2012 Graduate: Ashley Blakenship

Ashley Blakenship understands the importance of a college education and the sacrifices that come with obtaining that goal.

“Always know that no matter what is going on in your personal life, attaining a college education is possible,” Blakenship said prior to graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree on May 5.

In the midst of balancing a busy life at home, Blankenship never lost sight of her academic goals. Her focus eventually earned her a spot in the top 10 percent of her senior class, and was inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma as well.

The ultimate test of Blankenship’s dedication came when her sister became ill. She took care of her four-year-old niece for nine months, over spring, summer and fall semesters -- in the midst of her husband, a U.S. Air Force pararescueman, being deployed and completing temporary duty (TDY) assignments.

Through this period, Blankenship never allowed her grades to suffer. The business management major also maintained membership in some of the university’s top academic honor societies including Golden Key and Phi Kappa Phi.

After recently discovering she is pregnant, Blankenship stated that her immediate goals include becoming the best wife and mother she can be. Although she is focusing on her family at this time, Blankenship expressed interest in one day opening and managing a home daycare business.