A Bold New Beginning: Estella Butler’s Journey of Resilience and Renewal
Estella Butler has courageously chosen to pursue a lifelong goal she had long postponed. After working as a cosmetologist for more than 30 years, she decided it was time for a bold change.
A graduate of South San Antonio High School, Estella entered cosmetology school immediately after finishing her diploma. Yet she always felt there was more to her potential—more she wanted to challenge, explore, and achieve. Eventually, she chose to bet on herself and return to education.
As a non-traditional, first-generation college student, Estella is passionate about learning, self-growth, and using her life experiences to uplift others. At Northeast Lakeview College, she has excelled academically while fully embracing leadership opportunities across campus. She chose to major in Liberal Arts to broaden her exposure to arts and culture, a long-standing personal interest, and to deepen her understanding of diverse communities. Ultimately, she hopes to pursue a career where she can mentor students, encouraging them to persist, overcome obstacles, and discover their own potential. Her background gives her a deep understanding of the barriers many students face in accessing educational support and resources.
Estella is highly involved on campus, serving as Treasurer of the Student Government Association, President of Phi Theta Kappa, Treasurer of Student Veterans of America, and an active member of the Hispanic Students Association, The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), and the Alamo Foundation Ambassadors. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including multiple President’s and Dean’s List honors, the Gilman International Scholarship, and the Alamo Colleges International Education Scholarship. Her resilience can best be described as positive, caring, and supportive. In every role she holds, she has consistently balanced both her academic and family responsibilities.
"It’s a powerful validation of the cultural heritage, struggles, and triumphs that continue to inspire my journey."
Receiving the TACHE Scholarship is especially meaningful to Estella. Estella is an engaged and dedicated member of the Foundation Scholarship Ambassador Program. Her peers describe her as an infectious, positive light, and she continues to strengthen the Foundation’s mission through her service and presence in the community. The TACHE Scholarship honors students who demonstrate a deep commitment to leadership and active involvement in campus service. Endless possiblities are ahead for Estella!