LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – What began as an eight-week internship became a 35-year dedication to West Texas education for Cicely Alexander.
The Houston native originally came to the region as an engineering major, but discovered her true passion was in the classroom rather than the laboratory.
“I have zero regrets, zero regrets. My career, my educational journey has been a labor of love,” Alexander said.
Alexander’s career path shifted during that brief internship, leading her to spend more than three decades serving students as a teacher, counselor and principal. She now oversees counseling and college readiness initiatives across Lubbock ISD.
Her perspective on education reflects the broad impact teachers have on society.
“One thing about teachers and educators every career passes through us. Someone told me that long ago, rather someone wants to become a journalist, news reporter, doctor, lawyer, plumber, electrician. Every career passes through a teacher,” Alexander said.
In a community where students don’t always encounter leaders who share their background, Alexander recognizes the significance of her role.
“I am a role model, representation matters,” she said.
The impact often appears in unexpected moments with young students.
“When they see me and they’re like Oh Mrs. Alexander, Dr.Alexander you have braids too, your skin looks like mine and your the principal, your the teacher that means a lot to little girls,” Alexander said.
Alexander has earned three degrees, including a doctorate, achievements she attributes to those who paved the way before her.
“I realize that the only reason why I’m able to be in this position today is because of the people who came before me. My grandparents, my parent, they worked very very hard a very strong work ethic and they instilled that in me,” Alexander said.
Her contributions to education have earned recognition from the community. Alexander has been named the YWCA of Lubbock’s 2026 Women of Excellence honoree, an honor that comes during Black History Month as she continues building her own legacy in West Texas education.
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