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Aubree Lara posing against a stone wall

Graduate Spotlight: Aubree Lara Follows Her Passion to Success

May 1, 2025

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.

Rens Tellekamp holding bat and smiling

Graduate Spotlight: Rens Tellekamp Expands Opportunities Through Education

Apr 30, 2025

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.

Luis Munoz smiling at amphitheater

Graduate Spotlight: Luis Munoz Builds Momentum Toward His Goals

Apr 29, 2025

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.

Gissell Fabela leaning against a tree

Graduate Spotlight: Gissell Fabela Creates a Path to Success

Apr 28, 2025

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.

Ruth Watson posing next to a playground slide

Graduate Spotlight: Ruth Watson Proves It’s Never Too Late to Succeed

Apr 25, 2025

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.