2024 ANNUAL REPORT
IN THIS EDITION JUAN J. CASTILLO, INTERIM PRESIDENT PRESIDENT PUBLISHER: ROSANNE PALACIOS EDITOR: STEVE HARMON CREATIVE DIRECTOR: DIRECTOR: ANA P. CLAMONT DESIGN: GEORGINA ZAMUDIO CONTRIBUTING DESIGN: MARCO E. VILLARREAL CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: MIKA AKIKUNI STEVE HARMON CHRISTINE ROJAS AUSTIN CHILDRESS (AND COVER PHOTO) PHOTOGRAPHY: ROLANDO SANTOS JOSÉ HERNÁNDEZ, III TAMIU STAFF CONTENT: MESSAGE FROM THE FROM THE UNIVERSITY 3 UNIVERSITY THOUGHTS ON GIVING 5 UNIVERSITY NEWS 7 UNIVERSITY DONORS 13 UNIVERSITY FACULTY/RESEARCH 16 TAMIU STUDENTS 21 UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS 25 UNIVERSITY OUTREACH 27 TAMIU ALUMNI 31 GIVING 35 BY THE NUMBERS 41 2024 ANNUAL REPORT TEAM STAY CONNECTED Visit us Online at tamiu.edu WANT MORE TAMIU NEWS SCAN HERE TO VISIT OUR TAMIU NEWSHUB. go.tamiu.edu/newshub
When we were reviewing pictures for our Annual Report cover, we wanted to capture Dr. Pablo Arenaz in all his facets: leader, mentor, scholar, and friend. But we kept circling back to this picture and the joy and happiness it captured in one of Dr. Arenaz’s last times on campus. The occasion was the launch of our new Dusty Mascot after an extensive social media “glow-up,” as our students say. Dr. Arenaz’s assignment was to drive his trusty golf cart with a prized passenger: Dusty. Dusty was bowing at Cabchella, an on-campus outdoor Fall festival for students, and hundreds were eagerly anticipating his promoted arrival. A video teased this and TAMIU cheerleaders led the crowd in cheers of “Dusty, Dusty, Dusty.” Dr. Arenaz relished the charge, laughing as he navigated his way through the crowd and shared the stage with his costumed sidekick. He loved the students’ reaction to Dusty and eagerness to embrace the University mascot and the Fall semester ahead. It was a happy time. 2
THE FUTURE IS STILL NOW When Dr. Arenaz learned of the theme of this year’s Annual Report, the Future is Now, he was excited about the opportunity to affirm it in his traditional introductory column. With so much positive change and growth and a dizzying range of successes characterizing 2024, he knew there would be a broad spectrum of content. His short list hovered around 14 benchmarks and milestones that signaled that not only was the Future Now...but it very likely could lead to the Future Always. Dr. Arenaz never got to write this column. On Thursday, October 3, 2024, Dr. Arenaz passed away unexpectedly. The campus was gripped with disbelief and sadness. The rhythm slowed. The mood shifted. Hearts became heavier. Condolences poured into offices. Grief counseling sessions were held. A campus community, a community at large, and the entire Texas A&M University System shared its grief. We remembered a renowned leader, mentor, scholar, and friend. Black ribbons draped walkways. Students, faculty, and staff filled two 12-foot banners with their thoughts, noting his attentiveness, encouragement, and kindness. “I promise. I WILL graduate in four years,” one vowed, while another observed, “I regret not taking a pic with you when I had a chance,” and another simply, “Thank you for loving TAMIU.” Our Trailblazer Tower bells tolled for his memory. His family mourned a brother, father, husband, uncle and grandfather. His campus grieved a loss that seemed beyond measure. Laredo remembered a president who had made the University the nexus of the community’s academic, cultural, and economic life. In the weeks since, a rhythm has returned. The campus has resumed lives measured in exams, group projects, planning for graduation, conferences, publications, and grant proposals. New research grants are secured, new collaborations launched, and new resources are dedicated to staying the course. Indeed, the future is still now and as Dr. Arenaz would have wanted. While absent from our campus much too soon, we will proudly honor his legacy while embracing the brightness that is the future. Read a resolution by the A&M Board of Regents honoring Dr. Arenaz at go.tamiu.edu/regentsresolution Message from the university 3
She encouraged her children to pursue a college degree, which they did. Each chose education as a profession, becoming teachers, librarians, and school administrators. And each earned a master’s degree. That woman was my grandmother – and her legacy lives on today. Of her eight grandchildren, six have bachelor’s degrees and the other two have been successful in business. Of the six, two have law degrees, two have master’s degrees and one has a Ph.D. It doesn’t stop there -- 16 of her 23 great-grandchildren have also earned college degrees. I am sure many of you can relate to this story. Perhaps you are the first in your family to get a post-secondary degree and have opened the door for your siblings and cousins to go to college. Perhaps you are a single mother who went back to school and inspired your daughter to attend college... or perhaps you inspired your mother to go back to school. Perhaps you are a grandparent who encouraged your grandson to go to college. We all make a difference in the lives of those we love by being role models, AND we all leave a legacy. As graduates, today your legacy shines and it will light the way for others, rest assured. YOU are their legacy.” DR. ARENAZ: THOUGHTS ON LEGACIES SHARED Dr. Pablo Arenaz always cherished sharing the stage with candidates for graduation every Fall and every Spring. “It’s what we’re here for,” he would remind. For each ceremony, he’d offer remarks – mostly stories, drawn from personal experience. What follows is one of his most inspiring... “I would like to tell you a story. It is about a young girl of 14 from a very small town in Spain, with the equivalent of a third-grade education. She boarded a ship, all alone and speaking only Spanish, for the long voyage to America. Upon arrival in New York, she boards a train for Salt Lake City to a job waiting for her with her sister as a nanny/hotel maid/cook. In Salt Lake, she met her husband. They moved to Reno, NV, and had three children. She lost her husband at age 28. For most of her life, she ran a boarding house for Basque sheepherders and college students. Although she never had the opportunity to get an education herself, she understood the importance of postsecondary education and the doors it opens. Dr. Pablo Arenaz at his investiture april 2017 Pablo Arenaz, Ph.D. 4
