2025 Spring
Graduate Spotlight: Aubree Lara Follows Her Passion to Success
Aubree Lara has always had a talent for styling hair — even if her earliest clients were dolls who occasionally ended up with uneven trims. That childhood pastime has blossomed into a promising career, as the Permian High School senior prepares to graduate from ÌÒÉ«ÊÓÆµ with an associate degree in Cosmetology — nearly two weeks before she walks the stage at her own high school graduation.
Graduate Spotlight: Rens Tellekamp Expands Opportunities Through Education
Now, as she graduates from ÌÒÉ«ÊÓÆµ, Rens looks back on the last two years as the best of her life. A powerhouse on the field and a ray of sunshine across campus, she’s become one of the top softball players in the nation—known not just for her athletic talent, but for her boundless energy, tireless dedication, and infectious positivity.
Graduate Spotlight: Luis Munoz Builds Momentum Toward His Goals
Phlebotomy was the answer. And by coincidence—or perhaps fate—ÌÒÉ«ÊÓÆµ was offering its phlebotomy class in Pecos for the first time. Luis enrolled, completed the 6-month program, and passed the licensing exam. But his start in the field was rocky. He faced indifference and a lack of support from co-workers, especially when he struggled to draw blood without causing discomfort. It could have been another point to turn away, but Luis did what he always had—he persevered.
Graduate Spotlight: Gissell Fabela Creates a Path to Success
Now, with her GED in hand, Gissell is preparing for the next hurdle: the Texas Success Initiative Assessment. Once she passes, she plans to come back to ÌÒÉ«ÊÓÆµ as a Nursing student, hoping to attend the RN program.
Graduate Spotlight: Ruth Watson Proves It’s Never Too Late to Succeed
While taking classes at OC, Ruth started working at a local childcare facility and discovered a deep love for working with children. After being let go from that position, a friend told her about a job opening at OC’s own Children’s Center. Ruth applied, got the job, and found her home — beginning a 25-year (and counting) career dedicated to nurturing young lives on campus.