Shae Hughes’s story is a masterclass in resilience and the power of a second chance. At thirty years old, feeling trapped in a dead-end job in Jonesboro, she made the defining decision to reclaim her future for the sake of her family.

"I realized I needed to make a change for myself and my daughter, so I decided to go back to school."

Her academic path began at Arkansas State University, where she earned her associate degree, before transferring to UA Little Rock to complete her bachelor’s degree in communications and professional sales. Today, she works as the Marketing and Community Engagement Manager at Park Plaza. When she was first interviewed for the role, she reached a career milestone she will never forget.

"When they asked if I had a college degree during the interview, I was proudly able to say, 'Yes, I do!'"

The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund does things differently. Instead of sending funds directly to university billing offices, they put the money directly into the hands of the parents. This financial flexibility allows recipients to cover the real-world emergencies that usually force single parents to drop out—things like sudden car repairs, utility bills, groceries, or childcare.

But as Shae points out, the financial aid is only half the battle. The program’s wrap-around support, mentorship, and community check-ins are what truly keep students going when things get tough.

"The main reason single parents persevere through tough times is simply that someone believed in them and encouraged them."

In a beautiful, full-circle achievement, Shae now sits on the Board of Directors for ASPSF, actively guiding the very organization that helped lift her out of poverty.