Falcons are ready to soar into their future. The University of Texas Permian Basin is proud to recognize a few of our graduates, each with a unique path and story. Their journeys are different, but they show that UTPB is a place for everyone.
Kassandra Valencia is walking the stage with family on her mind.
She came to UTPB in 2019 as a first-generation college student and a single mom of two. She balanced being a full-time student with being a full-time mom. There were days she brought her kids to campus with her while she went to class or took exams. They grew up watching her chase this goal.
Kassandra chose UTPB because it feels like home. She was raised in Odessa and watched the campus grow over the years. Her dad encouraged her to study Petroleum Engineering, and after losing him two years ago, she almost stopped. Instead, she kept going for him and for her children.
“I want to show my kids that you can do anything you set your mind to even when all the odds are stacked against you.”
Kassandra encourages everyone to pursue higher education even if it seems impossible.
“Just go for it. Do it scared. Do it when you are tired. Time will pass either way, so make it worth it.”
Congratulations, Kassandra. We are proud of you.
Priscilla Martinez is walking the stage Saturday, proving it’s never too late.
She says returning to school was scary, but she’s proud to be graduating with a Master’s in Public Administration.
Priscilla first attended UTPB in 2014 for a Bachelor in Business Management. Ten years later, she came back to continue her education and reach for her goals.
“My goal is to continue advancing in the public sector or higher education, focusing on improving public programs, supporting community growth, and serving as a role model for others,” Priscilla said.
Priscilla is a first-generation, non-traditional student. She was a teen mom, and balancing it all has never been easy.
“I’ve learned that determination, support, and faith can carry you through anything,” she said. “Returning to school over 50 was intimidating, but I pushed through doubt, fear, and long nights of studying to get here.”
Congratulations, Priscilla!
Kerri Shepherd loves the education she receives at UTPB, so much that she will soon begin her third degree here. She graduated with her Bachelor’s in Education in 2023, is earning her Master’s in Professional Education Saturday, and will return in the Spring to start her Master’s in Psychology.
Kerri first came to UTPB in 2019 after graduating from Midland College. She chose the University because it offered a quality education close to home while she balanced classes and being a new mom.
Her journey has not been easy. Kerri has worked full time as a teacher while maintaining a 4.0 GPA, raising her daughter, caring for her mother, and grieving the loss of her father. Through every challenge, she stayed focused on her goals.
Her next chapter is fully funded! Kerri received the Behavioral Health Scholarship, which means her next master’s degree at UTPB will be free!
Congratulations, Kerri Shepherd!
As Fatema Nasser walks the stage this weekend, she is proud of herself for doing it on her own.
She came to UTPB in 2022 as a transfer student to study Petroleum Engineering. Fatema hopes to build a career in the oil and gas industry, focusing on offshore drilling or operations.
When she arrived on campus, she immediately felt welcomed. She chose UTPB for its small, tight-knit community.
She also has advice for future Falcons: stay resilient and stay consistent. She understands how challenging college can be because she is graduating after coming to school alone while balancing life, work, and classes.
Congratulations, Fatema!
Meet UTPB graduate Noah Powell!
Noah transferred to UTPB in the spring of 2023 after one semester at Howard Payne University. He chose UTPB because of the affordability and it brought him closer to his home in Monahans.
He is graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management and plans to pursue a career as a vocational Baptist minister. While completing his degree, he worked part time at First Baptist Church in Midland.
Noah says the relationships he built in the College of Business have shaped his entire college experience. For future Falcons, he says to talk with professors and faculty members because they truly care about your time at UTPB and your future.
“They will equip you and support you throughout your education,” Noah said. “I have even been able to add a few professors to my resume as references, thanks to the relationships I have built with them.”
Congratulations, Noah!
