The Gradual 2021

Hall of Fame The Gradual

by The Rambler

Class of 2021 Spring 2021, . Vol. 105

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Opinions expressed in THE RAMBLER are those of the individual authors only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Texas Wesleyan community as a whole. To contact us, call 817.531.7552.

Dr. Jenny J. Dean

LaTerra Wair EDITOR: Kendal Clark Kylie Summers, Parker Turley, Lexi Barlow, Angela Castillo, Lee Benting, William Doctor, James McBride, Chenqi Shi, Elijah Davis, Nicholas Goldsby, Zhe Jia,Christian Gaffner, Jalen Evans, Sarah Cole, Richard Arthur

Contents

Ashli Young, Maria Dolores Perez

Javier Careaga music performance major

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Sheryl Vu psychology major

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Makenzie Trapp business management and marketing major

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Sandy Garcia early education major

Letter from the President and SGA President

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Maria Perez: double major in psychology and English

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Kaylia Brown: double major in mass communication and English

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Christine Davis marketing major

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Azeez Akande: double major in religion and psychology

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Jacob Williams religion major

17 education major

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Mercedes Beltran: kinesiology and exercise science major Maritza Zaragosa bilingual education major

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Josh Rule computer information major

10-11 List of Graduates

Raylan Stockdale, Christian Gaffner, Angela Castillo, Miguel Arrivillaga, Nicholas Hains, Brandon Orgill, Elijah Davis, Jalen Evans, Danielle Davis, Collier Ricks, Richard Arthur, Dylan Pettway, Parker Turley, Tatiyana Giddings, Crystal Hernandez, Sarah Cole, Kendal Clark, Collin Course

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Anthony Silva exercise science major

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Rebecca Finley criminal justice major and minor in psychology

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Taylor Peyton criminal justice major

JoAnna Gallardo William Doctor mass communication major

Laws 18 Joseph theatre major

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Lauren Garza theatre major

Class of 2021 Rams Up! For more stories online, go to therambler.org

May 2021

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Letter from the President To the Class of 2021, Congratulations on completing your Texas Wesleyan degree. This is a major life achievement, and you should be proud of the perseverance, focus and hard work it took to get here. Remember those qualities as you continue on your journey. They will serve you well.

The past year has been a journey unlike any other. Through once-in-a-lifetime challenges, you’ve shown that you are willing to reach your goals no matter the obstacle, and we are proud to welcome you to the family of Texas Wesleyan alumni.

Whether your next step involves graduate studies or entering the workforce, you are ready to make a difference. The emphasis on critical thinking and analytical reasoning at Texas Wesleyan will help you, regardless of what your future holds. We hope that your experiences here will be a constant source of inspiration as you make your mark on the world.

We are proud of you. Your success makes Texas Wesleyan the vibrant, “Smaller. Smarter.” university that it is.

I wish you all the best and hope to see you back on campus soon.

Sincerely, Frederick G. Slabach President

Letter from the SGA President Dear Graduates, As Student Government Association President, I could not be prouder to represent such a resilient group of students. The most recent semesters leading up to your graduation have been challenging and full of uncertainty. I have seen the struggles and obstacles you’ve had to overcome, all while compromising on many wonderful experiences that typically come with being a senior in college. You overcame all these challenges with grace, strength and determination. That is why I am honored to celebrate you and all that you have accomplished so far. I know it’s been incredibly difficult, Rams, yet here you are.

On behalf of SGA, I want you to know that we believe in you. I am so happy and excited to see what the next chapter of your lives bring. Remember, wherever your next journey takes you, you will always have a home here at Texas Wesleyan.

Much love, Lexi Barlow Student Government Association President

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Perez on quest to help high school youth

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hroughout her time here at Wesleyan, Maria Dolores-Perez has found her passion for what she wants to do in life. Starting as a biology major and graduating as a psychology and English major, Perez found herself in a quest to help those around her.

Throughout her time here at Wesleyan, Maria Dolores-Perez has found her passion for what she wants to do in life. Starting as a biology major and graduating as a psychology and English major, Perez found herself in a quest to help those around her.

“I wanted to be a doctor at first, but I realized that wasn’t my passion, and I wasn’t really good with my hands. So, I quickly found psychology because I started taking psych classes with my biology major,” Perez said.

Perez said that meeting Dr. Stacia Campbell was the game changer for her career. While she enjoyed learning about social and normal psychology, Perez said she became convinced to take on an English minor because of her American literature class with Campbell.

“I remember one of her assignments that I really loved was when we got to pick a song and we had to analyze it by looking at the lyrics by themselves, then the sounds by themselves, and then the videos by themselves. I wrote more pages than I needed to for that project,” Perez said.

When she was almost done with her requirements for her psychology major, Perez decided to major in English and become a tutor at the Academic Success Center.

“Given tutoring, I helped so many different people from so many different countries, and that’s what’s pretty unique about Wesleyan, is that it’s so diverse, you get to meet people from different walks of life,” Perez said.

Perez said she chose Wesleyan because she felt that the small school would give her the opportunity to ask questions that would allow her to get to know her professors better and have a mentor relationship with them.

“I always told myself whenever I decided I wanted to be a counselor, I was like, I want to do marriage therapy,” Perez said. “But I would also be interested in working with juveniles in the juvenile system, because

they remind me of my brother.”

Perez said her brother has been going through depression, and she remembered how he wanted to have someone in his life who could just listen to him.

“I would like to teach at a high school, and just help out all the minority groups that are really struggling with writing, because I understand how that feels. I still struggle with writing, it’s so hard to have two languages and having to translate in standard English,” Perez said.

Perez often volunteers at the Texas Wesleyan Community Counseling Center to help translate sessions for bilingual patients and their respective counselors.

“I also think it’s really important, especially now that there’s less Spanish speaking counselors in Texas, and since we have a very large Hispanic population in Texas, it’s really sad to know that there’s not a lot of bilingual counselors out there,” Perez said.

Presently, Perez has applied to be a counselor but also applied to graduate school at TCU for English. She got accepted to both programs, however, TCU is offering a full-ride scholarship.

“I’m just going to say this: I will try to get my master’s in English and I’m going to try to help students with their writing,” Perez said. “And if I still feel from the inside that I need to go into counseling, I will apply for that later in life.”

Perez said this will allow her to have a better understanding of what group of people she would like to work with and what she would enjoy doing more.

