Article by Richard Guerrero, Jr. Just outside the north-facing doors of Memorial Classroom Building (MCB) on the Heritage Campus is perhaps the most tangible example of Dr. Mark Robbins’ service learning-oriented approach to teaching: a Texas Historical Marker from the Texas Historical Commission for Del Mar College.   The marker was the result of a multiyear student research project overseen by Robbins. Students Troy Nessner and Preston Martin poured over college records, old yearbooks, back issues of the student newspaper, Foghorn, oral histories and other historical documents to gather the requisite details for the marker’s application, which was approved long after the semesterlong project for Robbins’ Academic Cooperative class had received a grade. In his courses, Robbins focuses on experiential learning activities to help history – especially local history – come alive for his students. One such project was the subject of a Corpus Christi Caller-Times article by reporter Olivia Garrett in early 2023. Garrett detailed the preservation and documentation work on a historic yet mostly forgotten farmworker cemetery – Rancho Colorado Cemetery – in rural Nueces County by a group of students led by Robbins and Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) Anthropology professor Christine Reiser Robbins, Ph.D. The project remains ongoing to this day.  Such examples are just a few reasons why Dr. Mark Robbins was recognized as the college’s 2025 Dr. Aileen Creighton Award for Teaching Excellence recipient during today’s fall convocation on the Heritage Campus in Richardson Performance Hall.    Robbins is the 23rd recipient of the coveted faculty award established for its namesake, the late Dean Emeritus of Arts and Sciences and English Professor Dr. Aileen Creighton. Each year after the nomination and selection process, the college keeps honorees’ names in secret until a special video unveils the recipient for the campus community to see.   The award represents Dr. Creighton’s legacy as a “master teacher” during her 41-year career with Del Mar College and serves as the benchmark faculty must emulate to receive the honor. Known for her dedication to students and higher education, the late educator’s example provides inspiration to DMC faculty.  During his acceptance speech at Convocation today, Robbins noted that he has been inspired by a tradition of excellence during his time at the College. Robbins began teaching history in the Social Sciences Department at DMC in 2009 after holding teaching positions at Brown University, the University of Rhode Island-Providence and the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth. His work on oral history, labor history, memory, cultural history and consumer politics has appeared in Labor History, The Historical Journal of Massachusetts, American Educational History and The Sound Historian. He is the author of Middle Class Union: Organizing the ‘Consuming Public’ in Post-World War I America (University of Michigan Press 2017) and co-directs the South Texas Hispanic Farm Labor Communities Heritage Project. In a statement to the Creighton Award Selection Committee, Robbins said that his teaching philosophy draws on service learning, local history and community collaboration to empower his students to connect history to their lives and communities.   In a statement to the Creighton Award Selection Committee, Robbins said that his teaching philosophy draws on service learning, local history and community collaboration to empower his students to connect history to their lives and communities.   It is precisely these learning experiences that prompted colleague and 2019 Creighton Award recipient Dr. Bryan Stone, DMC Professor of History, to enthusiastically support Robbins’ nomination for the award. “Mark’s trademark approach and the thing that sets him apart from the average professor is experiential learning,” Stone stated in his nomination letter. “His students don’t just learn about history in a classroom but practice it with him in the field.” Perhaps the most telling example demonstrating Robbins’ impact is the support letter from DMC alumnus Jesse Kelton, now a successful mechanical engineer. The DMC Hall of Famer detailed his transformation from a nontraditional student who left high school to complete his GED a decade before becoming a DMC graduate with an associate’s degree in Physics in 2013. Kelton’s experience in Robbins’ class during his first semester at DMC helped him find his footing and thrive at the college and beyond. He graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.  Robbins earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History with high honors and high distinction from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in 2003. One year later, he earned his master’s degree from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. In 2009, Robbins earned his Ph.D. from Brown, where he served as a Teaching Assistant, Writing Center Associate and Visiting Instructor/Teaching Fellow.   Robbins has been awarded several grants and received awards for teaching and research, including Teacher of the Year (2014); DisAbility Advocate of the Year; Excellence in Teaching Award for the Del Mar College chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success; Kenneth E. Hendrickson Jr. Best Article Award for Sound Historian; and the Daniel E. Kilgore Award for Local History. In addition, he is a member of the Nueces County Historical Commission and past Vice Chair of the City of Corpus Christi Landmark Commission. Click on each video for separate pop-up boxes to view them in their entirety:

Article by Melinda Eddleman On Friday, Aug. 8, Del Mar College (DMC) hosted the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) during a check presentation event recognizing Jobs & Education for Texans (JET) grant recipients to support career and technical education (CTE) training for South Texas high school students. Among the two community colleges and five independent school districts (ISDs) that received oversized checks representing a combined $1,692,417 were Del Mar College, Victoria College and Banquete, Calhoun County, Corpus Christi, George West and San Diego ISDs (read Office of the Texas Governor release). The oversized check awards from the commission were signed and then presented to each school by TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Joe Esparza. DMC received a $313,833 JET grant for its Automotive Applied Technology Program with the Department of Architecture, Aviation and Automotive. The college also partners with four of the five ISDs that received the TWC’s grant to train their students in health care (Banquete, George West and San Diego) and in electronics (Corpus Christi). The JET grant funds DMC received were used to purchase high-tech training equipment to prepare students as technicians for modern vehicle repairs and maintenance in the automotive industry. That equipment includes:             - Consulink Cruze 1.4L Engine Trainer includes new GDI and start/stop technology              that allows students to perform a basic “road test” and engine diagnostics within the              classroom. This trainer also teaches engine diagnostics.             - Consulab Fuel Injection & GM Engine Management System is used to teach engine              management technologies found in modern day vehicles.             - Consulab Ohm’s Law and DC Circuit Trainers (Classroom Set) is a self-contained education             learning system designed to assist instructors with teaching basic electrical and electronic theory and             Ohm’s Law basics, covering fundamentals using the latest electrical components found in modern             vehicles.           - Consulab Engine Starting Test Traction, which is a bench used for teaching mechanical engine repair            using OEM components that provide students with additional skills in engine diagnosis.            - AC System Trainer with H-block is a complete A/C system with unique features designed to enhance            the instruction of air conditioning physics.           - Double-sided Automotive Lighting Trainer is a totally functional vehicle CAN bus trainer based on a           Honda vehicle platform and includes all operational OEM vehicle systems, such as a functional multiplex            and CAN Bus system, with a total of 11 system modules.           - Consulab Advanced Electronics Moduponent Kit is a versatile, adaptable advanced           electrical/electronic training series that allows student to build complex electronic circuits and provides           instruction covering the use of multimeter and other testing equipment.  The need for skilled automotive technicians and mechanics continues to grow and will exceed 60,000 nationally by 2032 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Texas’ Coastal Bend region shows high demand among employers to fill local positions in part due to a growing population generating increased vehicle registrations, along with a growing number of experienced technicians retiring from the field. DMC’s Automotive Applied Technology Program not only trains college-age students but also currently partners with three ISDs in CTE training––Corpus Christi (Miller High School), Calallen and Gregory-Portland––to fill the area’s employment gap in this field. The collaboration to prepare these future technicians is part of the college’s Dual Enrollment Program through Memorandums of Agreement. Students earn college credits toward the Suspension, Driveline, Brake Specialist Level I Certificate, which are stackable credentials that allow them to proceed with earning the Automotive Applied Technology Program’s Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. For employers, finding automotive repair and maintenance technicians with the right skill sets is a growing challenge as vehicle complexity increases. The equipment purchased using the JET grant has allowed the college to upgrade its program’s training lab to meet the highest standards and produce well-trained technicians that industry employers seek for repairs and maintenance among today’s vehicles. Recently, the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation awarded its nationally recognized Program Training Accreditation to DMC’s Automotive Applied Technology Program. Students who earn their ASE certification are considered prime candidates for hire in the automotive repair industry. The college’s Automotive Applied Technology Program offers Level I and II Certificates in addition to the AAS degree. Curriculum and hands-on lab skills training provide for entry-level employment and prepares students for Automotive Service Technology entry-level ASE certifications.  More details about the college’s Automotive Applied Technology Program are available online at www.delmar.edu/degrees/automotive-applied-technology/index.html. View highlights of speakers' remarks below:

Article by College Relations Office Tuesday, Aug. 12, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents will hold their regular monthly meeting beginning at 1 p.m. in Room 106 of the college’s Center for Economic Development at 3209 S. Staples (78411). Get online directions and map. The regular meeting also will be livestreamed. Community members may access the meeting by going to the online video link at www.delmar.edu/webcast/ by 12:55 p.m. A copy of the Agenda Notice and Board Packet is available online at www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/regular-board-meeting-packet-8-12-25.pdf.  Meeting agendas and other resources are also available on the DMC Board of Regents web page at www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/index.html. The health and safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors are a priority for Del Mar College. To view the College’s guidelines, visit www.delmar.edu/rtc/index.html.       

Article by Melinda Eddleman If you missed it, don’t worry! Even though Del Mar College (DMC) held its last One Stop Saturday on Aug. 2 with nearly 650 participants completing the admissions process, speaking with advisors and financial aid staff and registering for Fall 2025 credit courses, other opportunities are still available throughout August to “take care of business.” Fall credit courses begin Monday, Aug. 25. Classes include 8-, 12-, 15- and 16-week sessions that provide students with scheduling options to fit into busy work, family and life schedules. Further opportunities to register for DMC’s fall semester include: • Currently through Monday, Aug. 18: ongoing Online and On-Campus Registration and Advising at Student Enrollment Centers and academic department offices during normal business hours. • Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 19-20: Online and On-Campus Registration with extended facility hours from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuition and fees payment is due by 6 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20. On-Campus Registration and Admissions assistance (online directions and campus maps) is available on all three DMC campuses at the following facilities: • Heritage Campus – Harvin Student Center, 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404) • Windward Campus – Coleman Center, 4101 Old Brownsville Rd. (78405) • Oso Creek Campus – Main Center Building, 7002 Yorktown Blvd. (78414) A final Late Registration Saturday is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 23 at the Harvin Student Center on the Heritage Campus. Tuition and fees payment is due by 6 p.m. Aug. 25. “Just as we conducted our last One Stop Saturday, DMC faculty and staff will assist current and potential Vikings with any eleventh-hour needs they have to get started the following Monday as the semester begins,” noted Martinez of the Late Registration opportunity. “We’re excited and ready to begin this next academic year and to welcome everyone beginning the next path to reaching their goals and owning their dreams by attending Del Mar College.” Both current and prospective students can view course offerings, which are frequently updated throughout the registration process. Additionally, students can use WebDMC to check their financial aid status, review their degree plan and find other information. Current students also need to contact the department of their declared major for specific instructions (access the Academic Advisor Directory). Prospective students needing to complete their admissions file can get more information about the process on the Admissions web page or contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center. To learn more about registration opportunities, payment deadlines and other pertinent information, visit www.delmar.edu/registration or contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu  about fall registration. View visual highlights of the Aug. 2 One Stop Saturday by clicking on the video below:

