Scholarship’s Lasting Impact on Future Educator and Her Family
For Alyssa Mullins, the dream of becoming a teacher began in childhood. She would line up her dolls and friends in make-believe classrooms, already imagining a future where she could shape young minds. But as life brought new responsibilities — full-time work, two children, and youth sports — that dream seemed increasingly out of reach.
Then, while Mullins served as an admissions advisor at San Jacinto College, something changed.
Every day I encouraged students to believe in themselves and pursue their goals. Eventually, I realized I needed to take that same advice.
Today, Mullins is on her way to earning a Bachelor of Applied Science in early childhood education at the College, thanks largely to the Chesmar Foundation Scholarship through the San Jacinto College Foundation. The scholarship provided critical financial relief, allowing her to commit to her education while caring for her family.
“The Chesmar scholarship opened doors I didn’t think were possible at this stage in my life,” she said. “It didn’t just make college more affordable — it made the dream feel real.”
The $900,000 Chesmar investment is helping address the statewide teacher shortage by supporting working adults who bring valuable life and professional experience into the classroom. It covers tuition, fees, and course materials, helping students like Mullins succeed without sacrificing their responsibilities.
San Jacinto College’s bachelor’s degree is designed for nontraditional students and blends hands-on training with academic rigor to prepare educators for careers that make a difference, especially in high-need school districts.
Dr. Albert Talley, senior director of child development and education, sees the powerful effect of donor support.
“Students like Alyssa bring unmatched dedication and real-world perspective,” Talley said. “Scholarships like the one from the Chesmar Foundation allow us to support educators who will change countless lives.”
Despite juggling a full-time job and parenting, Mullins has maintained a 4.0 GPA. One of her most meaningful moments came when her child said, “I’m proud of you for never giving up.”
“That reminded me why I’m doing this, not just for me but to show my kids what’s possible,” she said.
Mullins’ journey proves the power of giving. Thanks to donor partnerships like the Chesmar Foundation and the work of the San Jacinto College Foundation, one mother’s dream is becoming a reality, and tomorrow’s students will benefit for years to come.
Learn more about the Bachelor of Applied Science in early childhood education
About San Jacinto College
Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today,
and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris
County, Texas, since 1961. The College is ranked second in the nation among more than
1,100 community colleges, as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving
the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution
that spans five campuses, plus an online college, San Jacinto College serves approximately
45,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and
certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer
to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding
bond ratings of AA+ by Standard & Poor’s and Aa2 by Moody’s. San Jacinto College is
accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