“There isn’t a specific time for you to do things, you just get to know yourself and if it doesn’t work out then you just go to the next thing,” Perez said. “Let’s say I really enjoy working with people in high school, once I become a teacher, I can stay in that profession and expand on my English. If I don’t, then I can still go the counseling route.”

Maria Dolores-Perez (pictured with her husband, Erik) English and Psychology Major Photo courtesy of Maria Dolores-Perez

“My parents were a great inspiration; they helped me finish school. I remember mom bringing me plates of food when she saw me having a hard time at school and my husband, Erik, was always cheering me up.” ~ MARIA DOLORES-PEREZ

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“My overall experience at Wesleyan has had its ups and downs, but I am very appreciative of my four years here. I’ve met so many people that’ll be a part of my life ....” ~KAYLIA BROWN

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Brown is ready for a new path

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ass Communications major and English minor, Kaylia Brown, is ready for a new path as she graduates from Texas Wesleyan University this spring.

Brown was neighboring Fort Worth and is from Arlington.

The Arlington native attended Mansfield Timberview High School and graduated in the year 2017.

Her college search led her to move across the metroplex and attend Texas Wesleyan University. She said she loved when she toured the campus and how it felt like a small community.

“I chose Texas Wesleyan because I loved how small it was. When I toured the campus, it seemed like my tour guide knew just about everyone we ran into and I knew I wanted to be part of a community like that,” said Brown.

The future alum says her overall experience at Texas Wesleyan was a

rollercoaster of emotions. Overall, she is very appreciative of her four years at the University. Brown believed that the small nature of the university broke her out of her shell to make new friends and meet new people.

“My overall experience at Wesleyan has had its ups and downs, but I am very appreciative of my four years here. I’ve met so many people that’ll be a part of my life forever now and have grown in ways I never thought I could because the small nature of the campus pushed me to break out of my comfort zone,” said Brown.

She loves to be on campus.

Brown has always a part of inperson events. She was a Ram Camp leader and an orientation leader for the three summers that she could participate.

Kaylia Brown Mass Communication Photo courtesy Kaylia Brown

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Davis feels bittersweet after two years

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hristine Davis is graduating from the School of Business Administration with a degree in marketing after transferring from Tarrant County College.

Davis said she chose Texas Wesleyan because she felt like she belonged when she visited campus.

“I never felt like a piece of any university I visited or toured until I came to Wesleyan, and within five minutes, I knew that was exactly where I was supposed to be,” Davis said.

Davis said she feels proud about graduating but wishes she had more time at Wesleyan.

“Ever since I found marketing, I feel 100% secure that I love it,” Davis said.

“So, that makes me really excited and proud, but I’m also really sad. As a transfer student, two years just isn’t enough time to do Wesleyan.”

“I’m also a little sad that a lot of it was virtual, like over half my time at Wesleyan was virtual, so that bums me out but still, I’ll take virtual over nothing at Wesleyan at all.”

Davis said her proudest moment was being awarded the “Heart of Wesleyan” award last year at the Rammy’s after her first year at the university.

“That award meant a ton; it still does. I am so proud to have had that opportunity,” Davis said. “Truly, I love Wesleyan. I could talk about it all day, it’s just one of the best places on earth, and I can’t imagine having gotten my undergrad anywhere else.”

According to Davis, her campus involvement over the past two years has included being the president and member of American Association of University Women (AAUW), serving as the Communications Director for ENACTUS, helping with the entrepreneauHER project with Black Coffee, serving as Student Government Association (SGA) Head Rep for one semester, serving as SGA Vice President this year.

In addition to being a Member of Beta Gamma Sigma, a member of Tau Sigma, a member of Mortar Board and running their social media account, a

member of the Grow Getters Club, part of Alpha Xi Delta, working as the Student Coordinator for the front desk in the Martin University center, volunteering in the food pantry, and being a Texas Civic Ambassador outside of all her on-campus extracurriculars.

Reflecting on her junior and senior year, Davis said one of her favorite memories was being elected as AAUW President her first year at Wesleyan and meeting the other organization officers.

“I knew nobody in the meeting; they all knew each other; a bunch of them were theatre majors,” Davis said. “I was just really vulnerable and shared a little bit about my story and why I thought I’d be a good president, and somehow, they elected me. Without AAUW, I don’t think I would have opened up to as many people.”

Davis said that she will be attending the University of Texas at Arlington in the fall to pursue a master of science and marketing research.

Davis said she hopes to get her Ph.D. once she completes her masters and hopes to teach marketing someday.

“The ultimate dream for me would honestly be to become a professor at Wesleyan. I just think that would be the best,” Davis said.

“I fully believe in ‘Smaller. Smarter.,’ and so I think it would be really cool to be a part of that.”

Davis said her advice to future graduates would be to not rush through the journey.

“College is a really, really unique time in your life,” Davis said.

“I spent a lot of time doing a lot of things, and I just kept thinking about the future, and I can’t wait to graduate, and sometimes I think I kind of missed out on being in the moment,” said Davis.

Davis said her time at Wesleyan ultimately has been so wonderful because she chose to be vulnerable and get involved on campus, something she encourages other students to do as well.

Christine Davis Marketing Major Photo courtesy of Christine Davis

“College is a really, really unique time

in your life. I spent a lot of time doing a lot of things, and I just kept thinking about the future, and I can’t wait to graduate, and sometimes I think I kind of missed out on being in the moment.” ~ Christine Davis

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Next stop Washington University

raveling is nothing new for senior religion major Jacob Williams. “I was born in Arizona just outside of Phoenix,” Williams said. “I lived in Chandler, Arizona until I was about twelve years old, and then my family and I moved to Canada.”

He would then go on to spend the rest of his years leading up to college in Mississauga, Ontario. Coming back to the United States was something “I always wanted to do for school,” Williams said.

The newly formed football program was a large driving factor in his decision to attend Texas Wesleyan University. “I started playing football when I lived in Canada. Wesleyan’s program was new and recruiting a lot of players, so they reached out to me through a recruiting website and that is how they got on my radar,” Williams said.

While Jacob sustained an injury that prevented him from ever taking the field for the Rams, he “came for football, but stayed for the environment, friends, professors, classes” Williams said.

Regardless of not playing football, he did find a spot as captain of the FIFA Esports team at Texas Wesleyan. “A few years back when I played online seasons, I reached rank number four in the top 100 of the world,” Williams said. He would later go on to lead the Rams to two National Collegiate Esports Championships.

“I am going to law school next year,” Williams said.

