Regina Showers-Gordon: Breaking barriers in education, creating opportunities for women and underserved communities, and more...

Exclusive via Women's Journal

For many women, the journey to success is not just about personal achievement—it’s about lifting others along the way. This principle defines Regina Showers-Gordon as a visionary leader whose work is transforming lives in Hammond, Louisiana, and beyond.

As the founder and president of Petra College, Regina is breaking barriers in education, creating opportunities for women and underserved communities, and reshaping what’s possible for those striving for a better future.

Her story is not just one of success but of purpose-driven leadership—proving that when women lead, communities thrive.

A Woman’s Vision: Creating a Pathway to Opportunity

Access to career-driven education remains a significant challenge in many rural communities—especially for women juggling multiple responsibilities. Regina, a lifelong resident of Hammond, understood these challenges firsthand.

She saw single mothers, caregivers, and hardworking women caught in cycles of financial instability, not because of a lack of ambition but because educational opportunities weren’t within reach. Determined to change this reality, she founded Petra College—a career-focused institution designed to provide practical, high-demand skills in fields where job opportunities are plentiful.

Her goal? Empowering women, strengthening families, and building a workforce for economic growth.

Petra College: Where Education Meets Empowerment

At Petra College, the future isn’t just a distant dream—it’s within reach. This esteemed institution has opened doors to a better future for people in rural Hammond who didn’t have access to good opportunities. As a lifelong resident of Hammond, Regina was aware of the challenges faced by single mothers, many of whom worked hard but struggled with financial instability that impacted their families’ futures.

To help these suffering women, she thought of creating an institution where students gain practical, in-demand skills, particularly in the healthcare industry, one of the country’s largest job sectors. In one of her interviews, while sharing her vision behind Petra College, she also said, “Petra College was born from my desire to provide hope and opportunity to those who need it most.”

Fast forward to today, the institution offers various programs, including medical assistance, certified nursing assistant, licensed practical nursing, and phlebotomy. Hundreds of graduates have left Petra College with valuable skills, and many have gone on to find employment in sought-after positions. Regina’s efforts have supported individuals in securing jobs in high-demand fields, helping provide opportunities for financial stability and a better future for families in Hammond.

Breaking Barriers: Becoming the First Accredited Woman-Owned College in the Region

Regina’s commitment to educational excellence led Petra College to achieve a groundbreaking milestone—national accreditation through the Commission of the Council on Occupational Education (COE).

This achievement is more than just recognition; it’s a historic moment for women in leadership. As the first African American woman to open and lead an accredited college in this rural region, Regina is paving the way for future female educators and entrepreneurs.

“Earning national accreditation is a testament to our commitment to quality, accessibility, and student success,” Regina explains. Her education leadership is a powerful example of how women can create lasting change, even in male-dominated industries.

Investing in Women and the Community

Regina’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. Through the Petra Foundation, she is actively:

• Providing scholarships to help women access education

• Supporting single mothers with resources for career growth

• Developing early childhood programs to help working parents

Her next major initiative? Launching an early childhood education center to support young mothers and working women, helping their children receive quality early learning opportunities while they pursue their dreams. By investing in women’s education and economic empowerment, Regina is not just transforming individual lives but strengthening families and entire communities.

A Legacy of Women Lifting Women

Regina Showers-Gordon is a living testament to the idea that women bring others with them when they rise. Her work with Petra College proves that education is not just about degrees and certifications—it’s about economic empowerment, confidence, and breaking generational cycles of hardship.

Through her bold vision, relentless dedication, and unwavering belief in the power of education, she creates a ripple effect of change that will impact future generations. And as she continues to expand her mission, one truth remains evident: when women like Regina lead, the future becomes brighter for all.