Commencement Memories: Journey to degree was a long one

(Dec. 11, 2001)--When Gloria "Bonnie" Martinez walks across the stage at the December commencement ceremonies, she will have fulfilled a lifelong dream. A Brackenridge High School 1966 alumnus, Martinez started inching her way toward a baccalaureate degree by taking core classes at San Antonio College while working full-time as a Kelly Air Force Base secretary after graduating from high school.

"Attending UTSA was a given. It was already a part of my family -- both of my sons are alumni from here," said Martinez.

Starting at a GS-2 rank and retiring at G-12, Martinez enjoyed her years at Kelly. When the base closed, the workforce development center offered to fund two years of higher education to all employees. Through the 2+2 program, she was able to put class credits earned at San Antonio College toward a bachelor degree at UTSA. According to Martinez, almost every hour transferred.

"Even though it took me 35 years to get this degree, I never changed my major! I always knew that I wanted a psychology degree to work with people and help others," Martinez said.

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