
Lesley Bond: From Single Mom to First-Generation College Graduate
Graduating from college is a milestone achievement for anyone, but for Lesley Bond, it’s a story of determination, hard work, and breaking barriers. As a first-generation college graduate, Lesley has shown that anything is possible with perseverance and dedication.
Lesley graduated in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Criminology from UT Permian Basin. Juggling her responsibilities as a full-time dispatcher corporal for the Crane County Sheriff’s Office and being a single mom, Lesley chose UTPB’s online program to pursue her dream of higher education.
“I attended UTPB online for my entire degree. The times I had to go on campus, I was greeted with smiling faces. My professors were great! I’m really glad I chose UTPB to obtain my degree,” Lesley shared.
While Lesley didn’t participate in student organizations or clubs, she found joy in attending homecoming events, which became her favorite campus tradition. These events offered her a sense of community and connection, even as an online student.
Her advice for current students and young alumni is both inspiring and heartfelt: “Soak up every day! It goes by quick. To anyone who thinks that they can’t finish, you can! I am a single mom who went to school and worked full time, and I am officially a first-generation college graduate. Anything is possible!”
Lesley’s journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of UTPB students and alumni. Her story reminds us that with the right support and determination, we can overcome even the toughest challenges.