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A smiling young woman in a navy graduation cap and gown with a silver stole, posing in front of a bookshelf filled with books.

Graduate Spotlight: Siria Colchado's Journey from Student to Educator

May 5, 2026

Siria Colchado overcame language barriers, financial hardship, and major life transitions to earn her bachelor’s degree from Odessa College. Now preparing to become a teacher, she’s turning her journey into inspiration for the next generation.

A smiling young man with glasses wearing a light blue graduation cap and gown in front of a blue and silver balloon backdrop.

Graduate Spotlight: Hayden Ridley’s Pathway Into Nursing Begins with a CNA Credential

May 4, 2026

Hayden Ridley’s path through college was shaped by loss, setbacks, and a search for direction—but it ultimately led him back to Odessa College with a renewed sense of purpose. Now pursuing a future in nursing, he’s turning his experiences into a passion for helping others.

A smiling young woman wearing a blue graduation cap and gown with a purple stole against a bright blue sky.

Graduate Spotlight: Mana Kaneko’s Journey From First Flight to First Team All-American

May 3, 2026

Mana Kaneko arrived in the United States from Japan with little English and no international travel experience—but a fearless determination to succeed. Just two years later, she leaves Odessa College as a nationally recognized volleyball standout, heading to NCAA Division I powerhouse Georgia Tech.

A young woman in a blue graduation cap and gown stands outside a school building, wearing multiple academic medals and a gold stole against a bright, cloudy sky.

Graduate Spotlight: Lexie Arroyo Sets Her Sights on Law School After Odessa College

May 2, 2026

Lexie Arroyo turned early ambition into real momentum, graduating high school with an associate degree before earning two bachelor’s degrees from Odessa College. With hands-on legal experience and a passion for justice, she’s already on her way to becoming a future prosecutor.

A smiling graduate stands outdoors wearing a blue cap and gown with a purple stole and honor cords, posing with hands on hips. He is in front of a modern campus building with curved architecture, with red flowering plants and greenery in the foreground under a bright sky.

Graduate Spotlight: Hayden Morriss Uses Hard Work, Heart, and Leadership To Succeed in Dual Credit

May 1, 2026

Hayden Morriss is graduating high school already one step ahead—earning his associate degree from Odessa College through dual credit while ranking in the top 10% of his class. A driven student-athlete and natural leader, he’s turning discipline, resilience, and a passion for helping others into a future in physical therapy.