MARIETTA— Steven and Denise Lee are a married couple in the unique position of not only going to Washington State College of Ohio together but pursuing the same degree. The academic dynamic duo credits their success to their ability to encourage and support one another in achieving their dreams. This month they have earned the distinction of being the first couple WSCO has ever recognized as Students of the Month.
Steven and Denise are in the final weeks of completing their associate degrees in social services, a career path that both chose because of their desire to help people and make a positive impact on the community. “I want to have a job where I can help support, motivate, and advocate for others,” said Denise. Steven added that he wants to “make a difference in my community by enhancing the quality of life for those around me.”
Full-time students and parents of three kids, Steven and Denise find time not only for their studies (both have been inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for two-year colleges), but they’re also actively involved in on-campus activities as well as volunteer with community organizations. Between the two they’re involved in WSCO’s social services club, STEM Day, YES Days, GoPacks, and Scouts, just to name a few.
Denise attributes her ability to successfully manage everything to an amazing support system. “[Our kids] are my biggest motivators and supporters. Their love and encouragement mean so very much to me. They inspire me every single day. I want to be the best version of myself because of them.” She added that her parents also play a vital role, whether it be by making themselves available to assist with kid pickup and drop-offs or by simply “encouraging and supporting me by just talking and being there for me. I am very appreciative of my family and all of their love and support.”
Steven, a retired Air Force Veteran, said his success is guided by one of his core values—to do better. “This has driven me to become the best I can be, and I have known since a very early age that compassion and empathy are needed to achieve this goal.” His unique perspective on failing has also served to help him do better. “I am not afraid of failure,” proclaimed Steven, “because it is one of the best experiences you can have while on the road to success.” He explained that “success is not achieved overnight. It requires dedication to learning from failures. When you fail but still persist in moving forward, you can become the best version of yourself.”
One area where their views on success align is with each other. “This experience has been really amazing to be going through together,” said Denise. “We encourage and support each other and it has been really neat to be doing this alongside one another.” Steven echoed Denise’s thoughts. “I’m thankful to have an amazing spouse who has helped me through difficult times. Without her support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Following graduation from Washington State, both Steven and Denise plan to continue their education.
