Antonia Anderson

Academic Advisor for Freshman & Sophomore Football, All Track & Field and Cross Country

Antonia’s journey to A&M-Commerce was a remarkable coincidence. She wanted to learn more about college athletics, so she contacted her former college basketball coach, Valerie King. Little did she know that King had just become the head coach at A&M-Commerce a week prior, and that led her here. As a former student-athlete herself, Anderson empathizes with their struggles and aspirations. As an athletics academic advisor, she supports student-athletes in balancing their academic and athletic pursuits. In addition to her role at A&M-Commerce, Anderson continues to work with Alamo City Hoops as their administrator, where she organizes and plans events; Her expertise will help her create events for A&M-Commerce's student-athletes as they build relationships within their teams and outside their chosen sport.

A Conversation With Antonia

What is an important life lesson you have learned?

“Things happen as they are supposed to at the right time. It has taught me patience and the need to appreciate and enjoy where my feet are in the moment.”

What do you like to do when you are not working?

“I am a big-time homebody, so I love spending time in my apartment watching movies, reading a book or talking to my family and friends on the phone.”

Who has been a role model for you? How has this person positively influenced you?

“I actually have two. First, Joseph Debonis, my academic advisor, showed me how to be a great advisor. He made all the athletes feel welcome and comfortable. My former teammates think I can do the same, so I want to create that atmosphere here at A&M-Commerce. Second, Symone Denham, my previous assistant coach, taught me life lessons on and off the court. She is an amazing woman who I admire and appreciate.”

Education

• M.A., Human Resource Development, The University of New Mexico, 2022
• B.A., Community Health Education, The University of New Mexico, 2021

Professional Experience

• Athletic Academic Advisor, Texas A&M University-Commerce, 2023-Present
• Administrator, Alamo City Hoops, 2022-Present