Staff Voices: Paige Mahoney
Meet Paige Mahoney, Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund’s dedicated Donor Engagement Coordinator, whose warm energy and relationship-building skills are helping transform lives.
Like so many recipients, Paige is a single mom who pursued higher education later in life, so the ASPSF mission resonates deeply with her. Based in Springdale, Paige spends every day ensuring our supporters feel connected and our single parent students feel seen and encouraged.
In this Q&A, Paige shares her story, what keeps her motivated, and the moments at ASPSF she’ll never forget.
City: Springdale in Washington County
Hometown: Fayetteville in Washington County
First day at ASPSF: Jan. 4, 2021
Education: Bachelor of Science, Communications: Bachelor’s in communications from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
What do you do at ASPSF?
I get to connect donors and volunteers with the single parents we serve, and that’s the best part of my job. I spend my days building relationships, encouraging supporters, and celebrating the impact they make. And I love knowing that, behind the scenes, I’m helping single parents feel supported and valued on their journey.
What do you love about ASPSF and its mission?
I love that our mission changes the trajectory of families. The scholarships we provide don’t just help single parents get through school; they open doors to new opportunities, stability, and confidence. And the best part is seeing how that hope extends to their children, who start to believe that they can do it too. It’s life-changing work, and I’m so proud to be part of it.
What is your favorite ASPSF moment or story?
I often think about a student who sent us a picture of her at the car lot picking up her new car. This was a success story after graduation. The big smile on her face was pure joy and excitement. It brought back the emotions I had when I picked up a new car for the first time. This student was able to do that because she graduated and got an amazing job with a paycheck that afforded her that opportunity. She credited the ASPSF scholarship program with her ability to achieve this milestone. I’m smiling now just thinking about that picture. Picking out a new car for the first time is a feeling you never forget.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I am drawn to a good apron. I love to cook, and aprons keep my clothes clean. They also remind me of my grandmother. I always find myself looking through them at garage sales and thrift stores. My current favorite says, “All I Do Is Feed These People.”
What three words best describe you?
Loyal, positive, encourager.
What’s your proudest personal accomplishment?
Going back to college after decades and completing my degree. I had been out of school for so long and had written it off; I felt it was a goal that I would never achieve. It feels amazing to have completed something that I started so long ago.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Ask yourself: Will this thing you’re worried about matter five or 10 years from now?
Are you reading anything good right now?
Yes! I’m reading The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits (fiction) and Weary Souls (nonfiction).
Do you have any hobbies?
I am interested in a lot of topics. I love plants and gardening, cooking and baking, and reading. I love to help women look their best because it is such a confidence booster. I advise them on clothing, accessories, and makeup — I’ve even done some personal shopping.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I was a single mom, and I didn’t finish my degree until later in life. Because of that, this work feels deeply personal, almost sacred. It’s a full-circle moment to now help others reach the goals I once dreamed of when I was in their shoes. I have such a feeling of pride for what they are doing and accomplishing. They don’t know it, but I am cheering them on from a distance, and I rejoice with them in their accomplishments.
