51����

Class of 2025: Honor society grad clears high hurdles on the way to high-tech 

Story by Misty Bouse

After overcoming childhood cancer, addiction and a period of homelessness, Gina Ferguson returned to 51���� determined to change the course of her life. With a clear focus and a deep passion for technology, she found more than an education — she found direction, purpose and community.

Selected as a student speaker at the All-Oregon Academic Team Award Luncheon in Salem this spring, Ferguson inspired the crowd with her story of metamorphosis.

A first-generation college student, the 35-year-old is a member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She graduated last June with an estimated 3.70 grade-point average while earning an Associate of Science degree. She plans to transfer to Portland State University this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.

“I just never thought I would get to where I am today,” she said. “The fact that anyone would want to hear my story blew my mind. And hearing other people’s stories gave me the strength to share mine.”

A Second Chance Through Education

After a layoff from a quality assurance role in 2023, Ferguson decided to return to college. She had previously worked her way up from a customer support job, but as the tech industry shifted, she sought greater stability and skills.

“Something in me really wanted the academic experience and a deeper knowledge of programming, math and science,” she said. “I have been able to rediscover what I loved as a kid.”

At 51����, Ferguson thrived in the Computer Science Program and is looking to minor in geographic information systems — a field that blends technology with her lifelong love of nature. 

“I love coding and rocks,” she said. “Whether it is programming spatial tools or analyzing geographic data, I want to make earth science more accessible.”

Finding Belonging

Ferguson immersed herself in student life, volunteering at 51����’s food pantry. She worked as a Student Engagement Assistant and connected with the college’s Student Wellbeing, Engagement and Belonging programs.

She credits 51����’s extensive student services — including the STEP Program, counseling, transportation aid, and food resources — with helping her move forward.

“51���� will hold you up when you are struggling,” she said. “Being low-income has a lot of shame in society, but asking for help shows strength — and community is power.”

As a child, she faced acute myeloid leukemia and a tumor that damaged her eyesight. Her parents never finished high school, and addiction and poverty marked much of her early life. But her late grandmother—whom she calls a “cycle-breaker”—set an example and offered hope and encouraged her return to school, and was her guiding light.

Now, four and a half years sober, Ferguson has received a 51���� Foundation scholarship for the second year in a row. She will attend summer classes before transferring to PSU in September.

“If age is stopping you, ask yourself ‘why?’” she said. “There are people of every decade and culture on campus trying to make their dreams come true.”