Commencement Spotlight: Roxana Martinez

Commencement Spotlight: Roxana Martinez

Roxana Martinez
Brownsville, Texas
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

While working full-time as an emergency communications operator for the Brownsville Police Department and raising her 6-year-old daughter, Roxana Martinez earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in forensic science from Sam Houston State University (SHSU), completing the program in her hometown of Brownsville, Texas.

“From a very young age, I have been keen on law enforcement shows, true crime TV and documentaries,” said Martinez. “This is how I discovered a true love for criminal justice and decided I needed to make it a career for myself.”

Drawn to SHSU for its various degree offerings and renowned forensic science department, the summer graduate was thrilled to become a Bearkat through the unique transfer pathway offered in Brownsville. While the program made it possible for Martinez to finish her degree without leaving home, doing so required careful time management as she balanced the responsibilities of being a working parent and college student.

“Challenges existed within my life dynamics and responsibilities,” said Martinez. “I had to juggle those responsibilities while taking up to six courses a semester. Time management was the most difficult aspect to maintain.”

Despite the obstacles she faced, Martinez is grateful for the relationships she built with faculty, staff and fellow students during her academic journey.

“I tremendously enjoyed being an SHSU student,” she said. “In the short time I have been a Bearkat, I have been shown compassion, unity and determination from faculty, administration and students - an experience I will take with me.”

To celebrate Martinez’s achievement, the college held a graduation ceremony in Brownsville, giving her family, friends and community the opportunity to celebrate alongside her.

“I cannot begin to explain how grateful I am for being recognized in the way I was, and how thankful I am for the opportunity of being part of a graduation ceremony in which I got to embrace who I am and the milestones I have achieved,” she said. “Having the privilege of having my family at this ceremony was the most special part of that night, and I will forever be grateful for everyone that made it possible.”

Now an SHSU alum, Martinez looks forward to attending the Brownsville Police Academy and advancing in her law enforcement career.

“I will start my career as a patrolman and wish to eventually make my way to crime scene investigation. I do not set limits to my future and remain open to any opportunities that may arise,” said Martinez. “SHSU has been the building block and gateway for a better life for my daughter and I, and I will forever be grateful for it.”