Martresse Ezell felt lost, unfulfilled and uncertain of her worth. As a mother of three and grandmother of four, Ezell had spent her life nurturing and advocating for others but had neglected her own growth. Past mistakes and poor decisions resulted in setbacks that left her feeling hopeless.

In the fall of 2024, Ezell was ready for change and enrolled in the high school equivalency program of the Madison Campus of Begin Anew of Middle Tennessee.

“Returning to education at 48 years young was tedious,” said Ezell. “The process was demanding, emotional and required discipline. I had to relearn. There were moments of doubt, fear and exhaustion. Yet through every challenge, Begin Anew provided not only academic instruction, but compassion, structure and belief in my ability to succeed — especially when I struggled to believe in myself.” 

Andrea Waters, Madison Campus program manager, said although Ezell faced challenges in the program, she refused to quit. 

“From transportation issues, problems at home, and challenging work schedules, she faced everything with a determined, warrior spirit,” said Waters. 

Ezell remained positive and even became a peer encourager when her classmates were discouraged. 

In June 2025, Ezell earned her high school equivalency diploma. “That achievement represents far more than a diploma,” Ezell reflected. “It symbolizes healing, accountability, resilience and the courage to rewrite my story. Begin Anew gave me the space and support to transform my pain into purpose and to see my potential beyond my past.”

Ezell is this year’s recipient of the Faye Dove Scholarship from the WMU Foundation. This scholarship benefits women who have graduated from a CWJC program. The graduate must have demonstrated perseverance in achieving personal goals and plan for some type of continued education, whether academic, vocational or trade. 

“Martresse is a shining example of allowing God to do a ‘new thing’ in your life,” said Waters. “After making poor decisions early in life, she has been determined to change the trajectory of her future, along with those of her family.” 

Ezell works as a patient care technician at a local hospital. Her goal is to attend college and become a licensed practical nurse (LPN). The Faye Dove Scholarship will enable her to pay for a prerequisite course that does not qualify for financial aid and pay for textbook fees and required uniforms. 

“Today, I walk forward with renewed confidence and direction,” said Ezell. “I am living proof that when individuals are given access to opportunity, support and second chances, real and lasting transformation is possible.” 

The Sybil Bentley Dove Endowment supports Christian Women’s Job Corps by providing scholarships to participants, program development grants for sites and a grant for Dove award recipients.

Visit wmufoundation.com to learn more or to support this endowment.

 

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by Tracey Gholson