Breaking Barriers: COCJ Celebrates First Graduate of TSC Pathway

Breaking Barriers: COCJ Celebrates First Graduate of TSC Pathway

On Dec.12, Alyssa Barrientos was the first student to receive a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the Sam Houston State University College of Criminal Justice (SHSU-COCJ) through the SHSU-Texas Southmost College (TSC) Pathway.

The first-generation Brownsville, Texas, native chose SHSU for its commitment to student success, accessibility and community.

“It’s a place where students are supported and encouraged to grow,” Barrientos said. “When I became aware that TSC partnered with SHSU, I was immediately very interested and excited about the partnership that would allow me to obtain my degree through a school I had always dreamed of attending.”

In 2024, SHSU expanded its criminal justice program to Brownsville, offering in-person courses taught by SHSU instructors in a satellite classroom at TSC's Tandy Hall. The collaboration led to a new educational model designed to eliminate geographic barriers that hinder student success.

“World-class education doesn’t require leaving home; it requires commitment,” said David Stender, senior director for strategy and innovation at SHSU-COCJ. “Barrientos’ graduation is more than a first, it’s the foundation of a growing pathway for South Texas students.”

Despite being more than six hours from SHSU’s main campus, Barrientos stayed connected to the university through regular communication and virtual meetings with professors, academic advisors and COCJ staff. She also shared that she follows the university on social media to stay up to date on campus news and events.

“With the support of TSC, SHSU advisors, staff, instructors and especially my family, I was able to get through this journey with confidence and determination. Their guidance and encouragement allowed me not only to succeed academically but also to feel like a member of the SHSU community despite the distance,” she said. “I am grateful for everyone who played a role in helping me reach this milestone and prepare for the next chapter of my future.”

To mark this accomplishment, Barrientos traveled to Huntsville, Texas, to walk in the fall 2025 commencement ceremony. A second ceremony was held in Brownsville to celebrate her achievement with her local community.

“Walking at commencement gave me the confidence to learn that I belong in spaces that used to only exist in my imagination,” said Barrientos. “The completion of my degree represents more than a personal achievement. As a first-generation college student, it represents years of sacrifices made by my parents and myself.”

Looking ahead, Barrientos plans to enter law enforcement and shared that she is considering pursuing a master’s degree to further her education.

“I’m looking forward to starting my career in law enforcement and contributing to a profession grounded in responsibility, integrity and service,” she said.

To learn more about the SHSU-TSC pathway, contact cjpathways@shsu.edu.