SPOTLIGHT ON GRADUATES

Bellevue University graduates earn their degrees in a variety of topics and in a variety of ways, then apply what they learn to make a difference every day.

Lora Villarreal Named Executive VP for Dallas Firm.

Bellevue University graduate Lora Villarreal was recently promoted from Chief People Officer to Executive Vice President for Affiliated Computer Services, Inc. (ACS), of Dallas, Texas.

Lora, who earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Resource Management in 1989, was promoted to the company's executive management team in recognition of her success in building ACS into a world-class human resource organization. ACS employs 58,000 people and provides business and information technology outsourcing to commercial and government clients.

The recipient of Bellevue University's 2002 "Alumni Achievement Award," Lora notes that as a young, single mother with children to raise and only a high school education, she needed a college degree to get ahead. She has given back to her alma mater, assisting Bellevue University in establishing its highly successful South Omaha Outreach Program, which enables Hispanic and other minority and low-income residents to earn college degrees.

Fernandes Named Senior VP at STG.

Bellevue University made an important impact on Paul A. Fernandes. Paul earned his bachelor's degree in Business in 1992. He recently was promoted to Senior Vice President, Defense Sector, for STG, Inc., in Fairfax, Virginia, a technology solutions provider to the U.S. government. "Bellevue University's convenient and flexible schedule made it possible for me to complete my bachelor's degree while working full-time."

Paul said he uses what he learned in his Bellevue University classes every day in his job. "I was able to apply credit for my experience in the Air Force, and my employer at the time helped me with tuition assistance. I am proud to be an alum of Bellevue University!"

Tim Hunter applies what he learned in his MIS program.

Tim Hunter had earned his associate's degree in Computer Networking when he enrolled in Bellevue University to complete his bachelor's degree in MIS. "From what I knew of Bellevue University, I thought this would be a good step forward," he said. "When I called Bellevue University the advisors were very helpful in discussing the different technology degree options with me," said Tim. "I chose an MIS degree because I have always been interested in computers since I was a kid." Tim attended class at one of the convenient Omaha-area locations.

"I know a lot of people think they don't have time for school when they have work, family, etc. But with the accelerated bachelor's degree completion program, I attended class four hours each Saturday morning and learned a lot of useful skills that I did not already have – it was well worth the time," he continued. Asked what advice he has for people considering enrolling in Bellevue University, Tim said, "Don't keep putting it off and miss this opportunity. Bellevue University has great instructors and a great campus, and they help you identify the degree that is right for your career."

Steve Lawson responded to ad, then enrolled.

Steve is a career law enforcement officer working in the Federal Air Marshal Service, U.S. Department of Homeland Security. He and his wife, Melanie, have three children. "Melanie is my biggest supporter. For years she kept telling me to go back and finish my college degree. So I did. I completed my Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration. Now I plan to enroll in the online Master of Public Administration degree program."

Steve investigated several online degree programs before responding to a Bellevue University ad in Police magazine. "I called the University, and they answered all of my questions. The instructors were extremely knowledgeable, and the program exceeded my expectations."