“Not to worry,” I said. “They’ll be ready tomorrow morning when you arrive.” She did not move from her position and her grip brought her backpack closer still. Finally, it dawned on me. “Are you telling me you don’t have fare to get home?” She nodded shyly. “Are you telling me you can’t get here tomorrow morning?” Once again, she nodded. “Poor thing” was my internal mental and emotional response and my eyes welled up with tears. That was soon replaced by “This little girl has guts, a passion for learning, and ambition.” All she needed was $6. Imagine how much she wanted to be here to learn. Imagine her fearless resolve to get to class and figure out the rest later. THAT is why I am optimistic. She IS the future. Rosanne Palacios is TAMIU Vice President for Institutional Advancement SHARED CROSSROADS HERALD CONFIDENCE, OPTIMISM IN LEGACIES The sudden passing of Dr. Pablo Arenaz, our leader and friend, has made us all consider plans for our futures and the crossroads that we often share. I wonder, When will I retire? What will I do after I retire? What will the world look like? I can answer the first two: sooner than I hope...and travel. What will the world look like? Stay tuned. Although I can’t describe it to a “T”, I will say I’m quite optimistic. Working at our University, surrounded by close to 9,000 students and the brightest minds and help committed to their success makes me feel so. The young adults who study here are kind, generous, and ambitious. They want to be something. They want to leave a legacy. Their generosity can be measured by the work of so many student organizations that contribute to our life on campus and our city. Make a Difference Day attracted 700-plus TAMIU volunteers who generated over 28,000 community service hours at the Las Palmas Trail and in the La Azteca neighborhood. The Student Philanthropy Council has created an endowment of more than $100,000 creating a perpetual source of scholarships for TAMIU students. These are just two examples of students giving back and helping this community...there are others. I think they ARE leaving a legacy! As I cross campus to and from meetings, I am moved by our students’ enthusiasm and their desire to learn. I observe laughter and tears. I observe furled brows and cheek-to-cheek smiles, sometimes in rapid succession. I observe love between young sweethearts, old friends, and new friends. This gives me real hope for the future. A young woman, an acquaintance from another group I am part of, came to see me at the start of last Fall. She was new to campus and expressed her concerns about the size of campus and worried she would not figure it out. I advised her to sit in the front row and get to know her professors. She smiled and nodded, but sat frozen in the chair, tightly embracing her backpack. “Is there something else?” I queried. She responded she had not received her bus tokens. I sprang into action and called the right people for the right answer. thoughts on giving Interested in forging a legacy of your own at Texas A&M International University? Call Rosanne Palacios at 956.326.2178, email rosanne.palacios@tamiu.edu or mail donations to TAMIU Office of Institutional Advancement 5201 University Boulevard, Laredo, TX 78041 go.tamiu.edu/give WHAT’S YOUR LEGACY? 5
HERE ARE SOME OF THE MEMORABLE MOMENTS WE’VE DOCUMENTED FEATURING OUR VIBRANT CAMPUS LIFE, ACADEMIC PROGRAMS, AND INSPIRING STUDENT STORIES. Take a look at how we highlight the supportive, dynamic environment that drives our students, faculty, and alumni to thrive. go.tamiu.edu/releasethequacken go.tamiu.edu/dustys-glow-up STUDENTS WRITE ENDEARING CONDOLENCES TO DR. ARENAZ go.tamiu.edu/mad24vid TAMIU students took time to leave written messages expressing their condolences on the passing of our University president. We thank them for their kind words. 6
UNIVERSITY NEWS Celebrating the $1 million gift from Texas Community Bank to the Texas A&M International University Banking Academy are, front, L to R: Oscar Cisneros, Texas Community Bank (TCB) Senior Vice President; Dr. Stephen Sears, Director, TAMIU Banking Academy, Antonio R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business; Rosanne Palacios, TAMIU Vice President for Institutional Advancement; Douglas Macdonald, TCB Director/Chairman/ President/CEO; TAMIU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Claudia San Miguel; TAMIU Dean, Sanchez School of Business, Dr. Luis Pérez-Batres, and Joaquin G. Cigarroa, III, TCB Senior Executive Vice President. Back, L to R, Lyssa P. Gonzáles, TCB Executive Vice President, and Sheryl Cox, TCB Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. TEXAS COMMUNITY BANK BANKING ON LAREDO WITH GIFT OF $1M FOR TAMIU BANKING ACADEMY TAMIU strongly believes you can always bank on Laredo...and Texas Community Bank (TCB) has concurred, providing a $1 million gift in October for the new Texas A&M International University Banking Academy of the A. R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business in ceremonies held at TCB 's McPherson Road offices. Douglas Macdonald, Texas Community Bank president and CEO, spoke of TCB’s commitment to the banking industry, the communities it serves, and TAMIU. “As our name affirms, we are a community bank and believe that partnering with TAMIU, the primary source of this community’s human capital, is a perfect way to elevate our community and prepare generations for growth. Texas Community Bank is all about service and our gift will help ensure our service and all banking services remain superior in Laredo and beyond,” Macdonald observed. TAMIU provost and vice president for Academic Affairs Dr. Claudia San Miguel said the University deeply appreciates TCB’s shared vision and generosity. “This gift is a blessing. It’s a blessing for the future and a blessing of futures for our students and graduates. It’s a gift with generational implications that will benefit Laredo and our State for years. To know that TCB shares this vision and offers such a generous gift to help secure it is truly consequential,” Dr. San Miguel said. The Banking Academy is dedicated to developing tomorrow’s highly qualified banking and finance executives for South Texas and beyond through co-curricular action-based learning methods. Dean of the A. R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business, Dr. Luis A. Pérez-Batres, said the TCB Gift answers a critical need and will empower generations. “People make the place, and great leaders like Mr. Douglas Macdonald inspire us all to strive for excellence. This transformative gift cements the existence of the Banking Academy at TAMIU’s Sanchez School of Business, empowering multiple generations of South Texans and creating a legacy across the region. We are grateful to Mr. Macdonald and the Texas Community Bank and are fully committed to making this vision a reality,” Dr. Pérez said. Directing the Banking Academy will be Dr. Stephen Sears, Radcliffe Killam Distinguished Professor and former Dean of the Sanchez School. In September, the Matias De Llano Charitable Trust administered by International Bank of Commerce donated $100,000 to the Banking Academy. (see page 14) 7