Article by Melinda Eddleman On July 24, De Mar College (DMC) Automotive Applied Technology majors demonstrated why the college recently received the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation’s Training Program Accreditation. The accreditation runs through May 1, 2030. Enrolled in the Engine Repair and Automotive Engine Performance Analysis class this summer, the 10 students showed off their hands-on skills using Consulab trainers to practice diagnostics system testing in a controlled lab setting as well as applied other skills on actual fleet vehicles for assessment to ensure they can perform real-world automotive service and repair tasks that meet ASE standards. The need for skilled automotive technicians and mechanics continues to grow and will exceed 60,000 nationally by 2032 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Locally, the Coastal Bend region shows high demand among employers to fill these positions in part due to a growing population generating increased vehicle registrations, along with a growing number of experienced technicians retiring from the field, according to Paul Creacy, Del Mar College (DMC) Interim Chair of the Architecture, Aviation and Automotive Department. ASE accreditation acknowledges that a training program meets industry-recognized standards for quality and prepares students for successful careers in the automotive service field. The accreditation ensures students’ training aligns with the skills needed for ASE certification testing. In a letter from the ASE Education Foundation, President Mike Coley stated, “We compliment you for attaining the level of excellence recognized by the ASE Education Foundation. Both the educational and automotive communities should be proud of your commitment to [offering a] quality automotive training program.” The foundation also sent a plaque. “Employers recognize ASE accreditation as a mark of quality and consistency, increasing the employability and earning potential of our graduates,” said Creacy. “It confirms that our students are trained on up-to-date vehicles, technologies and diagnostics and have been taught by instructors with real-world expertise.” Creacy also noted, “Our students are employed across a wide range of dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet services and government agencies.” Examples include AutoNation, General Motors, Hicks Automotive and Mike Shaw dealerships; the City of Corpus Christi’s Fleet Services; the Nueces County Maintenance Department and the Corpus Christi Independent School District’s Transportation Department, among others. To become ASE certified, individuals must meet certain qualifications and pass a series of online tests, including those covering brakes, steering/suspension, engine repair, electrical systems, heating/air conditioning and automatic transmissions. The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence, or ASE for short, conducts testing at Prometric Testing Centers across the country in a controlled environment with a certified proctor, and ASE certification is directly awarded to applicants who successfully complete each test. The Corpus Christi Prometric Testing Center is located at 6001 S. Staples. DMC Automotive Instructor Duane Beadle said, “We encourage our students to take exams at the appropriate time as they complete relevant courses.” On average, the DMC Automotive Applied Technology Program serves 20 to 30 students per semester with approximately 5 to 10 graduating annually, earning either Level 1 or 2 Certificates or their Associate of Applied Science degree. Creacy says these numbers are steadily increasing as the program continues to expand its dual credit offerings to high school students and engages in outreach and recruiting events at their schools. In the Corpus Christi area, the typical starting pay for entry-level automotive technicians is between $16 and $20 per hour. Experienced ASE certified technicians earn $25 to $35-plus per hour depending on their specialization.  To become an ASE accredited program, the process is rigorous and comprehensive. Over several months, DMC faculty and staff compiled and submitted documentation covering the following: Curriculum alignment with ASE standards, Instructor credentials and ASE certifications, Advisory committee feedback and industry input, Facility, tool and equipment inventory, Student learning outcomes and job placement rates, and Classroom safety procedures and lab practices. Additionally, an on-site evaluation was conducted by a team of industry professionals who verified that the program met national benchmarks in all required areas. To learn more about DMC’s Automotive Applied Technology Program, learn more by visiting www.delmar.edu/degrees/automotive-applied-technology/index.html or contacting the Architecture, Aviation and Automotive Department at 361-698-1725 or pcreacy@delmar.edu. Fall 2025 registration is currently underway with classes beginning Monday, Aug. 25. Learn more by visiting www.delmar.edu/registration or contacting the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu.  

Article by Melinda Eddleman They walked one-by-one to the front to receive a special stole that recognized their hard work after spending nearly a year completing Del Mar College’s (DMC) newest bachelor’s degree. The July 10 ceremony was in part a celebration of their accomplishment and as recognition of another “first” for the college. He noted that the first 14 graduates are what success looks like, saying “They now have in their arsenal the expertise in organizational management and leadership that can propel them to new horizons in their careers, whether they’re skilled technicians, seasoned professionals or aspiring entrepreneurs.” The college launched its newest bachelor’s degree program last fall; but the 14 honorees who began their studies 11 months ago completed the Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and Leadership (BAS OML) degree in less than a year. Those students include 13 who previously completed an associate’s degree––some more than one––from Del Mar College, along with one who earned her degree from Austin Community College (ACC). The college’s first BAS OML degree graduates include Justin Autry, Elizabeth Barron, Michael Castillo, Maria Elizondo, Loretta Garcia (ACC grad), Julia Lail, Nelly Lopez, Monica Martinez, Diana Mireles, Alfred Olivarez, Roxette Ramos, Ryan Rios, Christa Yda and Marisol Ynfante. The BAS OML degree is the second bachelor’s degree that the college now offers. In fall 2021, DMC launched its first through the Nurse Education Department––the Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree––that provides for RNs holding associate’s degrees to complete their baccalaureate-level training. Of note, DMC administrators’ original expectation was to enroll 30 students in the new degree program last fall. However, more than 775 individuals requested information about the BAS OML degree during spring and summer 2024 with 256 beginning online studies last fall. Among those who start3d the program last fall was Elizabeth Barron, who received her stole July 10. Barron, who currently works in the Nursing Success Center with the college’s Nurse Education Department, earned her Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Management and Leadership from DMC last fall and chose to continue her studies to earn the new bachelor’s degree. The 1992 King High School graduate noted that “returning to school can feel intimidating; but with determination and a clear goal in mind, anything is possible.” She credits her husband, family, friends and Nurse Education Department faculty and students she works with for encouraging her to push forward and earn the BAS OML degree and says that “the support you’ll find […] along the way is what makes this program truly special.” How did Barron accomplish her goal to earn the new degree in such a short time? “I completed my prerequisites before entering the BAS program and set a personal goal to finish them early so I could fully focus on my [bachelor-level] courses,” she said. “However, the program is so well designed that students can balance prerequisite courses alongside their BAS classes if needed. This program offers incredible flexibility for working adults and busy families, and it’s built to help you succeed.” Approved by the DMC Board of Regents in spring 2024 and offered completely online through the Business Administration and Entrepreneurship Department, the BAS OML degree program targets individuals in the workforce who already hold an associate’s degree and are ready to expand their expertise in organizational management and leadership, including those working as skilled technicians, seasoned professionals, employees aiming for higher leadership positions or individuals considering becoming an entrepreneur. The BAS OML degree also targets new DMC students who are beginning their studies in any of the college’s 55 programs that can transition into the new bachelor’s degree after students complete their AAS degree in their selected major.  The BAS OML degree is stackable, meaning it builds upon the foundation acquired by earning one of the applicable associate’s degrees currently available and offers a comprehensive skill set necessary in today’s competitive market. Of the first 14 students completing their BAS OML degree this summer and receiving their stole on July 10, Dr. Sramek said, “These graduates are already making an impact across industries, and their success sets a strong foundation for future generations For anyone interested in starting DMC’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and Leadership degree program this fall, information about program requirements, the admissions process and an online form to get started are available at www.delmar.edu/basoml. Interested individuals can also inquire about the program at basoml@delmar.edu or 361-698-1372. Fall 2025 registration is currently underway with classes beginning Monday, Aug. 25. Learn more by visiting www.delmar.edu/registration or contacting the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu.      

Article by Richard Guerrero, Jr. Symbolic logic, problem solving, physics and linear coding ... those are subjects you don’t normally think sixth and seventh graders would spend time covering during the first part of their summer break. In fact, those subjects sound more like what upper-level high school or college students would take during summer semester courses. But for nearly 50 area middle school youth, that’s exactly how they’ve spent the past six weeks as participants with Del Mar College’s Texas Prefreshman Engineering Program or TexPREP. The annual summer camp is free and offered through an application process to students demonstrating strong academic aptitude, especially in mathematics. “Our goal is to prepare these students to excel while attending college, not to just get into college,” said James Shollenberger, DMC Professor of Mathematics and TexPREP Co-director. “We believe students who complete the college’s TexPREP program are going to progress forward and finish their bachelor’s degree and any further academic work that they would choose to pursue.” TexPREP is a statewide initiative that began in 1979 at The University of Texas at San Antonio to encourage middle school- through early high school-age students to pursue studies and careers in fields related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Del Mar College introduced TexPREP to its summer youth programming in 2000. The program’s longevity has been made possible by the 13-year lead sponsorship from Flint Hills Resources with overall donations reaching nearly $300,000. “Our 13-year partnership with Del Mar College through the TexPREP program reflects our mutual commitment to preparing students for success in STEM fields,” said Kara Rivas, Public Affairs Manager at Flint Hills Resources. “We look forward to continuing this shared vision and nurturing the next generation of leaders.” The college’s rigorous TexPREP is accredited by the Texas Education Agency. Students who complete each program year can earn one elective credit for every camp they attend. The coursework and projects become more advanced each progressive year that students complete. Shollenberger noted campers can start high school with almost a half semester of credits by completing all three program years and even use those credits to graduate early. The college’s TexPREP utilizes project-based learning that progresses as students continue their participation each summer. Bridge building introduces campers to civil engineering, robotics to mechanical engineering and computer programming and vehicle model building to electrical engineering and aerodynamics. Members of the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects also teach and mentor second-year students as they build models while learning the principles behind designing such wonders. Students also learn more about STEM-based career opportunities with guest speakers sharing their experiences and the skills and knowledge needed to enter their fields. This year those speakers included representatives from the Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program, Corpus Christi City Council, Del Mar College, Flint Hills Resources, Hansoni Inc., MEG Corp, Steel Dynamics, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Valero and Workforce Solutions Coastal Bend, among other guests. Additionally, the program focuses on serving underrepresented populations, including youth who will be first-generation college-going students in their families and those nontraditionally represented in the STEM fields. Demographic data for 2014-2024 show that DMC TexPREP participation has been nearly 50% female, including one-third Hispanic female and three-quarters Hispanic and African American among students attending the summer program. Half of the participants were prospective first-generation college students with over 25% being female. Additionally, historical data for all PREP students shows on average: approximately 44% completing a bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline compared to 15% nationally, three-quarters completing a bachelor’s degree are from underrepresented and/or minority groups compared to less than one-third nationally, and nearly 70% who complete a bachelor’s degree do so in a STEM discipline and are from an underrepresented and/or minority group compared to 31% nationally.   To learn more about the college’s TexPREP, visit www.delmar.edu/ccprep. Views highlights of the program's July 16 Media Day below:

