Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
South Texas College (STC) has played a transformative role for student Kimberly Mora, who graduated last Saturday from the Education Department with an Associate of Arts in Teaching.
“STC has been part of my journey and will always have a special place in my heart,” she said. “It gave me the support and opportunity to grow into the person I am today. I am so excited to be graduating and reaching this important milestone. It is a moment I have worked hard for and will cherish.”
Her passion for teaching was sparked at a young age, inspired by her mother, a retired elementary school teacher who would travel to poverty-stricken cities in Mexico to teach underserved children.
“My mother dedicated her life to teaching in some of the poorest and most underserved areas of Mexico,” Kimberly said. “Growing up, I watched her give so much of herself to ensure her students had a chance at a better future, despite limited resources. Her passion and resilience inspired me deeply and from a young age, I knew I wanted to follow in her footsteps.”
Now, Mora is well on her way. Her dream is to become an Art teacher, a path fueled by her love for creativity and imagination.
“If I had to pick one subject to teach, it would be art. I am a very creative person, and I like to see students using their creativity and imagination to create whatever they desire,” she said.
At STC, Mora said she found more than just academic opportunity, she also discovered her voice. Once shy and reserved, she pushed herself to get involved in campus life by joining the Student Leadership Academy and the Student Government Association (SGA), where she currently serves as a senator. These programs transformed her confidence and communication skills.
“Mr. Tyrone Marshall, coordinator for Student Activities and Events, made the biggest impact on me during my time at STC,” Mora said. “Mr. Marshall inspired me to go into Student Leadership and from there, I got into student government. I used to be bad at communicating and because of his support and the support of SGA, I am able to speak publicly without fear.”
Kimberly’s experience outside the classroom has also been instrumental. As a substitute teacher for Donna Independent School District, she is gaining firsthand experience that deepens her desire to contribute meaningfully to education.
STC celebrates students like Mora, leaders who carry the torch of inspiration, service and community impact into the future.
For more information on STC’s Education programs visit: https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/education/.
