When Randelle Pickens decided to go back to school, she hoped it would lead to a more secure future for herself and her teenage son. What she did not expect was how fast her decision would also begin to shape his way.
Since registration for the social work program at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith last fall, Randelle has seen a shift in his 17-year-old son, Oliver-and not only in his characters, which has improved. He has taken on a part -time job, remains at the top of his school work, and according to Randelle never complains to the Balancing Act.
“I’m so proud of him and I know he’s proud of me too,” she said. “He has even asked me to help him apply for scholarships when he goes to college.”
Randelle Pickens (Center) receives his leap 2025 scholarship with his son, Oliver, from Program Manager Christi Brown.
This kind of mutual motivation is part of what makes Randelle such a standout and why Arkansa’s single parent Scholarship Fund (ASPF) is proud to name her as the month’s May student. This single mother works full time as a family lawyer with 100 families in Sebastian County, taught full time with equal A’s and manages it all as a single parent.
“To be nominated for this award brought a big smile to my face!” She shared.
Randell’s way back to college started when she needed to take continuing education courses for her job. She was back in “school mode” and realized that she was not too far from being able to earn a bachelor.
Randelle and her son, Oliver.
“I thought,” why not go back to school? “She said.” I worked with mental health therapists, and they encouraged me and led me on how to get the licenses they have. I realized that I wasn’t too far away as I already had an associate degree. “
Randelle signed up for UNS and applied for a single parent scholarship, which she received in the fall of 2024 and spring 2025 semesters. She says her ASPSF scholarship has helped keep her momentum in time only by helping her buy a new laptop and cover bills, but also by relieving some of the daily pressure.
“If I could personally thank an ASPSF donor, I would start by saying how grateful I am,” she said. “Your donation didn’t just help cover school prices – it gave me a chance to continue when things were tough.”
In addition to the financial help, Randelle has found a society through ASPSF that helped her find additional scholarships and learn new skills through professional development workshops hosting volunteers and locals in the River Valley community.
Randelle Pickens receives his fall 2024 scholarship from Program Manager Christi Brown.
“Randelle is a wonderful student,” said ASPF program leader Christi Brown. “I praise her for her ability to balance work, school and family. She participates in several workshops every semester that goes beyond our program requirements. I am so proud of Randelle and can’t wait to see what the future has for her!”
Randelle’s long -term plan is to attend the graduate school and become licensed clinical social worker. Eventually, she hopes to open a private therapy practice.
Her story reminds us that scholarships are not just financial support – they are a voice of trust that can help someone to continue when it means the most. And for Randelle, this support already inspires the next generation.