Harley Sawyer has always wanted to be a nurse — it’s a calling she’s felt all her life.

“I’ve always enjoyed helping other people and making them feel good and just listening to their concerns and knowing that just the little things you can do for someone like asking how their day was can make a big impact,” she said. 

Harley passed the nursing assistant certification in 2020. And on June 27 — two years after receiving her first Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund award —  she will receive her Licensed Practical Nurse Certificate from the University of Arkansas at Monticello College of Technology-Crossett. She’s now working as a home health aide with the Area Agency on Aging.

Proud of all that she’s accomplished, ASPSF has named Harley of Ashley County the June 2024 Student of the Month.

Harley Sawyer (back left) studies with her nursing school classmates.

Earning her LPN was anything but easy. Harley attended school and went to clinicals four days a week, leaving little time to study and no time for work. She was scared of failing.  

But her 3-year-old daughter, Ember, inspired her to keep pushing for her dream to make a better life for them both.

“For a long time, I felt like I would let my daughter down and that I couldn’t do this, but every day brings me closer to finishing and showing her that anything you put your mind to can be done as long as you don’t give up.”

Harely Sawyer with her daughter, Ember. 

Harley said the support she received from ASPSF helped her manage the financial strain she experienced as a single parent student. She used her scholarship to pay for diapers, clothes, gas, and school supplies.

“When I see new mothers going back to school to further their education, I am always telling them about this scholarship!” she said.  “I’ve met so many amazing people during this process as well.”

Top Photo Caption: Harley Sawyer (middle) receives her Spring 2024 scholarship from ASPSF Program Managers Makayla Washington (left) and Sandra Warren.