Rappahannock Community College’s CHAMPS Program Hosts 2nd Annual S.P.A.R.K.S. Conference for Parenting Students
Rappahannock Community College (RCC) recently held the 2nd Annual S.P.A.R.K.S. Regional Family Resource Conference—Supported Parents and Resilient Kids Shine—an inspiring event hosted by CHAMPS (Career Help and Mentoring for Parenting Students). Designed to empower parenting students, the conference brought together a vibrant community of students, alumni, faculty, and support professionals.
The event focused on addressing the unique challenges faced by parenting students and provided practical tools and resources to help them thrive both in college and at home. Through a series of engaging workshops, motivational speakers, and networking opportunities, attendees left the conference feeling supported, inspired, and empowered.
Conference highlights included dynamic workshops on financial literacy, career development, and nursing career exploration.
Dr. Marlena Jarboe, RCC’s Vice President of Instruction and Student Success, shared her personal story of resilience. Raised by a single mother who worked multiple jobs and relied on food stamps and government-subsidized housing, her mother instilled in her and her siblings the value of hard work and the importance of education.
Jarboe’s own educational path began at a Virginia Community College System (VCCS) school, and despite many stops and restarts due to economic and personal challenges, she earned her bachelor’s degree over six years, followed by a master’s degree after another 10 years, and ultimately a Ph.D.
Her message resonated deeply with attendees, especially as she noted that 1 in 8 VCCS students are parents, many of whom work part-time or juggle multiple jobs while facing poverty, work-life balance struggles, and mental health challenges. She emphasized that community colleges offer a crucial sense of belonging, support, and services to help students succeed. “Our students just want to be heard. We can show them grace, understanding, and a willingness to help,” said Jarboe.
Since its launch in 2024, RCC’s CHAMPS program has served 70 students, helping them make meaningful progress toward their educational and career goals. To date, 39 participants have completed work-based learning experiences, four have earned a GED, and 22 have completed a degree or credential. The program currently serves 44 students.
During the event, a panel of CHAMPS students shared their personal journeys. While their paths varied, a common theme emerged: success is not always linear, but persistence pays off. Students emphasized that, despite challenges and setbacks along the way, reaching completion and starting a career makes the effort worthwhile. They also credited RCC and the CHAMPS program for providing the guidance and support needed to help them succeed.
These sentiments were echoed by RCC employees who earned their degrees while raising children. One employee described a 12-year journey to completing a bachelor’s degree after high school, highlighting the challenges of balancing single parenthood, work, and education.
“Events like S.P.A.R.K.S. remind us that success looks different for everyone, and parenting students deserve recognition and support for their resilience,” said a CHAMPS program coordinator. “This conference is just one way RCC is investing in their futures.”
For more information about the CHAMPS program at Rappahannock Community College, visit https://www.rappahannock.edu/explore-programs/specialty-programs/career-transition-services.html.