Student Experience: Kianna, Vaughn

“Despite the challenges of being diabetic and legally blind, I don’t let naysayers discourage me. Academic success is crucial to me.” – Kianna Vaughn, Human Resources Management Student.

"I’m not your typical college student. I didn’t go straight to school after high school because of financial reasons—I started working right away. Now, I work full-time in human resources, but I realized I was feeling stagnant without an educational background. To advance in my career, I recognized the need to continue my education. That’s why I returned to school in January of last year. My dream job is to work in HR for the Dallas Mavericks. They’re my favorite team, and I’ve always been passionate about them.

"Living with diabetes and being legally blind has never stopped me from chasing my goals. I joined Phi Theta Kappa in November 2022 and made the Chancellor’s Honor Roll in January 2023. Those accomplishments remind me that no matter what obstacles I face, I can achieve anything with determination." 


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Adam West

Adam West

Executive Chef, The Porch Restaurant
“El Centro helped me sharpen my skills as part of the Hot Food Competition Team — landing me ACF culinary medals in Orlando, Chicago, Dallas and Houston. I now helm The Porch — all thanks to the start I received at El Centro.”
Culinary and Pastry Arts
Blanca Piña

Blanca Piña

Director of Human Resources Tuesday Morning, Inc.
“One of the most important decisions I pride myself with is earning an associate degree and certificate in Management. This was the foundation that provided me the opportunity to be competitive and have a successful career. Through education, I am living my dream.”
Business and Management
Israel Bazan

Israel Bazan

Costco Associate
“Even though I have spent 15 years working in retail in various leadership roles, the RMC program gave me new points of view and illustrated for me the reasons why many things are done.”
Business
Tondelaya Cannon

Tondelaya Cannon

Facility Specialist AT&T Communications Inc.
“Taking online classes has been a tremendous help to me in achieving my educational goals. I already had a full plate, but with online classes I am able to work on my assignments any time of the day. It gives me the freedom I need to be able to maintain my family life and my academic endeavors.”
Business and Management
Photo of Kianna Vaughn
Kianna, Vaughn
Human Resources

Human Resources Management
School of Business, Hospitality and Global Trade
Updated July 14, 2026