COLLEGE OF ED LAUNCHES WEBB CISD, REGION ONE PARTNERSHIP FOR SUSTAINABLE TEACHER RESIDENCIES TAMIU’s College of Education has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Webb County Independent School District (Webb CISD) and Region One through a Texas Education Agency-funded Texas Strategic Staffing initiative. It is focused on sustainable teacher residencies, which are critical to driving so much more, said TAMIU Dean of Education Dr. James O’Meara. “This collaboration is a major step forward in developing sustainable teacher residencies, that can accelerate student learning, expand the number of paid pathways to the teaching profession, and long-term teacher effectiveness,” Dr. O’Meara explained. At the heart of the initiative is the commitment to provide year-long teacher residencies in Webb CISD schools. Teacher residents are placed strategically in partnership with District leaders, aligning with co-developed goals to meet the unique needs of students and schools. Dr. O’Meara said the goal is to create a model for teacher development and student success. “The ultimate goal of this partnership is to establish long-term, sustainable teacher residency programs that can continue to thrive without external support. By embedding these programs within the District’s budget and strategic staffing structures, Webb CISD and TAMIU aim to create a model supporting teacher development and student success for years to come. Find out more at: news.tamiu.edu/webbisdpartner FIRST-EVER UNIVERSITY SYMPOSIUM EYES IMPORTANCE OF WATER TAMIU’s Environmental Studies Initiative (TAMIU-ESI) hosted its first-ever Symposium, “Eyes on the Water: A Confluence of Perspectives on Water as Life and Resource,” this November at TAMIU’s Student Center. This timely Symposium brought together professionals from academic, government organizations, journalism, and non-profit initiatives to discuss the region's water quality and quantity. Laredo was recently in the grip of an extended water boil mandate that has heightened awareness about water and its pivotal role in the lives of individuals and communities. Panel presentations were offered by Dr. Rosario Sánchez Flores, Martin Castro, Martha Pskowski, Dr. Alexis Racelis, Dr. Thomas C. Vaughan, and others. TAMIU-ESI seeks to identify, engage, and constructively resolve environmental issues stemming from human (in) action. Academically, it harnesses various disciplines to explore the complex relationship between human society and the environment. Additionally, it aims to partner with organizations and institutions across the community, from local to international, to effect environmentally focused interventions, studies, and social events that bring awareness to the complexities of our human/environment relationship and its challenges. More about TAMIU-ESI can be found at go.tamiu.edu/esi WEBB CISD and College of Ed Region One Partnership Keynote speaker Dr. Rosario Sánchez Flores 8
SPRING/FALL ENROLLMENT BRING FUN ‘DUCKY,’ ‘DEER’ CELEBRATIONS The Spring Semester 2024 at TAMIU was truly one for the record books... something to quack about. Students enrolling at TAMIU set a historic record for the highest Spring Enrollment in the University’s history: 7,940 students, a 5.57% increase in headcount and a similar 5.57% increase in Semester Credit Hours, upon which State funding is configured. In fact, things were quite “ducky,” and led to a special celebration hosted by late TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz at the University’s Acequia Fountain UNIVERSITY NEWS when hundreds of TAMIU-branded yellow rubber ducks symbolizing the thousands of TAMIU students were released in the Fountain. Throughout the month leading up to the celebration, TAMIU’s social channels were “quacking” with duck scavenger hunts, a dedicated website, fun teaser videos, and profiles of future engagement opportunities. TAMIU vice president for Enrollment Management Juan Gilberto García, Jr. said the enrollment gains are reflective of the broad range of TAMIU student support and resources available. And after Spring, comes the Fall of 2024 and even more impressive gains for the University. Students enrolling this Fall set their own historic record for the highest Fall Enrollment in the University’s history totaling 8,945 students, a 5.24% increase in headcount and a similar 5.28% increase in Semester Credit Hours (SCH), including a first-time-ever record of 100,136 SCH. If it’s Ducks for Spring, what would it be for Fall? Deers, of course! 9
The herd began to make strategic appearances on campus social media and teaser videos, leading up to another student-focused outdoor Fall celebration. Dubbed “U are Dear to Us,” the campus-wide celebratory event included a dedicated microsite with heartfelt messages written to students from University offices, departments, Colleges/ Schools answering what makes students ‘deer/ dear’ to the hundreds of faculty and staff members who continue to serve them daily. A much-beloved scavenger hunt led to thousands of commemoratively branded mini deer toys lined into a U-shape underneath the iconic Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library dome. There, students were able to walk away secure in the knowledge of what makes them dear to the University…and their own commemorative mini deer toy, of course. For more statistics see page 42. Stay Social. We <3 seeing you on social, Dustdevils! Here’s some of our “viral” social media postings. #txamiu @TXAMIU 10
