By Zoe Hughes
Editor-in-Chief
When Racheal Garcia takes the stage as the 3 p.m. commencement speaker at Amarillo College’s graduation ceremony on May 15, 2025, she will represent more than just a graduating class; she will share a story of resilience, purpose and perseverance.
Garcia, a licensed vocational nursing major, said she never expected to reach this moment.
“I am so honored to be chosen to be commencement speaker,” Garcia said. “I never thought I would be graduating and definitely didn’t think I would be chosen for something so prestigious.”
Garcia’s path to nursing was inspired early in life by her grandmother, who worked as a licensed vocational nurse.
“I used to go to work with her and I loved it,” Garcia said. “I want to wake up every day knowing that I helped.”
Her journey, however, has not been traditional. Garcia said she dropped out of middle school and later earned her GED at 18. She became a mother at 17 and is now raising two of her grandchildren while completing her education.
Despite those challenges, Garcia said she found support and guidance through her experiences at Amarillo College.
“The instructors here are the best,” she said. “They have so much knowledge and skillset. I am very blessed to have been taught by them.”
Treiva Daniels, a faculty member who nominated Garcia for the honor, said her impact extends beyond the classroom.
“She genuinely represents what it means to be an Amarillo College student,” Daniels said. “She carries a strong sense of pride in her program and naturally steps into leadership among her peers.”
Daniels pointed to Garcia’s ability to grow through challenges as a defining quality.
“She shifted her mindset, turned the situation around, and moved forward with confidence,” Daniels stated. “That ability to reflect and grow is exactly why I knew she was the right choice.”
Garcia also served as president of the Courage to Care LVN Club, where Daniels said she consistently supported and encouraged fellow students.
“She has a way of bringing people together,” Daniels said. “Her leadership goes far beyond a title; it’s something she lives out every day.”
Garcia said she feels deeply connected to her classmates and hopes her message will resonate with them.
“We have worked so hard to be here today,” she said. “I feel like we have bonded like family.”
Her message to graduates is rooted in perseverance and compassion.
“Anything worth having will take hard work,” Garcia said. “Work hard and love deeply. Have compassion for your fellow human.”
As she prepares to address her classmates, Garcia said her motivation comes from her faith and family.
“For the first time in my life, I feel like I am exactly where I’m supposed to be,” she said.
Daniels said Garcia’s story reflects the heart of the nursing program and the graduating class.
“These are the nurses who will be there when it matters most,” Daniels said.
For Garcia, success is simple. “Success to me is being a good person,” she said. “It’s having compassion, empathy and love for others.”
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