Article by Richard Guerrero, Jr. Murals, mariachis and traditional Mexican dance are among the highlights of this year’s Summer Seminar, which is presented annually by the Mexican American Studies (MAS) Program at Del Mar College (DMC), which offers an Associate in Arts degree. The 11th annual Mexican American Studies Summer Seminar, “Community, Culture y Más” is scheduled from 8:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, on the first floor of the Solomon Coles Building, which is located on DMC’s Heritage Campus. The event is free and open to the public. However, attendees are encouraged to register to help organizers plan for breakfast and lunch activities. Visit the online Summer Seminar event page to register at  www.delmar.edu/degrees/mexican-american-studies/summer/index.html.   For further questions, contact MAS Coordinator and Social Sciences faculty member Dr. Isabel Araiza at iaraiza2@delmar.edu. The day promises to offer a substantive immersion into topics and issues related to Mexican Americans, culture and experience. Panels will address a wide variety of topics, including art, identity, language, mariachi music and the importance of Mexican American Studies programs. “The seminar will begin with a ceremonial Mexica danza conducted by the group Kapulli Ollin Papalotl,” says Dr. Isabel Araiza, DMC Assistant Professor of Sociology and MAS Coordinator.  “During the afternoon, they have graciously volunteered to participate on a panel to discus traditional Mexica danza, the artifacts they use and how they became a part of this group.” Araiza also adds that organizers are excited to share that this year’s keynote speaker is artist and DMC alumnus Tony Armadillo, who designed the Connections Mural, which was painted on the side of the K Space Building in Downtown Corpus Christi by muralist Sandra Gonzalez and 45 teen artists in 2019. The 2025 MAS Summer Seminar is the first for Armadillo to serve as a speaker. “If people are familiar with the murals in the Downtown District, they’ve probably appreciated and been awed by Mr. Armadillo’s work,” Araiza notes. “He is a renowned local artist whose work has been shown and won awards across Texas and the nation, so he will discuss his work and creative process when he speaks during the seminar.” Another item of interest, Araiza notes, is a morning panel featuring scholars and artists who recently published “Somos Tejanas: Chicana Identity and Culture in Texas.” Panelists will share details about the book, which explores the complexity of identity by weaving together poetry, art, history, and personal experiences. Given music’s importance to the cultural traditions of the Mexican American community, Araiza says she’s excited to have Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s Amanda Marquez, a faculty member who is also a co-founder of the university’s Mariachi Festival, as a presenter. She will cover the history of mariachi music. While organizers have held previous seminars in other college locations, this year’s full-day event will take place in the Coles Building which also houses the Center for Mexican American Studies. Attendees will have an opportunity to visit the center, which is a community space, and to learn about projects the center has planned for the near future. The college’s Mexican American Studies Summer Seminar dates to 2014. “This annual event is a gift to the community from former English Professor Mike Anzaldúa, who was deeply involved at Del Mar College from 1969 until his death in 2012,” Araiza says, adding, “The summer seminar is a unique opportunity for the community to learn about itself and our experiences.” Listen to KEDT FM 90.3's interview with Dr. Isabel Araiza about the 11th annual Mexican American Student Summer Seminar. The interview aired the week of the event. View highlights of the MAS Summer Seminar by clicking on the video below:

Article by: Richard Guerrero, Jr. For young Coastal Bend singers, the long road to potentially earn a spot with one of four All-State choirs begins at Del Mar College (DMC). The honor includes performing during the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Clinic and Convention at the Henry B. González Center in San Antonio early next year. This week (June 30-July 3), the college’s Music Department is hosting the TMEA All-State Choir Camp for small schools, which consists of 40 students from smaller high schools in the area––including A.C. Jones (Beeville), La Feria Early College (La Feria), Sinton and Tuloso-Midway high schools. The Small School Choir Camp will wrap up with a free concert in Richardson Performance Hall this Thursday, July 3, at 4 p.m. The performance is open to the public. For more information, contact the DMC Music Office at 361-698-1211 or music@delmar.edu. Last week, the department held its Large School Choir Camp for 90 students who attend King, Ray, Carroll, Moody, Miller, Veterans Memorial, Gregory-Portland, Calallen, Flour Bluff, Shoemaker (Killeen), United (Laredo) and Donna North high schools. Home-schooled students from Bridgeway Academy also attended the camp.      The camps are designed to prepare students for the 2026 TMEA All-State Choir audition process according to Dr. Mirae Lee, DMC Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities. In addition to serving as camp director, Lee also conducts the full choir each week for the camp concert finale. In addition to the Music faculty member, nine current and retired high school choir directors as well as DMC Music students help run the camps. During the Large School camp, students participated during an online session with guest clinicians Dr. Shekela Wanyama and Dr. Marcela Molina, both from the 2026 TMEA All-State Choir. Campers were provided a sneak peek at the All-State Choir repertoire, which was released in May. Early preparation during the college’s camps will serve students well as they prepare for the audition process, which consists of four stages: District, Region, Pre-Area and Area. The camps also offer sight-reading sessions, which are required for the TMEA audition, as well as diction classes, vocal health instruction and vocalization practice. Dr. Lee notes that Del Mar College is the only institution in South Texas offering this unique opportunity to small school students. “These activities are designed to help students better understand the vocal system and improve their singing skills,” she says. However, the camps are not all work. Campers participate in fun team-building activities throughout the week. Dr. Carla Gamez-Vela, DMC Assistant Professor of Kinesiology and Intermural Sports Director, leads a line-dancing session, and campers can take part during other activities such as karaoke, a talent show and a mini-Olympics event, along with a pool party with pizza and an ice cream social. “Our camps allow students to stay musically engaged over the summer, strengthening their skills and preparing for the All-State audition process. It’s a unique blend of focused training and fun, led by local passionate educators,” Dr. Lee says. “I’m proud that Del Mar College is an institution that supports the dreams of local students, and I’m honored to contribute to that mission by helping camp participants grow, achieve and stay inspired.”

Article by Melinda Eddleman Working in higher education can be rewarding no matter the position while serving students and the community. And, an opportunity to explore employment at Del Mar College (DMC) is just around the corner. The college’s Human Resources Office will hold a job fair on Wednesday, June 25, from 10 a.m. to  2 p.m. in the Retama Room (second floor) at the Harvin Student Center on DMC’s Heritage Campus, which is located at 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404). Get online directions and view a campus map using the following link: www.delmar.edu/becoming-a-viking/discover/tours/locations.html. Ranging from college-level teaching positions to support staff jobs, DMC currently has over 300 employment opportunities available now and beginning with the fall semester. Individuals can explore job openings by visiting dmcjobs.delmar.edu/postings/search before attending or during the event. Additionally, participants can: Meet with HR staff and hiring managers to answer your questions, Receive personalized guidance on how to apply and stand out as a potential employee, Learn about benefits, growth opportunities and workplace culture, and Access on-site application assistance with computer availability. Questions? Inquiries can be directed to the DMC Human Resources Office at 361-698-2178 or dmcjobs@delmar.edu. Individuals can also explore Del Mar College, its campus culture, program offerings and more at www.delmar.edu. Whether you’re a student or employee, you can “own your dreams” at DMC! ### Download a printable flyer below:

Article by Richard Guerrero, Jr. Whether you’re seeking a full course correction in life and would like to start working toward a new career path or you’re already working on an associate degree but have taken a break and are ready to get back on track, online and on-campus registration and advising are currently underway for Del Mar College Summer II and Fall 2025 credit courses. Summer Session II includes five- and six-week courses to fit in with your busy summertime schedule while fall courses include eight-, 12-, 15- and 16-week sessions that also give you options. Registration and tuition/fees deadlines vary for summer and fall sessions, so go online to the college’s Registration page for specific dates.  In-person admissions/registration assistance is available on all three campuses (online directions and campus maps): • Heritage Campus – Harvin Student Center, 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404) • Windward Campus – Coleman Center, 4101 Old Brownsville Road (78405) • Oso Creek Campus – Main Center Building, 7002 Yorktown Blvd. (78414)  Both current and prospective students can view course offerings, which are frequently updated throughout the registration process. Additionally, students can use WebDMC to check their financial aid status, review their degree plan and find other information. Current students also need to contact the department of their declared major for specific instructions (access the Academic Advisor Directory). Prospective students needing to complete their admissions file can get more information about the process on the Admissions web page or contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu.  Summer Session II classes begin Monday, July 7. Currently, Fall 2025 registration is underway with classes beginning Monday, Aug. 25. To learn more about registration opportunities, payment deadlines and other pertinent information, visit https://www.delmar.edu/registration.  Individuals can also contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroill@delmar.edu  about fall registration.  The college will host two more One Stop Saturday events, July 12 and Aug. 2, in the Harvin Student Center on the Heritage Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to assist individuals with their admissions files, registration and other processes in preparation for the fall semester. During the July 12 One Stop Saturday, DMC in-district residents can also learn more about Del Mar College’s Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Pilot Program, which launches this fall and has an Aug. 1 application deadline.   For details about other steps, you can take to get a head start before attending a One Stop Saturday event, visit www.delmar.edu/1stop/index.html.   Already hold an associate degree from one of the many programs offered at DMC? Take the next step to earn a bachelor’s degree––either the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) degree for those already working as registered nurses or the Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and Leadership (BAS-OML) degree that applies to well-over 50 associate degree programs among the college’s curricula.  The college offers the BAS-OML degree completely online through the Department of Business Administration and Entrepreneurship. Both individuals who already hold an associate degree and those students just beginning their studies among the 55 programs applicable to the bachelor’s degree when completed are encouraged to pursue the BAS-OML.   Information about program requirements, the admissions process and an online form to get started are available at www.delmar.edu/basoml. Interested individuals can also inquire about the BAS-OML degree program at basoml@delmar.edu or 361-698-1372.  The next student group for the RN to BSN degree begins in spring 2026, but the application process runs July 1 through Oct. 1. Applicants must hold a valid RN state license and have completed 90 semester credit hours (SCH) that include required general education credit courses. Additionally, interested individuals must also have completed associate degree-level RN coursework from an accredited nursing program.  Prospective applicants can learn more about the program at delmar.edu/bsn/index.html or by contacting the college’s Department of Nurse Education at RNtoBSN@delmar.edu or 361-698-2809.  What are you waiting for? Apply or get registered to “own your dreams” at Del Mar College!    

