They came to the Andrews University Single Parent Program beginning in the late 1980s with their dreams, hopes, and determination—and their children. The brainstorm of Sten LaBianca and Desiree Ham-Ying, and with major funding in hand from a government grant, the program opened doors of opportunity to an untapped population of potential students. It was a new day at Andrews University.

This program, developed to support single mothers in their pursuit of an undergraduate degree, was initially aimed towards single parents of Berrien County, especially Benton Harbor and the surrounding area. It was soon referred to as "GENESIS" by the students because it signified a new beginning for them in many ways.

Andrews University became known as the Adventist university which had a program for single parents and their families, and students came from across the country to "begin again." Tanisha and Vanessa, graduating with bachelors in social work and nursing, are the last two GENESIS students. Before them, some 250 students completed bachelor degrees and close to 50 women stayed at Andrews University to complete a master’s degree.

Three graduates completed a doctoral degree here on campus, including one who became a faculty member in the School of Education. The Andrews University community became a new home to many; some found positions here so their children could be raised in a safe environment with educational opportunities close by.

A few years ago, I opened our front door one Friday evening to welcome a "freshman family" as part of Freshman Week. A tall, handsome young man gave me a big hug and said, "My mom said to say 'Hi.'" I looked up and recognized someone very familiar. Quickly, he said, "Don’t you remember me? I’m Lynval!" Oh yes, I remembered him—and his mother and sister. When Lynval was four years old, he was in the Child Development Laboratory preschool (now known as Crayon Box) at Andrews University. I was director at that time and was privileged to see many GENESIS children every day.

Lynval is currently enrolled in Andrews University’s physical therapy program. Last year I had the pleasure of having him in my marriage and family class. He’s going to be a second generation Andrews University graduate, and there are others.

A few weeks ago, I answered my cell phone. A voice said, "I got it! I got it!" It was LaTonya, a 2006 graduate and mother of two boys. She is now working on her master’s degree in the School of Education. Just a few minutes before her call to me, she learned she was selected as the new mathematics teacher at a Benton Harbor elementary school. I don’t know who was more excited, her or me!

Maureen, another 2006 graduate, has moved with her two children to teach in an Adventist elementary school in Wisconsin. Some have gone to other universities to complete degrees, and each is making a contribution to family and community.

Of the most recent graduates, one mother of four sons is completing law school, two have returned to their home communities to begin nursing careers, several are completing graduate degrees at Andrews, and the list could go on. I have such profound respect for these women. They have courage, stamina, and guts. Each came with a deep, abiding faith, knowing they were to attend Andrews University.

The GENESIS theme song, "Father, Lead Me Day by Day," was meaningful to many of the women. Even today, the song's message draws these women together, many in life-long friendships.

Susan Murray is an associate professor of family studies who teaches behavioral science and social work at Andrews University. She is a certified family life educator and licensed marriage and family therapist.