By John Robert Morton, Student and Alumni Affairs Liaison and Tabitha and Danika Harmon, AMU Alumnae

When it comes to education, some families pass down more than just advice; they pass down ambition. For AMU graduates Tabitha and Danika Harmon, higher education is more than a personal achievement; it’s a shared legacy.

While “first generation” often defines a student’s college experience, Tabitha and Danika are part of a growing lineage. Their story is one of mutual inspiration, grit, and a competitive spirit that spans generations. Between them, they’ve earned six degrees – and they’re not done yet.

“My daughter and I are very competitive,” Tabitha laughs. “She’s basically a slightly younger, more determined version of me.

“When I earned my AA, BA, and MA through AMU in under three years, she took that as a personal challenge. Now, she’s out there absolutely crushing it! At 21, she’s already halfway through her master’s degree.”

Developing a Passion for Education

Tabitha joined the U.S. Air Force at 20 and served as a structural engineer, and she chose to continue her education during her off-duty hours. Starting with the Community College of the Air Force, she soon discovered a passion for higher learning and never looked back.

Tabitha earned an associate degree in interdisciplinary studies and a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from AMU. She followed those degrees with a master’s degree in management and a NanoCert in IT project management.

That dedication to higher education inspired her daughter, Danika. Constantly exposed to the value of hard work and education, Danika developed a love for learning and a competitive streak of her own.

Danika earned both an associate degree in health sciences and a bachelor’s degree in health sciences from AMU in under two years, all while raising two children and working full-time.

Changing Course into Government Contracting

When Danika started her own family, Tabitha shifted her priorities to support them. Later, she was offered an unexpected opportunity.

“I got a call out of the blue from a recruiter who had found my resume,” Tabitha recalls. “She offered me a project management job in government contracting – something I’d never even considered. But I jumped in and haven’t looked back.”

Danika, originally on a path to veterinary medicine and then nursing, began to reevaluate her own career trajectory after her children were born.

“I realized the demanding schedule would keep me from the time I wanted with my kids,” Danika says. “Around that time, my mom told me about an opening in her field, government contracting, and helped me prepare for the shift.”

The result was a career path that aligned with both of their professional goals and personal values: flexibility, family, and fulfillment.

Advice to Other Students

Based on their experience, Tabitha and Danika have advice for other online students.

Tabitha encourages students to take things one step at a time. “Break your journey into small, manageable milestones,” she advises. “At the two-week mark, celebrate – you’re already 25% of the way there. Keep showing up, and the finish line will meet you where you are.”

Danika reminds other studies to take the time to breathe and manage their stress. She adds, “Don’t let stress take over – nothing gets done when you’re overwhelmed. Sometimes stepping back, even briefly, can give you a fresh perspective and renewed energy.”

They also remind others to embrace change. As Tabitha puts it: “Don’t wait for confidence –build it through action. You won’t always feel ready, but progress comes from doing, not doubting.”

Danika notes, “Change isn’t always a bad thing. Some of the best things in life come from unexpected changes.”

Creating a Legacy for Future Generations

For the Harmons, education is about more than credentials. It’s about creating a foundation for future generations.

“I want to build something big and meaningful – something that can be passed down to my kids, their kids, and beyond,” Danika says. “Creating a legacy for future generations is really important to me.”

Tabitha agrees. “I want to keep growing, keep learning, and help more people – especially my kids and grandkids – find their own version of success.”

Their story is a powerful reminder that learning isn’t limited to the classroom. Often, professional success often begins with a simple yes to something new.

About the Author

John Robert Morton is a Student & Alumni Affairs Liaison and has been with the University for 15 years. His bachelor’s degree in European history is from Troy University in Troy, Alabama. He also completed master’s degrees in political science and sports management from American Military University. As a liaison, John Robert enjoys helping students and alumni achieve their personal and professional goals.

About Our Department

The AMU and APU Alumni Affairs Office is dedicated to sustaining lifelong relationships with university alumni by providing engaging opportunities to stay involved and connected. We work closely with various stakeholders to strengthen the alumni experience and offer numerous benefits, services, activities, and events throughout the year.

As a team, the Alumni Affairs team works to build and sustain relationships with alumni along their personal and professional journeys. We actively look for ways to recognize and showcase alumni, telling their stories to motivate and encourage students to pursue their goals.

If you are an alumni community member and looking for ways to remain actively involved, please get in touch with alumni@apus.edu and speak with a team member.