Article by: Richard Guerrero, Jr.  For the 713 out of the college’s 953 total prospective graduates making up the Class of May 2025, Del Mar College’s Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony marked a new chapter in their lives. The long line of graduates marched into and out of the arena at the American Bank Center as the largest graduating class since at least 2019 when 714 Vikings crossed the stage during that Spring graduation ceremony. Overall, the college awarded 1,214 certificates and associate degrees combined to the total graduating class this spring. Among the list are 128 Dual Enrollment Program graduates, who are high school students receiving certificates and associate degrees from DMC before even walking the stage during their own schools’ commencement ceremonies to receive their diplomas. In addition, the Class of May 2025 included 39 students from Collegiate High School (CHS) and 22 students from Harold T. Branch Academy for Career and Technical Education.   Before DMC’s Spring 2025 graduates took the spotlight to receive these awards, Keynote Speaker Dr. Wayne Morris, D.D.S./F.A.G.D., shared a few reflections from his time as both an athlete and a student at DMC in 1959 and 1960. Watch the full commencement ceremony video below: Spring 2025 graduates include the following: Spring 2025 Del Mar College graduates include the following Vikings:   HONORS GRADUATES Summa Cum Laude Jeff A. Abrego, Majed Alghamdi, Ibrahim A. Alzahrani, Jassem A. Alzuwayed, Jennifer M. Argo, Adriana Y. Ayala Pascasio, Razika Baksh, Saydi L. Banda, Ursula M. Benitez, Wren C. Benth, Matthew L. Besinaiz, Marley J. Bryant, Jeannie Byers, Destiny-Rae Cantu, Rick G. Cantu, Cesilia K. Cardenas, Jessica Carr, Madelyn M. Carrasquillo, Rubena R. Casas, Sai Varshini Chinnasani, Karina D. Collins, Karina A. Conchas, Kevin C. Connelly, Joe Cruz, Christopher J. Danz, Autumn D. Diaz, Leah N. Elliott, Noah J. Evers, Gabriel Garcia, Tori J. Garcia, Randy S. Garza, Valerie A. Garza, Hannah F. Gatchel, Casey A. Gilliam, Cecelia A. Gonzales, Rose M. Hale, Crystal M. Harris, Monique L. Hernandez, Levy Herrera, Keri L. Hollowell, Jared J. Langlois, Claudette Lara, Zachary J. LaRoe, Devan N. Leal, Leandro J. Lemus David Lopez Jr., Gabriela N. Lopez, Mayumi L. Lopez, Luis T. Loyo Jr., Valery M. Marquez, Nicholas J. Martinez, Kimberlin Mathews, Tina M. McPherson, John M. Medado, Roberto A. Mendoza, Efren Mesa Carmona, Frederick L. Mierow, Maya B. Mollick, Miguel Ontiveros Jr., Amber J. Pena, Ethan N. Perez Isaac Perez Jr., Sara S. Perez, Federico Ramirez, Olivia E. Ramirez, Jasmine D. Ramsey, Pablo E. Rendon IV, Christina D. Riojas, Ahmi M. Robertson, Amy Y. Rodriguez Nieto, Carlos A. Ruiz, Benjamin M. Ryel, Jose E. Saenz III, Gladys Sanchez, Anna S. Silva, Katelyn Smith, Savina D. Sotello, Karla D. Soto, Madisyn A. Stancik, Luis Trevino-Medina, Robert L. Villarreal Jr., Raymond K. Westmoreland Jr. and Salvatore D. Whitt Magna Cum Laude Chloe C. Acuna, Tanya M. Alaniz, Beverly A. Amador, Ailenis T. Blanco, Zachary K. Bowers, Piper S. Bush, Jesus A. Castillo Mendiola, Johnathan S. Cremar, Cara C. Dorman, Jamie M. Ferreira, Chris A. Flores, Kayla C. Foster, Elizabeth Franco, Robert M. Gabrillo Jr., Teresa L. Garcia, Noah J. Gonzales, Elijah I. Gonzalez, Melanie A. Gonzalez, Teresa M. Gonzalez, Sierra N. Hernandez, Urbano J. Hernandez, Katarina F. Herrera, Leeara K. Herrera, Addison G. Hilker, Vanassa M. Jimison, Weslee A. Jochetz, Lawson M. Jones, Isaac A. Lara, Michaela N. Lirio, Antonio M. Lopez, Oswaldo J. Martinez, Wendy L. Martinez, Scott C. Meyer, Matthew J. Miranda, Johnathan J. Mondragon, Aava M. Mostaghasi, Hans B. Nguyen, Melody D. Nixon-Bice, Martin M. Orosco, Alexis Ortega, Stan L. Perkins II, Brianna R. Polk, Natalie H. Price, Isaac A. Ramirez, Rey Rivera, Joshua R. Rodriguez, Julissa P. Rodriguez, Jacqueline T. Rodriguez, Diego Rosas, Itayetzi Salazar, Alexander D. Sy, Maria S. Torres, Amie L. Valdez and Brian L. Williams Cum Laude Stephanie A. Aguilar, Roderick D. Benson Jr., Linda M. Best, Ashlyn F. Butcher, Jahir G. Castaneda, Isaac Castro, Noah D. Cavazos, Sara R. Dansfiell, Phil De la Garza Jr., Ryan T. Dunlavy, Helen Escobar Villar, Manuel C. Garcia, Emelia R. Garza,  Beatrice E. Garza Perez, Colt W. Gillis, Serena M. Gomez, Sean B. Gonzales, Marissavel G. Gonzalez,  Edgar D. Hernandez,  Noe R. Jimenez Jr., Ryan P. Johnson, Stella E. Juarez, Kristina M. Kueber, Edmundo Leal, Erika Liera Huchim, Tomas E. Lopez, Alexander Manrique, Kayla A. Martin, Logan E. McGrath, Aliyah M. Medina, Reyna L. Monjaras, Emanuel A. Moreno, Nicholas R. Pacheco, Maria F. Paulson, Julian R. Ramirez, Caitlin A. Rawalt, Serena Rios, Israel G. Robledo, Ruby A. Robles, Alyssa L. Rodriguez, Anissa Rodriguez, Kristan M. Rodriguez, Noah Rodriguez, Gabriella L. Salinas, Miranda E. Salinas, Daniela Sandoval-Estudiante, Anya C. Sivak, Brigid E. Sorrell, Jimmy Soto Jr., Erica D. Subia, Joshua K. Taylor, Christopher T. Tichacek, Johnny Vazquez, Bryleigh P. Villarreal, Bethany G. Walker, Kaylie E. Westmoreland and Logan M. Young DIVISION OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND HEALTH SCIENCES ALLIED HEALTH Associate in Science Maria C. Herrera, Anya C. Sivak   Associate in Applied Science Carmen Almeida, Jennifer M. Argo, Amanda L. Benavides, Linda M. Best, Destiny-Rae Cantu, Jennifer I. Cantu, Jessica N. Caro, Alejandra E. Castaneda, Alanis D. Castro, Jaci M. Choat, Paola A. De La Rosa, Jeralyn M. Deleon, Jenny R. Echavarrie, Leah N. Elliott, Gerald C. Espejo, Vivian E. Flores, Ashley R. Garcia, Cylest A. Garcia, Danielle M. Garcia, Tori J. Garcia, Jayzel Anne N. Garrett, Britney R. Garza, Colt W. Gillis *, Angela Granados, Cindy R. Guevara, Adriana I. Hawkins, Noe R. Jimenez Jr., Kristina M. Kueber, Jacqueline Lemos, Isabella Lira, Kayla N. Lopez, Stephanie N. Lopez, Jeanette Madero, Chelsea L. Marroquin, Lina M. Martinez, Rene M. Martinez II *, Kimberlin Mathews, Diane D. Matthews, John M. Medado, Monique M. Morin, Randee J. Murphy, Maribelle L. Napoles, Isaac A. Page, Amber J. Pena, Tim D. Pham, Zoila E. Pineda, Celso G. Rendon-Fonseca, Isabella M. Reyes, Crystal R. Rivas, Kristan M. Rodriguez, Miranda A. Ruiz, Nataly Saenz ^SAP, Andrea A. San Miguel, Daniela Sandoval-Estudiante, Natalie C. Solis, Jacob R. Soliz, Madisyn A. Stancik, Alexander D. Sy, Tiffany V. Turincio, Bonnie A. Valchar, K L. Weber, Ashley Woodall, Jason Woodard *, Marina E. Zapata and Fernando D. Zavala     Certificate Ana M. Carranza Godinez, Catherine M. Silva, Nicole R. Villa  Advanced Technical Certificate Jennifer A. Swantek BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP Associate in Arts Marcos L. Aguilar, Virginia Aguilar, Theresa M. Aguirre, Ana J. Battles, Aden I. Cedillo, Roseann Chavera, Geanine A. Dunovan, Olivia Escobar Olivarez, Carla J. Estrada, Maria M. Garza, Beatrice E. Garza Perez, Madyson M. Gomez, Diego M. Gonzales, Joshua G. Gonzalez, Stone M. Gracia, Crystal M. Harris, James A. Jaramillo, Hannah E. Long, Ciara M. McDonald, Melody D. Nixon-Bice, Elizabeth Ochoa, Maria F. Paulson, Jayda N. Pena, Reina E. Salgado, Jaedyn S. Simmons, Katelyn Smith, Maria S. Torres, Laurie L. Trevino, Samantha L. Trevino, Katie L. Underwood and Matthew J. Valdez    Associate in Applied Science Tanya M. Alaniz, Razika Baksh *, Rene Benavides II *, Ursula M. Benitez, Jenaly D. Beseril, Jeannie Byers, Kimberly M. Chavera *, Darlene E. Cline, Ted J. Featherstone, Kayla C. Foster, Anem S. Gallegos, Shea L. Hatley, Monique L. Hernandez, Margot Y. Herrera, Vanessa N. Nelson, Miranda R. Piwetz, Serenity R. Rambo, Jae Lynn R. Ramirez, Haley A. Rodriguez, Dakota R. Rosales, Danielle H. Sharpe, Elizabeth A. Soliz-Abrego, Mazzy C. Tagliaferro, Christopher T. Tichacek and Amie L. Valdez ^LN Certificate Krysten Amador, Rene Benavides II *, Ursula M. Benitez, Jenaly D. Beseril, Carissa Box, Jeannie Byers, Alicia M. Castillo, Kimberly M. Chavera *, Darlene E. Cline, Karina A. Conchas, Heaven M. Garrison, Valerie A. Garza, Jayden I. Guerra, Anabella R. Guerrero, Monique L. Hernandez, Monserrat Hernandez, Sierra N. Hernandez Kayla A. Martin, Savanna L. Maverick, Amaya M. McChester, Tina M. McPherson, Vanessa N. Menchaca, Reyna L. Monjaras, Analisa M. Perez, Caitlin A. Rawalt *, Rylee E. Ray, Alyssa L. Rodriguez, Julissa P. Rodriguez, Amy Y. Rodriguez Nieto, Itayetzi Salazar, Natalie Y. Salinas, Christopher T. Tichacek and Brittany C. Villarreal      Occupational Skills Award Rene Benavides II *, Jenaly D. Beseril, Jeannie Byers, Jahir G. Castaneda, Darlene E. Cline, Monique L. Hernandez, Julia M. Salazar and Melina Vargas  DENTAL AND IMAGING Associate in Applied Science Stephanie A. Aguilar, Jazmine L. Alvarado, Zulema Baez, Mariah C. Bowers, Ashlyn F. Butcher, Katrina Cardona, Ana C. Chavez, Autumn D. Diaz,  Helen Escobar Villar, Aaron N. Espinoza ^SAP, Melany Garza, Belen C. Hernandez, Madison J. Hernandez, Claudette Lara, Devan N. Leal, Lyza Y. Leal, Florinda M. Lee, Trinity A. Lozano, Efren Mesa Carmona, Jacklyn F. Mrayyan, Katelyn P. Noack, Jaqueline Nuncio, Brianna R. Polk, Natalie H. Price, Jasmine D. Ramsey, Anissa Rodriguez, Selina L. Ruiz ^SAP, Adriana Y. Salazar, Gladys Sanchez, Clark V. Sheehan, Karla D. Soto, Vanessa K. Squyres, Auryeona L. Teniente, Daisy Tran, Bryleigh P. Villarreal and Kaylie E. Westmoreland     NURSE EDUCATION Associate in Arts Daniella N. Barrera, Isaiah D. Caraway, Cesilia K. Cardenas, Kristen R. Chapa, Mallorie A. Chavez, Ronisha R. Christie, Tatiana G. Cortez, Valerie N. De Alejandro, Leticia A. De la Garza, Britney L. Flores, Kimberly G. Gallegos, Presley L. Gayaut, Serena M. Gomez, Briana D. Gonzales, Jared R. Hargrove, Megan R. Hernandez, Erica Herrera, Jocelyn A. Jacinto Crystal L. Jenkins, Cassi D. Lowrance, Adriana M. Luna, Jasmine M. Maravilla, Maria I. Maravilla, Angela M. Marroquin, Brittanee L. Perez *, Stephanie M. Perez, Reyanna M. Reyna, Reese R. Rocha, Janella L. Rodriguez, Yohana M. Ruiz, Alyssa R. Salinas, Brooke A. Samuelson, Miriam Sanchez-Munoz, Anna L. Villarreal and Jacqueline R. Zeno    NURSE EDUCATION Associate in Arts Daniella N. Barrera, Isaiah D. Caraway, Cesilia K. Cardenas, Kristen R. Chapa, Mallorie A. Chavez, Ronisha R. Christie, Tatiana G. Cortez, Valerie N. De Alejandro, Leticia A. De la Garza, Britney L. Flores, Kimberly G. Gallegos, Presley L. Gayaut, Serena M. Gomez, Briana D. Gonzales, Jared R. Hargrove, Megan R. Hernandez, Erica Herrera, Jocelyn A. Jacinto, Crystal L. Jenkins, Cassi D. Lowrance, Adriana M. Luna, Jasmine M. Maravilla, Maria I. Maravilla, Angela M. Marroquin, Brittanee L. Perez *, Stephanie M. Perez, Reyanna M. Reyna, Reese R. Rocha, Janella L. Rodriguez, Yohana M. Ruiz, Alyssa R. Salinas, Brooke A. Samuelson, Miriam Sanchez-Munoz, Anna L. Villarrealda and Jacqueline R. Zeno    Associate in Applied Science Melissa J. Afram, Joshua A. Alvarez, Juan M. Alvarez Jr., Roger T. Apostol Jr., Crystal Arocha ^SAP, Leanna M. Arredondo, Daniela A. Benavides, Wren C. Benth *, Jessica E. Boleware, Nicholas V. Brennan, Piper S. Bush, Autumn D. Cantu, Sarah M. Cantu, Isaiah D. Caraway, Corey Carranza, Amber D. Carrillo, Ronisha R. Christie, Tatiana G. Cortez, Sara R. Dansfiell ^LN, Leticia Deloach, Jamie M. Ferreira ^SAP, Melissa B. Flores, Ariana V. Gamboa, Liana B. Garcia, Serena M. Gomez, Briana D. Gonzales, Deanna Gonzalez, Marissavel G. Gonzalez, Devon M. Hartin, Jocelyn A. Jacinto, Noemi Lopez, Cassi D. Lowrance, Iris V. Maldonado ^SAP, Angela M. Marroquin, Yency L. Martinez Rubio, Amanda M. Mata, Mayra A. Mauch, Lindsey F. McCravey, Priscilla N. Mendoza, Kile J. Patrick *, Rebecca L. Pellegrin, Emily R. Reyes, Karina L. Rivera, Reese R. Rocha, Joshua R. Rodriguez, Stephen Rodriguez III, Luis D. Rosales, Miranda M. Saenz, Alyssa R. Salinas, Miranda E. Salinas, Mikaela V. Schmalstieg, Maria E. Silva Diaz, Desirae J. Soliz, Isabel Soliz, Robert G. Stanford, Rebecca Tobias, Elizabeth Turner, Antonio J. Vidal Jr., Anna L. Villarreal, Lucy M. Yeary and Jacqueline R. Zeno  DIVISION OF COMMUNICATIONS, FINE ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES ART AND DRAMA Associate in Arts Samuel C. Howarth IV, Erika Liera Huchim, Nayeli Lopez, Chasity S. Morales, Chloe S. Spencer, Maria G. Trejo-Diaz, Deedra E. Van Winkle and Emily L. Vodicka     COMMUNICATIONS, LANGUAGES AND READING Associate in Arts Mikaela B. Carbajal, Faith A. Flores, Brendan X. Garza, Hannah F. Gatchel, Teresa M. Gonzalez, Jordan R. Harris,  Peyton E. Henderson, Nygel R. Hudson Williams,  Joseph K. Kuhn, Cheyenne J. Michels, Marie D. Ponce, Bella E. Resendez, Gabriella L. Salinas, and Carlye I. Villarreal                Associate in Applied Science Katherine M. Hampton Certificate Katherine M. Hampton, Deborah A. Weddle ENGLISH AND PHILOSOPHY Associate in Arts Tiara A. Sison, Brigid E. Sorrell     LIBERAL ARTS Associate in Arts  Reyanna A. Aguirre, Taylor Alaniz, Tiffany A. Aleman, Adriana Y. Ayala Pascasio, Luis F. Beltran, Ailenis T. Blanco, Natalie R. Bravo, Monica L. Cantu, Jennifer Carr, Jessica Carr, Henry X. Charba, Sai Varshini Chinnasani, Allyson Collado, Jack A. Collier, Angela M. Collins, Alyssa N. Delagarza, Nayeli Diaz, Dorothy A. Dimas, Taryn R. Donovan, Jolie S. Edwards, Benjamin D. Escamilla, Yadiel E. Escamilla, Eugene J. Firo, Elizabeth Franco, Danielle Gabiano Pagayonan, Julia L. Garcia, Mersade J. Garcia, Serena E. Garcia *, Teresa L. Garcia, Kaitlyn C. Garey, Tatiana T. Gonzalez, Katarina F. Herrera, Leeara K.0 Herrera, Addison G. Hilker, Jocelyn G. Jaramillo, Kyler G. Keffer, Isaac A. Lara, Jaley P. Larivey, Caitlin A. Lawhon, Catherine A. Lindsey, Michaela N. Lirio, Angelina N. Lopez, Erick Lopez, Mayumi L. Lopez, Jillian G. Maharaj, Christian Margia, Dallas C. Mario, Valery M. Marquez, Andrea L. Martinez, Ben L. Martinez, Isaiah M. Melena, Lauren M. Mixon, Maya B. Mollick, Johnathan J. Mondragon, Mercedes B. Montalbo, Austin M. Moore, Luis S. Morales, Olivia C. Morales, Emanuel A. Moreno, Aava M. Mostaghasi, Jennifer R. Nanez, Hans B. Nguyen, Reagan B. Norquist, Cecilia Ocanas, Christina M. Perez, Ethan N. Perez, Sara S. Perez, Robert L. Plumbley, Isaac A. Ramirez, Brandon J. Rangel, Keith A. Reposar, Makayla A. Rivas, Vincent S. Rivera, Adrianna R. Rodriguez, Keisy M. Rodriguez, Isabella G. Rojas, Kristin N. Ross, Carlos A. Ruiz, Jose E. Saenz III, Ximena Sanchez, Joshua W. Schwerdtfeger, Brianna N. Sciuto,  Lilyana Secorsky, Amber R. Sifuentes, Anna S. Silva, Savina D. Sotello, Zeke Thongsavanh, Isabella O. Vargas and Linda M. Villarreal                   MUSIC Associate in Arts Edmundo Leal, Juan C. Molina and Samuel A. Parga-Guerrero Certificate  Benjamin T. Aldana, Jose A. Garza SOCIAL SCIENCES Associate in Arts Gabriella P. Alvarado, Rosa M. Bailey, Ashley E. Bates, Daniella M. Cardona, Johnathan S. Cremar, Christopher E. Diaz, Cara C. Dorman, Ian B. Escarzaga, Alexis F. Garcia, Carolyn R. Hatcher, Deven L. Mican, Serena Rios, Rey Rivera, Dulce E. Sanchez, Hailey J. Siegford, Will G. Stiles V and Yetta R. Williams DIVISION OF INDUSTRY AND PUBLIC SERVICE ARCHITECTURE, AVIATION, AND AUTOMOTIVE Associate in Science Beverly A. Amador, Zachary K. Bowers, Kayla K. Cisneros, Chris A. Flores, Edgar D. Hernandez, Ivette G. McKenzie, Alexa A. Meza, Nicole A. Moreno, Isaac Perez Jr., Benjamin M. Ryel and Bethany G. Walker Associate in Applied Science Chase D. Beverly, Carter J. Blanchette, Tommy R. Bueno Bravo, Michael K. Buergers, Noah D. Cavazos, Kevin C. Connelly *, Arturo Cuellar III, Cross D. Garcia, Marcus