Gratitude and farewell to my mentors

BY THOMAS ENGELBERT / Multimedia Journalist

Dear Tarleton Family,

As my time at Tarleton State University draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I’ve had here. It’s difficult to put into words the gratitude I feel for the people who have shaped my experience, but I will do my best to honor them in this farewell letter. Each of these individuals has profoundly impacted my life, and this is my opportunity to express my thanks.
 

First and foremost, I must acknowledge Kirk Wise, a teacher and mentor in sports communication. 
 

His class reignited my passion for audio and video editing, a flame that had dimmed over the years. Kirk’s teaching style and enthusiasm for the craft made every class an adventure, sparking my excitement to continue pursuing a career in this field. He didn’t just teach; he inspired me, and for that, I am forever grateful. Kirk, thank you for reminding me why I fell in love with storytelling through media in the first place.
 

Next, I want to thank Shalya Moose, our Communications Specialist, Student Media Advisor, teacher and mentor. Ms. Moose was the instructor of my first art class at Tarleton. Her passion and commitment, not just to her art but to her students, left a lasting impression on me. She believed in my potential even when I doubted myself, and she supported me. Ms. 

Moose, your guidance and encouragement have meant the world to me. Thank you for being my rock and my cheerleader.
 

Austin Lewter, an instructor and mentor in Journalism and Broadcasting, and my boss at the TNS, is another person who deserves my heartfelt thanks. Mr. Lewter helped me uncover my passion for journalism. 
 

He taught me the importance of delving into the heart of a story, of uncovering not just what people do, but why they do it. His mentorship pushed me to become a better writer and storyteller. Austin, your lessons will stay with me forever, and I’ll carry your wisdom into every story I tell.
 

I must also express my gratitude to Lance McFarlin, my boss at KXTR 100.7 The Planet and KTRL 90.5. Lance gave me a glimpse into the world of radio and solidified my passion for audio production. He showed me what it’s like to work in a professional station and helped me discover the path I want to take in my career. Lance, thank you for setting me up for success and for sharing your expertise with me.
 

And now, I come to the person who has had the most profound impact on my life: Dr. Manon Shockey, Director of Student Development and Mentoring. Dr. Shockey is not just a mentor; she is a beacon of light, a source of hope, and the embodiment of grace and selflessness. Her role in my life transcends that of an advisor or teacher. She has been my lifeline, my confidant and my guiding star.
 

In April of 2019, my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 prostate cancer, a special BRCA-2 gene mutation. It was a devastating time for my family and me. The prognosis seemed to worsen every day, and by the time I started my freshman year, I was drowning in a sea of anxiety, depression, and despair. I stopped attending classes, abandoned my assignments and fell into a deep pit of hopelessness. My academic performance plummeted and I was eventually placed on academic suspension.
 

It was during this dark chapter of my life that I met Dr. Shockey. My mom and I had a meeting with Tarleton staff to discuss my suspension, and that’s when Dr. Shockey entered my life. 

From the moment we met, I felt an inexplicable sense of comfort and reassurance. Dr. Shockey saw beyond my struggles; she saw my potential. She didn’t just help me academically; she helped me rebuild my life.
 

We began meeting weekly, sometimes even twice a week. Our conversations weren’t just about schoolwork; they were about life. She created a safe space where I could open up about my fears, my grief, and my dreams. She listened with empathy and offered guidance with compassion. Dr. Shockey taught me how to find strength in vulnerability and how to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.
 

As my dad’s condition worsened, my bond with Dr. Shockey grew stronger. She became a constant source of support and encouragement. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world seemed to come to a standstill, Dr. Shockey was there for me. The pandemic, though challenging, gave me precious time with my dad, and Dr. Shockey’s presence during this period was invaluable. She helped me find meaning and purpose in the midst of chaos.
 

When my dad passed away in November of 2021, it was the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced. The days that followed were a blur of grief and numbness. I remember sitting in the lobby of our church during my dad’s memorial service, overwhelmed and overstimulated, trying to retreat into myself. And then, out of the crowd, I heard someone call my name. It was Dr. Shockey. She had come to the memorial, unannounced, to support me. Her presence at that moment was like a flash of light in the darkest night. I will never forget the comfort and solace she brought me that day.
 

Dr. Shockey is more than a mentor to me. She is hope personified. She is the embodiment of kindness and selflessness. She is a shining example of what it means to truly care for others. 

Dr. Shockey, you have saved me in more ways than I can count. You pulled me out of the pit I had dug for myself, set me on solid ground, and gave me the tools to thrive. You are my hero, my guiding light, and my eternal source of inspiration. Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for everything you have done for me. I owe my success to you.
 

As I say goodbye to Tarleton, I do so with a heart full of gratitude. To my teachers, mentors, and friends, thank you for believing in me, for challenging me, and for helping me become the person I am today. To my family, thank you for your unwavering support and love. And to Dr. Manon Shockey, thank you for being my light in the darkest of times. You have left an indelible mark on my life, and I will carry your lessons with me always.
 

Farewell, Tarleton. You will always be a part of me.

With gratitude and love, 
Thomas Engelbert