Pulaski County single mom soon to graduate with accounting degree

Tough times don’t last, tough people do.

That’s what single mom Kimberley Kendrick wants to show her teenage daughter by becoming an accountant. The journey has been long, but Kimberley will soon graduate from Arkansas Baptist College with a bachelor’s degree.

Kimberley became a mother the year after she graduated from high school in the mid-2000s. At the time, she was enrolled in college classes but dropped out shortly after her daughter’s arrival. Caring for an infant, working, and studying was too much.

But with time, Kimberley figured out the balancing act and decided to reenroll in college. She had more motivation than ever before to create a stable life for her daughter.

Kimberley received her first scholarship from Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund in Fall 2018. That same year, she graduated with an associate degree from the University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College. And in a few weeks, she’ll receive her bachelor’s degree in accounting.  

After graduation, Kimberley plans to become a CPA. She enjoys accounting because of the many specializations the in-demand career field offers.

While taking classes, Kimberley worked full-time, using her scholarship check for school and household expenses. And despite living a busy life raising her daughter, she made sure to attend workshops to take full advantage of ASPSF’s wraparound services.

Recognizing her determination and motivation to create a better life, ASPSF has named the Pulaski County mom as the April 2023 Student of the Month.

“I’m so proud of Kimberley and everything she’s accomplished,” ASPSF Program Manager Keisha Smith said. “She has worked so hard to become an accountant. I know she’ll go far with her degree.”