Evie Lewis Finds Her Path to Helping Others

At just 19 years old, Evie Lewis has already lived a story full of courage, perseverance, and hope. Now, as she prepares to transfer to Western Carolina University and begin a new chapter, she reflects on the journey that brought her here—and the people who helped along the way.

A Journey of Resilience

Evie’s education journey took an unexpected turn when she was only 12. Her stepdad was battling cancer, and she made the difficult decision to leave middle school and move to Virginia to live with her older sister. She tried homeschooling, but realized it wasn’t the right fit.

After moving back to Cleveland County, Evie eventually enrolled in the College and Career Readiness (CCR) program at Cleveland Community College. She began working toward earning her high school diploma. “It wasn’t easy at first,” she recalls. “But little by little, I started to find my footing.”

She was making progress when another challenge arose—the possibility of having to move back to Virginia. Rather than give up, she focused on earning her GED. In just three months, she achieved that goal.

“Evie is an extremely driven young lady,” said Director of College and Career Readiness Stephen Lancaster. “From the beginning of her journey in our program until now, she has been a pleasure to have in our program as both a former student and a student worker under the Federal Work Study program.”

With support from CCR staff like Stephen, Evie enrolled in college courses and began participating in the Federal Work Study program. Working in the CCR department, her confidence began to grow.

Discovering Her Purpose

Inspired by her life experiences and a desire to help others, Evie chose to study psychology. Over time, she found her calling in clinical child psychology, a field she believes can help her make a real difference.

“I didn’t have a great childhood, and I’ve experienced trauma,” Evie shared. “But I’ve used that to motivate myself—and now I want to be the person who listens to kids and supports them when they need it most.”

She also draws inspiration from her family, especially her 9-year-old nephew, who is autistic and non-verbal. “He’s so special,” she said. “Everything I’m trying to do kind of ties back to him.” One of her goals at WCU is to learn American Sign Language so she can communicate with children like him.

Inspired and Inspiring

Evie has found encouragement in the people around her and has grown tremendously since beginning her journey at Cleveland Community College. Once shy and quiet, she says she’s come out of her shell thanks to the support of staff and instructors who believed in her.

Evie has also been active in campus life. She joined TRIO-Student Support Services and visited WCU with the group. She was immediately drawn to the campus. This fall, she’ll begin at Western Carolina as a sophomore in Brinson’s Honors College, with a clear mission: earn her bachelor’s, pursue her master’s and one day open a practice to help children and families in need. “I’ve always been a high achiever,” she said. “I’m on a mission.”

Through it all, Evie says her instructors have played a big role in her success.

“I’ve had my fair share of struggles with classes, but I always reached out,” she said. “They actually care about you. It’s a very caring environment here, which I love.”

Even small moments, like being recognized in the hallway by a professor she only had for one class, made a difference. “It means a lot when people see you and care enough to check in.”

Looking to the Future

Though she’s headed west to WCU, Evie’s heart is rooted in Cleveland County—and she plans to return after finishing school. She’s already made lasting friendships here, including her best friend, whom she met in a music appreciation class. They’ve helped each other through school and become like family.

“We wish her well as she continues her undergraduate education at Western Carolina, and we look forward to seeing the great things she will accomplish in life,” added Lancaster.

From a rocky start to a bright future, Evie Lewis’s story is filled with grit, heart, and hope. With her sights set on helping children and making a difference in the world, she’s turning her challenges into purpose. And while heading off to new adventures at Western Carolina University, she carries with her the strength, support, and sense of community she found right here at Cleveland Community College.

Evie is ready for what’s next—and there’s no doubt she’ll do great things.