Student Experience: Terrel Taplin Blair

“I enrolled in the BOSS program because I have always had a passion for technology and wanted to expand my knowledge in this area. My experience was instrumental in my growth personally as well as professionally by providing me the skills and confidence I needed to thrive in my current career choices.

“The Office Technology program has allowed me to develop my communication, interpersonal, organizational and management skills. In my challenging and rewarding jobs as senior analyst and also as adjunct faculty, I am continuously applying the knowledge that I acquired in the classroom as well as in my current profession. 

“My family members were my No. 1 supporters by always encouraging me to continue my educational goals. My mentors, Doris Wilson and Bette Plog, and my high school typing teacher, Ms. Blackburn, were all inspirational in helping me develop strong leadership skills and a powerful work ethic. The program has given me a competitive edge by obtaining the tools necessary to succeed in today’s workforce.”

Terrel Taplin Blair earned two associate degrees in Office Technology, Office Information System Specialist and Administrative Assistant. Her job responsibilities as a senior analyst with the DISD including ensuring that each school is in compliance with the Texas Education Agency, school board policies and legal requirements for reporting student discipline data. Her duties include managing, analyzing, reporting and monitoring student discipline data for DISD schools.


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Josephine Maduagwu

Josephine Maduagwu

Real Estate Broker John Rob Real Estate Group
“As a student, being able to have access to professors who were knowledgeable and actually worked in the field was a rewarding experience in many ways. The opportunity to work alongside classmates and/or adjunct faculty was the best part of the Dallas College experience.”
Real Estate
Jennifer Kohl

Jennifer Kohl

Administrative Assistant Highland Village Police Department
“My experience in the Management program was outstanding! I was able to complete the entire degree online while still getting the ‘classroom’ feel. The instructors were truly interested in my success and my implementation of the skills I was learning.”
Business and Management
Jeff Tarver

Jeff Tarver

Food Service Manager, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital
“The training I received at El Centro has been invaluable in my 22-year career at the hospital. My advice for up-and-coming students considering a career in culinary arts: A degree from El Centro Food and Hospitality Institute will unlock an unlimited amount of doors, but it is up to you to step through them.”
Culinary and Pastry Arts
Janice Provost

Janice Provost

Owner/Executive Chef, Parigi
“El Centro taught me things I use every day. From the basics of the mother sauces to conversions of recipes, the classes gave me real, usable information that allow me to create menus with balanced flavors and execute dishes with confidence.”
Culinary and Pastry Arts
Terrel Taplin Blair
Terrel Taplin Blair
Senior Analyst Dallas Independent School District

Computer Basics (MS Office, etc)
School of Business, Hospitality and Global Trade
Updated September 8, 2026