He has always had a couple of options of what he wanted to do after college, but one year ago he made the final decision.

“I was either going to go to seminary, to study to be a pastor or minister.” Another option he considered is law school. About a year ago, he had the realization that he “could do so much good in the world” either way, “and that’s why I came to college,” he said. “Eventually, I felt that law school was calling,” Williams said. He concluded with an announcement of where he was most likely attending next year: Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

As for FIFA, while the big tournament days are in the past, he still plans on playing the game. “Even if I stop playing in tournaments, I’m not just going to stop playing, it will always be something I keep up with,” he said.

Williams was grateful and he encouraged students to get involved and take advantage of everything Wesleyan has to offer. “I am grateful for the opportunities,” he said. “When I look back at everything I have done, other schools would not have provided me with those same chances.

Overall, I would say find something that interests you.” He stated how the academics are amazing, but the university encourages students to get involved. One way of doing so is by being “as active as you can, getting to know your professors and avoiding being passive.”

Jacob Williams Religion Photo courtesy of Jacob Williams

Akande chases dreams at SMU zeez Akande has always had an interest in ministry ever since he was a child. His interest and love for ministry led him to pursue his degree in religion and psychology. He will be continuing his education for graduate school in the fall at SMU. He one day hopes to be able to pastor a church of his own.

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Azeez Akande Religion and Psychology Photo courtesy of Azeez Akande

Along with his degree, Akande made plenty of great memories with students and teachers across campus.

“I made a lot of good friends here, but like I’ve bonded a lot with the professors, as well as just like the General Staff,” Akande said. “They were just really, really helpful to make this a really great experience.”

During Akande’s time as a Room Adviser at Wesleyan, he enjoyed the weekly events the school would put on for the dorms, such as Geek Week.

“That’s been like our tradition for like a while now,” Akande said. “Just putting that on and just seeing people come together and just nerd out with each other.”

For the past two years, Akande has worked as part

of the Alumni Relations office with Alumni Events Coordinator Jeri Chipman.

“He has been a huge asset to our team. Azeez has been willing to go the extra mile for us and help in so many ways,” Chipman said. “In addition, his positive and kind spirit has made our office a more pleasant place to be.”

Akande has made a great impression on his professors and fellow student workers while working for Alumni Relations, and they all wish him the best of luck moving forward.

“We know great things are in store for Azeez and are grateful for the time he’s worked with us in Alumni Relations,” Chipman said.

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Beltran hopes to pursue career as a coach

ercedes Beltran is a kinesiology, exercise science major who wishes to work as a coach, particularly at a junior college or university when she graduates.

Although she majored in kinesiology, Beltran shared that her long-term goal is to become a cardiology nurse because her grandmother, Nana Popo, had a massive heart attack. Beltran loved the way that her grandmother was taking care of and had always wanted to help others.

She is currently coaching a softball team called the Bombers, an organization that recruited her when she was 15 years old.

Beltran is from San Antonio, Texas, and she is a first-generation college student and started playing softball when she was 6 or 7 years old.

She takes pride and joy in her family members including her sister Gabriella, for whom she tries to be a role model.

Beltran also feels pride and joy for her grandparents as they would take her to family get-togethers at bars and listen to Conjunto and Tejano music.

Growing up as a Latina, she learned to “work her way up the hard way and be there for [her] family.” After her parents divorced, Beltran shared that her mom, Belinda, began working in two jobs to help her pay part of her education. Beltran acknowledges that her mom is “the strongest woman [she] knows.” Her father was also there to support her financially and to guide her throughout her softball journey.

Although she wanted to work, she had a hectic schedule. Beltran also found it hard to adjust her life when COVID hit as she did not have the encouragement she had before. Before COVID hit, Beltran did not know what plans to pursue and felt pressured. However, during the pandemic, she got closer to God and found herself again.

As an athlete, Beltran stepped up when her teammates graduated and when COVID hit, “I am the type of leader that really doesn’t speak up much, but I lead by example.” The most memorable experience was flying back to Arizona to meet her team when her grandmother had a heart

attack. Regardless of the heart-breaking situation she faced back home, she focused on playing her best.

Beltran loves the close-knit comomunity that exists at Texas Wesleyan because she feels part of a family, both on her team and in her department. “It was so fun to be able to get away from finals, and we went out there at the sand volleyball courts…

And we were just out there having fun,” said Beltran. She is thankful for having met great people at Wesleyan.

She said that her boyfriend Matthew, who plays in the TXWES baseball team, has been an inspiration for her. Also, her lifelong friends, Kylie Summers and Sandra Lopez “have been [her] rock since [she’s] been here, and [she] cannot thank them enough.”

Beltran gives special thanks to several mentors at Texas Wesleyan. She appreciates coach Shannon Gower for allowing her to play in the softball team and providing her an athletic scholarship as it allowed her to pursue her education at Texas Wesleyan. “[Gower] values person over the player,” said Beltran.

She wishes to be like coach Gower when she continues coaching. Beltran also appreciates Muhye Hammattah, assistant director for academic advising and retention, as he always made sure that she did well academically and registered in the correct classes to graduate on time. Although it was hard for Beltran to take classes online given that some of her classes were challenging, she advises students to make friends at school and study collaboratively with them. Beltran shares that “The best is yet to come.”

Mercedes Beltran Kinesiology and Exercise Science Photo courtesy of Mercedes Beltran

“I am the type of leader that really doesn’t speak up much, but I lead by example.”

~ Mercedes Beltran

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Rule continues to make goals and dream big

osh Rule will be graduating this spring, majoring in computer information systems. He said that he is very excited to be graduating in May and the things he’ll be looking forward to afterwards.

Josh Rule will be graduating this spring, majoring in computer information systems. He said that he is very excited to be graduating in May and the things he’ll be looking forward to afterwards.

“I’ve been taking college level courses for a little over five years so I’m just looking forward to taking a break,” Rule said. “I’m also very excited that we’re getting to have our graduation in person this semester. This year was pretty tough on my family and I’m glad we’ll have the opportunity to come together and celebrate this milestone of my life!”

Rule had also gone to Tarrant County College and got an associate degree in business before going to Texas Wesleyan. He talked about why he has loved Wesleyan ever since he started going there.

“I’ve been a huge fan of the smaller class sizes and my

professors have always been supportive and understanding,” Rule said. “The entire Wesleyan community has been so welcoming and encouraging and I’m proud that I get to graduate as a Ram.” Rule talked about one of the things he’ll do after graduation and what he’s going to do with his degree.

