MCC staffer earns degrees from the place she calls home
Quardiacious Fennessee knew Meridian Community College was where she belonged long before she became a student.
The campus felt like a place that had never given up on her. Years after someone at MCC told her to come back when she was ready, Fennessee did just that. Today, the MCC staff member who serves as an enrollment services specialist, is known to many as “Ms. Q.”
Fennessee, 37, received two associate of applied science degrees during MCC’s Spring Commencement: one in Accounting Technology and the other in Business Office Management. Before earning those degrees, Fennessee received her GED through MCC’s Adult Education program in December 2023.
“My journey with Meridian Community College began fresh out of high school,” Fennessee said. “Even back then, the people here made an impression on me.”
One message stayed with her.
“Come back when you’re ready. We’ll be waiting on you,” she recalled being told.
Fennessee initially came the College when she began working in the cafeteria. Being on campus helped her dream of going back to school grow stronger. In October 2023, she enrolled in Adult Education. Two months later, she earned her GED. In January 2024, she began taking college classes.
“Walking back onto campus felt like starting school all over again, but I was ready to get my wings,” she said.
Fennessee first chose business as her major. She said she always knew she had the mind of a businesswoman. Then an accounting class helped her see another future.
“I loved it,” she said.
That class led her to add accounting as a second major.
Fennessee’s path has required focus. She is a student, MCC employee, wife and mother. She and her husband have been together for 13 years and married for almost four. They are raising four daughters: Sa’Rigi, 15; D’Riya, 12; Quaurdiaye, 7; and Dhayla, 4.
She said time management has been her greatest challenge.
“I constantly remind myself that letting time get away from me will hinder my progress,” Fennessee said. “Losing time is simply not an option.” Come fall, she’ll continue her academic studies at Mississippi State University Meridian to pursue a bachelor of science degree.
Her work at MCC also gives her a chance to help other students. Fennessee said she enjoys meeting students where they are and helping them move forward, especially when it comes to paying for college. “I love connecting with students and seeing the smiles on their faces when I help them with something as life-changing as paying for college,” she said.
Graduating from MCC means more to Fennessee because it is also the place where she works. She said the moment represents growth, ambition and perseverance.
It also gives her a story to share with students who may feel like quitting.
“I often share my story with students who feel overwhelmed or ready to give up,” Fennessee said. “I tell them to remember me, ‘Ms. Q.’”
Her message is simple.
“If I can do this, anyone can,” she said. “All you need is your wings, which are provided by MCC, and I promise, you will fly.”
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu.