Four Years. One Milestone. Endless Possibilities.

As they prepare to "Lead On" beyond TCU, December graduates are reflecting on the experiences, passions and people that shaped their Horned Frog journeys.

Claudia Tiffany Rodriguez, a Fort Worth native, graduated with a self-designed degree in interdisciplinary inquiry with an emphasis in ballet folklorico. Rodriguez also minored in arts leadership and entrepreneurship. 

Looking back on her time at TCU, Rodriguez said the opportunity to create her own major and carve out a space for ballet folklorico within higher education was a defining moment. 

“Designing a degree that honors my culture while also proving that folklorico deserves academic recognition taught me resilience, leadership and the power of pursuing a vision even when no blueprint exists,” Rodriguez says. “It transformed me not only as an artist but also as a cultural advocate.” 

During her time at TCU, Rodriguez performed at campuswide events, including several with TCU Athletics. She also founded TCU’s first ballet folklorico student organization, TCU Ballet Folklorico. The group is passionate about celebrating the vibrant and diverse traditions of Mexican culture through energetic dance, music, and storytelling. Members honor their rich heritage while also looking to the future, blending tradition with creativity in every performance. 

“Those moments, when folklorico truly came alive on campus, are memories I will carry with me forever,” she says. 

When asked what advice she would share with future Horned Frogs, Rodriguez encourages students to keep going despite challenges. 

“No matter how difficult the journey becomes, do not stop,” Rodriguez said. “Let perseverance steady your steps and consistency carry you farther than you imagine. Hold on to your goals and your dreams and trust the effort you pour into them, even when no one is watching. When you stay committed, anything you set your mind to becomes possible. Keep moving forward with purpose and Lead On.” 

After walking the stage, Rodriguez will continue growing as a performer and cultural educator while pursuing graduate studies that allow her to deepen her work in ballet folklorico, community engagement and the arts. 

Morris Mims, a Lewisville, Texas, native, graduated cum laude from the Bob Schieffer College of Communication with a major in communication studiesand a minor in psychology. 

Reflecting on his time at TCU, Mims says one of his most defining moments came during his second semester, when he auditioned to appear on Dr. Phil Primetime to discuss mental health among Gen Z. 

“After learning I was a TCU student, the producers hired me immediately,” Mims says. “That experience affirmed that I was at the right university and showed me the power of using my education and my voice to address real-world issues.” 

Mims says some of his most meaningful experiences at TCU came from opportunities that allowed him to engage with his peers beyond the classroom. One of his favorite memories was speaking at a TCU-hosted event focused on elections, democracy and social values. 

“I loved being able to connect my peers with the proper resources to register to vote during the 2024 presidential election and help make civic engagement more accessible,” Mims says. 

When asked what advice he would offer future Horned Frogs, Mims encourages students to explore every opportunity available to them. 

“Try everything,” Mims says. “Take advantage of Handshake, apply for on-campus jobs and get involved in opportunities that align with your interests. TCU offers countless ways for students to explore their creativity and gain hands-on experience in the fields they are most passionate about. It truly is a university for everyone.” 

After graduation, Mims will return to TCU to pursue a master’s degree at Brite Divinity School while continuing to grow his company, American Social Consulting Group, which provides digital marketing strategies and social media management for businesses, elected officials and individuals. Through both endeavors, Mims hopes to deepen his ability to connect with people from all backgrounds around the world. 

Addison Dowdy, a fashion merchandising and digital culture and data analytics double major, also reflected on her three and a half years at TCU. 

Dowdy encourages future Horned Frogs to take advantage of every opportunity TCU offers. She advises students to try new things, meet new people, use campus resources and smile at everyone they encounter. 

After graduation, Dowdy will work in New York City as a wholesale planning assistant at Kate Spade. 

Dowdy reminisces on her countless memories during her time on campus. 

“I have had so many unforgettable moments at TCU, from cheering at the Big 12 Championship and watching the National Championship my first year to being invited to the Chancellor’s house and discovering Horned Frog shaped butter,” Dowdy says. “Driving our athletic director, Mike Buddie, as the lead car in the 2025 TCU Homecoming Parade was another highlight. Add in the countless sorority events and the lifelong relationships I have built with my professors and peers, and TCU has truly given me memories I will carry forever.”