university news TAMIU BREAKS GROUND FOR $71.2M CONSTRUCTION AND EXPANSION TAMIU’s 300-acre campus started the next chapter in its dynamic growth and development with groundbreaking ceremonies this past April for the construction of the Health Sciences Education and Research Center (HSERC) and the expansion of the Western Hemispheric Trade Center (WHTC). Joining TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz at the ceremony were TAMIU students, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, and special guests Dean, State Senator Judith Zaffirini, James R. “Randy” Brooks, Regent, The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents, and Jenny Jones, A&M System Vice Chancellor for Governmental Relations. Dr. Arenaz said then that this construction and expansion is critical to TAMIU’s mission delivery. “Funded in part through Capital Construction Assistance Project funds appropriated by the 87th Legislature, the HSERC new construction will drive continued, critical, and relevant program growth and expand impactful teaching, service, and research opportunities that deliver our mission. The WHTC expansion will also house multiple business outreach programs,” Arenaz noted. The HSERC will also be a fitting home for two new programs funded in the 88th Legislative Session -- Clinical Lab Sciences and the Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. Construction is scheduled for substantial completion in Spring of 2026. The total project budget is $71,200,000. Groundbreaking of the Health Sciences Education and Research Center Dean, State Senator Judith Zaffirini 11
TAMIU INKS STRATEGIC AGREEMENTS WITH SWTJC, ST. AUGUSTINE HIGH SCHOOL TAMIU is expanding educational opportunities for students across South Texas through strategic partnerships. This year, TAMIU signed an Articulated Transfer Agreement with Southwest Texas Junior College (SWTJC), aimed at streamlining the transfer process for SWTJC students to TAMIU. The Agreement will ensure that all course credits taken at SWTJC, including all of the 22 school districts where SWTJC provides dual credit, transfer directly to TAMIU. TAMIU Vice President for Enrollment Management Juan Gilberto García, Jr. said the Agreement focuses on seamless exchanges of information and helpful resources for SWTJC students. “Among provisions of the TAMIU-SWTJC Agreement are a variety of institutional collaborations and the development of web-published transfer guides for degree programs that share the acceptance of credits applicable to the plan’s degree program. The Agreement also sets in place institutional guidance on admissions and recruiting and the opportunity for the completion of an Associate degree or reverse transfer,” García explained. Additionally, TAMIU signed an MOU with St. Augustine High School to create a dual credit program. The MOU paves the way to develop dual credit course opportunities enabling St. Augustine High School students to enroll in TAMIU college courses while earning credit for college and high school courses. TAMIU MARIACHI INTERNACIONAL TAKES FIRST PLACE IN NATIONAL COMPETITION Texas A&M International University’s Mariachi Internacional is used to hitting the high notes. Still, this summer they scaled lofty new heights and earned First Place in the University Division of a national competition, the Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque Festival and Competition in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Judges and audience members were impressed with the Mariachi Internacional’s performance and presence. The Mariachi Internacional worked very hard to perform phenomenally at the competition, its first since 2017. Students were excited, nervous, and extremely ecstatic to have been allowed to attend and are dedicated, eager, and passionate to become one of the best college mariachi ensembles in the country. The Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque Showcase Competition Concert is an annual event and tourism draw in Albuquerque, attracting over 12,000 visitors to Festival events and performances. Its culminating showcase event is broadcast nationally and internationally so family and friends can watch. The broadcast is available at: go.tamiu.edu/mariachiinternacional-perform with the TAMIU Mariachi Internacional performance occurring at timestamp 2:42. Signing Articulated Transfer Agreement with Southwest Texas Junior College 12
UNIVERSITY DONORS MOU WITH FUNDACIÓN HISPANOJUDÍA PROMOTES RESEARCH, EDUCATIONAL, CULTURAL COLLABORATIONS In September, TAMIU signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Fundación HispanoJudía enabling future research, educational, and cultural collaborations. It marks a milestone in exploring and celebrating the rich heritage of Sephardic Jewish ancestry in the region. The partnership focuses on joint research projects regarding the culture, history, and contributions of Sephardic Jewish communities migrating to the Americas in the 16th Century. The collaboration grew from discussions with the Sephardic Jewish Federation of Spain, highlighting the historical presence of Spanish conversos in northern México and South Texas. María Eugenia Calderón-Porter, assistant vice president, TAMIU Office for Global Initiatives, shared the collaboration’s significance. "TAMIU sits at the center of the regional development originally built by this Sephardic Spanish migration," she said, "Many foods, family customs, and traditions brought here are still part of our daily lives. TAMIU wants to raise awareness of the contributions and legacy these early Sephardic Spanish settlers had on our region." The signing ceremony included the unveiling of "El David," a sculpture by renowned Mexican-Jewish artist José Sacal symbolizing courage and faith and commemorating Hispanic-Jewish families in Texas. HISTORIC GIFT BRINGS COMFORT AND HISTORY TO TAMIU’S CFPA A special gift to TAMIU offers comfort and some Texassized history to the first-floor lobby of the Center for the Fine and Performing Arts. “Brush Country, 1978,” a wall-sized, painstakingly handmade quilt by the late Dr. Ruby South Lowry was donated to the University by her grandson, Albert T. Lowry. It’s joined by a large, hand-hooked rug Dr. Lowry pieced together from wool found in downtown Laredo. Lowry said the gift is fitting as his grandmother’s commitment is woven into area history. “She was a much-loved, trailblazing physician who delivered over 20,000 Laredo children throughout her lifetime of medical practice. Her commitment to the health of Laredo and Webb County continued till her retirement at age 88. The quilt and rug are tangible metaphors for the life she wove for herself here and the comfort she provided to so many. We want to share them in the hopes that others appreciate the comfort and insight woven within,” Lowry said. Lowry and wife Diana Lowry also honor Dr. Lowry’s memory through the creation of the Ruby South Lowry Scholarship Fund for Medical School which helps disadvantaged TAMIU students planning a career in the medical, dental, pharmaceutical, veterinary sciences, or psychology fields. Unveiling of “El David” sculpture Unveiling of “Brush Country, 1978,” by Dr. Ruby South Lowry 13
