Name:  Dr. Mosadi Porter  
Position:  Associate Dean, Admissions & Outreach
Years with LSC-University Park: 4 1/2 

Dr. Mosadi Porter has been a contributor to the field of higher education for over 20 year, currently serving as the Associate Dean for Admissions and Outreach. This encompasses admissions, outreach, three campus service centers and orientation. Her journey started as a first-generation college student at Texas A&M University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Speech Communication and master’s degree in Educational Administration. Her educational journey continued at the University of Houston where she earned her doctorate in Administration and Supervision with an emphasis in Higher Education.

Prior to serving at Lone Star College, Dr. Porter was the Coordinator for the Office of Multicultural and International Student Services at Sam Houston State University. She held other student-focused roles at Ohio University and Texas A&M University. 

What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
To me, Women’s History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the many amazing women who have helped shape this world. Like a birthday, it doesn’t mean that it is the only time that you can celebrate someone, but it is a time especially for them.  

Why is it important that we celebrate women’s history? 
It is important to celebrate women’s history because there is such a rich background of what women have contributed to every facet of our society. Celebrating during this month gives exposure to and provides additional education surrounding issues relating to women.  

Who has been a big female influence or role model in your life? 
A big influence in my life who I never met is the late, great Maya Angelou. I was first introduced to her when I read “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” as a young girl. From then, I looked into her background and there were so many parallels. Her ability to grow into this strong, vocal woman despite the things that she had been through made her a lifelong influence for me.   

Describe the importance of pursuing education as you were growing up? 
I did not grow up in a family where formal education was promoted. It was more along the lines of go to school, get good grades and graduate. There wasn’t really a push to pursue a career path. I was always good in school, though. I believe it was an escape for me from my surroundings. As I participated in education, there were teachers, counselors and administrators who were my support where my family couldn’t be and that is what drove me to be in education. I wanted to be that person for someone else. I also see that education changes generations. It is a powerful thing if we let it be. 

What challenges have you overcome? 
I did not grow up in the best of circumstances. I was determined not to be a statistic and education helped me to avoid that pitfall. My favorite saying is, “Thank God I don’t look like what I have been through.”

What is your message for the women of LSC-University Park? 
To the women of LSC-University Park, I say, “Be encouraged. Whether you are battling professionally, personally, physically, financially or even spiritually – be encouraged. It may not look the way you want it to look, but let no experience be wasted. Take what you can from the experience, and be encouraged.”

What is your six-word story?
Life survivor. Intentionally breathing. Hope restored.