A Journey of Perseverance, Purpose, and Heart
Candy Duke’s educational journey has been 26 years in the making — a path shaped by
determination, love, loss, and an unwavering belief in the power of finishing what
she started.
After graduating high school, Candy planned to go to college. She had already earned
several credits through dual credit courses, but life had other plans. Her family
moved back to Texas, and Candy decided to work for a year to establish residency and
avoid out-of-state tuition. One year turned into two, and she soon found herself thriving
in the workforce. She began working in the business office at Arlington Memorial Hospital,
gaining experience and discovering her strengths in administration.
During that time, Candy met Chris — the man who would become her husband. He was visiting
the Metroplex from Odessa, and the two shared an instant connection. In 2012, Candy
moved to Odessa to join Chris and his young son, and together they built a life filled
with work, family commitments, martial arts practices, and raising their daughter,
Chloe. With so much happening at once, Candy’s college plans moved to the back burner,
but the dream never disappeared.
In 2021, she reignited that dream by enrolling at Odessa College to pursue an Associate
of Business Administration degree. Soon after, Chris was diagnosed with cancer, and
the family began making regular trips to M.D. Anderson in Houston for treatment. Despite
the emotional and physical toll, Candy kept moving forward, balancing her coursework,
full-time job, and caregiving responsibilities. She credits her family, her OC instructors,
staff, and fellow students for lifting her up during some of the hardest moments of
her life.
Candy’s dedication was recognized in 2022 when she was selected as a Positively OC
Scholar.
“It was one of the best things that ever happened to me,” she said. “It pushed me
out of my comfort zone. I had to give presentations to community groups, and it helped
build my confidence. I even took some of my bachelor’s classes while finishing my
associate degree.”
Candy earned her associate degree in 2024 and seamlessly transitioned into the ExxonMobil
Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership and Management program. Chris entered remission
for a time, but the cancer returned, and this year, Candy faced the heartbreaking
loss of her husband.
Even through profound grief, Candy remained steadfast for Chloe and for herself. She
stayed committed to her goals, her future, and the promise she made to Chris, to finish
what she started.
“I did it for Chris, Chloe, and for myself,” she shared. “I am excited and proud,
and now I want to give back to others what was given to me.”
Today, Candy Duke stands as a testament to resilience and hope. Her story reminds
us that even when life takes unexpected turns, strength, community, and purpose can
guide us forward. She graduates not only with a degree, but with a renewed sense of
mission: to inspire, empower, and support others just as she was supported along the
way.