Michelle Vasquez
Michelle Vasquez, a 2015 Victoria College graduate, and her two daughters are redefining what it means to overcome the challenges of teen pregnancy while pursuing education and community service.
Vasquez began her college journey in 2009 at Victoria College, where she earned an associate degree before transferring to the University of Houston-Victoria, now Texas A&M University–Victoria, graduating this year with her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She’s currently pursuing social services positions.
Becoming a teen parent at 16, Vasquez faced significant challenges, including periods of homelessness while raising her daughters, Alessandra Lizbeth Sanchez and Madelynn Alayah Sanchez. Despite these obstacles, she committed to education as a pathway to stability for herself and her family.
“Education was my pathway out,” Vasquez said. “Victoria College allowed me to stay connected to my local community, gain the stability I needed, and access events and resources that benefited both myself and my children.”
Vasquez’s dedication has had a lasting impact on her daughters. Both are actively pursuing college education, determined to break the cycle of teen pregnancy and build futures defined by opportunity.
Together, the family is also giving back to the Victoria community through Flamingos Flamenco Outreach Back 2 School, a local initiative providing dance programs and school supplies to families in need. The organization’s Facebook page shares their story of resilience and dedication.
The family’s passion for dance runs deep. Vasquez is a former Folklorico Dance Lieutenant and Historian Officer at Memorial High School Ballet Folklorico. Her daughters have followed in her footsteps: Alessandra served as Dance Lieutenant and Colonel at West Legacy Drill Team, while Madelynn currently holds the same leadership roles.
Vasquez credits Victoria College and A&M-Victoria for supporting her through years of challenges, helping her achieve her goals, and connecting her to resources that strengthened her family’s foundation.
“My journey has been one of the hardest I’ve faced, but I am proud to say that my daughters and I are a force of female resilience,” Vasquez said. “Teen pregnancy was not the final say of our future.”
Through education, community engagement and service, Vasquez and her daughters continue to inspire others, proving that perseverance and dedication can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.
VC wants to hear from former and current Pirates. Visit VictoriaCollege.edu/ShareYourStory to submit a success story in honor of VC’s 100th anniversary.
