Photo caption: Destiny Martin (left), and Rowena Becker (right), are mother and daughter. Both of them went through the registered nursing program together and have graduated.
MOHAVE COUNTY – Most families share traditions. This mother-daughter duo shared a syllabus, a graduation date and a life-changing journey.
Destiny Martin began her higher education journey in high school, taking nursing prerequisites while still earning her diploma from River Valley High School. After a break, she returned to complete her degree alongside her mother, Rowena Becker. Both graduated from the Mohave College Nursing program in December.
Becker decided to return to school after many years to finish what she had started. Already working as a licensed practical nurse, she wanted to pursue her registered nursing degree. Finishing her degree allowed her to be a strong role model for her daughters by showing them it’s never too late.
“It had always been a personal and professional goal and with guidance from a college advisor the process felt manageable and taking those first steps led me back into the program,” she said. “It re-affirmed that growth often begins with the courage to start.”
Martin’s pursuit of nursing stemmed from wanting to be a person who heals the sick and drives positive change in her community. She decided to come back to provide a better life for her own daughter.
Both faced the program’s rigorous demands, but support from dedicated instructors and the friendships they built along the way turned challenges into a deeply rewarding experience. Attending Mohave College made it all possible, with convenient locations across the county and flexible class offerings that fit their busy lives and allowed them to balance family, work and studies while staying close to home.
What made this experience truly meaningful was not just becoming nurses, but achieving it together as mother and daughter. As Becker began the journey, she was careful not to overshadow her daughter. After open conversations, they realized they were each enhancing the other’s accomplishment by sharing the path.
“Completing this program together wasn’t just about earning a degree,” Becker said. “It was about shared growth, mutual support and creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will always carry with us. It is something I will forever cherish and be grateful for.”
Martin added that she couldn’t have done it without her mom by her side every step of the way. She feels especially proud to say she followed in her mother’s footsteps and continued their education together.
Their shared journey extends beyond the classroom: Both now work at The Legacy Rehab & Care Center in Bullhead City. Becker has been with the facility for 13 years, serving in various roles and currently working as a quality assurance nurse. Martin previously served as director of social services and recently transitioned to bedside nursing after earning her licensed practical nursing certificate.
Working in long-term care, Becker finds deep fulfillment in building meaningful relationships with residents, caring for someone’s loved one and making a lasting impact on their lives. Her close bond with her grandmother from a young age instilled in her a lifelong calling to care for older generations.
Martin grew up accompanying her mom to work, joining in activities like bingo with residents and visiting those whose families couldn’t be there. These early experiences shaped her path and led her to the nursing career she pursues today.
“I love that it’s one big family,” Martin said. “I feel like I’m home when I’m there. They’ve worked with my school schedule and have gone above and beyond for me. They never doubted me and always helped me throughout the way.”
The Mohave College Nursing program demands significant time and dedication, yet Becker and Martin balanced full-time work while completing their studies. Their success required resilience, long hours and strong support from family and friends.
Now that they’ve graduated, Becker plans to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing to further develop her knowledge, skills and ability to advocate for patients. Martin aims to become a nurse practitioner and hopes to one day work in a children’s hospital.
Learn more about Mohave College’s Nursing program, visit Mohave.edu/Nursing. Registration for the summer and fall 2026 semesters is now open – sign up before classes fill up. Start by creating a student account at FutureBighorn.com. Anyone looking for more information about the enrollment process should reach out to the Admissions team, their contact information is available at Mohave.edu/Admission.
