Distinguished Graduates

Dennis Valadez
Class of 2025
Associate of Arts

Dennis is a 2025 NLC graduate, and a non-traditional student, returning to school after 30 years.  He made the decision to restart and reclaim his life after undergoing corrective surgery that had debilitated him since high school.  NLC was his first choice because it was in his community and because of the positive experience his children had as dual credit students.  At NLC, he maintained a 4.0 GPA and was involved in several organizations including Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, National Society of Leadership and Success, and the NLC Mentorship Program. He was named to the Phi Theta Kappa All-Texas Academic Team and nominated for the All-USA Academic Team.  Outside of NLC, he is an Executive Board member of the JECA PTSO, and a proud member of the Converse Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association. Dennis plans to transfer to the University of Texas at Austin to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in history.  Ultimately, he aspires to return to Northeast Lakeview College as a professor, giving back to the place where he rediscovered his passion.

“Every professor I encountered went above and beyond to help students’ succeed. That dedication played a defining role in my desire to return one day as a professor.”

Nicolette Morgado
Class of 2025
Associate of Science

Nicolette is a 2025 NLC graduate, student parent, and leader.  At NLC she was president of the Student Government Association and part of the district-wide student district council, both positions where she advocated for the needs of students at NLC and across the Alamo Colleges District. She is currently participating in the Disney College Program, providing her with hands-on experience in the hospitality environment working at Walt Disney World. This opportunity will allow her to learn from industry professionals, gain valuable skills, and work toward her dream of building a career in theme park management. While participating in the program, Nicolette plans to attend the University of Central Florida and major in Hospitality Management. Nicolette encourages future students to get involved, make memories, and connect with others by joining clubs, organizations, or student government to build leadership skills, create friendships, and make the most of your college experience.

“Being a student parent came with challenges, but the support from Northeast Lakeview College, including flexible class options and understanding professors, made a huge difference”

Ivan Ramirez
Class of 2025
Associate of Arts

Ivan is a 2025 NLC graduate looking to pursue a future in art and graphic design.  Struggling with both Autism and ADHD, he overcame various challenges, like confidence issues and depression to get to the point of crossing the stage with an associate degree. Feeling overwhelmed at times, he credits the support from his advisor to guide him every step of the way, and the student support services available to provide the accommodations needed for students to succeed.  Ivan’s journey towards his associate degree has been bumpy at times.  He encourages all students to keep moving forward, even if only one class at a time.  His next steps include learning UI/UX design and gaining additional experience in various aspects of graphic design.

“Northeast Lakeview College equipped me with the confidence to pursue my goals and provided practical skills, like teamwork and personal responsibility”

Penelope Flores
Class of 2025
Associate of Arts

Penelope Flores, NLC graduate, completed requirements for an associate of arts degree in Fall 2024 and is currently enrolled full-time at Angelo State University where she is majoring in Criminal Justice. While at NLC, Penelope was secretary for the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and selected as AlamoPROMISE Student of the Month in July 2024.  Additionally, she was an Alamo Colleges Foundation Scholarship Student Ambassador, advocating for student success and helping them pursue higher education without the financial barrier. Penelope was also one of the few selected by the Texas Association of Community Colleges for the All-Texas Academic Team. This achievement recognizes outstanding community college students in the state who plan to transfer to four-year universities or join the workforce. After completing her bachelor’s degree, her dream is to give back to the community by serving as a Special Agent; enforcing law, and delivering justice.

“Attending NLC brought networking opportunities for me to connect with others and the coursework challenged me to apply my critical thinking skills.”

Andrea Robinson
Class of 2025
Associate of Arts

Andrea Robinson is a 2025 Northeast Lakeview College graduate earning her associate of arts degree with a focus in Sociology. A non-traditional student, she is a Veteran who served in the Army for 13 years before returning to college.   At NLC, she is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). She also volunteers with the Red Cross as a liaison to bridge the gap to help connect military families with Red Cross services they may need. Andrea’s future plans include transferring to Our Lady of the Lake University to complete her bachelor’s degree in social work.  Her ultimate goal is to be an advocate for children by becoming a school social worker. Andrea will sing the National Anthem at the 2025 Commencement Ceremony. 

“The staff and faculty are so supportive. NLC provided the collaborative community I needed to succeed.“

Haley De La Rosa
Class of 2025
Associate of Arts

Haley is earning her Associate of Arts degree with a focus on Psychology.  After completing Wagner High School in three years, she took a stab at college but was unsuccessful and dropped her classes in the middle of the semester, when she then joined the military and served six years in the Marine Corps. A non-traditional student, Haley is a mom of three, who returned to pursue a college education after being out of school for 12 years. In addition to her studies, she is a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and volunteers as a Cheer Coach for a local little league. Haley believes “it is never too late to chase your dreams, and that anything is possible if you just take the chance and set your mind to it.”

Her next steps include transferring to the University of Texas at San Antonio to pursue a Psychology Degree, with the ultimate goal of studying law at St. Mary’s University.  A huge advocate for children who may be lost in cycles of domestic violence or mental health issues, Haley wants to be the voice these children need to succeed.  She hopes to become a Family Law Attorney and work for Child Protective Services to represent and fight for the best of children, our society’s future.

Haley enjoys running, travelling, and spending time with her family.  She has been married to her husband for 10 years and thanks him for his continued support as she continues her journey towards a college degree.

Haley is the 2025 SOAR Graduate and was selected from a cross-college committee to provide remarks at Commencement and represent the graduating class. SOAR represents Success, Opportunity, Achievement, and Responsibility. Students apply for consideration and the student selected best represents these characteristics.