Cassandra Woods, 50, and her daughter Kymora, 18, are both students at Marshall University, each blazing her own path while cheering the other on. The Huntington natives are working toward degrees that reflect their passions: Cassandra in business, and Kymora in health science.
For Cassandra, returning to college was a decision rooted in faith and resilience. A survivor of a life-threatening health crisis, she felt called to embrace new beginnings and rediscover her purpose.
“I refused to let fear or doubt hold me back any longer,” Cassandra said. “At 50, I’m living proof that your story doesn’t end until you decide it does.”
With a background in administrative work and a flair for design, Cassandra is determined to transition into leadership roles in business and ministry. She currently works with the city of Huntington and envisions using her degree to fuel both her entrepreneurial ambitions and her commitment to community service.
“A strong business mindset enables me to develop effective programs and initiatives that serve both the church and the community,” Cassandra explained.
Kymora, a freshman at Marshall, chose health science because of her passion for helping others. Her dream is to become a neonatal or labor and delivery nurse.
“Knowing that I can be there for someone during a difficult time is what drives me,” Kymora said. “It gives me a sense of purpose.”
While their academic paths differ, their journey is deeply intertwined.
“It’s such a unique and amazing experience,” Cassandra said of going to college alongside her daughter. “We check in on each other, share study tips and celebrate our wins together.”
Though Cassandra is an online student, and Kymora attends classes on campus, their connection remains strong. Kymora describes her mother as both a source of inspiration and a constant support.
“She works so hard—it motivates me to give my best,” Kymora said. “Even when we don’t see each other at school, I know she’s there for me.”
Both women credit their faith, family and church community for helping them get this far. Cassandra is the first lady of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, supporting her husband, Pastor Shawn Woods, who undergoes home dialysis multiple times a week. In addition to caregiving, Cassandra runs a women’s ministry and remains active in community outreach.
“My life is full, but everything I do is driven by faith and love,” Cassandra said.
Kymora echoes that sentiment.
“My dad, my brother, and our church family have all been there for me. I couldn’t do this without their encouragement.”
Their story is one of mutual encouragement, resilience, and a shared determination to grow. It’s also a celebration of motherhood in its most empowering form: one that nurtures dreams while pursuing new ones.
This Mother’s Day, the Woods women stand as a testament to the strength of mothers, the power of education and the beauty of chasing dreams – together.
Read Cassandra and Kymora’s full Q&A and more stories in the latest issue of our Marshall Magazine.
