2024 - Toyolene Wallace

Toyolene says, “I came from nothing, a black girl in the projects. I decided it was time to take that narrative out.” A single mother on social services and pregnant again when she decided to make a major life move, Ms. Wallace fought to get enrolled in the Dental Assisting program. Being told that the class was full, she was not willing to accept that as a barrier. She made herself well known to faculty and staff and recalls making numerous phone calls and showing up in person to make her case as to why she should be enrolled. When a slot did eventually open, Toyolene was invited to interview with department personnel; she earned that one coveted seat and enrolled. While a student, Ms. Wallace maintained her overnight position as a Residential Aide at Baker Victory Services, and balanced her job with class work, 300 hours of required clinical experience and motherhood.

After graduation, Toyolene worked full time as a Dental Assistant at Aspen Dental, and she continued to work at Baker Victory at night. Her dental career also included working for Joseph Hyde DDS, and for Andrew Todesco DDS where she says she was able to professionally excel. When offered a full-time permanent position with Dr. Todesco, Toyolene was unable to accept it due to receiving a debilitating health diagnosis. She also had to leave her work of 8 years at Baker Victory Services and then qualified to receive Social Security Disability benefits.

Facing her and her family’s future, Ms. Wallace decided to enroll in college and in 2020 she completed her Associates in Liberal Arts/General Studies at SUNY Erie College. She continued her education and earned her Bachelor’s in Healthcare Management taking online courses at Trocaire College. Early on, she struggled with the transition of virtual learning and went on academic probation but determined to succeed she focused and rose as a name on the Dean’s List for 2 years. In May 2023, Ms. Toyolene Wallace walked the commencement stage.

Toyolene continues to envision where her self-empowerment will ultimately lead. She is currently taking online courses at Hilbert College anticipating graduating this December 2024 with a Master’s in Public Service Administration and a concentration in health care, while also working full-time at ECMC as an Administrative Assistant at Terrace View Long Term Care. Once again balancing school, work, and family and with faith continuing as her constant guide, Ms. Toyolene Wallace has left her obstacles behind and has seized opportunity. 4.24

Alumni Affairs and Student Development Office