Student reflections from President’s and Dean’s List honorees highlight flexibility, career-focused learning and perseverance while balancing work, family and education
PHOENIX, Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — University of Phoenix is spotlighting the experiences of students recognized on its July 2026 President’s and Dean’s Lists, sharing stories that illustrate the dedication, persistence and personal goals behind their academic achievement. As an extension of the July 2026 recognition, the University hosted a giveaway for President’s and Dean’s List honorees and invited eligible students to join the University of Phoenix subreddit and share what had been most valuable about their educational journeys. Responses submitted as part of the giveaway highlighted themes including flexibility, career-focused learning, and pursuing educational goals while balancing work, family and other responsibilities.
Celebrating Student Achievement Across University Programs
In July, the University recognized 32,416 students for academic achievement through its semi-annual President’s and Dean’s Lists. The President’s List honored 9,496 students who earned a 4.0 grade point average (GPA), while 22,920 students were named to the Dean’s Lists for achieving high academic standing in their programs of study.
“Behind every President’s and Dean’s List recognition is a unique story of commitment, perseverance and purpose,” said John Woods, PhD, provost and chief academic officer at University of Phoenix. “The student reflections shared through this initiative highlight the determination our learners bring to their educational journeys and the many ways they balance academic goals alongside career, family and personal responsibilities. We are proud to celebrate not only their academic achievement, but also the experiences that helped shape their success.”
Key Themes Shared by President’s and Dean’s List Students
The giveaway generated 787 eligible student submissions on the University of Phoenix subreddit, with 30 participants selected to receive University of Phoenix swag boxes.
In reviewing the submissions, the University identified several recurring themes, including:
- Flexibility to balance education with work and family responsibilities
- Coursework that aligned directly to career goals
- Educational milestones such as becoming the first in a family to earn a college degree
- Continued learning through advanced degree programs
Students Share Their Educational Journeys
Derell Vanstory, who recently completed a Bachelor of Science in Business and earned Dean’s List recognition, reflected on balancing school, work and family responsibilities while pursuing his degree. This fall, he plans to pursue dual master’s degrees, an MBA and Master of Health Administration, as he works toward a career in healthcare leadership.
“The most valuable part of my journey at the University of Phoenix has been learning how to stay disciplined and resilient,” said Vanstory. “Balancing school, work, and family responsibilities taught me that success isn’t about having an easy path, it’s about continuing to move forward even when things get difficult.”
Reenae Flores, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in Human Resource Management, described Dean’s List recognition as a meaningful milestone in her educational journey.
“This recognition represents so much more than a GPA,” said Flores. “It represents late nights after work, balancing family life, pushing through challenges, and refusing to give up on a dream that once felt out of reach.”
Flores shared that the flexibility of her educational experience allowed her to continue growing professionally while remaining present for her family.
Alisha Saffold, who recently completed a Bachelor of Science in Health Management, graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 GPA, and is continuing her education as a Master of Public Health student, highlighted the value of applying classroom learning directly to her professional goals.
“The most valuable part of my University of Phoenix experience has been learning how to apply what I studied directly to my career and my passion for serving others,” said Saffold. “Every course challenged me to think like a healthcare leader and strengthened my commitment to improving access to preventive care, advancing health equity, and making a difference in underserved communities.”
Academic Achievement Among Working Adult Learners
The experiences shared by President’s and Dean’s List honorees reflect those of many University of Phoenix students who pursue education while balancing work, family and other responsibilities. According to University data, 75.4% of students are employed. In the Encoura + Ruffalo Noel Levitz Priorities Survey for Online Learners, 63% of University student respondents indicated they have caregiving responsibilities, while 91% expressed satisfaction that their chosen program aligns with their career path and that the course format fits into their busy lives.
To support students managing these competing demands, University of Phoenix offers resources including flexible course scheduling, on-demand support and access to its Life Resource Center.
About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix is Built for Real Life. 50 Years Strong. The University innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world through flexible online learning, relevant courses, academic AI pillars, and skills-mapped curriculum for associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. Active students and alumni have access to Career Services for Life® resources including career guidance and tools. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.
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SOURCE University of Phoenix
