KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Nov. 11, 2019 — Melissa “Missy” Allen of Knoxville has been named the winner of the 10th annual Degree of Success Scholarship, sponsored by King University – Knoxville and WIVK 107.7 FM.

The Degree of Success Scholarship contest offers the chance for an adult student to pursue an undergraduate degree, free-of-charge, through King’s Adult Studies and Graduate programs (AGS). Entrants to this year’s competition submitted essays on the importance of achieving a degree from King and career plans following graduation. The winner was then selected by committee.

In her essay, Allen wrote about the challenges she faced as one of 10 siblings, the need to enter the workforce as a young adult to support herself and her family, and the scheduling demands faced by adults who want to return to college, such as working and caring for children and/or parents — while also studying for a degree.

Allen’s selection was announced during a combined live radio remote, open house and Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event, held Thursday, Nov. 7, at King University’s Hardin Valley campus.

“I’m someone who is going back to college a little bit later in life than others,” Allen said. “I started out pursuing my dream of gaining higher education by taking one class a couple years ago. I was so intimidated, but that experience also showed me something in my life that had been missing. I’m now obsessed, and I want to serve as a role model for all those who may think you have to give up on your dreams because life put a few roadblocks in the way. You don’t have to give up, and I’m over the top about this opportunity.”

Allen currently serves as a senior bookkeeper at Clayton Homes in Maryville, Tennessee, and will begin pursuit of her bachelor of business administration degree at King’s Knoxville campus in January 2020.

“We are so delighted to be able to provide Missy with the opportunity to earn a post-secondary education at King University,” said Kristi Reynolds, assistant vice president of enrollment for King’s Adult Studies and Graduate programs, Knoxville. “The Degree of Success Scholarship affirms King’s dedication to assisting adult students with the resources and opportunities to pursue a degree and advance in their career, all while maintaining a positive work-life balance. We look forward to welcoming Missy to the King community and helping her take this next step toward meeting her educational dreams.”

For more information, visit knoxville.king.edu or contact King University’s Office of Adult Studies & Graduate programs at 865.690.5803 or [email protected].