From small-town dreams to big-time impact: Laney Baldrige's journey to Greenville University

Published: December 18, 2024

Author: Liz Dowell

For Laney Baldrige, a sophomore at Greenville University, the journey to college wasn’t always a certainty. Growing up in a single-parent household with limited financial resources, she felt the weight of financial insecurity early on. College seemed like a dream too costly to pursue.

But thanks to scholarships, supportive mentors, and her mother's encouragement, Laney is now thriving in her second year as an exercise science major. Her gratitude for scholarship donors shines through in her commitment to her studies and community.

“The gratitude I feel is unmatched,” Laney shared. “Every semester, when I see my account balance at zero because of my scholarships, I am overwhelmed with joy. Someone who doesn’t even know me is pouring into my future, just like my mom poured into our community.”

OVERCOMING ADVERSITY THOUGHT RESILIENCE

Laney’s story is one of resilience and perseverance. She was raised by a hardworking single mother who provided unwavering support. Laney grew up in St. Elmo, Illinois, where she witnessed her mother, a beloved teacher, embody kindness and strength. Her mother’s example taught her to see obstacles as opportunities.

“My mom has always been my rock,” Laney shared. “She didn’t let the struggles define me. Instead, she showed me how to take a difficult situation and make something positive from it.”

Her father’s struggles with addiction and the law, however, brought many difficult moments, including a high school incident when her father’s actions prompted a school lockdown. Laney used these experiences as a foundation for growth, even writing an impactful essay that helped her secure a scholarship from her high school.

FIND HER PLACE AT GREENVILLE UNIVERSITY

The supportive community Laney discovered at Greenville University heavily influenced her decision to go there. After connecting with Coach Tom Ackerman, who leads the volleyball program, Laney found a mentor and positive male role model, something she had longed for.

"Coach Ackerman created a safe space where I didn’t have to feel embarrassed about my background. I look up to him," Laney said. Her experience at GU offered her a diverse environment where she felt free to discuss her life openly and grow in her faith.

Coach Ackerman also had nice things to say about Laney’s involvement in GU and on his team.

"Laney is the kind of person that makes everyone around her better; she has a contagious enthusiasm for life, and she can brighten your day and light up a room with her presence," said Coach Ackerman. "She has overcome a lot in her life, and she is an inspiration; she is like a daughter to me and has been a true blessing. She puts others above herself and will leave this team better than she found it."

At GU, her involvement in athletics, academics, and community service has shown her that a small school in a small town can provide endless possibilities.

“People used to say, ‘How are you going to make a life there?’ But the opportunities at GU have been abundant,” she said. From experiential learning to mission trips, Laney has already had her world expanded in profound ways.

A HEART OF GRATITUDE FOR DONORS

Laney's story is a testament to the power of community and generosity. Thanks to the scholarships she receives—made possible by the generous support of donors—Laney is building a bright future, one semester at a time. Her donors' support has lifted the financial burden and allowed her to immerse herself fully in her education and personal growth.

“I see the impact of these donations, and it makes my heart so happy for what we’re doing here at GU,” Laney said. “People who don’t know me still choose to invest in my life and my dreams.”

Laney dreams of working as an athletic trainer for a professional sports team someday. Her faith inspires her, as does her mother's resilience and the encouragement of those around her. She remains deeply grateful to GU’s donors for making this journey possible, and she hopes to give back to her community and alma mater in similar ways.

In her journey, Laney embodies the GU spirit of "overcoming and serving others." She has one message for those whose contributions have made her story possible: "Thank you. Your generosity has changed my life."