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After the Classroom

Mother-Daughter Duo Reflect on Educational Journey

Madison and Amy Weakley Soules College of Business administrative services officer and Tylerite Amy Weakley and her daughter, Madison, share a unique bond. Amy became a single mother at age 18, so they practically grew up together. They play video games together and even share an alma mater – UT Tyler.

The pair graduated together with their BBA degrees in May 2017.

“I always wanted to show Maddi that you can do anything that you put your mind to,” said Amy, who has served UT Tyler since 2004, making her the longest tenured staff member in the college. “She is my most precious accomplishment, and getting a quality education is my second. I am so happy that I had the opportunity to do that with her. That feat alone makes our bond even more special.”

Mother and daughter would eventually earn their master’s degrees from the university as well. Madison received a MAcc in 2018, while Amy received an MBA last year. For Amy, she experienced the college’s caring, family atmosphere from both sides – first as a staff member – and then as a student.

“Throughout the years, both faculty and staff in this college have felt like family,” Amy said. “I am encouraged to speak up, and the leaders of the college consider my opinions as a colleague. I look forward every day to coming to work. Not many people can say that.”

Madison also describes the faculty and staff as “the cream of the crop,” noting that UT Tyler and the Soules College of Business are more than just a school, but a community that supports one another.

“While an undergrad, I lost my stepdad, and the amount of support, understanding and encouragement that I got from my professors would not have been matched at any other institution,” Madison said. “UT Tyler and the faculty and staff within the college helped to shape who I am today, along with my strong, gorgeous, kind, courageous, and every other kind word you can use to describe a person – my mom!”

Madison learned much from faculty as well; two in particular. “Jennifer Reynolds noticed how much I enjoyed accounting after taking her intro class and really pushed and encouraged me. Dr. (Roger) Lirely (department chair) was supportive in literally everything I did,” Madison said.

Amy added that she is proud not only to work in the Soules College of Business, but also to know her daughter received a top-notch education from UT Tyler.

Amy and Madison Weakley in younger years “Working here and being able to give her the opportunity to complete her education was an incredible perk of the job,” Amy said. “I like knowing that we, as a college, are making a difference in people’s lives. Seeing not only my daughter but other students leave our college and go out into the real world and make a difference is great. Getting to see what they have accomplished beyond college just puts a smile on my face and warms my heart.”

Looking back, Madison appreciates the fact that her mother was such an integral part of her undergraduate experience.

“I worked as a TA for the college and officed with my mom. We also lived together at the time, and we even got to take a few classes together,” Madison explained. “So, unlike most college kids, my mom was ingrained in my college experience, and I would not have had it any other way.”

Among hobbies, the duo enjoys spending time together and traveling. A proud parent of two great danes, Madison works as a business operations manager for CCK Medical Management LLC and recently became engaged to be married.

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