Siblings inspire each other, walk grad stage together

As brother and sister, Brennan Brooks and Mysti Jo Camara Brooks encouraged and supported each other all through their time at ECTC. And to the delight of about 20 cheering friends and family, they celebrated by walking the graduation stage side by side, the last two students to be recognized at the college’s December commencement.  

Both in their 30s, the siblings said their paths have differed greatly. They shared the discipline to pursue education, however, and enrolled at ECTC together a few years ago.  

“I had kids and knew I needed to get it together, so I buckled down and got through it,” Brennan said in December as he waited for the graduation ceremony to begin.  

“We kind of held each other accountable,” Mysti added. “If you work hard, you’ll get it.” 
Both graduated with associate degrees in business administration. Mysti completed the management track, and Brennan completed the real estate management track.  

Business Administration Professor and Program Coordinator JoNell Henderson had both in class, though not at the same time.

“They are both intelligent, hard-working, and enjoyable people,” she said. “My heart was so full, and I beamed like a proud parent watching them walk across that stage, knowing they both had accomplished their individual goals, but encouraged each other as a strong accountability team.”

Mysti, already working in management, will pursue a bachelor's degree at the University of Louisville next and plans to ultimately become an entrepreneur.  

Brennan, already working in property management, will pursue a real estate license and continue in that field.  

Learn more about ECTC’s Business Administration program, with tracks in accounting, hospitality management, human resources management, management, marketing, and real estate management.