A. Garcia, David P. Gonzales, Vanassa M. Jimison, Roman V. Lares, Nicholas R. Lazo, Wendy L. Martinez, Roberto A. Mendoza, Jarrett Padron, Daniel A. Rodriguez, Valerie M. Rodriguez, Christopher A. Sanchez, John M. Villarreal * and Joseph A. Zamudio-Sanchez Certificate  Jeff A. Abrego, Caleb A. Aguilar, Victor F. Alcocer Jr. *, Marlon E. Amaya, Luis F. Beltran,  Matthew L. Besinaiz, Chase D. Beverly,  Carter J. Blanchette, Marcella D. Cantera, Rick G. Cantu, Rudy Cantu Jr., David M. Cirilo III, Kayla K. Cisneros, Karina D. Collins, Christopher J. Danz, Victoria L. Davis, Ryan T. Dunlavy, Angelica N. Flores, Chris A. Flores, Carlos M. Garcia, Cross D. Garcia, David A. Garcia, Estella M. Garcia, Joseph P. Glunk Jr., Alan F. Gomez, David P. Gonzales, Scottie Green Jr., Nathan J. Hernandez, Roberto R. Hinojosa, Jacob T. Hurley, Zoe I. Jimenez *, Vanassa M. Jimison, Lawson M. Jones, Audrey J. Lara, Roman V. Lares, Leandro J. Lemus, Andrew C. Leyba Sr., David Lopez Jr., Tomas E. Lopez, Samuel M. Macias, Alexander Manrique, Armando Martinez, Oswaldo J. Martinez, Wendy L. Martinez Lucas C. Mata, Andrew A. Merino, Zachary E. Merrill, Scott C. Meyer, Benedict J. Miranda, Nicole A. Moreno, Araceli S. Orozco-Perez, Luis A. Perez, Federico Ramirez ^SAP, Jonathan B. Reed Jr. * Gregorio Reyes Jr., Christina D. Riojas, Eric J. Rios, Brandon G. Rodriguez, Santiago G. Rodriguez, Valerie M. Rodriguez *, Jarett A. Rojas, Benito C. Sanchez, Christopher A. Sanchez, Yadier Sanchez, Jimmy Soto Jr., David S. Sprinkle, Timothy J. Thompson Jr., Jason D. Torres-Bonilla, Jason L. Trevino *, Luis Trevino-Medina, Mark J. Villarreal, Raymond K. Westmoreland Jr. *, Salvatore D. Whitt and Joseph A. Zamudio-Sanchez  Occupational Skills Award  Jeff A. Abrego, Anthony R. Aguero, Caleb A. Aguilar, Victor F. Alcocer Jr. * Rudy Cantu Jr., Carlos M. Garcia, Joseph P. Glunk Jr., David P. Gonzales, Scottie Green Jr., Nathan J. Hernandez, Roberto R. Hinojosa, Zoe I. Jimenez *, Leandro J. Lemus, Andrew C. Leyba Sr., David Lopez Jr., Jason C. Lopez Jr., Samuel M. Macias, Alexander Manrique, Oswaldo J. Martinez, Zachary E. Merrill, Jershaud L. Neal, Luis A. Perez, Federico Ramirez ^SAP, Jose O. Rangel, Jonathan B. Reed Jr. *, Gregorio Reyes Jr., Ahmi M. Robertson, Santiago G. Rodriguez, Jarett A. Rojas, David M. Ruiz, Noe G. Ruiz *, Benito C. Sanchez, Yadier Sanchez, Raven L. Silvas, Jimmy Soto Jr., Jason D. Torres-Bonilla, Jason L. Trevino, Mark J. Villarreal, Raymond K. Westmoreland, Jr. * and Brian L. Williams ^PTK   INDUSTRIAL  TECHNOLOGY Associate in Applied Science Majed Alghamdi, Isaac A. Alvarado, Jesus Alvarado Jr., Ibrahim A. Alzahrani, Jassem A. Alzuwayed, Tomas O. Amaya, Lacy L. Barra, Marley J. Bryant, Madelyn M. Carrasquillo, David A. Cedillo, Victoria R. Constante, Marisa I. Cortez, Manuel J. Cuellar, Kyle D. Deleon, Dominic A. Dennis Sr., Marc A. Escareno *, Noemi Estrada, Angel G. Garcia, Randy S. Garza, Phillip J. Gibson, Anastasia L. Gonzales, Noah J. Gonzales, James A. Gonzalez, Jon A. Gonzalez, Melanie A. Gonzalez, Devin Guerrero, Brianna S. Guevara, Tonica R. Hernandez, Aiden M. Hinojosa, Weslee A. Jochetz, Jared J. Langlois, Joshua R. Lara, Luis T. Loyo Jr., Isaiah E. Luna, Nicholas J. Martinez, Michael R. Mendez II, Joshua D. Montalvo, Alexis Ortega, David A. Pearce, Stan L. Perkins II, Jacob C. Plata, Julian R. Ramirez, Adolfo Ramon III, Samantha L. Ramos, Ricardo V. Rangel III, Anthony A. Rivera, Marina I. Rivera, Kara L. Sanchez, James D. Serna, Jonathan A. Serna, Jose G. Silguero IV, Erica D. Subia, Andrew J. Tovar, Jesse A. Trammell *, Sergio M. Trejo, Steven A. Trevino, Johnny Vazquez, Adrian Vela and Anthony S. Zavala *                   Certificate Efrain L. Acosta, Chloe C. Acuna, Cleo A. Adame, Rylee W. Aguilar, Aaron Aguirre-Angel, Xavier J. Amador, Jonathan Domingo L. Anguiano, Rolando Arias, Luis J. Arredondo, Saydi L. Banda, Jesus J. Barrientes Sr. *, Abigail N. Bassett, Carlos M. Benavidez, Evan W. Bowles, Jennifer D. Bravo, Mia C. Briseno, Marley J. Bryant, Ryan A. Cantu, Jayden J. Carbajal, Jesus M. Carpinteyro, Jesus D. Castillo, Justin R. Castillo, Manuel Castillo, Jesus A. Castillo Mendiola, Isaac Castro, Natalie Castro, Guadalupe M. Cervantes, Ricardo Colmenero, Mark A. Colunga, Victoria R. Constante, Justin A. Contreras, Marisa I. Cortez, Alexes A. Cruz, Nicholas H. Cruz, Santiago E. Cumpian Jr., Elden R. Daniel, Phil De la Garza Jr., Joe X. De Leon, Aryonna R. Delagarza, Marcelina Deleon, Cynthia Deleon-Garza, Luke R. Delgado, Toryn Delgado, Johan A. Diaz-Korff, Jose Escalante Jr., Ricardo M. Espinoza, Ian M. Esquivel, Jacob D. Esquivel, Christian E. Estrada, Noah J. Evers, Julie A. Figueroa, Aaron T. Flores, Andrew Flores, Ariel G. Flores, Joshua R. Flores Jr., Justin P. Flores Jr., Devin N. Fuentes, Julian E. Fuentes, Baldomero Gamez, Sophie Gaona, Angel G. Garcia, Emanuel L. Garcia, Gabriel Garcia, Jordan M. Garcia, Samuel A. Garcia, Juanito Garduno Jr., Christian J. Garza, Eloy G. Garza Jr., Emelia R. Garza. Randy S. Garza, Cristopher H. Gomez, Anastasia L. Gonzales, Noah J. Gonzales, Paula J. Gonzales, Rihana R. Gonzales, Elijah I. Gonzalez, Jon A. Gonzalez, Melanie A. Gonzalez, Aaron L. Guerrero, Debany Gutierrez, Jesus A. Gutierrez Jr., Jiana H. Gutierrez, Mark T. Haney, Jacob L. Hanoman, Jase M. Harnish, Tatiana E. Harris, Zackary T. Hasserodt, Noah A. Hernandez, Urbano J. Hernandez, Bradley H. Herndon, Antonio Herrera, Levy Herrera, Aiden M. Hinojosa, Julissa Ibarra, Blazer J. Jennings, Aaron Jimenez, Ruben J. Jimenez, Christopher M. Karl, Joshua R. Lara, Bryan J. Leal, Nathan J. Lindsey, Antonio M. Lopez, Hailey N. Lopez, Jayden Lopez, Xavier A. Lozoya, Aden R. Lugo, Jordan J. Luna, Carlos Madrigal, Brycen C. Malone, Emiliano R. Manzano, Aden Martinez, Caiden L. Martinez, Dashawn Z. Martinez, Jeremiah R. Martinez, Jose D. Martinez II, Logan E. McGrath, Joshua L. Medrano, Jr., Kenneth D. Miller, Delisa R. Molina, Jacob A. Monjaras, Javier Morales Jr., Kaziah T. Moreno, Angel J. Muniz, Dameon A. Najar, Raul Nava Jr., Miguel Ontiveros Jr., Martin M. Orosco, Xavier M. Ortiz, Ysidro C. Pacheco, Jose A. Padron, Juan Pedraza, Aiden M. Pena, Levi O. Pena, Kevin G. Perez, Stan L. Perkins II, David R. Plata Jr., Jacob C. Plata, Juan R. Puente Jr., Andres A. Quinones, Julian R. Ramirez, Norman Ramirez, Abigail M. Rios, Elijah Rivera, Josiah Rivera, Ulysses P. Rivera ^SAP, Israel G. Robledo, Raymond Rodela, Joel Rodriguez Jr., Marcus A. Rodriguez, Noah Rodriguez, Ricardo A. Rodriguez, Zoe A. Romo, Diego Rosas, Benito B. Saldana III, Diego J. Sanchez, Mario Sanchez III, Logan M. Sedrick, Mathew A. Soliz, Clayton L. Tawater, Joshua K. Taylor, Joanna Tello, Jayden A. Torrez, Andrew J. Tovar, Angelina Tran, Sergio M. Trejo, Carlos A. Trevino, Olivia L. Trevino, Johnny Vazquez, Armando Vela IV, Jacob T. Velez, Martin L. Villagomez Jr., Matthew I. Villarreal, Jr., Peter Villarreal, Juan P. Villegas Jr., Chaz R. Woolsey, Sean M. Zamora, Anthony S. Zavala * and Raul R. Zavala Jr.        Occupational Skills Award  Andres A. Quinones PUBLIC SERVICE    Associate in Arts  Alexandriah R. Adame, Jayleen M. Cantu, Penelope M. Casas-Armendariz, Raymond R. Chapman, Ryan M. Lennan, Gulliana I. Madrigal, Dylan J. Owens, Romario A. Perez, Oscar G. Rios and Alexandria Turnblom          Associate in Applied Science Mya H. Arriaga, Alejandro Benavides *  ^LEX, Joseph G. Benavides *, Katherine H. Buffington, Jose M. Cavazos, Nicholas R. Cortez Jr. and Laura L. Garcia ^LEX, Casey A. Gilliam, Christopher A. Glass, Kassandra M. Gonzalez, ^LEX, Rose M. Hale, Daniella M. Hinojosa, Stella E. Juarez ^LEX, Crystal R. Leal, Orlando P. Longoria, Lilliana E. Monreal ^LEX, Manuel Olivarez III *, Jacob A. Reyes, Juanita A. Rios, Robert E. Rodriguez, Roberto J. Rodriguez, Jacqueline T. Rodriguiez, Myles T. Stevenson *, Albert Vasquez Jr. and Andrew A. Wessels               Certificate Eleana R. Baggio, Maria E. Balboa, Andrew Barrera, Katherine H. Buffington, Nicholas R. Cortez Jr., Robert M. Gabrillo Jr., Noah E. Garcia, Sean B. Gonzales, Ryan P. Johnson, Zachary J. LaRoe, Crystal R. Leal, Gabriela N. Lopez, Elijah D. Maldonado, Brandon A. Mejias, Frederick L. Mierow, Matthew J. Miranda, Joseph M. Munoz III, Jericho L. Murillo, Nicholas R. Pacheco *, Pablo E. Rendon IV, Jacob A. Reyes, Angel G. Rodriguez, Robert L. Villarreal Jr. and Logan M. Young          Advanced Technical Certificate Alejandro Benavides *  ^LEX            DIVISION OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATHEMATICS, AND KINESIOLOGY AND EDUCATION COMPUTER SCIENCE, ENGINEERING, AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY Associate in Science Landon C. Abalos, Sarah G. Crumpler, Aron A. Esquivel, Julia L. Garcia, Alicia M. Guerrero, Jakub Lee, Mathew A. Tapia and Jordan A. Tarnowski    Associate in Applied Science Roderick D. Benson Jr., Daniel E. Camorlinga Gutierrez, Sarah A. Castellanos, Jairus P. Cayabyab, Joe Cruz *, Jared A. De Los Santos, John A. Delaney II, Daniel J. Gutierrez, Jonah C. Hamilton, Gabriel Hinojosa, Marco A. Lara, Jose A. Sanchez Jr., Eric P. Simonsen, Michael R. Trevino and Nicholas J. Vargas        Certificate  Roderick D. Benson Jr., Daniel E. Camorlinga Gutierrez, Carlos C. Carmona, Sarah A. Castellanos, Jairus P. Cayabyab, Joe Cruz *, Jared A. De Los Santos, John A. Delaney II, Daniel J. Gutierrez, Jonah C. Hamilton, Gabriel Hinojosa, Jose A. Sanchez Jr., Eric P. Simonsen, Zachary S. Tarske, Michael R. Trevino and  Nicholas J. Vargas     Occupational Skills Award Carlos C. Carmona, Katin G. Duff, Jonah C. Hamilton, Gary Leary, Joy E. Ramirez, Luis O. Ramirez, Robert K. Ross Jr., Jameel F. Tannous, Carissa R. Ybarra KINESIOLOGY AND EDUCATION    Associate in Arts Lauren M. Donovan, Danella A. Rodriguez and Ben Torres Associate of Arts in Teaching Richard R. Galvan, Mercedes K. Gonzales *, Kaylynne M. Leal, Aliyah M. Medina, Sarina S. Rodriguez, Stephanie M. Torres and Melenie S. Zamora    Associate in Applied Science Megan D. Delgado, Debrah L. Garcia and Ruby A. Robles            Certificate  Cecelia A. Gonzales, Keri L. Hollowell and Aurora A. Lopez  NATURAL SCIENCES Associate in Science Deeandra Acevedo, Ariana Adame-Gonzalez, Mikayla S. Callis, Rubena R. Casas, Gabriella E. Chavarria, Manuel C. Garcia, Jeanette J. Gonzalez, Teresa M. Gonzalez, Maria A. Hernandez, Lestiny M. Herrera, Madelyn M. Moore, Jacob S. Quintanilla, Olivia E. Ramirez and Kathryn G. Williams     Associate in Applied Science Rubena R. Casas, Maria A. Hernandez, Linzee D. Pacheco and Jacob S. Quintanilla Dual Enrollment Program – Prospective Graduates May 2025 A.C. Jones High School  Reagan B. Norquist  Banquete High School  Rylee W. Aguilar, Henry X. Charba, Devin N. Fuentes, Dameon A. Najar, Norman Ramirez and Isabella G. Rojas  Calallen High School  Carissa Box, Karina A. Conchas, Rylee E. Ray and Jason D. Torres-Bonilla Falfurrias High School  Carlos M. Benavidez, Ryan A. Cantu, Jesus D. Castillo, Jose Escalante Jr., Jacob D. Esquivel, Emelia R. Garza, Kaziah T. Moreno and Ricardo A. Rodriguez Flour Bluff High School  Kaitlyn C. Garey, Aava M. Mostaghasi Foy H. Moody High School Manuel Castillo, Mark A. Colunga, Nicholas H. Cruz, Elden R. Daniel, Phil De la Garza Jr., Christian E. Estrada, Jordan M. Garcia, Cristopher H. Gomez, Jiana H. Gutierrez, Mark T. Haney, Ruben J. Jimenez, Bryan J. Leal, Antonio M. Lopez, Xavier A. Lozoya, Javier Morales Jr., Jose A. Padron, Kevin G. Perez, Marcus A. Rodriguez, Mathew A. Soliz, Angelina Tran and Chaz R. Woolsey Grace Temple Christian Academy Christopher E. Diaz Gregory-Portland High School Efrain L. Acosta, Guadalupe M. Cervantes, Aaron T. Flores, Andrew Flores, Justin P. Flores Jr., Jesus A. Gutierrez Jr., Jase M. Harnish, Zackary T. Hasserodt, Noah A. Hernandez, Blazer J. Jennings, Jeremiah R. Martinez, Juan Pedraza, Jacob T. Velez and Raul R. Zavala Jr. Ingleside High School  Logan E. McGrath Mary Carroll High School  Joshua R. Flores Jr., Aaron Jimenez, Xavier M. Ortiz, Zoe A. Romo and Linda M. Villarreal Por Vida Academy  Yadier Sanchez Premont High School  Jennifer D. Bravo, Justin R. Castillo, Alexes A. Cruz and Angel J. Muniz Richard King High School  Xavier J. Amador, Evan W. Bowles, Joe X. De Leon, Aryonna R. Delagarza, Emanuel L. Garcia, Christian J. Garza, Rihana R. Gonzales, Jacob L. Hanoman and Julissa Ibarra Robstown High School  Taylor Alaniz, Mersade J. Garcia, Anastasia L. Gonzales, Elijah I. Gonzalez, Aaron L. Guerrero, Leeara K. Herrera, Jaley P. Larivey, Jordan J. Luna, Olivia C. Morales, Cecilia Ocanas, Levi O. Pena, Jose E. Saenz III, Carlos A. Trevino, Olivia L. Trevino and Peter Villarreal Roy Miller High School  Jonathan Domingo L. Anguiano, Natalie Castro and Juan R. Puente Jr. Skidmore-Tynan High School Julian E. Fuentes Texas Home Schooled  Nathan J. Lindsey, Savanna L. Maverick Veterans Memorial High School Chloe C. Acuna, Abigail N. Bassett, Toryn Delgado, Ian M. Esquivel, Baldomero Gamez, Tatiana E. Harris, Brycen C. Malone, Caiden L. Martinez, Dashawn Z. Martinez, Joshua L. Medrano, Jr., Kenneth D. Miller, Jacob A. Monjaras, Aiden M. Pena, Elijah Rivera, Josiah Rivera, Diego J. Sanchez, Joshua K. Taylor, Jayden A. Torrez, Matthew I. Villarreal, Jr. and Juan P. Villegas Jr. W.B. Ray High School Eloy G. Garza Jr., Antonio Herrera, Emiliano R. Manzano and Ysidro C. Pacheco West Oso High School Isaac Castro, Santiago E. Cumpian Jr., Carlos Madrigal, Aden Martinez, Raymond Rodela and Sean M. Zamora Collegiate High School - Prospective Graduates May 2025 Reyanna A. Aguirre, Adriana Y. Ayala Pascasio, Ailenis T. Blanco, Natalie R. Bravo, Jennifer Carr, Jessica Carr, Sai Varshini Chinnasani, Allyson Collado, Nayeli Diaz, Dorothy A. Dimas, Jolie S. Edwards, Yadiel E. Escamilla, Eugene J. Firo, Danielle Gabiano Pagayonan, Teresa L. Garcia, Addison G. Hilker, Jocelyn G. Jaramillo, Kyler G. Keffer, Mayumi L. Lopez, Jillian G. Maharaj, Christian Margia, Dallas C. Marion, Maya B. Mollick, Mercedes B. Montalbo, Emanuel A. Moreno, Hans B. Nguyen, Ethan N. Perez, Sara S. Perez, Robert L. Plumbley, Isaac A. Ramirez, Makayla A. Rivas, Adrianna R. Rodriguez, Keisy M. Rodriguez, Carlos A. Ruiz, Joshua W. Schwerdtfeger, Lilyana Secorsky, Anna S. Silva, Savina D. Sotello and Isabella O. Vargas Harold T. Branch Academy for Career and Technical Education - Prospective Graduates May 2025 Saydi L. Banda, Luis F. Beltran, Marley J. Bryant Jahir G. Castaneda, Cynthia Deleon-Garza, Melanie A. Gonzalez, Michaela N. Lirio, Erick Lopez, Gulliana I. Madrigal, Jose D. Martinez II, Isaiah M. Melena, Lauren M. Mixon, Johnathan J. Mondragon, David R. Plata Jr., Andres A. Quinones, Vincent S. Rivera, Julissa P. Rodriguez, Amy Y. Rodriguez Nieto, Ximena Sanchez, Zachary S. Tarske, Zeke Thongsavanh and Sergio M. Trejo Coding Designations: ^{* =  Military Veteran DC = Dual Credit H = Honors Program VV = Viking Volunteer KP = Member, Kappa Pi - International Honor Art Fraternity PTK = Member, Phi Theta Kappa - International Honor Society of the Two Year College ABG = Member, Alpha Beta Gamma® _- International Business Honor Society SAP = Sigma Alpha Pi - National Society of Leadership and Success SKD = Sigma Kappa Delta - English Honor Society LEX = Lambda Epsilon Chi - National Paralegal Honor Society SPA = Sigma Phi Alpha - National Dental Hygiene Honor Society LN = Lambda Nu National Honor Society for Radiologic and Imaging Sciences ADN = Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society LB = Lambda Beta Society for Respiratory Care}

