When the Torres’ attend the college reunions of their future, they can easily rideshare. That’s because three members of the same family — dad Joel Torres and daughters Stephany and Crystal — will all have degrees from Holy Family University.

Moreover, Joel and Stephany are members of the Class of 2022, graduating together. Crystal, now working as a nurse, is a 2021 alumna.

Joel’s Academic Journey

Joel is receiving a Holy Family bachelor’s degree diploma in Business Administration with a concentration in Criminal Justice, an academic path he began elsewhere with an associate degree earned years ago. Full time, he is a 20-year veteran of the Phila. Police Department.

“When I was weighing my options for completing my bachelor’s degree, Holy Family offered me a very good financial package and accelerated courses that were convenient for me,” he said. “Many of my professors were supervisors in the police department or retired law enforcement.”

Fatherly Advice

It was at Joel’s suggestion that Crystal attended Holy Family for her Nursing degree; by then, he had come to admire the school’s reputation for excellence in that field.

By the time Stephany was weighing post-secondary options, Holy Family seemed an apt choice, making it a familial scholastic three-pete.

“I wanted to go to a university that would help me grow in whatever career I was pursuing but also help me grow as a person as well. Holy Family has helped me grow, improve, and mold me into the person that I am today,” Stephany said.

Gratitude and Pride

The Torres girls appreciate not only what their father has accomplished but also the personal sacrifice it involved.

“My father worked two or three jobs to provide for us, and there were times that he was teaching me how to drive and I would drive him to Holy Family for a night class and I would drive him back home,” remembers Stephany.

“He was not only being a good father, but he was committing to his goal. I have never been so proud of him. And how many people can say that they will graduate on the same day as their dad? It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am so blessed to share this moment with him,” she continued.

Likewise, Joel gushes as any proud parent would over the prospect of graduating with a daughter.

“It’s an honor,” he said. “You always try to do the right thing. When I was younger, I couldn’t finish school. I wanted to set an example of persevering for my daughters so that they know that it is never too late. If they work hard, they can accomplish anything that they want in life.”