Graduate Spotlights
Graduate Spotlight: Rens Tellekamp Expands Opportunities Through Education
Now, as she graduates from Odessa College, Rens looks back on the last two years as the best of her life. A powerhouse on the field and a ray of sunshine across campus, she’s become one of the top softball players in the nation—known not just for her athletic talent, but for her boundless energy, tireless dedication, and infectious positivity.
Graduate Spotlight: Luis Munoz Builds Momentum Toward His Goals
Phlebotomy was the answer. And by coincidence—or perhaps fate—Odessa College was offering its phlebotomy class in Pecos for the first time. Luis enrolled, completed the 6-month program, and passed the licensing exam. But his start in the field was rocky. He faced indifference and a lack of support from co-workers, especially when he struggled to draw blood without causing discomfort. It could have been another point to turn away, but Luis did what he always had—he persevered.
Graduate Spotlight: Gissell Fabela Creates a Path to Success
Now, with her GED in hand, Gissell is preparing for the next hurdle: the Texas Success Initiative Assessment. Once she passes, she plans to come back to Odessa College as a Nursing student, hoping to attend the RN program.
Graduate Spotlight: Ruth Watson Proves It’s Never Too Late to Succeed
While taking classes at OC, Ruth started working at a local childcare facility and discovered a deep love for working with children. After being let go from that position, a friend told her about a job opening at OC’s own Children’s Center. Ruth applied, got the job, and found her home — beginning a 25-year (and counting) career dedicated to nurturing young lives on campus.
Graduate Spotlight: Dustin Howard Turns Hard Work into Achievement
Dustin Howard's path to success wasn’t traditional—it was built on grit, hard work, and a desire to create a better life for himself and his family. Now, as a student in Odessa College’s Continuing Education program earning his HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) certificate, he’s not just gaining skills—he’s rewriting his story.