“After graduation, I’ll continue my job search in the IT industry and hopefully become a business/ systems analyst for a company based in DFW,” Rule said. “My hope is I can work while also pursing an MBA in data sciences or information systems.”

Rule was also employed at Texas Wesleyan and he talked about his experience from there and how he has felt about it and how it has made him more comfortable.

“My experience working

for Texas Wesleyan has been transformative to say the least,” Rule said. “I’ve always been pretty introverted but becoming a tour guide on campus has helped me develop my voice and practice public speaking every single day.

I eventually got promoted to lead tour guide and It’s been a pleasure to train and work with all the students who want to show off what Texas Wesleyan is all about.”

Rule feels that his degree can take him places and he talked about some of the job positions he wants to gain when he gets a job.

“I hope my business degree can help create opportunities to gain more experience in the IT industry and eventually become a project manager,” Rule said. “My ultimate goal is to become the chief information officer of a company I’m passionate about.”

Josh Rule Computer Information Systems Photo courtesy of Josh Rule

Zaragoza empowers em the minds of young students

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Maritza Zaragoza Bilingual Education Photo courtesy of Maritz Zaragoza

aritza Zaragoza is graduating with a degree in bilingual education from Texas Wesleyan University.

Zaragoza graduated from Chisholm Trail High School in 2016, and she decided to attend Texas Wesleyan University which is near her high school.

Zaragoza also is looking forward to celebrating her achievement of graduating from Texas Wesleyan with her family, but wishes she could have even more family and friends with her to celebrate.

“Before Covid, I would have had a big party to celebrate my graduation, but now I will only be inviting close relatives,” said Zaragoza.

After graduating Texas Wesleyan, Zaragoza plans to become a teacher with the hope of having a strong impact on the lives of the future

students she teaches.

“I want to make a difference in the lives of my students,” said Zaragoza.

A huge reason why she chose to major in Bilingual Education was to help kids feel accepted.

“I want to empower the kids with knowledge and acceptance,” said Zaragoza.

Zaragoza says her mom has a had a huge impact on her life and motivated her to reach her goals she set for herself.

“The most influential person who motivated me to reach my goals was my mother. She supported me and taught me never to give up,” said Zaragoza.

Zaragoza knows that her achievement of being a first generation college graduate is so important to her family.

“Being a first generation college

student means taking risks, stepping outside my comfort zone, and doing something that has never been done by anyone else in my family,” said Zaragoza.

She has faced many challenges, such as the switch to virtual learning while being a student at Wesleyan, but she has made it through and looks forward to life after graduation.

“It was really hard to adapt to virtual learning because I had never had to do it before. Working from home with two kids is very challenging,” said Zaragoza.

“I am motivated to never give up in any aspect of my life and look forward to empowering the minds of young students,” said Zaragoza.

Zaragoza will become a teacher after graduation and looks forward to the next chapter of her life.

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Congratulatio

Azeez Akande Alexander Albrecht Enrique Alvarez Kendrick Anderson Reuben Armstrong Haley Arnspiger Jason Ashby Mercedes Ayala Alexis Babcock Madison Baker Fernando Barbosa Julia Barkell Jennine Barley Taylor Beckstead Mercedes Beltran Davon Berry Adamantia Bilias Christopher Black Orophenia Bollinger Anna Booska Andrea Botero Mika Bowman Ellis Boyer Jami Brady Shirley Bravo Thais Brewer Jesse Brickell Alexus Brigham Alyssa Brown

Kaylia Brown Jenna Bussey Marshall Calvin Thi Hong An Cao Javier Careaga Diego Casas Veronica Castro Mayra Castro Morales Jessica Cepak Elizabeth Cervantes Yuxin Chang Jessenia Chinchilla Crystal Claudio Chad Clements Jennifer Cline Tyquandrik Conner James Cooper Brian Corbin Joshua Corder Mae Covacevich Vidalle Christopher Culross Nicole Daly Hunter Dampeer Alec Daniels Ashton Davis Christine Davis Elijah Davis Tarik Davis Alondra De Robles Justin Deleon Yasmiin Dirir William Doctor Melissa Dowling Layla Eakin Damon Edmonds Gilberto Enriquez Leslie Espinoza

Benjamin Eubanks Madalyn Fee Aidan Ferrell Kianna Ferris Michelle Feyisetan Yadiz Figueroa Rebecca Finley-Resendez Jasmine Finney Grecia Flores Martinez Stephanie Franks Falesha Fuller Acresha Furlough Tyler Gager Joanna Gallardo Sandy Garcia Lauren Garza Kimbra Gibbs Richard Givans Elizabeth Gomez Kevin Gomez Heather Gonzales Michelle Gonzales Daniel Gonzalez Angela Gonzalez Jennifer Gonzalez Arriaga Ronald Gray Michael Green Wendolyne Grice John Grimsley Elena Guerrero Sonya Gunter Stephany Gutierrez Philip Haas Elizabeth Harris Rayven Harris Haley Havens Ryan Haynes Dorian Hejny Shalante Hennington Marian Hensley Zeus Henson Isaiah Herbert Brenda Hernandez Conrad Herrera

The Rambler | www.therambler.org

ons Graduates!

Seth Hickman Ashley Hilliker Tabatha Hogan Shaniece Jackson Brian Johnson Jakyron Joseph Brittany Justice Kayla Karnes Ryan Keating Anahita Keer Rachel Keith Rebecca Kenny Manoj Khanal Keith Killingsworth Sharon King Halle Koonce Jonathan Kutney Angela Lappin Joseph Laws Madison Little Gerson Lopez Leslie Lopez Calista Lothliam Noah Lynch Veronika Lysenko Matheus Macedo Darin Martin Cesar Martinez Itzel Martinez Miguel Martinez Craig Mattes Gabriella Maxey Anna Mbamalu Dracius McKee Robert McManus Sydney McNulty Victor Miron Gadina Jennifer Moncada Le’mant Monroe Aminah Moore Kanako Morikawa Sandra Morrison Victor Mulgado Daiki Nakagawa

Nastassia Neal Teshika Newson Thao Nguyen Mary Nichols Jiang Niu Benjamin Njemo Jennifer Ocana Laura Ocana Christina Olivas Roshunda Pannell Aditi Patel Dilankumar Patel Rahul Patel Ravij Patel Dhruvika Patel Nautica Pathammavong Stacia Pearce Celeste Pena Maria Perez Taylor Peyton Ngoc Pham Rachel Pharris Katie Porter Sawyer Prince Jacob Puente Laaiba Raja Alma Ramirez Lucia Ramirez Allison Ramon Joshua Ramos Bailey Randall Alysa Reasoner Evelin Reedus Sarah Renfro Linus Richter Melissa Rivera Esmeralda Rodriguez Elizabeth Rodriguez Gabriel Rodriguez

