At Geneva College, we offer high-quality education in our online degree program, providing adult students with confidence in their finished degree. Our online degree program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to succeed in their chosen fields and make a positive impact in their communities. One of the many people impacted by this program is Marlene Luciano-Kerr.
Marlene, originally from Puerto Rico, traveled to the U.S. to attend college in Boston. Encountering obstacles to her degree completion, she applied for a position to work alongside the executive director at the Harlem School of Arts in New York City. This role introduced her to executive assistant duties, laying the groundwork for her future pursuits.
Upon returning to Boston, Marlene undertook the role of executive assistant at ArtsBoston and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. When she and her husband relocated to Pennsylvania, she dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mom. Despite her aspirations to return to Boston to finish her degree, Marlene soon realized challenges that kept her dream from becoming a reality.
Fast forward to 2018, when she began working at Geneva College. Initially stepping into the role of project assistant in Crossroads, Geneva’s Center for Enriched Learning, she dedicated six years to this position before seamlessly transitioning into the role of program coordinator. Her proficiency in both Spanish and English were pivotal in ensuring that international students felt welcomed within the Geneva community. She found the perfect intersection between her calling and vocation, emphasizing the significance of Geneva’s values and the students it serves.
While in Crossroads, Marlene quickly noted the positive work environment, particularly the importance placed on prayer before meetings and the support of her coworkers who lifted her up in prayer. It was evident to her that Jesus was truly at the heart of all work and life at Geneva. She met marketing staff member Mike Duncan, who introduced her to Geneva’s online degree program and encouraged her to finish her degree in organizational leadership. Encouraged by him and the support of her family, she took a leap of faith and enrolled in the program.
Though it can be intimidating to return to school as an adult learner, it was a journey of self-discovery for Marlene. Online learning allowed her to reconnect with the student within herself despite her initial doubts. The absence of a physical classroom environment helped to alleviate the pressure, and engaging with weekly conversation posts allowed her to connect with fellow students, finding inspiration in their stories and assurance that she wasn't alone in her academic journey. The support from female professors who celebrated her successes and affirmed her progress was vital throughout the unique challenges of being an adult learner.
Marlene learned firsthand that earning a degree is a rigorous process that requires dedication and perseverance. Some of her most memorable courses were English Composition with Nicole Gerdes, Lori Reda’s support through her Resources and Research class, and Elisabeth Rhee’s guidance through her course in Theory and Practice of Adult Learning.
While balancing her online courses with full-time work and family responsibilities, including the care of her mother, Marlene found comfort in her faith. By the grace of God and with the unwavering support of her friends and family, Marlene overcame obstacles to complete her degree. Trusting in her abilities and God’s plan for her, Marlene was fueled by a profound sense of purpose and the desire to set an example for her children.
“I have three young-adult daughters and I wanted them to see that when you put your mind to it you can do anything … it is never too late.”
While working in Crossroads and finishing her degree, a career opportunity in the president’s office became available. The interview process was a highlight for Marlene, and she was promptly offered the position. Marlene began her new role as the executive assistant to the president of Geneva College just days before her graduation in May 2024.
Marlene's testimony is one of resilience and passion, a model for overcoming obstacles through perseverance and faith. If you’re grappling with self-doubt in pursuing further education, look to Marlene’s story for hope and inspiration. It’s never too late to pursue your academic dreams.
-Elia Glenn '27
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