EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — New Mexico State University awarded over 1,200 degrees, honoring its fall 2025 class. One student graduated with honors and completed double majors, all while living with cerebral palsy. She said it didn’t stop her from following her dream.
Araceli Mendoza, from Anthony, New Mexico, walked the stage to receive her bachelor’s degree in journalism and Spanish on Saturday, Dec. 13, at NMSU’s Pan American Center. She wishes to become a bilingual disability journalist and advocate, according to a news release by NMSU.
At just 8 months old, Mendoza was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, which affected her speech and movement, but that didn’t stop her from pursuing a higher education.
“Being a part-time student with cerebral palsy has given me independence, courage, confidence and, above all, a sense of purpose in life,” said Mendoza, with a communication device…