Elisha Mac Gregor came to ACC searching for a place to rebuild. What she found was a community. In turn, she helped build one for others.
“I chose ACC because I was looking for a community and a place where I could rebuild myself while doing it.”
Since beginning her journey in January 2023, Elisha has become a deeply engaged leader at the College. A proud Ascender and Honors Program student pursuing associate degrees in Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work, she poured herself into both her academics and her community. She has:
- Peer mentor for Ascender Program,
- Served as Student Government Association Director of Communications,
- Contributed more than 2,000 volunteer hours,
- Helped bring the Sigma Kappa Delta English Honor Society to campus, and
- Advocated for expanded student resources.
Her path, however, was not easy. Just weeks before the end of a fall semester, Elisha experienced a devastating house fire that left her without her belongings. In that moment, she says, the ACC community showed up in ways she will never forget.
“It was an extremely challenging time because I lost my clothes and all of my belongings. However, the support I received from ACC faculty and staff was overwhelming and really made me feel the love, yes, joy, and compassion of this institution. My professors supported me with class accommodations, my Riverbat Bites coworkers collected clothes and money, and the student emergency funds provided extra support. Without their help, I wouldn’t be graduating this semester.”
That experience deepened her commitment to serving others. Through programs like Ascender, PATHS, and the Honors Program, Elisha found both support and purpose—building connections, advocating for students, and creating spaces where others could feel seen and supported.
“I am proud of all the tangible work I accomplished at this institution, but I am equally proud of the human connections I fostered during this time. Bringing joy to those around me, sharing a smile, and normalizing a simple hug helped build the supportive community I am so fortunate to be a part of.”
She credits mentors like Dr. Blanca Alvarado, Alejandra Polcik, and Laura Trellue with helping shape her vision for the future.
“Through their teachings, I learned to challenge exclusive spaces and build new ones for the next generation. This experience taught me that my greatest purpose in this season of my life is not just to succeed in college and move on, but to ensure that I am genuinely connecting with and uplifting others along the way.”
Next, Elisha will transfer to St. Edward’s University on a full scholarship to pursue her Bachelor of Social Work, continuing her mission to redesign basic needs systems and better support students and communities.
“I look forward to taking everything I have learned and gained from the ACC family and community with me. I will be continuing the work of supporting students, empowering them, and uplifting people along the way so they feel valued, respected, and supported.”
As she prepares for graduation, her message to others is grounded in the same values that shaped her journey:
“College is for everyone, and it is waiting for you. Don’t just focus on grades; start with people. Build community and surround yourself with those who support and encourage you. If you can’t find a community, create one.”
Elisha will join more than 3,700 graduates celebrating this milestone on Thursday, May 14, at the H-E-B Center at Cedar Park.
Help celebrate Elisha and the Class of 2026 by sharing a message of encouragement on the Padlet Wall.