MATIAS DE LLANO CHARITABLE TRUST DONATES $100,000 TO NEW TAMIU BANKING ACADEMY In September, the Matias De Llano Charitable Trust, administered by the International Bank of Commerce, donated $100,000 to TAMIU in a gift earmarked to benefit the newly established Banking Academy at the A.R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business. TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz said the University is honored to bring the Banking Academy to the Sanchez School and noted The Trust’s substantial legacy of generosity at TAMIU. “We are honored to bring the Banking Academy here and to be ongoing beneficiaries of the Matias De Llano Charitable Trust. Their legacy support of outreach, programs, and students strengthens the exceptionality that brands our campus’ experience and mission. This gift initiates a bold new venture answering a critical need for individuals equipped to handle the highly varied banking needs of the border,” said Dr. Arenaz. Dean of the A. R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business Dr. Luis A. Pérez-Batres said the Trust’s remarkable generosity jump-starts the development of tomorrow’s highly qualified banking and finance executives for South Texas and beyond. “The Banking Academy is a direct response to a pressing community need identified a couple of years ago by Ignacio Urrabazo, CEO and President of Commerce Bank. He firmly believed that having a local institution offering education and training for the banking industry is crucial for our region’s continued prosperity. He shared his concern with other local bankers, including retired banker Jim Moore and our former Sanchez School Dean, Dr. Stephen Sears, who spearheaded the initial response,” Dr. Pérez explained. FORMER TAMIU FACULTY MEMBERS DR. JANA AND DR. MICHAEL PISANI REMAIN STRONG SUPPORTERS OF DUSTDEVIL STUDENTS Despite living over 1,600 miles from Laredo in Michigan, former TAMIU faculty members Dr. Jana and Dr. Michael Pisani continue their strong support of TAMIU students. In 2018, they established a $50,000 endowment at TAMIU supporting first-generation University students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This year, they have pledged an additional gift of $25,000, ensuring students can receive renewable support for up to four years. Dr. Jana Pisani, a professor of History at Ferris State University, taught history at TAMIU for five years. "I will always treasure the experience of teaching my TAMIU students because they were so bright, so eager to learn, so curious, and so enjoyable to have in the classroom," she said. Dr. Michael Pisani, a professor of International Business at Central Michigan University, said he has deep connections to the Hispanic community as he has extensively worked in farming with migrant farm workers from México in rural northern California. As first-generation college graduates from workingclass families, the Pisanis understand students from this population need encouragement and support. "Both of us worked our way through college, juggling our studies with employment," Dr. Pisani said, "We hope in some small way that our financial support may lessen the burden, if just a little, for those seeking opportunity through higher education and hard work while achieving academic success," he said. Gift for TAMIU Banking Academy 14
TAMIU PARTNER GARZA ROBLES ANNOUNCES $100K GIFT AT INTERNATIONAL MARIACHI FESTIVAL A surprise highlight of this year’s 8th Annual International Mariachi Festival performance at TAMIU was the announcement of a $100,000 gift from Eduardo and Juanita Garza Robles. Garza Robles was named the Embajador Internacional del Mariachi during the performance featuring the renowned Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlán at TAMIU’s Center for the Fine and Performing Arts. The performance, “Cultura y Tradición,” capped off the two-day Festival held in April and attended by over 360 middle and high school mariachi students and over 20 directors from across the state. Garza Robles is a longtime supporter of the University’s Mariachi Program. He and his wife Juanita have created four endowed scholarships at TAMIU and are Silver Society donors. The $100,000 gift supports students focusing on international trade in the A. R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business. Garza Robles provided $15,000 in support of the Mariachi Internacional, raising his total generosity to TAMIU over $250,000. ‘TRAVELS WITH SHIRLEY’ HONORS REMARKABLE DONOR In her lifetime Shirley Dianne Sandlin González relished the adventure of travel, finding it lifechanging. Years ago, through her leadership and service to her family’s Guadalupe and Lilia Martínez Foundation, she seized the opportunity to help TAMIU students do the same. Since its inception, the Foundation has contributed over $10.5 million to aid citizens of Webb and Zapata counties and provided critical funding support for TAMIU Study Abroad Programs. Shirley’s kindness and generosity made it possible for Dustdevils to travel to over 30 countries to date and brought extraordinary focus to TAMIU’s international experience. González passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 3, 2024, but her love of travel continues to inspire TAMIU’s students with a special corner in the Office of International Experiences. Dubbed “Travels with Shirley,” it offers an opportunity to relive travels by TAMIU students through a broad collection of Study Abroad yearbooks. Celebrate travel adventure with Shirley in the Senator Judith Zaffirini Student Center, Second Floor, room 206. Dr. Pablo Arenaz, TAMIU president; Dr. Eduardo Jesús Garza, son of Garza Robles; Eduardo Garza Robles, and grandson Mauricio Gutiérrez Garza. Special corner dedicated to Shirley UNIVERSITY DONORS 15