May 2021

Mikayla Rodriguez Jeanette Rodriguez-Torres Joshua Rule Jewel Ruth Rahul Sanaka Drew Sancillo Alyssa Saucedo Anel Saucedo Ayesha Shabazz Michelle Shegedin David Shepard Kyle Shook Valerie Sierra Anthony Silva Ryan Simon Alainee Simonson Matthew Smith Paige Spieker Emily Snow Sheldon Stone Hannah Sturgill Paul Sumner Jarod Sweetland Danyal Syed Elijah Taplin Kristian Thomas Juana Tinoco Patricia Torres Santillan Makenzie Trapp Alex Valdovinos

America Valles Nathalie Velez Kealani Villiarimo Phuc Vu Marcus Waerstad LaTerra Wair Lisa Walker Hailee Walls Yi Wang Douglas Warren Evie Whorley Cordry Wiley Jacob Williams Ashley Williamson-Gomez Tanya Wilson Mary Wolfgang Hector Wong Rocio Zamudio Maritza Zaragoza Aubrey Zastoupil Rui Zheng

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orn and raised in Grand Prairie, TX, Anthony Silva transferred to Texas Wesleyan in Fall 2017 from Houston Baptist University to play soccer while endeavoring a degree in exercise science.

His decision to come to Texas Wesleyan was based on three things: closer to home, smaller class sizes creating a one on one relationship with students and professors, and the opportunity to play collegiate sports.

Silva will graduate this May after the coronavirus afflicted his senior year.

“Corona has made my senior year difficult,” he said, “but I am still blessed that I will be graduating this spring, in-person or virtually because I will be the first person in my family to graduate from college.”

While COVID-19 didn’t stop him from earning his degree, it certainly interfered with the routine that he was acquainted with.

“This virus has opened my eyes in many ways,” Silva said. “It caused me to think if college was even for me even, though, I was months away from graduating,” he said. “I even thought about dropping out a couple of times.”

The pandemic did not stop Silva, who has been known for his enthusiastic character on and off the field, always being patient and keeping God first.

“I took college one step at a time since it’s

Rebecca Finley Criminal Justice Photo courtesy of Rebecca Finley

a marathon, not a sprint,” Silva said.

The individuals that have influenced Silva’s journey most are his parents Joseph and Stephanie Silva. His parents have motivated him to be a better person and leader than them because they have always wanted all four of their children to be successful in life.

“Ant has been an amazing student, son, and brother,” Joseph Silva said. “We are happy to say he’s a Silva to bring pride to the family name.” “He’s respectful, courteous, intelligent, and sociable. I wouldn’t be surprised if Anthony is the first millionaire in the family out of our four kids,” Mr. Silva said.

“Anthony is writing the book to his life and once he graduates, he’ll just have finished chapter one,” Mrs. Silva said. “I’ve watched him grow from a little boy to a young adult who isn’t afraid to conquer the world and I can’t wait to see what his future holds.”

Once obtaining his degree, Silva plans to travel around the world for a few years to celebrate him checking off a huge milestone in his life and after that, he plans to move to Austin, TX to pursue his career.

ebecca (Becca) Finley Resendez will soon be graduating with a degree in criminal justice and a minor in psychology, the next steppingstone to her dream career of being an FBI agent.

“My long-term goal is to work for the FBI or another government agency as a field agent,” Becca said.

As graduation approaches, she is still exploring all her options and is considering both grad schools and jobs.

“I’m looking at grad schools, seeing if there is a program that is still accepting,” Becca said. “I’m also an intern at Lakeworth Police Department, so I’m hoping they’ll offer me a job as well.”

One of her proudest moments from her time as an undergrad was being part of the criminal justice honor society, Alpha Psi Sigma.

“I love the classes that I’ve taken,” Becca said, “the fact that I’m in that honor society, as well as Mortar Board, the senior level honor society.”

“In high school, I wasn’t a failing student, but I wasn’t the top ten percent,” Becca said. “So, getting into those honor

Anthony Silva Exercise Science Photo courtesy of Anthony Silva

societies is like I’ve done better than I did in high school.”

Finley participated in Ram Squad her freshman year, is a member of the Programming Activities Committee (PAC), part of Alpha Psi Sigma (the criminal justice honor society), a member of the softball team, works in the Morton Fitness Center as the Program Activities Student Assistant Coordinator, and is a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and worked as a New Student Mentor.

Becca credits much of her success and campus involvement to the people she’s met at Wesleyan.

Apart from finding out about on-campus opportunities, Becca said her friends also helped her establish relationships with professors.

“Dr. Adkinson helped me get this internship. He wrote a letter of recommendation for me and let them know I was applying.”

While Becca is considering all her options that will help her best reach her dream job, she is very much excited about graduating as her next chapter begins.

The Rambler | www.therambler.org

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he class of 2021 is getting ready to graduate from Texas Wesleyan University. Senior emotions of excitement and anticipation are growing steadily.

Although it has been a rocky road, the time of celebration and relief is only weeks away. Taylor Peyton has been looking forward to this moment since she arrived on Texas Wesleyan’s campus.

Born and raised in Slidell, Louisiana, Taylor has exceeded the expectations her family and friends set for her. Taylor will be the first college graduate in her family. Not only is she the youngest of three siblings, but she is also the only girl.

Taylor was accepted into Texas Wesleyan her junior year of high school. She and her longtime friend initially were looking to go to Texas Christian University. After earning a scholarship to go to Texas Wesleyan, Taylor decided it was the university for her.

“Looking back, I am glad that I made that choice. I don’t know what would’ve happened if I went to TCU,” said Peyton.

Taylor’s personality quickly gravitated towards her peers. She competed on the cheer team for the past four years, where most of her friendships formed.

“Being with those girls every day only brought us closer. They will always be my sisters,” said Peyton.

Peyton also mentioned that cheer helped develop her communication skills, forcing her to be a more outspoken leader.

“I was more reserved before cheer. I knew in order to get better, I would have to step up and take charge more,” said Peyton.

These distinguishing characteristics carried over to Peyton’s academics. Dr. Cary D. Adkinson has been impressed by Taylor’s determination.

