Raleigh – At 53 years young, Jannette Coppage-Montgomery has proven that it’s never too late to achieve your dreams.

After a nearly three-decade break from her educational journey, Coppage-Montgomery completed her bachelor of science in human services at the University of Mount Olive in August.

She earned the status of Cum Laude with a 3.7 GPA.

Growing up in the small, close-knit town of Hamden, CT, just a few miles from Yale University, Coppage-Montgomery was the third of four siblings in a hardworking and loving family.

After high school, she joined the Army Reserves to qualify for the GI Bill, which enabled Coppage-Montgomery to attend Gateway Community Technical College in New Haven, CT, where she earned her associate’s degree in 1995.

Though Coppage-Montgomery had plans to transfer to a university to complete her bachelor’s degree, life had other plans.

Coppage-Montgomery met and married the love of her life, Ulysses Montgomery.

After Ulysses earned his bachelor’s degree, the couple relocated to North Carolina. Coppage-Montgomery decided to enter the workforce full-time, putting her educational goals on hold.

Coppage-Montgomery completed eight years in the Army Reserves, earning an honorable discharge.

With the birth of their daughter, Tamia, Coppage-Montogomery focused much of her attention on being a wife and mother.

“When my daughter began college, I often thought about what my life would have been like had I completed my degree,” Coppage-Montgomery said. “I felt as though I was living life through my daughter, envying the college experience she was having.”

The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic brought these feelings to the forefront. Coppage-Montgomery began to experience signs of depression as she reflected on the things she had left unfinished, with her degree at the top of the list. Recognizing her sadness, her husband and daughter, both of whom hold four-year degrees, encouraged her to return to school.

In the fall of 2022, Coppage-Montgomery enrolled at the University of Mount Olive, marking one of the most important decisions of her life.

“My husband and daughter are my biggest cheerleaders,” Coppage-Montgomery said. “They make me feel like I can do anything.”

Her time at UMO has been transformative. Not only did Coppage-Montgomery gain confidence, but she also inspired many friends, coworkers, and family members to continue their education.

“UMO has restored my faith in knowing that with the support of my family and incredibly special friends, I can accomplish anything,” Coppage-Montgomery shared.

Coppage-Montgomery’s career has been dedicated to helping others, beginning as an Income Maintenance Caseworker in Durham County’s Department of Social Services.

She later moved into Patient Relations at Central Regional Hospital, the state’s mental health facility, before joining the Hearings and Appeals section of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) at the Dorothea Dix Campus in Raleigh.

In Coppage-Montgomery’s current role as an administrative assistant, she supports State Hearing officers in ensuring that clients across all 100 NC counties are treated fairly within the enrollment process.

With her newly earned degree, Coppage-Montgomery plans to continue her work in the human services field. She aspires to move into counseling, which holds deep personal significance for her.

“When I lost both my parents, hospice was wonderful,” Coppage-Montgomery said. “The counselors truly helped me through the grieving process, and I would love to help others through challenging times in life.”

Coppage-Montgomery credits her advisor, Stacy Gray, with helping her overcome her fears and doubts.

“Stacy was always there when I needed her, encouraging me and lifting me up throughout my entire time at UMO,” Coppage-Montgomery said.

Reflecting on her journey, Coppage-Montgomery emphasizes the importance of faith, family, and a strong support system.

“One of the most important things I learned during my time at UMO is to have faith in yourself and to surround yourself with the right people,” Coppage-Montgomery said. “Age should never be a barrier to achieving your goals.”

To celebrate her graduation, Coppage-Montgomery and her husband of 31 years, took a well-deserved trip to Costa Rica. Looking ahead, she is considering pursuing a master’s degree and continuing her commitment to lifelong learning.

Beyond her professional achievements, Coppage-Montgomery is deeply involved in her community. She is a member of Olive Branch Baptist Church in Parmele, NC, the State Employees Choir, and volunteers with the Community Volunteer Program through Wake Correctional Center in Raleigh. As a U.S. Army Reserves veteran, she brings a spirit of service to all she does.

“God, my husband, and my daughter are the reasons I have been successful in earning this degree,” Coppage-Montgomery said. “The power of prayer is amazing, and I am so blessed to have such a loving family.”

Coppage-Montgomery’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the unwavering support of loved ones. Her journey inspires others and proves that it is never too late to return to college and achieve one’s dreams.