From Motherhood to College Graduate: Alumna Natalee Garrison's Remarkable Journey

When Natalee Garrison enrolled at Monroe University as an accounting major, she wasn’t just pursuing a degree -- she was laying the foundation for her future.

As a new mother living in the Bronx, Natalee had attempted college once before, but financial hardships forced her to withdraw. After the birth of her daughter, Cyanna, she was determined to finish what she had started -- not just for herself, but to set an example for her child.

"I knew I couldn't be an effective parent if I wasn't living in a way that reflected how I wanted to raise her," Natalee shared. "She really motivated me to go back."

Monroe offered her a second chance. The in-person learning environment, the warmth of the business department, and the unwavering support from her professors provided Natalee with exactly what she needed: a sense of community, confidence, and purpose.

“The professors and staff at Monroe always made me feel like I was an important part of what they were doing,” she reflected. "I wasn’t the traditional student, but they showed me that my future could still be bright. That encouragement opened my eyes to so much more than I had ever imagined for myself.”

After graduation, Natalee moved to Florida to give her daughter the suburban life she had always dreamed of herself. She continued working in accounting but soon realized she wanted more. When the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) requirements changed, Natalee reevaluated her career path and decided to specialize in auditing, eventually earning her Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification.

Over the past decade, Natalee has built a remarkable career in auditing, most recently serving as Senior Manager of Internal Audit at Endeavor Holdings. She credits her experience at Monroe for helping her understand that "it’s never too late to start," and that with dedication, success is achievable no matter where you begin.

Looking ahead, Natalee has set her sights on two key goals: continuing to lead in the audit field and giving back as a mentor and potentially a future professor.

“I’m passionate about leadership -- especially guiding young people," Natalee said. "Without guidance, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I have so much knowledge to share, and I want to make sure I pass it on before I’m done. Mentorship will absolutely be a part of my next chapter, along with continuing to lead an audit department and help organizations build what they need to succeed.”

Her daughter Cyanna, now 21, is preparing for her final year of undergraduate studies and plans to attend school to become a Physician's Assistant. Natalee says Cyanna is living proof that every sacrifice she made was worth it.

“Going to Monroe helped me understand that it’s never too late to start, and when you do, you can hit the ground running," Natalee reflected. "I’ve carried that mindset through my entire career. Right now, I’m between roles as my department is closing, but I’m optimistic about what comes next because I feel so prepared for it.”