A Transformative Journey to the AC Commencement Podium
What began as a hesitant return to the classroom has become a powerful testimony of perseverance, legacy, and hope. Alexia Layton, an Amarillo College Early Childhood Development student and single mother in her mid-30s, will serve as the student speaker for Amarillo College’s Fall 2025 Commencement Ceremony. She will be one of 1,161 AC summer and fall graduates eligible to receive diplomas on Friday, Dec. 19 at the Amarillo Civic Center.
Two years ago, encouraged by a best friend who was also a working single mother, Layton applied to Amarillo College unsure if higher education was even possible for her. When she was accepted and awarded full funding through Panhandle Workforce Solutions, she made a promise to herself not to waste the opportunity.
“I told myself, ‘I can’t let these people down. I have to keep going,’” she said. “I never skipped a semester. I just kept going.”
This December, Layton will graduate with a Child Development/Early Childhood Provider Certificate, a Child Development/Early Childhood Administrator Certificate and an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Development and will continue her education online at Texas Woman’s University, where she plans to pursue her bachelor’s degree.
Her path to college was not traditional. She left high school as a teenager, became a mother at 19, and later earned her GED with support from Amarillo College. Next May her 16-year-old son will become the first high school graduate in her family, while Layton becomes the first college graduate across generations.
“Education wasn’t a priority growing up—survival was,” she said. “So to be standing here now is a really big deal.”
For eight years, Layton has worked at Opportunity School as an Early Head Start teacher, serving children and families across the community. Though she already held years of experience, returning to college gave her something she long sought: validation.
“I needed the paper that said I am worthy, that I am knowledgeable,” she said. “And once I proved to myself I could do it, I realized—why stop now?”
Her journey nearly came to a halt when the demands of parenting a child with disabilities collided with evening classes and full-time work. Without access to after-school transportation, she faced the impossible choice between caring for her son and finishing her degree. Then Amarillo College connected her with childcare support through the Maverick Boys & Girls Club.
“It saved me,” she said. “They fed him, helped with homework, and kept him safe. Without that support, I honestly don’t think I’d be graduating.”
Her story came to the attention of faculty through coursework that challenged students to reflect on their own childhood experiences. Her professor, who later nominated her for the commencement speaker honor, saw something rare in both her writing and her resolve.
“She’s not a traditional student—and that’s exactly why her story could impact others like her,” said Trena Rider, assistant professor and program coordinator for Child Development/Early Childhood. “Her confidence, purpose, and passion grew every semester. She’s proving that the data, the cycles, and the odds do not get the final word.”
As the Fall Commencement student speaker, Layton plans to leave fellow graduates, families, and future students with a clear message:
“Don’t let yourself stop. You’re not too old,” she said. “You don’t have to know everything. The labs, the tutoring, the help—it’s all here. I’m proof that it’s possible.”
At home, the impact is already visible. Education is now a household expectation for her children.
“We’re going to graduate high school. We’re going to keep going. We’re going to be productive members of society,” she said. “That’s just the expectation now.”
Looking ahead, Layton plans to continue advocating for early childhood education and for parents who believe college is out of reach.
“I see myself as the bridge,” she said. “From where kids are to where they can go.”
Amarillo College leaders say her story reflects the heart of the institution—meeting students where they are and surrounding them with support that changes not only lives, but entire family legacies.
Fall 2025 Commencement Details
- 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19
- Amarillo Civic Center
- Livestream Link
Clear Bag Policy:
The Amarillo Civic Center has implemented a new clear bag policy for all major events. Guests are encouraged to plan accordingly.