“Taylor has been in many of my criminal justice classes over the years, as well as being one of my intern students,” Adkinson said.

Adkinson praised Peyton’s work ethic, stating

how she juggles so many different obstacles in her life and still finds a way to get things done the right way. That work ethic led to Taylor serving as an advisor of student government.

Adkinson says Taylor’s most vital attribute is time management, which is why she offered to be an intern at Charleston’s Restaurant.

“She was working in the management department at Charleston’s, which was no small task. She would handle things such as scheduling and security,” said Adkinson.

Once again, this was only another chance for Taylor to showcase her complex skillset, and she would not disappoint. Taylor has accomplished so much at Texas Wesleyan. She makes sure to give thanks to the Wesleyan staff and students.

“The ‘smaller, smarter’ aspect has truly helped me because I have been able to work and develop in smaller settings with more oneon-one engagements,” said Peyton.

It is safe to say that Peyton has left an impact on everyone around her. Adkinson voiced that it is hard not to root for her.

“Honestly, I am so proud of her and all that she has accomplished. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for her,” Adkinson said.

Once Peyton graduates, she hopes to become a paralegal. Her goal is to bring her radiant, contagious energy into a unique business field to assist others. Taylor plans to apply the signature “smaller smarter” mindset along the journey.

Taylor Peyton Criminal Justice Photo courtesy of Taylor Peyton

“I was more reserved before cheer. I knew in order to get better, I would have to step up and take charge more. ~ Taylor Peyton

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Careaga takes another step toward a career in music

avier F. Careaga II or “Javi” has devoted his time and energy to getting an education for his love of music.

In the fall of 2015, he attended the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, transferred to South Texas College in the spring of 2016 and transferred to Texas Wesleyan University in the fall of 2016. Careaga is now graduating with a bachelor’s in music performance.

“I love the smaller campus, classes, the one-onone experience with professors and how easy it is to get around the university,” he said. Javi has received a variety of scholarships, including an annual Blue and Gold Scholarship from Texas Wesleyan, music/ major-related scholarships, and a Methodist-affiliated scholarship.

Careaga was historian of Kappa Kappa Psi, a music service fraternity at Texas Wesleyan, from spring 2018 to spring 2020. He participated in many service projects for the community and music department to help positively impact the community and band.

Careaga has been involved in Connect College Ministry since around late October or November of 2019 and formally joined in spring of 2020. He is an original member and assisted in making Connect College Ministry an official organization on campus.

Careaga is proud of two things. One is that he can give a senior recital to show his loved ones and others that he is a professional musician and that even through trials and tribulations he managed to graduate and walk the stage.

He is also proud to show that he is capable. In his freshman year of high school, his counselors recommended not going to college. This was because at the rate he was going, they did not think he would pass.

When he first got to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Careaga had an experience with a professor who verbally abused him, and basically kicked him out of the music department saying he was, “stupid, never going to be a musician, and wouldn’t be able to understand the material.”

His professor said it was disrespectful to music for him to call himself a musician. Careaga stated how it brings him joy and pride to know he has accomplished his goal and proved those who didn’t believe in him wrong.

However, there are many people at Texas Wesleyan who made a difference in Careaga’s life. “I would like to thank Dr. Bierschenk and Dr. Araujo for the time they have committed to help me and for believing in me. Dr. B for having the patience for working with me as a student with disabilities and giving his time as a professor and mentor, and Dr. A for being an educator, mentor and comforting support when I was homesick because she understood the feeling,” said Careaga.

“I am proud to say after I graduate I will be educating high school students on my love of music.” ~ Javier Careaga

Javier F. Careaga II Music Performance Photo courtesy of Javier Careaga

“I also thank Mr. Critcher for a fond memory which is also the reason I respect him. I remember my freshman year, the moment came of my exam and my pianist was nowhere to be found, and without one I would have failed. I was sitting on a pew crying and he sat next to me.

We had never rehearsed together, but he asked me for my music and a few minutes later he came down asking if I was ready. He played the music I needed and didn’t let me fail. Since then, we have had a strong relationship and I am thankful for what he did for me and that he will be with me at my senior recital.”

Performing for Texas Wesleyan and being a part of a professional choir gave Careaga the opportunity to make music and conduct ensembles. He loved to be a part of them and make music.

These were the fondest memories he made at Texas Wesleyan University. Careaga looks forward to completing his time at Texas Wesleyan as a student by participating in the singing of the Alma mater in the opening of the graduation ceremony.

“I am proud to say after I graduate, I will be educating high school students on my love of music, specifically on mariachi and string instruments and teach students things I never knew going into college,’’ Careaga said.

The Rambler | www.therambler.org

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Wesleyan prepares Vu for the world efore coming to the United States for her senior year of high school in Indiana, Sheryl Vu lived in Vietnam.

She went to Avon High School in Indiana for her senior year.

After graduating from high school in Indiana, Sherly Vu went back home to Vietnam for a year.

When Vu came back to the United States, she looked for universities to go to in Texas.

Vu always wanted to study Psychology in the United States.

“I wanted to find a school in the DFW area, because I have family and relatives here,” Vu said.

Vu applied for the University of Texas but says she chose Texas Wesleyan because of the scholarship offers and the smaller university experience.

During her time at Texas Wesleyan, Vu was a member of Mortar Board, served as School of Natural and Social Sciences Representative and was

elected Treasurer in the Student Government Association, and she worked as a Lead Campus Tour Guide for the Admissions department.

Vu is also a Head Residence Assistant on campus in Elizabeth Hall at Texas Wesleyan. “Getting the job as an RA really has been one of my favorite moments here on campus,” said Vu. She earned the job as an RA her Junior year at Texas Wesleyan University. “It was an opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and help me work on my leadership skills here on campus,” said Vu. She is also the president of the psychology club on campus. She has been a member since her freshman year at Texas Wesleyan.

“Psi Chi is a national society for psychology students, and we

would invite guest speakers to come in and do workshops with the students,” Vu said.

She said that the club has hosted events to donate to charity.

She said that Covid-19 has made it difficult for the club to consistently meet and build a connection in person, but all the experiences have been worth it.

Vu is also a Lead Campus Tour Guide on campus.

After She graduates, Vu wants to work as a scribe and volunteer at free medical and behavioral clinics. Vu said after she volunteers and works for a year, she wants to apply for her master’s degree.

Vu said her experience at Texas Wesleyan has been more than extraordinary.

