Father and Son Celebrate Graduation Together, Eye Future Master’s Degrees

When Mikel Lott graduates from UNT Dallas with his bachelor’s degree on Tuesday, his father won’t just be cheering from the audience; he’ll be right beside him on stage.

A Shared Moment on Stage

Mikel Lott, a U.S. Army sergeant and Afghanistan veteran, will receive his diploma while his father, Lamontry Lott, 53, walks across the same stage. Lamontry said, “It’s gonna be awesome because for me, I get to support my son and also fulfill a lifelong dream that I have for myself.” He added, “So this will be, personally, my first time walking across a stage with a cap and gown on.”

From GED to Firefighter Engineer

Lamontry grew up in West Dallas and dropped out of high school. He later earned a GED, a fact he mentions when explaining his educational journey. After completing enough college coursework, he became a Dallas Firefighter Engineer, a position that requires both technical knowledge and community service.

Teaching, Service, and a Shared Future

Mikel Lott now teaches at Hillcrest High School in Dallas ISD. He was recently named Teacher of the Year for Promise, an award given to newer teachers in the district. “That’s why I tell him all the time I’m blessed to have a father like my father,” Mikel said. He praised his father’s emphasis on education, noting that “He’s outstanding! He’s always preaching education is very important, and he’s leading by example.”

A Generational Shift

Lamontry reflected on his own academic path, saying, “Now, I didn’t graduate summa cum laude like my son, but I am graduating.” He explained that both he and Mikel want to break the family cycle and encourage future generations to see education as the key to success. The father’s remarks highlight a shared commitment to lifelong learning.

Continuing the Journey

Graduation is not the end of their academic pursuit. Both plan to pursue graduate studies together at UNT Dallas. “We’re gonna get our master’s together, yes. We’re going to grad school together,” Lamontry said. Mikel echoed the sentiment, adding, “I’m happy! I’m happy. I’m happy.”

Fall 2026 Plans

The Lott family intends to begin graduate school in the fall of 2026. This joint pursuit underscores their dedication to education and mutual support. The upcoming studies will build on their respective careers and experiences.

Key Takeaways

• Mikel and Lamontry Lott graduate together from UNT Dallas, marking a historic family moment.
• Lamontry, a former high school dropout, earned a GED and became a Dallas Firefighter Engineer.
• Mikel, a U.S. Army sergeant and Afghanistan veteran, now teaches high school and received the Teacher of the Year for Promise award.
• Both father and son plan to pursue a master’s degree at UNT Dallas in fall 2026.

The Lott family’s story is a testament to perseverance, family support, and the transformative power of education. Their shared graduation and future plans highlight a commitment to learning that transcends generations.