Kiana Inspires Others, Overcomes Stereotypes
Morganton, NC— For many on the Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) campus, Kiana Harlan is a source of daily inspiration. She is a familiar figure on campus for her big smile and sense of determination. While she may appear to be like every other student on campus, this 2015 Western Piedmont graduate is blind.
At just 13 years of age, Kiana lost her sight due to optic nerve damage. To help her at that time with academic needs at Liberty Middle School, Kiana had an assistant. Following her completion of middle school, she moved on to Patton High School where several of her friends were attending Burke Middle College (BMC) on the WPCC campus. BMC is an educational opportunity that makes it possible for Burke County students to enroll in core academic courses that meet high school graduation requirements as well as participate in dual enrollment in college courses for which they will receive both high school and college credit. Kiana applied to BMC in 10th grade in 2011, was accepted and completed her high school diploma in 2013. At that time, she began her college career at WPCC.
With her high school and Associate in Arts diplomas now in hand, this inspirational student has an exciting year ahead. This summer, Kiana travels to New York to receive her own guide dog and the training to use the dog as she navigates the next step in her college career. She enters the University of North Carolina at Greensboro this fall as a junior. Kiana plans to complete a degree in psychology and then enter a program in social work, ultimately achieving a master’s degree. She aspires to help others through a career in vocational rehabilitation.
“It would be rewarding to me to help individuals learn to live independently and adapt to their environments,” Kiana explained. “It is possible to overcome the stereotype that those with disabilities are unable to become successful on their own.”
This new graduate found her way through perseverance and the desire to excel. But she also credits WPCC in her success.
“The support I received at Western Piedmont was amazing,” said Kiana. “My professors, fellow students and even the cafeteria staff were so helpful. I cannot say enough wonderful things about the great assistance I received from Daphne Martin and Deanna Keller, the College’s Disability Services staff. I’m so excited and grateful to be moving ahead to UNC-G, but I would just love it if I could complete my bachelor’s degree here at WPCC! I found a family of people here who are accepting of all. In fact, some have told me that I’m inspirational to them. The kindness I found at WPCC has so greatly impacted me and my future.”
WPCC’s Disability Services office is committed to providing equal access and quality services for persons with disabilities. The College adheres to the standards and guidelines set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The Office coordinates accommodations and support services to all students with a qualifying disability on an individually determined basis. To learn more about WPCC’s Office of Disability Services, please contact Daphne Martin, disability services coordinator, at (828) 448-3153.
Western Piedmont Community College is situated in the picturesque rolling foothills of Morganton, North Carolina and has served the citizens of Burke County since 1964. Each year, more than 10,700 students pursue personal enrichment, new skills for a job or career, high school diplomas, college degrees, and transfer pathways. Apply online or visit the Western Piedmont Campus to apply in person.