Growing up as the oldest of 12 children living in a single Philadelphia home, Chyna Mckinney remembers the loving chaos of being part of a big family.

There’s a responsibility to that upbringing, too.

When Mckinney graduates from Manor College with her Associate’s Degree in Pre-Nursing on May 11, she’ll be a first-generation college graduate and the first among her siblings to complete their degree.

A Test, But Not an Academic One

That love and responsibility was put to the test years earlier. Following her graduation from Tech Theory Charter School in Philadelphia, Mckinney attended another institution in Baltimore.

In March 2022, Mckinney got a call from her family in Philadelphia: Her mother had had a heart attack, and things weren’t looking good. She says that at that moment, it was life and death. 

The call came during midterm exams week, so Mckinney began emailing her professors, explaining the situation and that she’d have to miss and retake her exams. Most were understanding, but one professor in particular wouldn’t excuse her, even with proof that Mckinney was at the hospital caring for her mother. 

“I honestly couldn’t believe that she wouldn’t excuse me or anything,” Mckinney said. “They just didn’t care. That was the end for me at that college.”

An Instant Connection

Mckinney first visited Manor College as a senior in high school. As her mom recovered from her heart attack, Mckinney began looking at institutions closer to home and visited Manor College again. 

Onsite, she instantly felt the connection she missed at her former institution.

She officially enrolled in the college for the Fall 2022 semester.

“Manor College just has their arms open,” Mckinney said. “They want to know you, help you grow as a person and achieve your goals.” 

At Manor College, she became part of the women’s soccer team and the mental health club. She became a work-study employee in Manor College’s Advancement Office, where she assisted Executive Director of Advancement, Tom Sims.

Ready to Write the Next Chapter

After graduation, Mckinney is pursuing a career as a forensic nurse. 

As she crosses the stage May 11, Mckinney writes the next chapter in her own story.

“When I start something, I need to finish it,” Mckinney said. “I put so much hard work, effort and money into college that I wasn’t just going to throw it away.

“I did a lot, and now that I’m finished, I want to go into the field and become what I know I can become.”

You Belong Here at Manor College.