Tory’ana Afornorpe, a first-year Clatsop Community College student exemplifies resilience, determination, and a commitment to education, all while overcoming significant personal obstacles. Her journey through the trials of childhood to becoming a published author and pursuing a college education highlights the strength and perseverance that drive her success.
Tory’ana, a graduate of Warrenton High School made the decision to start her higher education journey closer to home even though she was accepted to Pacific University. “I love it here,” Tory’ana shared, reflecting on her choice to attend Clatsop Community College. “No one told me to go to Clatsop Community College. I knew a little about it through the Upward Bound program, and I feel like I made a good decision for myself.”
While Tory’ana was eager to begin her studies, she found herself facing unexpected challenges. Now living in Astoria, she resides in a homeless shelter, utilizing services provided by Clatsop Community Action for housing and support. Despite this hardship, her positivity and drive to succeed have not wavered. “When I became homeless, I went to the CCC Admissions office scared that I was going to have to drop out. They set me up with the Benefits Navigator at the college who then connected me with Clatsop Community Action. Within a day, there was a plan. I’ve kept getting obstacles thrown at me throughout my life, but I push through them,” she said with determination. “I have a positive mindset.”
Her resilience is rooted in a childhood filled with trials. Growing up in foster care, Tory’ana and her brother were often shuffled between homes, sometimes enduring emotional and physical abuse. One of her biggest fears was the thought of being separated from her younger brother. “I wanted to protect him even when I was 7 and he was 4. I would be told by foster families that if we misbehaved, we would get separated, and that scared me,” she recalled. Despite the challenges, Tory’ana eventually found a stable foster home that supported her, and she now maintains some contact with her biological family as well.
Throughout high school, Tory’ana participated in the Upward Bound program through TRIO, which helped prepare her for success in higher education. It was during her senior year that she started writing about her personal experiences. After about 6 months of working on the book, she submitted her manuscript out to publishers, and Amazon’s publishing department offered her a deal. Her book, titled I’m Glad I Lived, is a raw autobiographical account that also provides advice for others facing similar struggles. “It was scary to put this out because it is a raw experience of mine, but I want to share it if it can help others,” she explained. Tory’ana’s book is available on Amazon and can also be found in local libraries, including the Astoria High School Library and the Dora Badollet Library at Clatsop Community College.
While studying at CCC to get her transfer associates degree to pursue psychology and become a therapist, Tory’ana has been fully committed to making the most of her college experience. “A typical day for me involves catching the bus to campus for classes, eating lunch at the Bandit Café, attending more classes, and then checking in with my instructors about any questions I have,” she said. Afterward, she heads back to her shelter, where she focuses on homework before spending her weekends working at Walmart to help cover living expenses.
Her active involvement on campus is another sign of her drive. Tory’ana is a member of the TRIO program at CCC, the Fiber Arts Club, and was recently inducted into Phi Theta Kappa, the national honor society for community colleges. Reflecting on her time at CCC, she says, “I love everything about the campus. A lot of people are welcoming, and it feels like home.” She adds that she’s excited about the opportunities she has, both academically and personally, at CCC. “I’m really focusing on school and my mental health.”
While the challenges she faces may sometimes seem overwhelming, Tory’ana remains focused on her future. As she prepares for the upcoming term, she is also working on a second book, a collection of poems titled Strangers with Memories. Her passion for writing continues to grow, and she is determined to share more of her unique voice with the world.
Although she enjoys the spectacular views from the campus, she admits one challenge with humor: “I tried walking up that hill to CCC and was screaming ‘who put Clatsop on this hill!’ the whole way. I’m thankful for my bus pass.” This lighthearted approach to obstacles is just another example of how Tory’ana faces life’s challenges with determination and a smile.
Clatsop Community College celebrates Tory’ana Afornorpe as an example of resilience, dedication, and hope. Her story underscores the college’s commitment to providing a supportive and empowering environment for students, no matter their circumstances. Tory’ana’s journey is a reminder that with hard work, support, and perseverance, anything is possible.
