September Newsletter

September is National Student Parent Month, and we are celebrating Nadine Valencia, a student parent who has learned the perfect balance of school, taking care of her family, and her passion for helping people through her career. We are also excited to share some enriching and beneficial opportunities happening on campus this month just for you. Read to the end to see them all!

Striking the Balance Between Family and the Journey of Higher Education

Nadine Valencia, nursing student at Santa Fe Community College (SFCC), has navigated the challenges of new parenthood while pursuing her passion in nursing. With support from programs at the Early Childhood Center of Excellence (ECCOE) and guidance from passionate mentors, Nadine feels that SFCC is the perfect place for her and her family.

When Nadine first started her path to higher education, she was working two jobs to make ends meet. She recalls, “it was extremely difficult during this period. Most days were 12-hour shifts on top of schoolwork and being a mom.”

At a certain point, she had to pause her studies. “I was paying for my classes out of pocket. I couldn’t afford daycare or a babysitter, so I ended up leaving school,” she says.

Determined not to give up, Nadine re-enrolled shortly after and this time the timing was right. A friend shared an advertisement for the Student Parent Success Program, which would become a turning point in her journey. She met her mentors, Rachel and Karen, along with others who supported her journey.

The program offers many resources including coaching from a mentor every month. The coaching sessions covered her goals, milestones, and her children’s progress, while providing encouragement along the way.

“They helped astronomically, showing me resources and helping me sign up for financial aid so I could afford school again,” she says. “They also encouraged me to utilize Kids Campus.”

Her oldest child has thrived at Kids Campus, “coming out of his shell,” always in a good mood, and excited to see his classmates and instructors. Nadine says, “he has maintained a healthy routine. They provide a well-rounded breakfast and lunch, dedicated nap time, and fundamental learning in both English and Spanish. It’s really amazing.”

During her time on campus, Nadine has discovered that SFCC is full of family-friendly spaces and is very welcoming to children. “There is nothing SFCC hasn’t thought of,” she says, “even the smallest things, like close parking spots for parents so we don’t have to walk far.”

Nadine has learned that she can focus on her future while her family’s needs are prioritized. She says the message from SFCC has been clear: “your family is important, and we’re here to support you so you can succeed while supporting your family.”

She is currently working in hospice care, a field she feels deeply called to, and looks forward to continuing her education to keep making a difference in people’s lives.

Nadine hopes other parents will pursue their education. She believes that everyone has a place at SFCC, especially families.

Learn more about ECCOE 

For 10 years, the Early Childhood Center of Excellence (ECCOE) has supported student parents at SFCC with childcare, workshops, and family-focused programs. ECCOE takes a multi-generational approach to parenting, supporting both children and families. Click the link below to learn more about how they help students and families thrive, including upcoming events and workshops.

Upcoming Events

Thank you for supporting Santa Fe Community College Foundation

Nadine’s story shows how SFCC programs, mentors, and resources empower student parents to succeed. Your support helps make these opportunities possible. Donate today to help more students and their families thrive.

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