Sheryl Vu Psychology Photo courtesy of Sheryl Vu

“It was an opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and help me work on my leadership skills here on campus.” ~ Sheryl Vu

Trapp loves her TxWes experience

MaKenzie Trapp Business Management and Marketing Photo courtesy of MaKenzie Trapp

Growing up in Fort Worth, Texas Wesleyan University was always close to home for double major Makenzie Trapp. Majoring in business management and marketing, the proximity had nothing to do with her decision to attend Texas Wesleyan.

“I have an older sibling that graduated from Wesleyan,” Trapp said. This connection got her more familiar with the university and she found interest in the school of business. Trapp did more research and found that she was “attracted to the concept of smaller classes” and liked the idea of having that “undivided attention from my college professors,” Trapp joined the Texas Wesleyan Gold Line Dance Team the last semester of her senior year. “I couldn’t be happier to have been brought into a better group of girls and have such a wonderful coach!” she said. Makenzie attributes a lot of her progress to the Gold

Dance team and her coach as well. “My team and coach have pushed me beyond what I ever thought I could be, as a dancer, academic student and person. I have made lifelong friends and memories,” Trapp said.

Now that she is graduating, dancing will remain a part of her life.

“My plans for the near future consist of continuing the business I helped to create in 2014, as I am an assistant director of a dance studio,” she said.

Makenzie advised underclass students to “never take any moment for granted” because quickly “it will be over and a new chapter will begin.”

Even on the most difficult days, Trapp suggested “taking a breath, and take a moment to appreciate where you are exactly in this moment. Today will soon enough be just a memory.”

“I couldn’t be happier to have been brought into a better group of girls and have such a wonderful coach!” ~ Makenzie Trapp

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Garcia pursues road to teaching career

ecoming a Dental Hygienist was a dream of graduating senior Sandy Tran-Garcia. After not being accepted into a dental hygienist program, she gave up on that dream and came close to quitting school.

The thought of quitting faded when she realized she wanted to be someone to the two people who inspire her most, her children.

“I know my kids would want a mom who was great, educated and never gave up,” Garcia said. “What kind of example would I set if I just quit? and How would I ever encourage my kids to always try their best if I didn’t?”

Garcia still had no direction on what she wanted to be but being stuck in traffic changed her life and helped her realize her path.

“I was stuck in traffic on I-35, and I looked to my right and noticed this big red billboard with bold white letters that said, “Make a Difference Teach.”

Teaching her children was a part of her daily routine, and she realized that was something she loved to do.

“I love teaching my own children, and I think I would be a pretty good teacher,” Garcia said. Deciding on a University was an easy task because of a friend who recommended Texas Wesleyan University because of smaller classes and understanding professors.

“I chose Texas Wesleyan because of the Smaller. Smarter. motto,” Garcia said. “I was able to connect with my professors, and I loved that.”

Garcia’s journey at Texas Wesleyan University started in August of 2019 as a first-generation, non-traditional college student. Also, the first in her family to earn a diploma.

“I did everything backward, instead of going to college, getting married, then having kids, “ Garcia said. “I had kids, went to college, got married, so I did things out of order, but it was worth it.”

Taking care of children and going to school is no easy task, but the support of her husband and family helped Garcia juggle both.

“My grandmother helps me when I’m at school by watching my children,” Garcia said. “Also, the support of my husband who steps in when I need to study or take my tests.”

Despite her many adversities, Garcia was determined to make a difference and majored in Early Education-6th with ESL. After becoming a student-teacher before graduation, Garcia thought back on her childhood as a Vietnamese American student whose parents were immigrants and how her teachers were not like her.

“I didn’t have any teachers that looked like me or any teachers who represented what I represented,” Garcia said. “So, I would become a role model for students who are different.”

Sandy Tran-Garcia

Early Education-6th with ESL Photos courtesy of Sandy Tran-Garcia

“I know my kids would want a mom who was great, educated and never gave up.” ~ Sandy Tran-Garcia Left: Tran-Garcia reads “The Spacesuit” to her class.

Right: Tran-Garcia teaches her class about fractions.

The Rambler | www.therambler.org

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Doctor pursues his dream

ative Texan William Doctor is graduating with his bachelor’s degree in Sports Communication. Doctor transferred to Texas Wesleyan his sophomore year to study communications and was looking to compete for a team that was a little more competitive in golf.

Texas Wesleyan was a perfect match for both.

That year, the golf team ended up winning the NAIA National Championship (2019). “It was awesome to be able to spend every day with great players,” said Doctor. But after that year, Doctor turned his interest from competitive golf to sports communication.

“Dr. Colley gave me a high amount of confidence that I would be ready to start a career in sports communications,” Doctor said. He began to develop a love for the written word and was fascinated with the way journalism was transitioned into multimedia forms. After a year of working for the Rambler, he took an internship with ESPN 97.5

Houston, contributing content and co-producing radio shows, and has been completing school virtually.

“I remember the first time Will came into my office,” Dr. Kay Colley said, “He looked like a golfer with his cap, shorts, golf shirt, tennis shoes and golf tan.”

Colley said he wanted to talk about his classes and plan his upcoming schedule. “He was on Wesleyan’s golf team and competing pretty heavily throughout the year and that was his focus. He didn’t really know what he wanted to do when he graduated,” she said.

“I think virtual learning has been a challenge that I have embraced,” he said. Although he has a fantastic job, it’s been a tough year. Doctor’s dad passed away in October 2020. He considered taking sometime away from school and work but chose to continue honing his craft at work and through virtual classes.

Colley said, “It was so clear to me, and to everyone else in the department that Will has found what he loved. Then the real Will

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JoAnna Gallardo Early Education with ESL Photo courtesy of JoAnna Gallardo

came to class, worked on projects, helped his classmates and became involved in the major. It was so exciting to see that in him.”

“I’m so proud of Will’s accomplishments, and I’m looking forward to seeing what else he can do, because I guarantee you it will be incredible!” said Colley.

“I wouldn’t be here without Dr. Colley and Dr. Dean,” he said. “Dr. Colley has taught me so much about public relations and sports media, and Dr. Dean has had a big influence my multimedia, photography and production skills.”

Presently, Doctor has been interning at ESPN Houston for the past year, working with writing and creating podcast content for the radio station.

“For me, the greatest thing about being here is I’m able to produce content for every sport, whether it’s football with the Texans, basketball for the Rockets or baseball for the Astros, I’m able to continue my knowledge and all those sports,” Doctor said.

