Delcia Lambey almost didn't make it to graduation day at St. Francis Career College.

The 46-year-old single mother of five overcame daunting challenges and more than once contemplated dropping out before reaching her goal of becoming a nurse. Recently, Lambey was among 225 newly trained and qualified nurses and medical technicians who were recognized at St. Francis Career College's 13th commencement ceremony, held at Lynwood High School.

For more than a decade, the college --- established in 1988 by St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood --- has been a lifeline for many Southeast Los Angeles residents who want to further their education but have little or no means to do so. The recent graduates include many students who were able to better their lives as a direct outcome of the college's rigorous but nurturing learning environment.

The state and nationally accredited non-profit St. Francis Career College assists at-risk young adults, as well as others in need, by preparing them to pursue careers in healthcare. More than 85 percent of the college's students depend on financial assistance programs, reflecting the economic barriers facing many residents of South Los Angeles, where high unemployment and poverty are widespread.

The college's challenging academic programs are complemented by comprehensive support services designed to ensure each student's success. It offers students a range of career paths, from obtaining a certificate or diploma for entry level careers to advancement of skills in specialty areas offered at St. Francis Medical Center.

Familiar story

At 46, Lambey may be older than many of her classmates, but her story is similar. Although she worked as a medical technician at a local hospital, the financial hardship of being a single mom raising a family made going back to school seem impossible. Nonetheless, she applied to St. Francis Career College and was accepted. But shortly after the program began, the hospital at which she worked closed down, putting her out of work and unable to afford the program.

Recognizing her situation, Nancy Delira, associate dean of Student Support Services, facilitated her continued enrollment by offering her a scholarship and providing support services toward pursing her nursing educational goals.

The next 14 months were extremely trying. Living in a one-bedroom apartment with three of her children and attending school full-time, it sometimes seemed that her dream of becoming a nurse would remain unfulfilled. Bernice Jones, St. Francis Career College Instructor, became aware of Lambey's precarious situation, and offered her assistance as both a mentor and friend, providing guidance for her studies and encouragement and support at crucial moments to keep her going.

As a result of this personal attention and nurturing, Lambey says, she was able to complete her 14-month intensive curriculum (that included 24 hours per week of clinical training at area hospitals) and earn her degree in Vocational Nursing. She is now looking forward to assisting others as a nurse in a career where her technical nursing skills are in high demand, especially given California's chronic nurse shortage.

"Each year, we witness the graduation of talented students who have succeeded in the face of adversity," says Carol Lee Thorpe, college chancellor. "It is inspiring to see what these graduates have done with the opportunities we have provided them. It is a triumph of the spirit."

St. Francis Career College, which annually serves over 600 students, is one of the few colleges to be directly integrated into a regional hospital. A second campus was opened last year in San Jose, and the Daughters of Charity --- who sponsor the college --- envision further expansion. The college is supported by grants, private contributions and Title IV funding.