Bri Duncan’s journey at Central Piedmont is an extraordinary example of resilience, dedication, and the power of support. Hailing from Wirtz, Virginia, Bri faced the unique challenges of being a single mother and returning to school as an adult. Despite these hurdles, she achieved remarkable academic success, earning dual degrees in nursing and fine arts.

Key Achievements:

• Academic Excellence: Bri’s stellar performance earned her a place in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
• Scholarships: Her hard work was further recognized through scholarships like the Cato Future Nurse Scholar award, helping her graduate debt-free.

Driven by personal challenges, including her son’s serious health issues, Bri was inspired to pursue a career in critical care nursing. She has accepted a position at Atrium Health’s Carolina Medical Center in the Medical ICU, ready to provide empathetic care in critical moments.

Overcoming Personal Challenges:

• Supportive College Environment: During her time at Central Piedmont, Bri faced significant personal obstacles, including her son’s recovery from a stroke and their home being flooded. The college stepped in with crucial support, offering a semester of compassionate withdrawal and allowing her to manage her family’s crises without compromising her educational aspirations.

As a commencement speaker, Bri shared her inspiring narrative with her peers, highlighting the importance of persistence, community support, and utilizing every resource available. Her message is clear and profound: Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow, and never waver in the pursuit of your dreams.