Article by DMC College Relations Office Tuesday, June 10, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents will hold a workshop at 10 a.m. and their regular monthly meeting beginning at 1 p.m. in Room 106 of the College’s Center for Economic Development at 3209 S. Staples (78411). Get online directions and map. The regular meeting also will be livestreamed. Community members may access the meeting by going to the online video link at www.delmar.edu/webcast/ by 12:55 p.m. Copies of the Agenda Notices and Board Packets are available online as follows: • 10 a.m. Workshop: www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/workshop-packet-6-10-25.pdf • 1 p.m. Regular Meeting: www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/regularboard-meeting-packet-6-10-25.pdf Meeting agendas and other resources are also available on the DMC Board of Regents web page at www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/index.html. The health and safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors are a priority for Del Mar College. To view the College’s guidelines, visit www.delmar.edu/rtc/index.html.       

Article by: Richard Guerrero, Jr. For the first time in college history, Del Mar College recognized students from the Adult Education & Literacy, Continuing Education and Corporate Services Departments in a single ceremony that took place on June 3, 2025, in Richardson Performance Hall, located on the Heritage Campus of the College. The Summer 2025 Continuing Education Recognition Ceremony featured 526 students who were recognized for their accomplishments – it was the Continuing Education Department’s largest recognition group to date. The ceremony also represented the first time all three programs honored their respective graduates during a single event. Following opening remarks by Dr. Leonard Rivera, Del Mar College (DMC) Vice President of Dual Enrollment & Continuing Education, Communities in Schools of the Coastal Bend CEO Gloria Taylor delivered a moving keynote address that served to inspire everyone in the room. Taylor has led the organization for the past 15 years and brings nearly four decades of dedicated service to the nonprofit sector. Taylor was honored with a Y Women in Careers award in 2022 and was named Outstanding Fundraising Professional by the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2024. Adult Education recognized 11 individuals during its portion of the ceremony. The Career Training Program recognized 74 individuals in four areas: 28 students in Administrative Assistant 5 in Child Development Associate 11 in Legal Secretary 30 in Real Estate Corporate Services recognized 201 individuals in five areas: 169 students in Commercial Driver’s License 10 students in Commercial Driver’s License, Real Grant 6 students in Maritime Advanced Firefighting 9 students in Maritime Basic Safety Training 7 students in Structural Ironwork Continuing Education’s Healthcare Program recognized 197 individuals in 5 areas: 53 students in Certified Nurse Aide 22 students in Billing and Coding 23 students in Medical Secretary 54 in Electrocardiography 45 in Phlebotomy And, Continuing Education’s Industrial Program recognized 43 individuals in 3 areas: 30 students will receive the Electrical Helper Workforce Skills Award 2 students will receive the Plumbing Helper Workforce Skills Award 11 students will receive the Welding Helper Workforce Skills Award

