Jesse Harbert, a familiar face at Northwest Vista College, has been an integral part of the campus community since 2006. Starting as an adjunct math instructor and now serving as a full-time academic program specialist overseeing the Math Advocacy Center, Jesse’s dedication to education is evident in his daily work. Jesse graduated from San Antonio College in 1976 and embodies Alamo Colleges’ commitment to fostering lifelong learning. Now his granddaughters are continuing his legacy as students at NVC.
An Air Force veteran (25 years), Jesse cherishes his role as a grandfather to six. Jesse’s family legacy at NVC extends to the next generation. His granddaughter, Jayla, is poised to earn her Associate of Arts in Teaching this fall. Inspired by her father’s time (Jesse’s son) at the University of Colorado Boulder, Jayla plans to continue her education there, majoring in Speech Pathology. During Jayla’s time at NVC, she has been a work-study in two different departments, SDEV and now Marketing & Strategic Communications.
Jesse said NVC has prepared Jayla for the next step in her academic journey.
“Jayla is so confident that she is prepared that she now wants to move out of state to a university and test her skill sets,” Jesse added.
Jayla said working for Gary Bowling in SDEV in 2022 began her personal growth of learning how to talk with the NVC community.
“Being at NVC and working on campus for about two years has helped me to be more open and willing to talk with people I don’t know. NVC has helped me to want to venture further,” said Jayla, who’s leaving for Colorado in January.
Another granddaughter, Haylee, has enjoyed her first semester at Northwest Vista College and is following in her grandmother’s (Jesse’s wife) footsteps by majoring in nursing.
Jesse Harbert’s story is a testament to the power of education and the importance of family. His dedication to NVC and his support for his grandchildren’s aspirations exemplify the values that define the college community. As the Harbert family continues to grow and learn, their legacy at NVC will undoubtedly endure.