The book provides insights into how cross-border logistics and trade change under the United States- México -Canada Agreement (USMCA). "In an era of rapid change, understanding the nuances of U.S.-México trade is crucial for academics, businesses, and policymakers. My book provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state and prospects of cross-border commerce," Dr. Covarrubias said. It includes the development of Port Laredo, the effects of blockchain and artificial intelligence on logistics, regionalization, and nearshoring, and other issues like the "digital wall.” The interdependence of infrastructure, technology, and human capital in cross-border trade is an anchor. "Our research highlights the need for investment in these areas to build a more resilient and prosperous bilateral partnership," Dr. Covarrubias observed. Released in September, Covarrubias's book was ranked #1 in New Releases for Exports & Imports Economics and in Management Information Systems, and #10 in the Transportation Industry categories by bookseller Amazon. PROFESSOR HARUNA EDITS NEW BOOK ON CLIMATE GOVERNANCE, COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVES Longtime TAMIU Professor of Public Administration Dr. Peter Haruna is the lead editor among five editors in a newly published book focused on climate governance in the Global South. Climate Governance in International and Comparative Perspective: Issues and Experiences in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, (Information Age Publishing) draws from scholarly literature to explore the TAMIU FACULTY MEMBER PUBLISHES RESEARCH ON BEARDS A study by a TAMIU faculty member focuses on the hairy truth behind beards. Dr. Ray Garza, assistant professor of Psychology at TAMIU’s College of Arts and Sciences, co-authored research “Perceptions of Beardedness for Attractiveness, Masculinity, Fighting Ability, and Partner Quality: A Cross-Cultural Examination Among Hispanic and Iranian Women” focused on how beards are perceived. Garza’s interest in studying facial hair was motivated by wanting to understand the attributes women desire in their potential partners. “I am interested in the underlying mechanisms of beard displays from a biological and evolutionary point of view rather than why men decide to grow out their beards,” said Garza. Research findings indicated that Hispanic women “demonstrated a stronger preference for bearded men,” – but preferred beards found in men with either light or moderate beards. Faces with light beards were frequently chosen as most attractive, reliable as a partner, and suitable as a father. Moderate beards were perceived as the most masculine and likely to win a fight. He noted that these findings will add greater depth to the field of evolutionary psychology. Read more at go.tamiu.edu/garza-beards TAMIU’S DR. COVARRUBIAS SHARES INSIGHT ON U.S.-MÉXICO TRADE IN NEW BOOK Dr. Daniel Covarrubias, director of TAMIU’s Texas Center for Border Economic and Enterprise Development, discussed his latest book, "Navigating the New Era of U.S.-México Trade," at the International Congress on Logistics and Supply Chain 2024 in Mexico City. UNIVERSITY FACULTY AND RESEARCH Dr. Ray Garza Dr. Daniel Covarrubias Dr. Peter Haruna 16
quality of climate governance based on the experience of Global South regions -- Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. According to the book, although areas in the Global South Regions are resilient, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reports that the consequences of climate change are severely impacting weak governance structures and finite capabilities. The book challenges assumptions about climate governance processes, systems, institutions, and patterns in these regions. Dr. Haruna expressed excitement at the book's publication in a record time of one year. "I am also excited about the productive collaboration between editors, authors, and publishers that made this book publication possible," he said, "As lead editor, I am grateful for the work and professionalism of the book series coordinator, co-editors, peer reviewers, and production staff at Information Age Publishers." DR. MOMEN RECEIVES FULBRIGHT U.S. SCHOLAR AWARD TO CANADA Longtime TAMIU professor of Public Administration and author Dr. Mehnaaz Momen has been awarded a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program Award to Canada for the 2024-2025 academic year from the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. Based in McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Dr. Momen, professor in the TAMIU College of Arts and Sciences, department of Social Sciences, will be the Fulbright Canada Research Chair in Digitization and Democracy. Her research will explore the acculturation processes Bangladeshi immigrants residing in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area of Canada undergo as they navigate Bangladeshi and Canadian identities through technology. Momen shared her excitement. "I am thrilled to receive the Fulbright Scholar Award," Dr. Momen said, "I have been dreaming about such an opportunity and consider this an honor to represent TAMIU and Laredo in Canada. My first exposure as an international student was in Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada. It feels like a full circle to go back to Canada and conduct research on the Bangladeshi diaspora." Emphasizing the lack of scholarly research on Bangladeshi immigrants, she said she hopes to leverage both her research skills and her first-hand experience to contribute new insights through her project. TAMIU'S DR. GODINA PRESENTS RESEARCH ON A.I. AND TEACHER PREPARATION AT INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE College of Education assistant professor of Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Heriberto Godina presented research at the 31st International Conference on Learning at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. His presentation, "Empowering Teacher Candidates of Mexican Descent: Adjusting Artificial Intelligence for Science of Teaching Reading in the Southwestern United States," delved into preparing teacher candidates. "This research focuses on how artificial intelligence (A.I.) can be adapted to enhance learning outcomes while maintaining academic integrity and intercultural competencies, particularly among historically stigmatized minority groups," explained Dr. Godina. The study centers on teacher candidates of Mexican descent enrolled in literacy education classes preparing for the Science of Teaching Reading examination, crucial for teacher certification. It addresses the urgent need for professionally trained knowledgeable literacy teachers in the wake of declining literacy rates among predominantly Hispanic/Mexican American public-school populations in a post-COVID learning environment. "It also examines how A.I. can be tailored to successfully retrieve lesson plans that align with Texas state standards and access scholarly articles pertinent to the Science of Teaching Reading. Additionally, it explores innovative assignments designed to circumvent A.I. as a substitute for the practical knowledge and skills essential for teacher preparation," Godina noted. Dr. Mehnaaz Momen Dr. Heriberto Godina UNIVERSITY FACULTY AND RESEARCH 17
