Ernestina Baca’s Journey from Struggle to Success

A Tale of Perseverance, Inspiration, and Self-Investment

Amidst the resounding applause and joyful cheers, Ernestina Baca, a remarkable student of Taos Education and Career Center (TECC) and High School Equivalency (HSE) graduate, delivered a heartfelt and inspiring keynote speech during the recent graduation ceremony. Her words touched the hearts of everyone present, reminding us that the path to success is often paved with challenges, but it is through unwavering determination that we can achieve anything.

With gratitude beaming in her eyes, Ernestina began her speech by expressing her appreciation for her fellow TECC graduates, her family, and friends. It was evident that this was a day not only for celebration but also for reflection and inspiration.

“Life has knocked me down a few times, it has shown me things I never wanted to see. I have experienced sadness and failure. But I refuse to let those define me.”

Ernestina’s journey to reach this milestone was far from easy. Like many of her peers, she faced significant obstacles on her educational path. Becoming a mother at the age of 15, she found herself without the necessary resources to continue her studies. Consequently, she made the difficult decision to quit school at 16. However, she was determined to provide for her child and navigate the complexities of adulthood.

Throughout her journey, Ernestina encountered numerous setbacks and hardships. By the age of 25, she had three more children and had become a single mother. Life tested her resilience. In 2018, tragedy nearly claimed her life. Yet, she emerged victorious, having embraced sobriety for nearly five years. .

In October 2022, at the age of 42, Ernestina found herself facing yet another daunting challenge. Laid off from her job and struggling to find new employment, she knew that relying on unemployment benefits was not a path she wanted to follow. Realizing that she needed to invest in herself and seize better opportunities, a high school diploma was needed first. She reached out to New Mexico Workforce Solutions

Nevertheless, fate had one more hurdle in store for Ernestina. She was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, causing cognitive impairment, chronic pain, fatigue, and depression. But she didn’t let it stop her. Despite these setbacks, she commenced her free classes at TECC in January 2023. Ernestina’s concerns about her ability to learn and being the oldest student in class quickly dissolved as she discovered that she could do it and if she could, anyone can.

“If I can do it, anyone can. Take a chance on yourself and never give up.”

Today, Ernestina stands tall as a graduate, not only with her high school diploma but also armed with certificates in basic life support, first-aid CPR, and mental health first-aid. She is excited to continue on her journey to obtain a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate and pursue further education at UNM-Taos in the fall, working toward an associate’s degree.

Ernestina’s heartfelt gratitude extends to her children, who serve as her pride and inspiration. She took a moment during her speech to congratulate Jarius and Jace, her two sons, for honoring their grandmother’s wishes in finishing their high school equivalency too. They wore buttons on their graduation gowns in her memory. The unwavering support of her mother

and aunt also played a pivotal role in her success, and Ernestina took the opportunity to express her heartfelt appreciation for their constant presence in her life.

The TECC administration and teachers also received well-deserved recognition from Ernestina, as their support and exceptional education made her achievement possible. Managers Kylee Shipp and Erin Clark, and instructor Will Ensign-Church were acknowledged for their encouragement and guidance throughout her journey. Ernestina’s words resonated with her fellow classmates, who were also celebrating their collective accomplishments.

Ernestina’s speech concluded with a poignant dedication to the loving memory of her grandmother, Patsy Montoya. Who Ernestina referred to as her rock, emphasizing the profound impact her grandmother had on her life. Through her tears, Ernestina thanked everyone once again for their unwavering support, and the room erupted in thunderous applause.