Garry Mebane
For Garry Mebane, enrolling at Herzing University represented more than just continuing his education; it was a pivotal moment that would reshape his career trajectory and professional identity. As a first-generation college student and veteran from a family rooted in tobacco farming and sharecropping, Garry's path to higher education was anything but conventional.
A Career Pivot After a Setback
Garry's journey to Herzing began during a challenging period in his life. After working as a senior network engineer, he found himself facing an unexpected layoff. Rather than viewing this setback as a defeat, Garry saw it as an opportunity to enhance his skills and pivot his career in a new direction.
"Enrolling at Herzing was a way for me to improve my skills and get certified in areas like Cisco and network administration," Garry explains. "It was a career shift for me."
Professional Development Beyond the Classroom
What set Herzing apart for Garry wasn't just the technical curriculum, but the university's unique approach to professional development. The emphasis on presentation skills and professional appearance made a lasting impression on him.
"One of the most impactful aspects was their emphasis on professional development. They encouraged us to dress up and look our best for presentations," Garry recalls. "This was something I had never experienced at a college before, and it helped me develop a more polished, professional demeanor."
Building a Foundation for Success
The comprehensive training Garry received at Herzing provided him with the tools necessary to excel in his field. The combination of technical skills and professional development created a solid foundation for his career advancement.
"The support and training I received at Herzing served me well," Garry notes. His education quickly translated into career opportunities.
From Graduate to Doctor: Continued Academic Excellence
Garry graduated from Herzing University's Atlanta, Georgia campus in 2013, but his educational journey didn't end there. Driven by his commitment to lifelong learning, he continued his academic pursuits and has since earned his PhD in Administration and Leadership in Education—a testament to the foundation Herzing helped establish.
Entrepreneurial Success and State Contracts
Garry's success extended far beyond traditional employment. The confidence and skills he gained at Herzing empowered him to start his own engineering company, which has achieved remarkable success. Today, his company holds contracts with the state of Georgia, demonstrating the real-world impact of his Herzing education and his continued professional growth.
A Moment of Pride and Celebration
Graduation day represented the culmination of Garry's hard work and a historic moment for his family. As a first-generation college student and veteran, the achievement carried special significance that extended far beyond personal accomplishment.
"Graduation day was an incredibly proud moment, not just for me, but for my whole family," Garry reflects. "As a first-generation college student, coming from a background of tobacco farming and sharecropping, this was a huge milestone."
The celebration included his daughter, friends, and former military buddies, creating a memorable event that honored both his educational achievement and the importance of education in his life journey.
Giving Back: A Mission to Inspire Others
Garry's success has fueled his passion for helping others achieve their dreams. His goal is to motivate other first-generation students and minority college students to pursue their aspirations and to have faith in God's ability to help them achieve their goals. Drawing from his own experience of transformation from struggle to success, Garry serves as a powerful example of what's possible with determination and the right educational foundation.
His commitment to giving back extends to his alma mater as well. Garry aspires to teach at Herzing University, hoping to contribute to the institution that changed his life and set him on his remarkable path from the tobacco fields of his youth to entrepreneurial success.
A Transformative Experience with Lasting Impact
Looking back on his time at Herzing, Garry recognizes the profound impact the institution had on his personal and professional development. The experience provided him with technical expertise, professional polish, and the confidence to pursue new opportunities—qualities that have continued to serve him through his doctoral studies and entrepreneurial ventures.
"Overall, my time at Herzing University was transformative," Garry says. "They helped me develop professionally and provided the skills I needed to take the next step in my career. It's a journey I'm grateful for, especially as a first-generation student."
Garry's story—from a first-generation college student and veteran facing career challenges to a PhD-holding entrepreneur with state contracts and a mission to inspire others—exemplifies the transformative power of education and the lasting impact of Herzing University's comprehensive approach to student development.
