Amanda Graham
/Amanda Graham
Four States Living Tribute To Women
photo by ALAMOND PHOTOGRAPHY
According to Amanda Graham, being an educator is one of the most fulfilling and rewarding professions. She is honored to say that she has committed her life to education for the past 18 years. Amanda and her husband, Terry, have one son, Jaxson, and one daughter, Ella. She is very thankful that her family supports her educational journeys, as well as her spontaneous ideas and projects. She admits that their love and encouragement makes her strive for excellence in all she does.
Amanda and Terry with their children, Jaxson and Ella, enjoying a beautiful day this spring.
For the past two years, Amanda Graham has had the pleasure of working at Texarkana College as the Executive Director of Academic Services, as well as an adjunct professor for Learning Frameworks. Prior to joining the TC family, Amanda was an educator with Texarkana ISD for 15 years. She taught grades 2-6, was a Curriculum Coach, and Assistant Principal.
Over the course of her life, Amanda’s father has been her biggest influence. “My father has always supported and encouraged me to ‘go big or go home,’” she explains. “Growing up, he pushed my brothers and me to give 110 percent to whatever we did. When I wanted to give up, he wouldn’t let me. He always said, ‘If it was easy, everyone would be doing it.’ I find myself telling my children this same thing to this day!”
Aside from her awesome family, Amanda’s proudest personal accomplishment is obtaining her master’s degree, along with her Principal Certification while raising two children. Being an integral part of the Leader in Me® initiative while at TISD is Amanda’s proudest professional achievement.
“No matter what level of education you are involved with, being an educator means you are not only present on the job site, but you additionally spend countless hours behind-the-scenes,” Amanda explains. “For the longest time, my community service was dedicated to elementary and middle school public education through campus and community events. Thankfully, I can continue this work at Texarkana College – just in a different venue.” Additionally, in the last several years, Amanda has volunteered at the Customer Service desk on Sundays at Heritage Church. She enjoys greeting her church family with a smile and helping them with any questions or concerns.
Amanda encourages young women to slow down and enjoy each day. Because we live in such a fast-paced world and are so used to the constant motion of go, Amanda encourages young women to slow down, enjoy today, enjoy yourself, and enjoy others. “I want to encourage young women to enjoy the season of life you are in; for in the blink of an eye, there will be a new season ... and that’s okay. It’s life .... it happens,” she explains. Finally, she encourages them to embrace each season and give it all to God, for He is in control and makes each season beautiful in time.
“Treat others the way you want to be treated.”
- Nannie Jones (Amanda’s grandmother)
The Way Dr. Donna McDaniel Sees Her
Amanda Graham is a dynamic, hardworking, thoughtful coworker whom I consider a very dear friend. She balances her roles as a wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend, and professional with attention and class. I have worked with Amanda at three different campuses and always admired her energy, enthusiasm, and get the job done attitude. She shines a light in all that she does and works hard to make people happy. We are so fortunate to have her at Texarkana College working to make a difference in the lives of others. Amanda is her own authentic self, no judging, just accepting people as they are while wishing the best for them. It is pretty rare to find people like her that really live Christianity and love unconditionally.
Amanda is a friend who listens, encourages, counsels, and prays with me. She pushes me and others in her life to be happy, live our best life, and be our best self. She brings joy to others. One of the values that draws us close is that family is what matters most. Through thick and thin, she is loyal and works to keep family the priority. Another common thread we have is that our coworkers are our friends. Amanda values those working relationships and works to ensure that her workplace feels like family by organizing fun events and making others feel special. Amanda is a caring person and loves others BIG! While she may be little in stature, her heart is as big as Texas.
FUN FACTS
What is something unique about you that most people would not know?
“I cannot eat anything that is mayonnaise-based. Period.”
If you could have dinner with one person, famous or not, living or dead, real or fictional, with whom would it be?
“My Granny Godwin. Oh, what I would give for a big hug and kiss from her! We would eat her homemade chicken and dumplings, fresh tomatoes, and chocolate pie.”
If you could travel to space, and it was free, would you go?
“Absolutely! You only live once.”
What music do you listen to in your vehicle?
“My 14-year-old daughter controls the radio. Enough said!”
What did you imagine yourself being when you were growing up?
“Teacher. I have always had a heart to be a role model for others and let others know I care about them.”
What is the last gift you gave someone?
“Gift certificate to Ulta. What woman can’t find something in there?”
What is your favorite meal that you order regularly at a local establishment?
“Chopped Spinach Salad from Ironwood Grill. You must try this if you haven’t.”
If there was a movie produced about your life, which actress would portray you?
“My family says Reese Witherspoon.”