Congratulations to our fall Ascender graduates who have worked hard to enrich their lives and invest in their future. They also serve as role models to family members, friends, and members of their community to help them find the rewards of higher education, and to open doors of opportunity for family and loved ones. We know that these role models help increase the number of Hispanics enrolling in higher education. According to HACU, “Hispanic enrollment in higher education in the U.S. is expected to exceed 4.1 million students by 2026, far surpassing the growth rate of any other racial-ethnic group – by over 10%.” We know that our Ascender students have played a part in that statistic.  They have served as role models to others showing that a degree offers better career opportunities and job security. We know a college education extends beyond one generation and that the future is brighter for all of us because of their success.

Two ACC Ascender students graduated with their Associate’s degrees this fall. They were Janerly S. Joya Rosales and Oscar Estrada Mendoza. STC Pecan Campus had five graduates. They were Samantha Barrientos with a degree in Criminal Justice; Stephany Rosales and Valerie Ochoa with degrees in Psychology; Chase Natalia Ramos with a degree in Kinesiology; and Nydia Torres with an Interdisciplinary Studies degree. STC Starr campus graduates include Paola Vallejo and Aylette Salgado earning degrees in Business; Jennifer Ortiz and Ambar Rocha with a degree in Elementary Ed; Claudette Salmon with a degree in psychology; and Andrea Cortinas with a degree in Criminal Justice. STC graduate from Mid Valley campus was Berenice Gonzalez Bautista with a degree in Criminal Justice.

Also, three STC Ascender alumni received their Bachelor’s degree: Kassandra Gonzalez received hers from STC; Sanjuanita De la Cruz from UTRGV and Stephanie Lopez from Texas A&M-Kingsville.