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Alena Claycomb will receive her elementary education degree from Kentucky State University and walk with her classmates on Friday, May 12, at the 2023 Commencement Convocation.

The Lexington, Kentucky native is a first-generation student and has already accepted a position at Lansdowne Elementary in her hometown.

Claycomb has always had a passion for children and began as a paraeducator with the Fayette County Public Schools in 2009. She knew that she wanted to become a teacher, but was nervous about having to stop working to do her student teaching. But, Claycomb received a lot of encouragement to pursue her dreams.

“Every principal, teacher, and even parents have always asked me when I was going to go back to school and finish so that I could became a teacher,” she said. “They thought that I was good at it and they could see the love and passion I have for all students.”

As a wife and mother, Claycomb chose Kentucky State because it was the perfect fit for her busy lifestyle. After speaking with a former student, doing her own research, and leaning on her faith, Claycomb said a post on Facebook gave her the confidence to apply.  

“One day, I came across a post shared by Mrs. Krissalyn Love. She wanted to help five mothers get back in school,” Claycomb shared. “I reached out and told her I was interested.” Claycomb didn’t know what institution Mrs. Love was offering assistance for until she spoke with her. “I learned it was KSU. So, I took that as my sign that it was time for me to go back to school and get my degree in elementary education.”

Claycomb began her studies in Jan. 2021 and, because of the pandemic, was able to take all of her courses online. She worked hard and was able to complete the requirements for her degree in Dec. 2022.

Claycomb said Kentucky State prepared her for the success she is now experiencing. She learned how to, “better plan out my lessons, effectively teach the different subjects, and how to better understand the content.”

As a first-generation student, Claycomb said that pursuing a college degree was extremely important for her children to see.

“I wanted my kids – ages 20, 18, 15, and 5 – to see that it is never too late to go after your dreams,” she expressed. “No matter how long it takes or the obstacles that may get in the way, keep going because the finish line is near. I just had to stop letting fear hold me back.”

Commencement will be held at 10 a.m. in the William Exum Center.

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