STOM: Patrick James

Higher Education Advisor, Mario West, shares why he nominated Patrick James as Student of the Month. "I am truly honored to recognize Patrick James as our Student of the Month. I first met Patrick in 2022 at Journey to Recovery, and from that very first conversation, one thing stood out clearly—his deep desire to pursue college. His enthusiasm was unmistakable. He approached every step with excitement, determination, and a willingness to ask questions, seek guidance, and fully engage in the process. Patrick has always been respectful, motivated, and an absolute pleasure to work with. Patrick is the first Journey to Recovery student I have supported who is completing his program through Rio Salado College. His journey is a powerful example of someone who is reshaping his future through dedication and growth, refusing to be defined by his past. I have no doubt he will continue moving forward with purpose, and that his story will inspire and uplift many others." Below are Patrick’s own words about his educational journey: “I started my education journey with the desire to help others who have walked a path similar to mine, especially Veterans who struggle with mental health challenges and substance use. I have experienced those struggles firsthand, and through the grace of God and the support of my community, I was able to find healing and stability. That experience changed my life and gave me a purpose beyond myself. I wanted to show others that recovery is possible and that their past does not define their future. Pursuing higher education became a way for me to turn my experiences into something meaningful and to serve others with understanding, compassion, and credibility. What keeps me going in school today is the work I do in the addiction field and the individuals I serve. Seeing their effort, resilience, and growth motivates me to continue learning so I can give them the best support possible. One of the biggest challenges I have faced has been balancing work and school, but I overcame this by creating a daily routine and intentionally setting aside time each day to focus on my education. The Higher Education program has been a blessing in my life, not only financially, but through the encouragement and belief shown by the staff. I am especially grateful to Mario West, who has supported me since day one and has always been willing to help in any way he can. I want to sincerely thank the entire Higher Education program for believing in me, supporting my goals, and giving me the opportunity to continue growing both personally and professionally.”

Patrick James was recognized by the Salt River Schools Education Board in February. Here is what his advisor Mario West had to say about him:

I am truly honored to recognize Patrick James as our Student of the Month. I first met Patrick in 2022 at Journey to Recovery, and from that very first conversation, one thing stood out clearly—his deep desire to pursue college. His enthusiasm was unmistakable. He approached every step with excitement, determination, and a willingness to ask questions, seek guidance, and fully engage in the process. Patrick has always been respectful, motivated, and an absolute pleasure to work with.

Patrick is the first Journey to Recovery student I have supported who is completing his program through Rio Salado College. His journey is a powerful example of someone who is reshaping his future through dedication and growth, refusing to be defined by his past. I have no doubt he will continue moving forward with purpose, and that his story will inspire and uplift many others.

Below are Patrick’s own words about his educational journey:

“I started my education journey with the desire to help others who have walked a path similar to mine, especially Veterans who struggle with mental health challenges and substance use. I have experienced those struggles firsthand, and through the grace of God and the support of my community, I was able to find healing and stability. That experience changed my life and gave me a purpose beyond myself. I wanted to show others that recovery is possible and that their past does not define their future. Pursuing higher education became a way for me to turn my experiences into something meaningful and to serve others with understanding, compassion, and credibility.

What keeps me going in school today is the work I do in the addiction field and the individuals I serve. Seeing their effort, resilience, and growth motivates me to continue learning so I can give them the best support possible. One of the biggest challenges I have faced has been balancing work and school, but I overcame this by creating a daily routine and intentionally setting aside time each day to focus on my education. The Higher Education program has been a blessing in my life, not only financially, but through the encouragement and belief shown by the staff. I am especially grateful to Mario West, who has supported me since day one and has always been willing to help in any way he can. I want to sincerely thank the entire Higher Education program for believing in me, supporting my goals, and giving me the opportunity to continue growing both personally and professionally.”