Stories of Persistence
Stories of Persistence
Real Students. Real Challenges. Real Triumphs.
Our “Stories of Persistence” campaign amplifies the journeys of four NJCU students who have overcome life challenges on their path to degree completion. The road to achieving a college education is not easy; many of our students are also full-time employees, caregivers, parents, and/or spouses/partners. Yet, they persist with grace and determination—and become, in many cases, the first person in their families to earn a college degree. Their success is a testament to their resilience, the support of our access & belonging initiatives and the culture of our campus community.
By sharing their stories, we hope to inspire current students who have had a “less than easy” journey. We are here to support you and to connect you with programs & initiatives that can help you along the way. Keep pushing. Keep striving. Keep “making it happen.”
Strength Through Change: Lavise McCray ’26
The first video in this series features a military spouse supported by the Office of Military & Veterans Services. In this powerful reflection, the student shares how serious health challenges required adjusting their academic path, leaning on campus resources, and continuing forward with resilience and determination. Encouraged by their military advisor and faculty mentor, their story is a testament to the strength of our students and the culture of care that defines our campus community.
Opportunity That Changed Everything: Serill Clark ’26
The next video in our Stories of Persistence series features Serill Clark, a member of NJCU’s Men of Color Initiative (MOCI) graduating in Spring 2026 with a degree in Criminal Justice. For Serill, college once felt out of reach—until discovering he qualified for a scholarship that opened the door to new possibilities.
Through mentorship, community, and the support of MOCI, Serill found the confidence to pursue his goals and grow as a leader. His story reflects how opportunity, guidance, and determination can transform a student’s path and future.