William Doctor Sports Communication Photo courtesy of Will Doctor

Gallardo beats the odds

oAnna Gallardo is originally from Wylie, Texas. She started attending Texas Wesleyan University fall of 2017.

College was never really a plan for her. People told her to forget about ever going to college due to her disabilities and coming from immigrant parents. People told her it would be harder and probably not even possible for her to go to college.

“I was always told that I wouldn’t do good in college and to try something that was less challenging,” Gallardo said “I believed that, until one teacher truly believed in me and supported me.”

She is an education major that focused her degree on early childhood to grade six. She also has obtained an English as a Second Language (ESL) certification while in school.

She dreams of teaching in an

elementary school. As a teacher, she wants to be the person that supports her students.

“I want to push my students to be the best they can be,” Gallardo said.

Her goal in her career is to take part in shaping a generation. From this goal, she is invested in changing society for the better starting with one kid at a time.

While attending Texas Wesleyan, Gallardo became a part of Alpha Xi Delta. She was in Bilingual Education Student Organization (BESO) through 2017-2020.

There are many things she was proud of throughout her college career.

One of her biggest achievements was that she made the Dean’s List all eight semesters while at Wesleyan.

She said she couldn’t have made it through college without her support system. This includes her parents,

siblings, family and friends.

She enjoyed being a Ram. One thing she loved about attending Wesleyan was the inclusive tight-knit community that the university has.

Leaving Wesleyan is a bittersweet feeling for her. The closer she gets to graduation the more mixed feelings she gets.

“I am excited to begin a new journey, but at the same time sad to leave the home I’ve built in Fort Worth,” Gallardo said. She is excited to see what the world has to offer and to meet the students that she will teach throughout her career.

She still has big plans for the future.

School is something she is passionate about. She doesn’t plan on just stopping at her bachelor’s degree. “I plan on getting my master’s curriculum and instruction after a few years of teaching,” Gallardo said.

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Laws moves to the next stage

oseph Laws was once a student who attended Tarrant County College with an associates. He had considered transferring into Texas Wesleyan but was not sure if it was possible for him. It was not until he met Charles Willett, who was a Theatre Wesleyan alumni member, that had convinced Joseph to join Texas Wesleyan.

The 30-year-old Joseph is a Theatre Major who has attended Texas Wesleyan for two years. He has been a part of the theatre life since the age of six and continued throughout his high school and early college years.

After transferring into Texas Wesleyan, Joseph wanted to expand his knowledge into technical side of theatre.

Joseph walked in having little tech experience. Upon seeing how student-driven Texas Wesleyan theatre was, Joseph will walk out holding experience of design roles for 12 shows in the last two years. “It’s mostly the student driven opportunities I’ve had while I was at Wesleyan.

It’s probably one of my favorite things about it,” said Joseph.

After having a better approach about the tech and design side of theatre, Joseph plans on pursuing a career in education and teach theatre after graduation. With the help of theatre professor Connie Whitt-Lambert, Joseph learned around her classes in receiving the knowledge and tools in order to enforce his career and to be set in getting hands on experience in teaching.

Apart from being a full-time student, Joseph is a

husband and a father. Whenever he has free time, he likes to go and spend time with his daughter and his wife. Not only is Joseph a family man, but he also works as a musician for the band “The Weathered Eyes.”

Starting in 2018, Joseph and old high school friend have endured the band by booking gigs and producing content for their listeners. According to Joseph, the band is currently in the making of a new album and single.

Joseph’s love for the stage was long formed and thrives in the production process of theatre. Although the coronavirus has affected the way that the production process is traditionally done, the theatre department was able to provide more opportunities in which Joseph and his fellow peers were able to perform more on stage while following guidelines. Although, this was a different approach, Joseph has accommodated to the new ways and was glad that him and his fellow students could perform. “I’ve been very grateful, not only the production opportunities, but to continue theatre in person,” said Joseph.

With only two years at Texas Wesleyan, Joseph Laws has enjoyed at how student-driven the university is and has learned so much in theatre and has gained knowledge in order to pursue his career.

The advice Joseph leaves to future seniors is the faculty and staff here at Texas Wesleyan are here to help their students and to recognize the work that is put in to help their students to be on the right path and guide them.

Joseph Laws Theatre Major Photo courtesy of Joseph Laws

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auren Garza, a graduating senior, will be receiving a degree in theatre – specifically in Technical Theatre and Theatre Design and Technology. Despite her passion and dedication for theatre now, she wasn’t always interested in the art form.

“It all started because I needed a fine arts credit,” Garza said. “I was actually the athlete who didn’t want to be there.”

This was an unexpected change for the young student.

Garza went to Mansfield Timberview High School, where she first became involved in theatre during her sophomore year. Although this activity wasn’t much of a high priority at first, she became involved and committed to theatre shortly after seeing her school’s production of “In the Heights.”

“I saw people who looked like me on stage and realized what power the theatre held,” Garza said. “From that night on, I knew

that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”

Garza, who is also a softball player, came to Texas Wesleyan to play for the university’s softball team and received a scholarship from the theatre department. During her time at Texas Wesleyan, Garza has made the dean’s list, been accepted to multiple honor societies, and received the Golden Shears, a high honor highlighting impressive students.

“I would describe my time here as metamorphic and a blessing,” Garza said. “I have been challenged in many ways in and out of the classroom and have grown so much.”

When she isn’t rehearsing for an upcoming theatre production, attending class, or working in the scene shop, Garza enjoys photography and other artistic activities.

“Theatre keeps me very busy, but when I do have free time, I

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love taking photos, listening to music, reading, and painting,” Garza said.

After graduating, Garza plans on teaching while continuing to work as an actress and designer in the DFW area.

“I would like to teach at all levels and get my Equity card,” Garza said. “I want to be a known name in the area for teaching and [for] my work on and off stage.”

From taking a theatre class just to fulfill a high school’s fine arts credit requirement to living a life dominated by theatre, things have changed a lot for Garza since her sophomore year of high school.

Interests evolve throughout people’s lives, and it’s always exciting when someone finds something they will be passionate about for the rest of their life.

“I thought in high school I could get by with building and painting sets in the back until the semester was over,” Garza said. “[Then] I started to fall in love.”

Lauren Garza Theatre Photo courtesy of Lauren Garza

Congratulations, Graduates!

From the School of Education

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May 2021

Congratulations Graduates!

From the School of Arts & Sciences

May your dreams blossom and grow. .

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