Last updated on November 22, 2023
There’s never a shortage of uplifting and inspiring stories on Dallas College campuses every day. Past, present and future students are the lifeblood of the college. Only time will tell where our students will go from here.
Perhaps we’ll have another Alyssa Fox who went on to become the star of “Wicked” on Broadway. Or Angel Rodriguez who threw out the first pitch at a Texas Rangers game last summer.
“Dallas College continues to remove the barriers to education and create job opportunities for students. We’ve created a culture of care, impact and innovation for our students and the community.” — Dallas College Chancellor Justin Lonon
Here are five stories from the last year that paint the picture of Dallas College.
Kianna Vaughn
The challenges of being diabetic and legally blind, haven’t deterred Kianna Vaughn from excelling. Despite the obstacles, she’s pushed forward — a member of PTK and on the Chancellor’s Honor Roll.
“The community at Dallas College has provided valuable resources and opportunities,” she said. “Lisa Frost, my success coach, has been incredible. She kept me on track, helped me find classes that worked with my schedule since I’m working full-time and provided valuable guidance.”
“Many people underestimate individuals with disabilities, but that shouldn’t stop us from being hired and contributing to companies and organizations. I want to create more opportunities and growth for disabled individuals in the workplace.”
Caleb Lynn
Caleb Lynn is a two-time cancer survivor whose story is one of inspiration. He underwent treatments and surgery that left him with limited movement in his neck and still he went on to play football and baseball at Cedar Hill High School.
He’s always had a knack for building things. In his early years, he built with Legos, but now he’s taking on more advanced skills — welding.
“Welding is not easy by any stretch,” Lynn said. “I had a hard time in high school. It wasn’t easy, just like my story. But, once you go through it enough times, you know how to handle it and learn.”
Welders are in high demand and Lynn has the mindset to succeed.
“Dallas College has been amazing. I’ve been able to hone my skills and do new processes. It’s been good.”
Irma Haylock-Awkard
When Irma Haylock-Awkard looked into colleges to finish her associate degree, it didn’t take her long to choose Dallas College for the resources they provide military members. Irma became a first- generation college graduate in May — a journey that wouldn’t have started without Dallas College and its commitment to veterans.
“I’d definitely recommend Dallas College to other military members and just the public in general,” Haylock-Awkward said. “Dallas College is very accommodating. They have a wide range of classes that should fit anybody’s interest.”
Dallas College is among the most veteran-friendly colleges in the country. In fact, Military Friendly, an independent ranking firm for organizations that serve military veterans, recently gave Dallas College the top designation of “Gold” for its work with the veteran community.
Pricila Cano Padron
There were plenty of what ifs going through Pricila Cano Padron’s mind when it came to joining Dallas College’s inaugural class to pursue a bachelor’s degree in education. But it didn’t take long for those fears to subside.
“Everything has been positive. I do not regret my decision to stay here at all,” said Cano Padron. The professors, staff, everyone has been amazing. It’s been a wonderful ride. This is coming from someone who grew up saying I would not go to community college.”
As a first-generation college student, she learned firsthand how Dallas College transforms lives and communities through higher education as students strive to fulfill their dreams.
Jesse Serrano
Growing up in West Texas, Jesse Serrano imagined creating his own worlds. His goal is to create video games that inspire players and to build his own indie game development company.
“I looked for places elsewhere that I could be creative alongside other creative people and learn more at an accredited institution, and Dallas College fit those needs.”
Dallas College provided the essential soft skills — time management, how to work with other people.
“I could learn game design by just watching tutorials on YouTube, but the soft skills and connections come from an experience like this at Dallas College.”
This story and others like it can be found in the Student Newsletter. Check your Dallas College email to see the latest edition.