Meet Members of the Class of 2025

Class of 2025
Ruth Horry  
MAJOR: MENTAL HEALTH

When Ruth Horry walks across the stage this spring to receive her degree from Kingsborough Community College, she’ll be doing more than graduating—she’ll be closing a chapter that began nearly two decades ago.

Horry, who grew up in Queens and now lives in Brooklyn, first enrolled at Kingsborough in 2007. At the time, she had just aged out of foster care and was living in her first apartment in East New York. Without a car, she took three buses to campus each day. “Despite the challenge, I was able to maintain good grades in my first semester,” she said.

But life got in the way. Domestic violence forced her to leave school before completing her first year.

It wasn’t until 2023 that Horry found her way back. While doing community work to help family childcare providers continue their education, she met Dr. Jacquelin Shannon from Brooklyn College. “She extended a hand of support and encouraged me to re-enroll,” Horry said. “With her help, I returned to Kingsborough, balancing work, motherhood, and my small business while pursuing my degree.”

Now, at nearly 40, Horry is graduating with a degree in mental health and human services. She made the Dean’s List twice and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa. “Making the Dean’s List was particularly meaningful because it affirmed my hard work and determination in returning to school after so many years,” she said.

The path hasn’t been easy. Along the way, Horry juggled a full-time job, raised three children, created a small business called The Coco Pauline Company, and dealt with the loss of her grandfather. “Recalling academic skills from years ago was difficult, but I refused to give up,” she said.

Her next step is Brooklyn College, where she’ll major in psychology. She hopes to become a licensed counselor focused on helping young people affected by trauma, foster care, and the juvenile justice system. Having been incarcerated herself at 14 for running away when no family was available to help, she understands firsthand the challenges these young people face.

In 10 years, she sees herself with a master’s in social work from Hunter College and continuing to support young people through trauma-informed care. “I plan to be the change that I don’t see,” she said.

When she’s not studying or working, Horry enjoys traveling. She’s also the author of two books: Pour the Tea, a guide for young people navigating trauma, and a companion journal.

Asked what advice she has for new students, Horry keeps it simple: “Never give up on yourself. It’s never too late to invest in your dreams and build a life you are proud of.”

She’ll miss the beach at Kingsborough most of all. “Having such a beautiful setting was both calming and inspiring,” she said.

To Horry, Kingsborough is more than a school—it’s a place of second chances.