Madison Reporter

Darin Wellons, a student at Madison College, is preparing to graduate in December 2024. A single father of two, Wellons decided to return to school during the COVID-19 pandemic when public schools closed and he left his job as an automotive mechanic. "I realized I needed to set a better example for my children and decided to attend college," said Wellons.

He enrolled in Web Software Development at Madison College and has become an advocate for fellow student parents. "My kids have been actively involved in my educational journey," Wellons shared, noting that his children accompany him to campus and feel welcomed there. His son even received a junior badge from Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett during Protective Service Week.

Wellons emphasized the importance of resources like the Early Learning Campus Child Care service and the Madison College WorkSmart program, which have supported him throughout his studies. "Childcare is such a huge barrier: you can’t do anything as a parent without childcare," he stated.

As co-chair of the Student Parent Support Team and treasurer of the Parenting Students Club at Madison College, Wellons also participates in Generation Hope’s Student Parent Advocacy Alliance. Earlier this year, he served as a parent advisor at the Aspen Institute’s Ascending in Wisconsin convening.

Outside of school, Wellons works as a job coach at a Community Outreach Center, assisting differently-abled adults. He volunteers with his children once a week to deliver snack packs to their school to address food insecurity.

For parents considering returning to college, Wellons advises taking the first step despite logistical challenges. "Jobs will work with you, and childcare will work with you," he assures. "The biggest step is the first step and that commitment."