Where did you receive your education?

Tascosa High School, Amarillo College, Baylor University.

How has your education played a role in your life today?

My education is the foundation for all my work. I learned so much from all my teachers. They not only taught us about their subjects, but also they taught us about life.

What was your greatest educational challenge and how did you overcome it?

My greatest educational challenge came when I was working on the school newspaper and carrying a full class load in college. Sometimes I was tempted to give up, but I'm glad I kept my commitment to achieve my goals.

What is the value of your education?

The value of my education continues to grow. I learn new things every day. The real value of education comes from teachers who help you learn to think and to become a lifelong learner. Education is the only way to keep up with new technologies and trends.

What would you say to someone who's undecided about continuing their education?

I always encourage young people to set goals for their education. They need to see successful role models - men and women who have made a difference. Then they can understand the relationship between education and success.

When did you make education a priority?

My parents, Golden and R.N. Whitley, always made education a priority. From the start, my mom made sure we had plenty of books. She read to us from the time I can remember. My dad worked hard to graduate from college even though his college years were interrupted by his service in World War II. With their encouragement and their financial help, my two sisters and I all graduated from college.

What made you realize the importance of education in your life?

When I was growing up, my favorite books were biographies. I read about pioneer journalists like Nellie Bly. I read about other fascinating people. They all had one thing in common - a strong educational background.

Did you ever think about quitting? What made you keep going?

Everyone thinks about quitting at some time. Fortunately, I was raised to set a goal and achieve it. When I was tempted to quit, I would think about the bigger goal and keep going.