‘It’s Never Too Late’: Stacie Jackson Overcomes Addiction, Incarceration and Illness to Graduate with Distinction

“From a bench in South Park to commencement, I never thought I would make it out,” said Stacie Jackson.

At age 62, Jackson walked across the stage at Moreno Valley College (MVC) as the first among her siblings to earn a college degree, and she did so with distinction.

Her two associate degrees — in social and behavioral studies and in social work, human services and counseling practices — mark the latest chapter in a life once defined by addiction, incarceration, and illness.

Jackson’s path to higher education began after achieving three years of sobriety, following more than four decades of alcohol and drug dependency.

“I knew I wanted to be of service to those still sick and suffering,” she reflected. “With my background in the streets, I had to go big, so I enrolled at MVC to pursue a career as a counselor.”

What began as a goal to earn a certificate in counseling quickly evolved into a broader pursuit. With guidance from faculty, Jackson secured a job working with individuals in recovery and those recently released from incarceration. Her lived experience and compassion helped her thrive in the role, and she was soon promoted to a leadership position.

That success reignited her desire to return to school, and she re-enrolled at MVC to pursue associate degrees in her chosen field.

While incarcerated, Jackson was diagnosed with breast cancer, a lonely and difficult chapter in her life. However, she credits the support of her family and a renewed sense of purpose for helping her carry through.

“I barely knew who I was anymore,” she said. “But getting clean and sober, and now sponsoring women in the 12-step process, I realized I could do so much more with an education.”

She drew strength and inspiration from her nieces and nephews, whose academic successes motivated her to keep going. Jackson didn’t realize she was the first among her siblings to graduate until someone else pointed it out, a milestone she says was only possible because of her siblings' unconditional love and support.

“My siblings have always stood by me, even during my lowest moments,” she recalled. “They’ve never made me feel like a burden. And today, I know I make them proud.”

Jackson also credits MVC faculty and staff for playing a key role in her journey.

“Professor James Banks taught warmth, empathy, and genuineness,” she said. “Professor Durrell Smith taught me to meet people exactly where they are. Those lessons stay with me every day.”

She also thanked Ashley Martinez, visiting assistant professor with Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS), for seeing her potential early on.

In addition to her associate degrees, Jackson earned a certificate in drug and alcohol counseling studies from InterCoast College. She plans to transfer to California State University, San Bernardino, to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work, with the goal of becoming a clinical social worker.

“I’ve never considered this work — it’s service, giving back,” Jackson said. “That’s why I’ve never experienced burnout.”

For Jackson, graduation isn’t an end; it’s a beginning. She hopes her story encourages others who may feel hopeless or uncertain about returning to school later in life.

“I’m living proof that it’s never too late,” she said. “Always push forward. Don’t stop.”

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in human services through Moreno Valley College like Stacie Jackson, learn more about the program to get started.