What is the Texas Community College Student Advisory Council?

This collaborative initiative, supported by Young Invincibles, EdTrust in Texas and Breakthrough Central Texas, empowers student leaders to drive policy change in community college education.

The Council’s student members are a diverse group, including first-generation college students, student-parents, student government leaders, and individuals from various races, ethnicities, ages, and backgrounds. They’ll convene regularly throughout the year to advocate for student-centric policies.

Their dedication will continue to pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for community college students in Texas.

Kristie Davis

Where it started: At the beginning of the 2022-2023 SAC period, I was at UTA pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public health.

How’s it going: Now, I just recently graduated with a master’s degree in public health! I currently work as a public health educator.

What’s next: I’ll be applying for a Public Administration and Public Policy PhD program in 2 weeks! My goal is to become a Professor of Public Health and Public Policy to empower future generations of public health leaders to advocate for changes in our communities and to become aware of the issues affecting them. 

 

Angel Garcia Donjuan

Where you started: At the beginning for the 2023 SAC (community college, work, etc): When I joined the SAC, I was nearing the end of my study abroad in Germany and was getting ready to transfer from Dallas College to the University of North Texas. 

Where you are now: I’m currently completing my bachelor’s degree in Urban Policy and Planning at UNT and completing an internship in Transportation Planning at Jacobs Engineering. 

What’s next: I haven’t decided on the next step exactly, but I’m considering taking a gap year after undergrad and then pursuing a Masters of Urban Planning.

Daisy Donjuan

Where it started: I started SAC while I was attending Dallas College pursuing my A.A.S in Paralegal.

How’s it going: Now, I am a transfer student at Austin College working towards my B.A. in Political Science and Non-Profit Organization and Public Service.

What’s next: Next, I will be applying to law school.

 

Elias Ramirez

Where you started: At the beginning of my SAC Journey, I was a student at the College of the Mainland pursuing my associate degree in general studies. I was also a candidate running for Board of Trustees Position 7 At-Large for the College of the Mainland. I was working at the Boys and Girls Club as a Youth Development Specialist heading the STEAM program there.

Where you are now: I graduated with my associate’s from COM and have since then transferred over to the University of Houston Clear-Lake pursuing my bachelor’s degree in public service leadership.  I did not win the election, but I continue to advocate for students on campus through club organizations on campus. I serve with AmeriCorps as a mentor where I am assigned to Weis Middle School on Galveston Island, TX. I also serve on two city boards for the City of Texas City and have recently been appointed to the Board of Directors to the Lifeline of Galveston County which is a non-profit organization focused on eliminating kill shelters in Galveston County.

What’s next: I plan to graduate with my bachelor’s degree from UHCL in the spring of 2025. Afterward, I am pursuing my master’s in public administration at the University of Houston. I plan to advance my career with AmeriCorps throughout the rest of the year and get another term serving as a volunteer. I will be helping out in municipal, county, state, and national elections this year as there are elections on the ballot throughout the year. 

Joni Rodriguez

Where it started: AAS in Esthetics

How’s it going: AAS in Esthetics 22′, AA Business Administration 23′, Senior at Texas A&M San Antonio (BAAS/ Business Concentration) 25′

What’s next: Will pursue MBA

 

 

Kay Trent-Pierce 

Where you started: When I started SAC, I was attending Austin Community College, majoring in Psychology and Project Management. I was working for a program that was designed for people of color called BRASS, doing outreach and mentoring. My involvement was heavy as I was President of Student Government and Psychology club, Vice-President of PRIDE Club, a Civic Influencer, enrolled in the Explore Law program, a member of Phi Theta Kappa, a member of Sociology Club, a mentor for girls that are in STEM, a member of the Young Invincibles Advisory Board, a board member for the Amplify Center, and testifying at the Capitol. 

Where you are now: In May of 2023, I graduated with Psychology, AA. I am currently dually enrolled at West Texas A&M, majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Business Law and Communications. I am also enrolled at ACC in the Paralegal Studies, AAS program. I will graduate from both in 2025. In a few months, I will have my MHPS certification and will be licensed to practice as a Peer Support Specialist in the state of Texas. I just finished managing a campaign for someone running for Texas State House Rep, I am a Texas Civic Ambassador at UT Austin, and I’m a board member for a mental health clinic.

What’s next: This summer I will be taking the LSAT with the intention of enrolling in a dual degree program, which will allow me to obtain my JD and a Masters in Public Affairs. Upon finishing my degree, I’d like to serve and have my own firm which will target public interest work (civil rights, etc) and potentially running for office myself one day.

Izzy Torres

Where it started: I was just accepted at Texas Women’s University in pursuit of a Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Health Science.

How’s it going: Currently taking courses at ACC (using my free employee vouchers while searching for scholarships to fund my Bachelor’s program.) I am currently a full-time employee at Austin Community College working in the Student Affairs office supporting Community college students. My daughter is in first grade, and at this time my focus has been on supporting her educational needs. I currently am the secretary for the PTA at Oak Springs Elementary School and with being a member of the Oak Springs Campus Advisory Council. 

What’s next: I plan to continue my education at Texas Women’s University while focusing.

 

Victoria Hoover

Where you started:I started my work with the SAC while finishing my studies at Tyler Junior College.  I was also serving as Vice President of Scholarship for the TJC Alpha Omicron chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. I graduated summa cum laude from TJC in 2022.

Where you are now: I currently attend Stephen F. Austin State University where I am a senior. I will graduate in May with a bachelor’s in philosophy and am currently applying for grad school.

What’s next: I plan to earn my master’s. I am in the process of applying to the SFA Creative Writing graduate program. Once I attain my degree, I hope to teach English and creative writing at the community college level and continue working in advocacy for students of community colleges. I also hope to become an advisor for Phi Theta Kappa, the international two-year college honor society, as I know firsthand the benefits of being involved in student organizations focusing on academic and community success. I would not be where I am today if not for my involvement in PTK and my time serving on the SAC.

 

Christian Elizondo

Where it started: I was completing my paralegal associate’s degree at San Jacinto Community College.

How’s it going: I’m in the process of transferring to UH’s business school to get a bachelor’s in business management. I’m also taking a couple more classes at San Jacinto and working as a tutor on the college campus.

What’s next: I’d want to go to grad school and then attend law school at UH.