Compton College 2026 Commencement Student Speaker Earns Three Degrees While Raising Four Children
Compton College | Community Relations
2026 Compton College graduate Liti-Ahenewa Zabad is a mother of four and a nontraditional student who returned to higher education to build a better life for herself and her family. Inspired by her children, Zabad works hard to achieve her dreams. “I want my children to see through my actions that it is possible to keep going, keep evolving, and keep building despite obstacles,” she said.
She is now ready to continue her higher education to pursue dual careers in service to others.
A dean’s list scholar throughout her studies at Compton College, Zabad earned three associate degrees, one in physical and biological sciences, a second in social and behavioral sciences, and another in psychology. After applying and completing an audition, she was honored to be selected as the student speaker for Compton College’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony.
Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, she relocated to California seven years ago and built an entirely new life with intention. She is passionate about mentorship, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and showing up for people from underserved communities. She decided to return to college “not because the timing was perfect, but with the understanding that certain opportunities do not wait and do not repeat themselves.”
Zabad plans to continue her studies at Compton College this fall to earn an associate degree in nursing and then transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Midway through her educational journey at Compton College, she became an auto collision survivor with a fractured spine. Navigating vulnerability, recovery, and advocacy has given her the drive to become a nurse with a larger goal of pursuing a law degree, specializing in medical malpractice.
“I naturally gravitate toward helping others,” says Zabad. “Through my own experience, I have realized how important advocacy is when people are injured, overwhelmed, and simply trying to survive something difficult. This experience shifted my trajectory into something even greater than I originally imagined,” she said.
Zabad recalls that the first time she stepped on campus, the energy immediately felt bright and welcoming. She said she could feel a sense of community the second she walked through the Student Services office doors. “It wasn’t stiff or transactional,” she said. “It felt human. It felt genuine.” She confirmed that strong support continued throughout her time at Compton College.
Zabad plans to continue her studies at Compton College this fall to earn an associate degree in nursing and then transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Midway through her educational journey at Compton College, she became an auto collision survivor with a fractured spine. Navigating vulnerability, recovery, and advocacy has given her the drive to become a nurse with a larger goal of pursuing a law degree, specializing in medical malpractice.
“I naturally gravitate toward helping others,” says Zabad. “Through my own experience, I have realized how important advocacy is when people are injured, overwhelmed, and simply trying to survive something difficult. This experience shifted my trajectory into something even greater than I originally imagined,” she said.
Zabad recalls that the first time she stepped on campus, the energy immediately felt bright and welcoming. She said she could feel a sense of community the second she walked through the Student Services office doors. “It wasn’t stiff or transactional,” she said. “It felt human. It felt genuine.” She confirmed that strong support continued throughout her time at Compton College.
About Compton College
Compton College is the community’s education solution, offering a full complement of transfer and degree courses, as well as career and technical education. Students may earn an associate degree or certificate, transfer to a four-year university or train for a career. Compton College is located at 1111 E. Artesia Boulevard, Compton, CA 90221.