Article by: Richard Guerrero, Jr.  Raul Alonzo was an award-winning Foghorn staffer while he was a student at Del Mar College. His time working on student newspapers both at DMC and at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi have served him well. He moved on to work for the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and Gatehouse Media while wrapping up work on a bachelor’s degree in media arts at TAMU-CC. Today, he’s a Digital Producer for the Texas Standard weekday radio news magazine, which airs on National Public Radio stations across the Lone Star State. College Relations staff caught up with Alonzo when he was invited to return to campus in March 2025 to give a talk about a project that began during his days as a Foghorn reporter. He was genuinely excited to share details about his work and how his time at DMC helped him build the skill set he needed to excel in his current role.  

Article by: Richard Guerrero, Jr. The partnership prepares high school-age students for the workforce … health care to be precise. And, for more than 150 students from Ray, Miller and Veterans Memorial high schools in the Corpus Christi Independent School District (CCISD), their hard work and accomplishments will be recognized as part of a Health Care Program Class of 2025 pinning ceremony, which is part of a specialized certification opportunity offered through Del Mar College’s Continuing Education (CE) division. The ceremony was held in Richardson Performance Hall on DMC’s Heritage Campus on May 20. The event was one of 30 pinning ceremonies scheduled since the last week in April with 1,256 high school and academy students overall receiving pins. Some of these students are from as far away as Austwell-Tivoli High School located north of Rockport and Benavides High School located west of Kingsville.    The CE Health Care Program offers national certifications for high school juniors and seniors that are obtained through American Allied Health, a credentialing agency that specializes in online allied health science national certifications. Students must pass an online exam that is proctored by DMC instructors to receive their certification. Juniors receive a Phlebotomy Technician certificate of completion while seniors receive the Introductory Medical Assistant Technician certification and a white coat that signifies they have two national certifications.    Maria Guerra, DMC Program Manager for Continuing Education Health Care, notes there was a key change this year. To meet area workforce needs, juniors are now enrolling in the Phlebotomy Technician course rather than the Electrocardiography Technician course that previous cohorts completed. “We have discovered that there’s greater job demand for phlebotomy technicians, and so we have updated that offering to help both students and employers alike,” Guerra said. Following remarks by Dr. Leonard Rivera, DMC Vice President of Dual Enrollment & Continuing Education, school representatives presented awards to their students, including: • 46 juniors and 30 seniors attending Veterans Memorial High School who received certificates, pins and/or coats from Principal Scott Walker and Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers Amanda Delagarza and Vanessa Castaneda, • nine juniors and 10 seniors attending Roy Miller High School who received their awards from Principal Dr. Aurelio Tamayo and CTE teacher Kimberly Tanner and CE Health Care instructor Rachel Perry. • 36 juniors and 26 seniors attending W. B. Ray High School who received their awards from Principal Roxanne Cuevas and CTE teachers Brittany Queen and Sharon Rocha. For more information about Del Mar College’s CE Health Programs, visit delmar.edu/ce/.

