Kimberly Priest and husband
Royal Oak, MI — This Veterans Day, Baker College honors the service, sacrifice, and strength of our military-affiliated community which includes students, alumni, faculty, staff, and families who embody what it means to serve with purpose.
Among them is a first-generation student and military spouse, Kimberly Priest, who reminds us that service comes in many forms. She is currently pursuing her degree while reflecting on decades of dedication to her family, her country, and her community. Her journey reflects the heart of what it means to be both first-generation and part of the military community.
“At 57 years old, I stand at a unique crossroads—one shaped by decades of life experience, personal resilience, and a deep commitment to service. As a first-generation college student, I carry the pride of forging a path that was never laid out for me, and I do so with gratitude, humility, and hope.
My journey has not followed a traditional academic timeline. I’ve built a working career as an Administrative Assistant, supported my husband through multiple military deployments, and raised two incredible children who are now grown and raising families of their own. I’m a proud grandmother to three beautiful grandchildren, and while my days have been full of responsibility, they’ve also been rich with purpose.
As a military spouse, I’ve learned to hold down the fort—literally and figuratively. I’ve volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and actively serve in the Soldier and Family Readiness Group (SFRG), helping to build stronger, more connected communities. These roles have taught me the value of leadership, compassion, and adaptability. Returning to college is both a personal milestone and a statement of possibility. I may not know exactly where the future will lead me, but I do know that education is opening doors I never thought possible. I’m proud to be part of a generation that proves it’s never too late to learn, grow, and contribute.
Throughout my life, I’ve embraced the belief that ‘Variety is the spice of life.’ It’s a motto that reflects my openness to new experiences, my willingness to evolve, and my joy in navigating life’s many seasons. Being a first-generation student is one more chapter in a life defined by resilience, service, and the courage to keep moving forward.”
Priest’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and lifelong learning which mirrors the values that define Baker College and our veteran and military-affiliated learners.
Baker College is proud to be officially recognized as a Gold-Level Veteran-Friendly School by the State of Michigan’s Veteran-Friendly Schools Program—the highest level of distinction, reserved for institutions that lead in supporting veterans, dependents, and all military-connected learners. Baker has also earned continued recognition as a 2025–2026 Military Friendly® School, Silver status, showing the commitment to access, opportunity, and success for all who have served.
As Veterans Day is observed, Baker extends deep gratitude to those who have worn the uniform and to the families who stand beside them. Your service is inspiring.
Baker College is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on six campuses across Michigan and online. Founded in 1911, the institution’s mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and transformative educational experience, driven by a student-first philosophy. Learn more at baker.edu and follow on X, Meta, and Instagram.