Brooke Thomas was recognized by the Salt River Schools Education Board in January. Here is what her advisor Kenisha Begay had to say about her: 

Today, I have the pleasure of introducing the Education Board to Brooke Thomas. Brooke is from Salt River and grew up in the Lehi community. When Brooke first decided to pursue higher education, her motivation was straightforward: she wanted to improve her career opportunities so she could better support her family. This was about 20 years ago. Today, her purpose has evolved. Brooke attends Grand Canyon University and Studies Behavioral Health Science. Brooke states, “My goal now is to complete the degree I started so long ago and move into a career focused on helping those who struggle with substance use. This work is deeply meaningful to me. I want to be one of the helping hands that guides a person out of what may feel like a hopeless life in addiction. I truly believe recovery is possible when people are surrounded by the right support”.

Brooke’s greatest inspiration comes from her children. Seeing them grow into adults and achieve their own goals has motivated her to return to her own educational journey. Their determination reminds her that it is never too late to finish what you started or to pursue a completely different path.

I first started working with Brooke in December 2024. At that time, we ran into a few obstacles that resulted in her starting later than she initially had hoped. Despite this minor set beck, Brooke remained positive, energetic, and made sure to keep me in the loop anytime she had updates on her enrollment plans. Not too long ago, she completed her first term and submitted her transcripts. Her grades paint a clear picture of how important her education is to her. Brooke is a pleasure to work with and I am confident her professors and peers feel the same. Congratulations, Brooke!