For the Henderson family, college is more than an individual achievement.
For the Henderson family, college is more than an individual achievement. It’s a family affair. With four family members pursuing their education at San Juan College (SJC), they are showing that it’s never too early or too late to invest in a brighter future.
Michael Henderson Finds a New Career Path
Michael Henderson’s return to the classroom began with an unexpected career change. In 2022, after 14 years in the coal mining industry, he suddenly found himself without a job and uncertain about what came next.
Through the Energy Transition Act (ETA) program, Michael discovered an opportunity to continue his education, develop new skills and explore career options beyond the industry he had known for more than a decade.
The ETA program was designed to help create jobs and support communities affected by coal plant closures.
He is now pursuing a degree in Instrumentation Controls and Electrical Technology through SJC’s School of Energy.
Michael also has an entrepreneurial goal of opening his own Sonoran hot dog business.
Irene Henderson Returns to College While Raising a Family
Michael’s educational journey also opened the door for his wife, Irene Henderson, to return to college.
Irene first attended SJC in 2008 but stepped away from her studies to raise their children. Through the ETA program, she found an opportunity to resume her education while continuing her responsibilities as a full-time stay-at-home mom.
She is now working toward an online degree in business administration, allowing her to balance coursework with family life.
“I never really liked school, but being older now, I have a deeper appreciation for my studies and what I am learning,” Irene said.
For Irene, continuing her education represents an investment in herself and her future. Her decision also sets an example for her children by showing them that learning can remain a priority at every stage of life.
Madison and Maci Henderson Explore Their Passions
The Henderson daughters are also building their futures at SJC.
Through dual-credit education, students can begin earning college credits while completing high school requirements.
Madison Henderson Pursues Biology
Madison Henderson is a dual-credit student at San Juan College High School (SJCHS). She has already earned her high school diploma and is working toward an associate degree in biology.
Her ambition began with a desire to follow the example of students who complete college early.
“I always heard stories about super smart kids finishing college early, and I wanted to be one of them,” Madison shared.
Maci Henderson Turns a Passion for Beauty into a Career Goal
Maci Henderson, a dual-credit student through Kirtland Central High School, is exploring a different area of interest.
Passionate about hair, makeup and makeovers, Maci plans to pursue cosmetology and potentially open her own business.
“I want to graduate early, so that’s why I’m balancing my sophomore, junior and college classes,” Maci said.
By exploring her interests now, she is beginning to identify the skills and training she will need to turn her passion into a profession.
A Family That Studies Together, Succeeds Together
Balancing school, work and family responsibilities takes organization, sacrifice and teamwork. For the Hendersons, however, attending SJC together has created opportunities to connect in unexpected ways.
Michael and Maci once shared an online psychology class, and Madison is now taking the same course. Instead of treating their educational journeys as a competition, the family uses those shared experiences to help one another succeed.
“Being able to compare experiences, offer encouragement and understand the challenges that come with assignments, deadlines and studying has strengthened our education and family relationship,” said Michael.
When asked who in the family was the biggest overachiever and most likely to remind everyone about an upcoming assignment, they unanimously chose dad.
The Henderson Family Shows It’s Never Too Late to Learn
The Hendersons encourage others considering college to embrace the challenge and recognize that the effort is worthwhile.
Their experiences show that there is no single timeline for higher education. Some students begin earning college credits in high school, while others return to school after years in the workforce or time spent raising a family.
The family’s story at SJC may also continue to grow. Their two youngest children, Molly and Milo, are still attending Kirtland Elementary, leaving open the possibility that they, too, may one day follow in their family's educational footsteps.
Ready to start your own educational journey?
Explore academic programs, career training opportunities and dual-credit options to find a path that fits your goals. Whether you’re a high school student planning ahead, an adult returning to college or someone preparing for a new career, your next chapter can start at SJC.
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