Baltimore, Md. – Justin Wills Sr. made a promise to his wife, Natrea: he’d help her finish the college degree she never got to complete. After years of busy schedules filled with kids and careers, they are now only a few courses away from achieving this goal together through The University of Baltimore’s B.S. in Business Administration program.
“Delays don’t mean denial,” Natrea said, celebrating the importance of perseverance. Family and community mean everything to Justin. He learned this from his grandfather, who founded a church and daycare to support their local town. After his grandfather passed, Justin took the reins of The Miracle Temple Church, Inc., while also working for the U.S. Department of Defense.
Justin is passionate about growing his nonprofit’s reach. He recently organized food and toy giveaways to help those affected by the government shutdown, supporting 800-1,000 households each month.
“I strongly believe in community,” Justin said. “No one succeeds alone.”
Balancing Life and Education
When Justin enrolled at UBalt, he initially wanted to prove to himself that he could handle college, but soon found that his studies enriched his work with the nonprofit. “My classes in business management and finance have helped me think more strategically,” he explained. “I can now make informed decisions that will benefit my organization.”
Both Justin and Natrea share a deep commitment to service. While Justin oversees supply chains for the military, Natrea is aiming for a management role with the U.S. Postal Service. “Leading will allow me to serve more effectively and give us the time to support our nonprofit work,” she added.
With three children, ages 12, 8, and 5, the Wills needed a college that fit their busy lives. Justin chose UBalt for its flexibility. “I needed a program that would work with my existing commitments,” he shared. “I can take online classes and save time that I can spend with my family.”
“What I love about UBalt is how it respects my time,” Natrea noted. “I can study early in the morning or late at night on my terms.” The couple appreciates that UBalt allows them to pursue their studies alongside their work and family responsibilities, reinforcing the idea that education doesn’t have to disrupt life—it can enhance it.
Supportive Faculty Makes a Difference
For both, the support from faculty has been instrumental. Justin expressed, “Professors treat online classes like you’re actually in the room. The level of care is incredible.” Natrea echoed this: “UBalt makes you feel seen. You’re not just another student.”
This strong support network has encouraged them to persist in their studies and continue contributing to their community. Recent data shows that over 60% of graduate students value personalized instruction and faculty engagement in their educational experience—which is exactly what the Wills have found at UBalt.
Ultimately, UBalt not only gave Justin and Natrea the opportunity to earn a degree; it provided them with the confidence to balance life’s many roles. Their journey highlights how education, community service, and family can intertwine to create a fulfilling and impactful life.
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