Celebrating 3 inspiring mothers and online learners
On top of everything they do for the family, these moms are working hard and investing in themselves through online learning!
There isn’t one defined role for “mother.” Caretaker, referee, meal planner, chef, cleaning service, party and event organizer, chauffeur, life-coach, stylist, entertainer, ATM, enforcer, fixer, multi-tasker, finder of “the other sock,” crisis negotiator, tech wizard, memory-maker, chief comforter, teacher all encapsulate just a few duties many moms undertake.
There’s no better way to highlight the amazing things moms do then through their own words. We present 3 AU students/moms who are working to transform their lives and families through open, online learning.
Muriel MacDonald
When Muriel MacDonald was growing up, things were different than they are today. Instead of being encouraged to pursue an education, women like her were often expected to get their “Mrs.” instead.
“When I raised my children, I made sure they all attended post-secondary. I felt it important to instill in them that education is the one thing in life that you can earn and no one can take away. For myself, however, responsibilities of being a mom and earning a living took priority over my dream of completing a master’s degree.
“When I raised my children, I made sure they all attended post-secondary. I felt it important to instill in them that education is the one thing in life that you can earn and no one can take away.”
– Muriel MacDonald
Kim Leppington
Like many mothers exiting a maternity leave, Kim Leppington was in a tough position. Rather than go back to a successful career in the hospitality industry, she craved something new and found AU.
Online learning allowed her to stay home with her son while completing her courses in the evening.
“I am fuelled and motivated by my beautiful son and supportive husband. Some days are tough juggling being a mom and full-time studies, but I know in the end the rewards will outweigh the difficulties.
“I am happy I found a great university that checks all my boxes and allows me to stay at home with my son while upgrading my education.”
“I am fuelled and motivated by my beautiful son and supportive husband. Some days are tough juggling being a mom and full-time studies, but I know in the end the rewards will outweigh the difficulties.”
– Kim Leppington
Brandi Morpurgo
Brandi Morpurgo’s out-side-the-box thinking got her into the book business. By creating a travelling bookshop, her dream of bringing literature to readers was came to life in the form of the Daisy Chain Book Co.
Today, Morpurgo’s busy life has moved the bookmobile to a brick-and-mortar shop, where she encourages readers of all types to pursue and pursue reading. She also encourages her daughters to embrace education.
“I am grateful that AU allows me to take a break from my studies while I focus on the store’s growth, my daughters (who are also AU students), the evolution of my podcast, The Bookshop Chronicles, and my passion for Edmonton’s readers.
“I’m so grateful for the chance to pursue a degree in something I am enthusiastic about without having to choose between being a parent, a business owner, or a student.”
“I’m so grateful for the chance to pursue a degree in something I am enthusiastic about without having to choose between being a parent, a business owner, or a student. ”
– Brandi Morpurgo
