August Newsletter

August is Back-to-School Month, and we’re celebrating faculty members Carlos and Jessica Balladares, former student parents who now guide Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) students toward their academic goals. We’re also inviting former students to join us for a new opportunity crafted just for alumni and sharing upcoming events for the whole family.

From Student Parents to SFCC Faculty: A Journey of Determination

Meet Jessica and Carlos–high school sweethearts who became parents early, pursued their dreams through SFCC, and now inspire the next generation as faculty members. Their story highlights how vital support systems can be, and that with a little determination, anything is possible.

Parenting is challenging enough, but Jessica and Carlos Balladares prioritized their education in addition to parenthood, adding “student” to other titles like “mom” and “dad”. The couple became parents in high school, learning early to juggle the demands of family life with ambitious education and career goals. Against the odds, they pushed forward. Carlos began in SFCC’s Human Services program and eventually earned a master’s from New Mexico Highlands University, and Jessica started through SFCC’s dual enrollment while still in high school, going on to earn degrees in political science, criminal justice, and educational leadership.

SFCC’s Early Childhood Center of Excellence provided essential childcare, allowing them to study and work toward their dreams. Through late nights and long days as parents, students, and employees, both found their calling in education and landed full time roles at SFCC. Jessica now serves as Academic Program Director for Medical Assisting Phlebotomy and Community Health Workers, and Carlos is Lead Faculty for Human Services. They use their own experiences to guide and inspire students, offering not just instruction but empathy and resources for those navigating life’s challenges. 

Carlos helps students in crisis through SFCC’s Student Emergency Committee, while Jessica fosters a welcoming, supportive space where students know they’re not alone. Their three children, now 22, 17, and 15, have followed their example of academic excellence, with the eldest already earning a master’s in business.

Jessica and Carlos prove that with determination, support, and hard work, even the toughest challenges can be overcome. Their message to students is simple: “It’s possible to get through hard things. There are resources. There are people who care.”

Something new for Alumni is coming soon and you’re invited! 

Be part of Santa Fe Community College’s first-ever Alumni Association to stay connected and supported in your next chapter in life. As an SFCC alum, your insights will help shape future networking opportunities, social gatherings, professional development offerings, and more! Take our short survey here.

Upcoming Events

Thank you for supporting Santa Fe Community College Foundation

Your continued support means students like Carlos & Jessica and resources like Early Childhood Center of Excellence’s (ECCOE) thrive. Will you give today so that others can reach new heights?

Kelly A. Marquez, MBA
Executive Director
kelly.marquez@sfcc.edu