TAMIU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Claudia E. San Miguel, said the additions to the University’s faculty are the result of national and international searches focused on teaching and research excellence, joining a full-time faculty numbering over 250. “Our search committees spent an incredible amount of time and energy in working to recruit and secure these 37 new members of our gifted faculty. We are thrilled to have them join our growing campus and community at large,” Dr. San Miguel said. The University also welcomes four new Deans. New Dean of University College is Dr. Alfredo Ramírez, Jr., longtime faculty member, program administrator and researcher. More on Dr. Ramirez is at go.tamiu.edu/uc-dean-ramirez Joining the A.R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business as its Dean and Professor of Strategic Management Dr. Luis Pérez-Batres. More on Dr. Pérez-Batres go.tamiu.edu/arssb-dean-perez The Dean of the Graduate School is Dr. Lola Norris. More on Dr. Norris is at go.tamiu.edu/gradschool-dean-norris Now serving as the first-ever Dean of the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library is Dr. Colleen Harris. More on Dr. Harris is at go.tamiu.edu/library-dean-harris DR. LI TAKES PART IN OCEAN RESEARCH EXPEDITION This year, a TAMIU faculty member took part in a oncein-a-lifetime ocean expedition through the European coast. Dr. Zhiyang Li, assistant professor of Geology, joined the International Ocean Discovery Program Mediterranean-Atlantic Gateway Exchange (Expedition 401). The two-month-long expedition program included four distinct drilling sites and locations off the coast of Portugal, Spain’s Gulf of Cadiz, and the Alboran Sea near Marbella, Spain. The opportunity to travel and explore these areas offered scientists unique opportunities to better understand the causes and effects of the Messinian Salinity Crisis, a geological event that created a 1,000-meter-thick layer of salt on the sea floor. "Scientists believe that the connection, known as the Strait of Gibraltar today, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, narrowed and eventually closed around six million years ago…The main objectives of this expedition were to recover the Late Miocene sediments on either side of the Gibraltar Strait to reconstruct the exchange history between the Atlantic and Mediterranean and its impacts on environmental and climate conditions," explained Dr. Li. Scientists were able to complete a successful expedition, recovering near-complete sedimentary records from the Late Miocene period, he said. TAMIU WELCOMES 37 NEW FACULTY MEMBERS Keeping pace with dynamic enrollment growth this Fall semester at TAMIU, 37 new faculty members have taken their place in University classrooms. Dr. Zhiyang Li Dr. Alfredo Ramírez, Jr. Dr. Claudia San Miguel Dr. Lola Norris Dr. Luis Pérez-Batres Dr. Colleen Harris 18
REGENTS PROFESSOR JERRY THOMPSON NAMED AWARD WINNER BY HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF NEW MEXICO TAMIU Regents and Piper Professor Dr. Jerry D. Thompson's publication, Under the Piñon Tree: Finding a Place in Pie Town (University of New Mexico Press), was selected by the Historical Society of New Mexico (HSNM) as the recipient of its prestigious Fabiola Cabeza de Baca Award. The Award recognizes an outstanding publication or exhibit relating to domestic life in New Mexico and was presented at the HSNM's annual conference held in Albuquerque. Dr. Thompson, who was raised in Catron County around Pie Town, explores his childhood memories, family history, and the regional history of the area. His book also traces the lives of Catron County residents and explores its change during the Depression and World War II. It has received critical acclaim for its content as a noteworthy publication of New Mexico's history. Thompson is the recipient of numerous awards and honors from the Arizona Historical Society and the Texas State Historical Association. He received his doctorate in history from Carnegie Mellon University and is TAMIU’s longestserving faculty member. For more on Under the Piñon Tree: Finding a Place in Pie Town visit go.tamiu.edu/thompson-pinon-tree TAMIU’S SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING WELCOMES NEW FACULTY, EXPANDS PROGRAMS, RESEARCH As part of its ambitious agenda for growth and innovation, TAMIU’s School of Engineering under the auspices of the College of Arts and Sciences, has successfully concluded a key phase of its strategic faculty hiring initiative, welcoming four new permanent faculty members and two visiting faculty for the 2024 - 2025 academic year. The new faculty bring varied expertise in emerging technologies and strengthen TAMIU’s mission to deliver cutting-edge education and research opportunities to students. Two of the four permanent faculty positions are funded by the $3 Million Next-Level Engineering (NLE) grant from the U.S. Department of Education. "The future of engineering education at TAMIU is bright, and I am thrilled to welcome these exceptional faculty members. Together, we will provide our students with unparalleled opportunities to succeed in the rapidly evolving world of technology and engineering," said Dr. Mahmoud T. Khasawneh, director of the School of Engineering. Joining the University is Endowed Professor of Computer Engineering, Dr. Habib Ammari; Associate Professor of Systems Engineering, Dr. Gerardo Ramón Flores; Assistant Professor of Systems Engineering, Dr. Hussein Sharadga; and Instructional Assistant Professor of Computer Engineering, Dr. Bakhita Salman. Additionally, Dr. Ahmed M. Elmekawy and Mr. B. Kazeem Oladejo have joined the faculty as visiting assistant professor and visiting lecturer, respectively. The School of Engineering is aggressively positioning itself to be a leader in technological innovation, supported by several existing and new grant awards. Dr. Jerry D. Thompson UNIVERSITY FACULTY AND RESEARCH 18 19
