Watching Her Daughter Graduate Inspired Turlock's Brandy King Her to Pursue Her Own College Dream
Turlock, CA (11/06/2026) — When Brandy King attended her daughter's graduation from Stan State, she expected to celebrate her child's achievement. She didn't expect the ceremony to change her own future.
King, a Turlock resident and liberal studies major at Stanislaus State, had put her college dreams on hold after becoming a mother during her senior year of high school. Watching graduates closer to her own age cross the stage inspired her to ask herself, "Why not me?"
Nearly 20 years into her career as a paraeducator, King is now in her final year at Stan State, preparing to earn her teaching credential and become a special education teacher. She's also among this year's recipients of the Mary Stuart Rogers Scholarship, which recognizes students who have demonstrated perseverance and a commitment to their education.
Her story offers a compelling local angle about returning to college later in life, pursuing a long-deferred dream and preparing to make a difference in the classroom.
You can read more about Brandy in our University News feature.
Please let us know if you're interested in pursuing a story. Kristina Stamper can help coordinate interviews.
California State University, Stanislaus
Kristina Stamper, Strategic Communications and Marketing, kstamper@csustan.eduShare this Story
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