Amarillo College Names First Student-Athlete Commencement Speaker

The 7 p.m. ceremony will feature student commencement speaker Mallory Moore, the first student-athlete in Amarillo College history to be selected for the honor.

Moore, a Badger cross country runner who competed at the national level both years she attended Amarillo College, said she was surprised and humbled to be chosen.

“I was so honored,” Moore said. “There are so many talented and amazing students here, so I just couldn’t believe it.”

A graduate of Tascosa High School, Moore came to Amarillo College on a cross country scholarship after being recruited by her former coach. What began as an opportunity to compete quickly became something more.

“I came for cross country, but I got so much more out of it,” she said. “There have been so many opportunities beyond running.”

Moore and her teammates qualified for national competitions both seasons, traveling to Richmond, Virginia, and Fort Dodge, Iowa — experiences she said were both challenging and rewarding.

Her path to graduation, however, has been anything but traditional. Moore spent part of her childhood living in Boys Ranch where her parents worked. Then, followed a unique academic journey that included homeschooling and dual-credit coursework before returning to Tascosa.

“I’ve had kind of a wild ride, but it’s been a really meaningful one,” she said.

As commencement speaker, Moore plans to encourage graduates to embrace their individual paths.

“Everyone’s journey looks different, but they all matter,” she said. “There’s purpose in every step.”

More than 1,400 students are eligible to graduate during Amarillo College’s Spring commencement ceremonies. The 7 p.m. ceremony will recognize graduates in business, computer information systems, creative arts, education, liberal arts and STEM fields. The first ceremony at 3 p.m. ceremony will include graduates in health sciences, industry and public service. Both commencement ceremonies will be livestreamed.

Moore will continue her education at West Texas A&M University, where she plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. She hopes to build a career in health and wellness coaching or collegiate athletics.

“I’ve always loved sports, and I want to stay connected to that,” she said.

Moore credits her family — especially her parents — for their constant support and encouragement.

“They’ve always believed in me and pushed me to take every opportunity,” she said. “I’m so grateful for them.”