Alumni Story: Patience Ballard
Patience Ballard, of Weatherford, Texas, is a dedicated Strayer University alumna who earned her Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Human Resource Management in 2018 and 2021. She currently serves as a Senior Employee Relations Representative at Cook Children’s Health Care System, where she plays a key role in supporting employee relations initiatives by gathering and analyzing data, preparing reports, and collaborating with managers and employees to address workplace concerns and ensure compliance with organizational and regulatory standards. Beyond her professional role, Patience is an active local alumni volunteer, serving as a valued voice on the Dallas Regional Advisory Board where she offers insight and perspective to strengthen alumni engagement. In recognition of her impact, she was also selected for the 2026 Alumni Hall of Fame, honoring graduates who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to their careers, communities, and industries. Reflecting on her Strayer experience, Patience shares, “I had a great experience with Strayer. Having the option to complete assignments at my own pace while working full-time and raising a family was invaluable.”
What inspired you to pursue a degree at Strayer University?
I wanted to give myself the best opportunity to provide a financially stable future for me and my children.
Which skill would you say you developed most significantly during your educational journey?
Discipline. Strayer gave me the opportunity to develop my time management skills that have definitely been utilized in my role as a Senior Employee Relations Rep. My role is time consuming and I must juggle several moving parts at all times.
How have you used the skills you gained from your program in your career?
Discipline has been very important in my job when having to hit very strict deadlines.
Which resources at Strayer, such as faculty, advisors or the enrollment teams, were most helpful to you during your program?
Faculty was the most helpful resource during my programs at Strayer.
What advice would you share with someone currently working toward their degree?
Never lose track of why you are pursuing the degree as it will motivate you when you are tired or a class gets hard.
In one word, how would you describe your Strayer experience?
Life-changing
Are you a proud Strayer graduate making an impact in your career or community? We’d love to hear your story. Complete the Alumni Story Form to share your accomplishments and your story may be considered for an upcoming alumni spotlight. Your journey could inspire others in the Strayer community to keep reaching for their goals.
Each alumni story reflects a unique path, and while inspiring, outcomes may vary and are not guaranteed.