Diane Kelley

Tri-C Helps Alumna Find Her Voice

"Tri-C taught me to take my education seriously," Kelley said. "Beyond academics, Tri-C encouraged me to engage with the community, laying the foundation for success in a four-year college and beyond."

She describes her path to earning a college degree as far from traditional. She was enrolled full time while raising her two children, working full time and then some. It took a while for her to achieve her Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts.

"It was exhausting, challenging and often overwhelming, but I refused to give up," she said, expressing gratitude for the support from her mother and sister, who "helped with my children and reminded me of my 'why' when I felt discouraged."

After earning her associate degree from Tri-C, Kelley transferred to Cleveland State University to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. After several years in the social work field, she earned an MBA from the University of Phoenix in 2016. Then, in 2023, she received a Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University's Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences.

"My experience at Tri-C was truly transformative and life-changing. Before attending Tri-C, I was shy and often hesitant to speak up or share my thoughts. Tri-C challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, express myself confidently and embrace new opportunities for growth," she said. "Tri-C was more than a place to earn credits — it was a foundation that empowered me to grow academically, socially and personally, preparing me for success in future educational pursuits and in life."

She says that affordability was important since her parents could not financially assist her. Convenient locations allowed her to design a schedule that fit her personal life. The broad range of courses that could seamlessly transfer to a four-year institution ensured that her academic goals remained attainable.

As a state-licensed social worker, Kelley is a crisis intervention specialist at FrontLine Service. She is a member of the Police Co-Responder Team that partners with the City of Cleveland Division of Police. She collaborates with law enforcement officers to respond on-site when community calls indicate a potential mental health crisis. She delivers trauma-informed care to people who need mental health services, including follow-up to ensure they are connected to appropriate community support and services. She conducts mental health screenings and crisis assessments, shares information about available resources and advocates for individuals with community providers.

Her personal interests are as diverse as her educational pathway. In 2020, she fulfilled a personal passion for the arts by performing in the Playhouse Square production of Getting Near to Baby. She and her oldest daughter have also formed an entrepreneurial partnership to establish a senior center to serve her Cleveland community. 

Her advice to Tri-C students models her own blueprint for success.

"Approach your time here with the mindset that every class, every assignment and every connection you make is an investment in your future. Surround yourself with a strong support system of people who will encourage you, hold you accountable and celebrate your successes. Show up for every class — not just physically, but mentally — ready to give your best."

"Take ownership of your learning by staying ahead, managing your time wisely and making progress every day," she said. "Explore opportunities outside the classroom by joining clubs, sports teams or student organizations. These experiences will help you build friendships, leadership skills and memories that last far beyond graduation. Your journey doesn't have to look like anyone else's journey. With a strong support system, open communication with your professors and a commitment to keep moving forward, you can overcome any obstacle and reach your goals."