Celebrating University of Phoenix Alumna Brittany Poitier’s Widespread Achievements

University of Phoenix prides itself on making higher education accessible for its students to reach their educational . But students are not limited to just one or two aspirations. In fact, the University encourages its students to work toward as many goals as they like, as alumna Brittany Poitier has demonstrated. Not only is Poitier a professional drag racer, but she is a family counselor and ordained minister and has served as an advocate for childhood literacy, an advocate for those who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and a community liaison for Broward County schools, some of which she accomplished by having completed several degrees at University of Phoenix.

Although Poitier excels in several areas, she developed her skills while navigating an array of difficult challenges. From working through clinical depression to becoming a mother during her teenage years and losing 200 pounds to recover her physical and psychological health, Poitier has persevered and dedicated herself to her studies for several years. In a recent interview with University of Phoenix, she noted that finding a place of love for herself, her family and her community put her on track to generate positive change for both herself and those around her.

Studying Psychology at University of Phoenix

Although Poitier was bullied during her high school days, she received a great deal of support from her large, blended family, especially her brother who encouraged her to study for a bachelor’s degree in psychology at University of Phoenix. The University’s flexible learning environment made it easier for Poitier to study for her degree while mothering her two young children, who were born during her early adulthood. Although she faced academic challenges at school, Poitier found the ideal learning provider in University of Phoenix, which removes barriers so adults can reach their educational and professional goals, no matter their needs.

Poitier completed most of her psychology course work on campus, where she made friends with peers who later became her youngest child’s godparents. These friends became a source of support when she faced devastating life events, such as the deaths of her brother and grandmother, her divorce and her son’s autism diagnosis. Although these circumstances would have placed a roadblock in many students’ studies, Poitier successfully emerged in 2013 with her diploma, along with the news that she was pregnant with her third child.

Supporting Children and Families in South Florida

While caring for three children as a single mother, Poitier enrolled in a master’s program at University of Phoenix that would allow her to serve her community. As a Black female drag racer, she often visited local schools where she noticed the worrying gaps in several critical skills and services. Having realized that children needed better-quality literacy tools, she launched the Brittany P. Literacy Awareness Program, which saw her partner with over 500 teachers in Florida to provide children with more books. The Program’s next steps involve launching a selection of sidewalk libraries.

Poitier has also developed her company Brittany P. Racing to act as a platform for autism, ADHD awareness and IDD. On top of this, as a licensed marriage and family counselor, she provides free counseling and coaching services twice each week to underserved families in South Florida. She noted that many members of Hispanic and Black communities consider seeking professional support taboo, which is why she brings these important services to them.

Next Steps for Poitier

Poitier is not done honing her skills or developing her services. She is now working on a doctorate in public administration and a board certification in Christian counseling. From here, she would like to promote institutional change and new laws to benefit those most in need. While paving the way for her own unique career, Poitier is following the steps of her family, particularly her grandmother, who deeply inspired Poitier and worked as a missionary.

Poitier may have faced a difficult past, but these events have shaped the path to her inspirational success. This is true for several University of Phoenix alumni, who have found their ways to their ideal careers through the University’s range of programs and supportive, flexible approaches to learning.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is committed to progressing its adult and nontraditional learners’ educational goals and to helping students work toward their most fulfilling career options by selecting the degree programs that best suit their interests and skills. The University’s degree programs are aligned with a variety of in-demand career paths including in computer software, nursing and business, and they provide flexible start dates, online classes and plentiful scholarship opportunities to make it possible for all students to earn the degree they need to get ahead.

In addition, University of Phoenix’s Career Services for Life® commitment to active students and graduates provides the resources these individuals need to be competitive in the workforce for no additional charge. These services include resume and interview support, career guidance and education and networking opportunities. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.