FEDERAL FUNDING FOR RESEARCH, PROGRAMMING AT TAMIU REACHES IMPRESSIVE LEVELS As the late TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz used to observe...“it’s always a great day for TAMIU when Congressman Henry Cuellar visits campus.” That’s because most of those visits are often accompanied by hearty congratulations for TAMIU successfully securing yet another competitive federal grant for research or programming. For calendar year 2024, Congressman Cuellar was indeed able to share good tidings for TAMIU... all told, some $6,1898,732 in research and program funding will elevate the University’s research profile and share findings and insight worldwide. Among these: •$3,658,832 in competitive and transformative grants for the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program and College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP). The SANE continuation grant trains registered nurses to become sexual assault nurse examiners. The CAMP grant will provide academic advising and career readiness resources for students. •A $1 million grant for the new Center to Counter Human Trafficking, long a research interest for TAMIU given the alarming frequency of human trafficking on the U.S.-México border. Its mission is to communities of practitioners in the fields of healthcare and education, alongside their partners in trauma care, law enforcement, policy, and academia, as they work to liberate vulnerable persons from conditions of coercive exploitation in Laredo and its environs. •$799,853 in National Science Foundation awards to fund three separate awards for a center for physicsbased A.I. application training, enhancement of statistics curricula for A.I. development, and STEM recruitment. •A National Science Foundation grant of $370,347 to support acquisition of a state-of-the-art X-ray diffractometer (XRD), a technical device used for materials science research. •$260,700 from the Department of Defense Research and Education Program for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions for a grant funding Research and Teaching Enhancement in Cyber-Physical Systems Using Pseudo Smart City Studio. •A $100,000 grant from the Department of Energy's Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management through the Capacity Building for Repurposing Energy Assets initiative to support research focused on repurposing oil and gas wells in the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford Shale for geothermal and CO2 storage applications. Grant award for SANE, CAMP, and Center to Counter Human Trafficking Grant award for National Science Foundation 320
TAMIU STUDENTS DUSTDEVILS’ THE BIG EVENT BIG ON TRADITION, SERVICE Ask any Dustdevil if they can tell you about The Big Event and odds are you’ll get an answer including the year(s) they participated and where their services were delivered... with a smile. The Big Event, an annual day of service in March, is part of all Dustdevils most cherished traditions. In a 15-year timespan it has posted record-breaking feats: over 3,234 volunteers have generated a $1.6 million monetary impact on the community with 65,729 community service hours. Coordinated by TAMIU’s Office of Student Conduct and Community Engagement, this year’s Big Event attracted 500+ TAMIU students, faculty, staff, and alumni volunteers. Participants focused on the Canta Ranas neighborhood in West Laredo, participating in a neighborhood empowerment project including park beautification, mural painting, and residential beautification. A second opportunity saw volunteers installing fire alarms in homes in the Los Obispos neighborhood in South Laredo and the Canta Ranas neighborhood. The Big Event 2024’s estimated monetary impact was $649,356 and TAMIU volunteers generated 20,420 hours of community service. Emily García, collaborator and SGA L.O.V.E. Committee chair summed up what the Big Event means. "The Big Event is a unique service event that tangibly solidifies our commitment to the local community we serve. While the Canta Ranas neighborhood has sometimes been referred to as Los Olvidados, we wanted to ensure no residents are forgotten. That's why we teamed up with community leaders to truly make an impact that will be felt for years to come," she noted. TAMIU students at the Big Event 21
TAMIU ONLINE FNP GRADUATES ACE RIGOROUS NATIONAL EXAM Graduates of TAMIU’s College of Nursing and Health Science Online Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) master’s degree program made history this year. On their first attempt, all nine TAMIU FNP graduates completing TAMIU’s program passed the rigorous national certification exam. TAMIU Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and its Dr. F. M. Canseco School of Nursing Dr. Marivic Torregosa said the graduates’ exam performance is especially noteworthy as the program transitioned to online delivery. “We’re absolutely thrilled with our graduates’ performance. When we transitioned from face-to-face to online delivery, we invested in considerable research and study to make sure students would not feel disconnected from campus...especially from their faculty and peers,” said Torregosa. She said the investment in online delivery brings distinct advantages for working graduate students. “The online program provides busy nurses greater accessibility and opportunities for higher education. With the nursing demand, some nurses juggle full and part-time jobs. Some are also taking traveling nursing assignments. The online FNP program can strategically fit the students’ working schedules,” Torregosa noted. Find out more at tamiu.edu/conhs BALLET FOLKLÓRICO STUDENTS TRAVEL TO FRANCE, PERFORM AT DISNEYLAND PARIS A total of 20 TAMIU Ballet Folklórico students traveled to perform in France upon an invitation extended by Disneyland Paris. Their performance marked the firstever Mexican Folkloric Dance Group performance there. The group performed at the European entertainment favorite, located in Chessy, near Paris. Students performed a 20-minute show titled, "México en la Piel, Alma y Corazón," choreographed by TAMIU Ballet Folklórico instructor Nayeli López. The group danced eight traditional folklórico, ballet, and ballet folklórico choreographic works from the states of Jalisco, and Colima, México, symbolizing their love for their Mexican heritage and how they carry México in their skin, soul and hearts. During their stay in Paris, the group visited several cultural sights. While the group toured France, five senior Folklórico students graduated from TAMIU on the same day of the Disneyland Paris performance. The graduates are: Clarisa Buenrostro, Ariana Garza, Ana Zulema Ramos, Jonathan Roel Ruíz, and Alexa Sánchez. Completing the Paris group were Gilberto Buenrostro, Andrea Aleli Flores, Angel I. Flores, Jazlynn Mia Garza, Naila Michelle Garza, Samantha Michelle Garza, Carolina Isabel Hinojosa, Kaitlyn Lozano, Melina Jazmin Mendez, Camila Morgado, Karla Elisa Poston, Carolina Ramírez, Ana Virginia Rodríguez, Mireya Turrubiartes, and Belmaris Veliz. TAMIU Ballet Folkórico members performing at Disneyland Paris 22
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