As Washtenaw Community College prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary, we recognize
the thousands of alumni who turned opportunity into achievement. For six decades,
WCC has opened doors to education, careers and brighter futures — and these 60 Stories that will be compiled over the year reflect that enduring mission.
Alicia Shivers has navigated multiple paths throughout her career, guided by a steadfast commitment to growth and purpose.
Rather than settling for easy exits, her determination and passion for higher education ultimately led her to a more meaningful and rewarding professional journey.
Shivers, 47, began her academic career at Washtenaw Community College, an experience that proved pivotal in shaping her future.
She enrolled at WCC in Fall 1996 and earned a General Studies associate degree before transferring to Eastern Michigan University, where she completed a Business Administration bachelor’s degree and later a master’s degree in Human Resources and Organization Development.
“WCC was the launching pad of my educational journey,” Shivers said. “As a local, first-time-in-college, first-generation college student, I knew very little about navigating college.
“I enrolled part-time and selected courses without a clear plan for two years until I visited the advising office, which completely changed the trajectory of my education.”
During that visit, Shivers shared her goal of transferring to a nearby four-year institution. The advisor provided her with a transfer guide to EMU and helped establish a clear academic plan.
“The advisor continued to check in on my progress until I transferred,” Shivers said. “Those personal connections, along with the WCC coursework, prepared me well for my collegiate career.”
Shivers has more than 20 years of experience as a human resources professional across multiple industries and recently shifted her career path into higher education.
She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Toledo while working as Assistant Director of Employee Relations at Saginaw Valley State University.
Building on the foundation she received at WCC, Shivers remains committed to service through mentoring first-generation college students and serving on boards of youth-focused nonprofit organizations.
Shivers’ journey reflects the role WCC can play as a gateway to long-term success.
“WCC prepared me for the academic rigor of a four-year institution,” she said. “The centralized access to advising, financial aid, supportive faculty, and smaller class sizes created a personalized experience that enhances student success.
“I am forever grateful for my experience at Washtenaw.”
Tags: 60 Stories, Alumni Profile, March 2026, On The Record