Cheryle Scott Sanders isn't one to shy away from a challenge. In fact, Mountain State University's valedictorian for the class of 2012 would rather confront adversity head-on than back away.
"Age, race, nationality and disabilities are no longer barriers," the Oak Hill resident affirms. "We can overcome our obstacles through education."
A married mother of two, the 56-year-old Sanders started her career in nursing. Her daughter's disabilities led her into advocacy. Then, in January 2006, she suffered head trauma, multiple fractures and internal injuries in an auto accident. Despite eight surgeries, she lost most of her sight. She is legally blind.
"I had a very difficult choice to make. Do I remain disabled, or do I reinvent myself and become an active member of society again, and become handi-capable?" Sanders said.
She chose the latter. After completing vision orientation and mobility training in early 2009, she enrolled in Mountain State University.
Three years later, Sanders will deliver a key address during this week's dual commencement exercises at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center. She is the first social work major to be awarded the distinction of valedictorian at Mountain State University.
"Social work is about helping others to achieve their human potential, as well as helping them overcome obstacles and social injustice," said Everett Lilly, director of the social work program at Mountain State. "Cheryle was a brilliant student who advocated for necessary change regarding disabilities. The words ‘giving up' are not in her vocabulary and she never wavered."
Sanders said her classmates and professors were among her most ardent supporters. "I feel doubly honored and privileged to have been chosen to represent such an amazing group of students," Sanders said.
"With them, I found the courage to take one day at a time which led me to go further than I ever dreamed possible," Sanders explained. "I was treated as an equal and not as a student with multiple disabilities. The professors were constantly educating students on disabilities and the secret to inclusion versus toleration."
A graduate of Williamson High School, Sanders is a member of the Student Social Work Organization and succeeded in becoming a member of the Social Work Mu Phi Alpha Honor Society for the last three years, while maintaining membership in the National Association of Social Workers. She was named to Who's Who in American Universities and Colleges in 2011 and 2012.
Sanders is the daughter of the late Charles and Opal Scott of Williamson. She is married to Arthur J. Sanders, and mother to Cheryln and Scott Kincaid. Her son currently is serving in the U.S. Navy and gave Cheryle her first granddaughter, Lily, last September.
"Without my husband Art, it would not have been possible to attempt a return to college at this time and age," Sanders said. "He took on the full responsibility for our special needs adult daughter and allowed me to focus on my love of social work."
Offering words of encouragement to others, Sanders noted, "Even when we fall on our faces, we are still moving forward. All experiences teach a life lesson, which makes us ‘lifetime learners.'"
Lilly said Sanders has made a lasting, positive impression. He added, "She will be a wonderful asset to the field of social work, in part because she embodies what social work is all about."
A record number of 607 students are expected to march in two MSU commencement ceremonies this week. Ceremonies will be held at 6 p.m. Friday and 4 p.m. Saturday at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center.
