When these two alumni crossed the graduation stage in 2024, they shared more than a degree from Texas Tech; they shared a passion for education that continues to shape their careers today.
When these two alumni crossed the graduation stage in 2024, they shared more than a degree from Texas Tech; they shared a passion for education that continues to shape their careers today.
Now, just a few years later, both are making an impact in the same school district, serving students while taking on leadership opportunities that extend beyond their own classrooms.
For alumna Christina Nathan, her journey has been about embracing opportunities to grow as a leader. As a second-year teacher, she served on her campus Guiding Coalition, collaborating with fellow educators to support schoolwide initiatives and student success. This fall, she will begin a new role as an English as a Second Language (ESL) Specialist, where she‘ll support multilingual learners and teachers across the campus.
“My time at Texas Tech helped shape me into the person I am today, both personally and professionally,” Christina said. "Being a Red Raider means giving your best effort in everything you do and never giving up when challenges arise.”
She credits the TechTeach program for preparing her to meet the needs of diverse learners, particularly through courses taught by Dr. Stacey Sneed and Raymond Flores. She also says her study abroad experience in Spain was one of the most transformative moments of her college career, broadening her perspective on education while challenging her to grow personally and professionally.
For another alumna, Lillie Scantlan, becoming a teacher was never in question.
“I‘ve always known my place was in the classroom," she said. “When I was just four years old, I asked Santa for teaching supplies instead of toys.”
Since graduating, she has built a list of accomplishments, including earning Rising Star Teacher of the Year in 2025, mentoring a new teacher, coaching UIL, serving on her campus Guiding Coalition, and earning certifications in ESL, STR, and EC-6.
She says the immersive field experiences offered through TechTeach made all the difference.
“Texas Tech doesn‘t just teach education; they immerse you in it,” Lillie said.
Beginning classroom placements early in the program and completing a year-long student teaching experience gave her the confidence to lead her own classroom from day one. She also credits mentor teacher Krysia Elizondo, at Frenship ISD, and site coordinator Maria Brito for helping shape the educator she is today.
Today, that shared Red Raider foundation is evident in the work they do every day. Whether supporting multilingual learners, mentoring fellow educators, or creating welcoming classrooms where every child can thrive, both are investing in the next generation. Their journeys serve as a reminder that the impact of a Texas Tech education extends far beyond graduation.