community organizations 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 unexpected passions that would shape her future. Sophia discovered a passion for research in Dr. Jennifer Zonn's class, a newfound interest that reshaped her career trajectory. Supported by dedicated faculty and a curriculum that combined clinical expertise with academic growth, she left the program equipped not only with the skills to excel in nursing but also with the ability to make a lasting impact in healthcare. Sophia's experience at UCCS not only propelled her career forward but also ignited a passion that continues to shape her as she makes meaningful contributions to the healthcare field.
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 and domestic violence, she was given the tools to understand the complexities of the world around her.
With the foundation UCCS provided, Nichole stepped into a leadership role as a supervisor, where she began to put everything she had learned into action. She didn’t just want to do her job; she wanted to uplift others, to teach them, to give them the tools they needed to succeed. She became a voice for education, leading training sessions for officers, speaking to school counselors, and reaching out to those who needed her most. Today, Nichole dreams of returning to UCCS as a mentor, ready to inspire the next generation of students. UCCS gave her more than a degree—it gave her the confidence, vision, and tools to transform her career and her community, leaving a lasting impact along the way.
Degree Earned
Master of Criminal Justice