Welcome to “Real Heroes Teach,” a pair of videos highlighting the personal stories and achievements of three alumni whose McMurry experience transformed their lives and influenced how and why they teach. Join us as we honor these real-life heroes and their dedication to shaping future generations.
Recent McMurry graduate Alfonso Santoya ’24, who majored in Early Childhood Education and minored in Curriculum and Instruction, shares his remarkable journey into teaching and why he’s so committed to making a difference in the lives of his students. As an English Language Learner in the second grade, Alfonso, who spoke only Spanish, faced significant challenges. His teacher’s dedication and tutoring helped him pass and sparked his passion for education. Alfonso reflects on his transformative experience at McMurry, where strong friendships and supportive faculty and staff guided him to success. Now, he’s ready to begin his first teaching job as a third-grade science and social studies teacher this fall.
Meet Kim Poorman ’09 and Zayra Gonzales ’19, two inspiring educators whose journeys were shaped by their experiences at McMurry University. Kim, now an 8th-grade history teacher, discovered her passion for history through the phenomenal professors at McMurry who brought the subject to life as a story. Zayra credits her success as a teacher to McMurry’s small class sizes and the supportive environment of clubs and sports. Join Kim and Zayra as they explore how McMurry University influenced their paths and commitment to education.