Buffalo Creek Woman Begins Her Journey at Southern

In 1980, Opal Preston found herself as a 26-year-old divorced, single mom, struggling to make ends meet with just a high school diploma and no support from her ex-husband.

She worked as a bookkeeper but found it insufficient to manage her expenses. Eventually, her son developed strep throat, and she was burdened with medical bills. Realizing that she needed education and support, she decided to seek help from welfare despite feeling reluctant.

Preston had wanted to go to college earlier in life, and the opportunity presented itself again. She sought assistance from Southern WV Community College and was offered financial aid, work-study, and encouragement. Alongside applying for welfare to cover healthcare and living expenses, she started her journey into education.

At Southern, Preston found a new network of friends and gained confidence in her abilities. Despite intending to pursue nursing, she enrolled in the medical laboratory technician (MLT) program, discovering her passion for science.

Graduating as a salutatorian in 1985, she secured her first job at Williamson Appalachian Regional Hospital. In 1987, she took a test offered by the Department of Health and Human Services, allowing her to be recognized as a “Technologist” due to her associate’s degree.

Opal’s financial struggles persisted. Recognizing the need for her husband to further his education, they moved to Hurricane, where he could attend Marshall University for a bachelor’s degree. Preston also continued her education and enrolled in the Marshall nursing program.

By 1989, her husband graduated with a degree in Safety Engineering and was hired by the US Air Force Reserve in Tacoma, Washington. Preston also secured a job at St Joseph’s Medical Center as an MLT.

Her training in blood banking and the HHS exam she took earlier elevated her to the position of Medical Technologist, resulting in a significant pay raise. Her journey from a struggling single mother to establishing a successful career in laboratory science stands as a testament to her determination and the support she received from Southern WV Community College.