On May 21st, 2010, Great Plains College student Morgan Needham celebrated an amazing accomplishment; obtaining his Liberal Arts Certificate. It has been a particularly exciting and challenging journey for this graduate, as Morgan was born with Cerebral Palsy.

Morgan’s condition means that the part of his brain that controls his fine motor skills is damaged; making it difficult for him to walk or use his left hand. But that has not stopped him. “The word ‘disabled’ puts limitations on a person rather than focusing on what they can do”, Morgan says. He prefers to call himself “uniquely- or differently-abled.”

As Needham has moved from his hometown of Edmonton to Climax and now to Swift Current, he has experienced a number of educational facilities, and different approaches to his needs.

Morgan continued his education in the Basic Education (BE) Program at Great Plains College in Swift Current starting in 2005, and achieved his Adult 12 in June of 2008.

“For the longest time I didn’t have much to do except sit and think, so I tend to watch and observe people,” he says. “I’m fascinated by people in general. I like to watch and understand why people do things and what makes them want to do what they do.”

This interest in human behavior and desire to someday become a Psychiatrist is what got him interested in the University program at Great Plains College. Students can complete their first year of University studies at the Swift Current campus, as well as some full certificate, diploma and degree options.

Morgan plans to continue his education until he has reached his goal of a Masters in Psychiatry. “Nothing is impossible”, says Needham. “All it takes is determination and the desire to accomplish your goals”.