Article by Melinda Eddleman Del Mar College’s (DMC) new Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Pilot Program is a “game changer” for in-district residents who qualify and are accepted to begin courses this fall. And much like athletes who sign contracts to play at the collegiate or professional level, applicants selected for the program don’t have to worry about paying for their courses, but they do have to “sign on the dotted line” and commit to completing their associate’s degrees within three years as full-time students. Today, May 21, nine new Vikings participated during a “signing ceremony” symbolizing their new journey in higher education this fall semester and a path to completing their associate’s degrees over the next three years as part of the first cohort to participate in the college’s Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Pilot Program. The pilot program is a first for Del Mar College, and Dr. Escamilla noted, “For the first time in our 90-year history, we are waiving the cost of tuition and most fees for incoming freshmen who qualify for the program like these students.” He added, “We want our students to have the freedom to fully focus on what’s most important – completing their education and owning their dreams.” Roy Miller High School senior Jonathan Anguiano couldn’t agree more. The 18-year-old dual enrollment student who has focused on occupational courses to improve his welding skills said, “Even as a student coming straight out of high school into college, I work and have bills, so this program is a relief that my education is covered. It’s truly a blessing and a once-in-a-lifetime chance that Del Mar College is giving me this opportunity to not worry about tuition.” He plans to complete his Associate of Applied Science degree in Welding Applied Technology and was among the nine individuals signing the Freedom to Dream contract during the ceremony. In early March, the DMC Board of Regents approved the pilot program. Aas of May 16, current count shows that 2,138 individuals have requested information about the program or applied. Approximately 1,145 individuals have met eligibility requirements and have been selected, and 532 individuals have signed their agreements. In-district residents can learn more and apply for the program through Aug. 1 at www.delmar.edu/freedom/. Durin the May 21 event, Board of Regents Chair Carol A. Scott said, “I want to add an adjective to this ceremony and call it ‘groundbreaking.’” She added, “The program truly increases access to higher education for more Coastal Bend residents – like these students. By removing financial barriers, the Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver creates a more level playing field for higher education.” The Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Pilot Program covers tuition and some fees using “first-in funding,” which comes from two sources: 1) DMC Foundation funds previously donated for the Viking Promise Program and approved for use to support the pilot program by its Board of Trustees and 2) the revenue generated from the state’s outcomes-based funding model for community colleges established by House Bill 8 in 2023. The first-in funding model allows students to draw from their financial aid or scholarships as resources to pay for living expenses and other collegiate-related costs––such as books, gear or program-specific uniforms––so they can attend DMC full-time. “The Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Pilot Program is making my dreams possible now that I don’t have to worry about paying for classes,” says Marysabel Lopez, who will graduate from high school among West Oso ISD’s Class of 2025 on May 30. “Instead, I can perform my heart out as a Music Education major because my dream is to teach the experience of being a part of music to younger generations.”  Lopez signed her contract May 21, too. Qualifications for the first cohort include: All Qualifying Applicants: • Live in the Del Mar College District (taxing district), which includes the Calallen, Corpus Christi, Flour Bluff, Tuloso-Midway and West Oso Indepe3ndent School Districts. • Enroll full-time (12 Semester Credit Hours or more). • Maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average (GPA). • Enroll in a for-credit program or certificate. • Commit to a formal agreement or “contract” to complete their studies withing a three-year period. High School Students: • Graduating among the Class of 2025 or equivalent. • Dual Credit students are eligible regardless of the number of Semester Credit Hours they have earned. Adult Learner: • First-time-in-college student with12 Semester Credit Hours or lLess.  As an adult learner, 39-year-old Joseph Collin, who previously completed his high school equivalency or General Educational Development (GED) certificate at Del Mar College and earned three Semester Credit Hours toward Liberal Arts studies, plans to earn an Associate in Applied Science in Surgical Technology degree. Currently a reception group leader and phlebotomist at CSI Plasma, Collin says, “My dream is to become a Surgical First Assistant with specialties in Neurology, but more specifically, I want to focus on the brain and what causes Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.”   Del Mar College’s Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Pilot Program can propel Collin and others to do just that…“own their dreams.”

Article by Melinda Eddleman For some parts of the country, chasing the ‘American Dream’ may seem impossible because of consistent economic disadvantages. Here in South Texas’ Coastal Bend region, access to workforce training, higher education and other resources––specifically at Del Mar College (DMC)––is greater than ever and helping the region’s residents move their standard of living upward. On May 13, the Board of Regents heard a report by DMC administrators that correlated the college’s initiatives and successful outcomes with research data presented by internationally recognized Dr. John N. Friedman, Briger Family Distinguished Professor of Economics and International and Public Affairs at Brown University, that included Del Mar College during his presentation, “Community Colleges and Upward Mobility,” during the Bellwether College Consortium’s Community College Futures Assembly held in San Antonio in February. College presenters covered findings presented by Dr. Friedman related to Americans’ inability to escape poverty and how Del Mar College is addressing that issue successfully here in the Coastal Bend. Scroll down to the end of this release to watch the full presentation. According to the New York Times’ College Mobility study (2017) used by Dr. Friedman during his February presentation, Del Mar College ranks in the top 10% among all colleges nationwide or 217th out of 2,137 with moving students from lower income levels to a better way of life. Additionally, the college ranks in the top 8% among two-year colleges nationwide and 34th out of 123 Texas colleges ranked in the Mobility Index study with DMC listed third below Laredo College (ranked 6th) and Central Texas College (ranked 23rd) among the nine institutions listed in the “Large College” category for the state. The Mobility Index measure reflects both access and outcomes representing the likelihood that a student who attended DMC moved up two or more income quintiles [RG1] in comparison to their parents’ income level. Known for its occupational and technical programs that meet industry partners’ workforce needs, the following table shows key career fields in the Coastal Bend region, the number of graduates completing DMC programs in these areas, median wage for local and peer graduates and the difference between the two median wages for years 2015-2022: Additionally, passage of House Bill 8 (HB 8) nearly two years ago restructured the state’s community college funding model, allowing DMC to develop and implement multi-faceted strategic initiatives that expand Coastal Bend residents’ access to higher education and workforce training while the college continues to optimize workforce development opportunities through community and industry partnerships. Among strategic initiatives to further propel students’ upward economic mobility are: • Dual Credit Financial Aid Swift Transfer (FAST) Program: Expanding Access and Equity          - Expanded eligibility to all Coastal Bend high school students, covering tuition, fees and             associated costs (Books and supplies) • Workforce-Focused Academic Pathways           - Industrial Technology: (Process Technology/Welders)          - Health Sciences: (Nurses, Dental Technicians, Allied Health Professionals)           - STEM & Emerging Tech: $1.9 million City of Corpus Christi grant (AI, Robotics, Industrial              Instrumentation) • Economic Impact and Community Partnerships           - Del Mar College has a total annual impact of $716.7 million (EMSI Economic Study)          - Valdar’s Market: Food Pantry – Support & Academic persistence            - Health Services: Free dental hygiene clinics, free mobile medical services through             the South Texas Family Planning & Health Corporation • Affordability and Accessibility Initiatives          - Free Tuition Pilots: Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Pilot Program          - Low-Cost Credentials: Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Management and             Leadership degree • Corporate Partnerships and Workforce Training          - DMC’s Corporate Services training in safety, leadership, and technical skills          - APEX Accelerator initiative assists local businesses get federal contracts • Guided Pathways to Success (GPS)           - Advising Checkpoints: At 15, 30 and 45 credit hours completed          - Transfer Pathways: Partnerships with universities  

Article by Melinda Eddleman (updated with video May 19, 2025) The tune is a familiar one during graduation ceremonies whether for elementary, high school or college graduates. We’re talking about “Pomp & Circumstance,” and for the 713[RG1]  out of the 953 prospective graduates making up the Class of May 2025, this Friday night will mark a new chapter in their lives when they march into and out of the arena at the American Bank Center during Del Mar College’s (DMC) Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony. Overall, the college is awarding 1,214 certificates and associate’s degrees combined to the total graduating class this spring. The ceremony begins at 7 p.m. Due to limited tickets that graduates may provide to family and friends to attend the ceremony in-person, DMC will livestream the event. Individuals can go online to watch beginning at 6:30 p.m. using the following link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlH4sJtrpgg. Before participating prospective graduates walk the stage, DMC alumnus Dr. Wayne Morris, D.D.S./F.A.G.D., will provide the keynote address.   Originally from Goldthwaite, Texas, Dr. Morris lived in Hebbronville for six years before moving with his family to Corpus Christi at age 11. An angler from a young age, he caught a nearly 7-foot-long tarpon off the old Bob Hall Pier at age 12, a fish longer than he was tall. The W.B. Ray High School graduate attended Del Mar College before graduating from Baylor University with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. He then completed his studies at The University of Texas School of Dentistry at Houston. Dr. Morris retired from his local practice after 50 years of providing dental care to his patients. As a young athlete, Dr. Morris played football on the Ray High School team and was a senior when “The Fighting Texans” won the state championship in 1959. He then played on Del Mar College’s football team in 1960 when the Vikings won the Pioneer Conference Championship for a second year in a row. That year was also the last that the college fielded a football team. The DMC freshman also served as president of his class during the 1960-1961 academic year. Dr. Morris is a member of the Nueces Valley District Dental Society and has served in every board position, including the presidency. He is a longtime member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. He earned a fellowship in 1992 from the Academy of General Dentistry after completing 1,500 hours of continuing dental education and passing a comprehensive exam covering the field. Father of three sons and grandfather to five children, Dr. Morris has coached Youth Football and Little League Baseball for 30 years. Two Little League teams even made their way to the state championship tournament, and one player coached by Dr. Morris moved through the ranks all the way to Major League Baseball. For over 55 years, Dr. Morris has attended the First Christian Church of Corpus Christi where he has served as a Congregational Elder for more than 40 years. He has been married to his Ray High School sweetheart, Janet, since 2018. UPDATE (5/19/25): To watch Dr. Morris' keynote address given on May 16, click on the video below:  

Article by College Relations Office Tuesday, May 13, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents will hold their regular monthly meeting beginning at 1 p.m. in Room 106 of the College’s Center for Economic Development at 3209 S. Staples (78411). Get online directions and map. The regular meeting also will be livestreamed. Community members may access the meeting by going to the online video link at www.delmar.edu/webcast/ by 12:55 p.m. A copy of the Agenda Notice and Board Packet is available online as follows: www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/regular-board-meeting-packet-5-13-25.pdf. Meeting agendas and other resources are also available on the DMC Board of Regents web page at www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/index.html. The health and safety of students, faculty, staff and visitors are a priority for Del Mar College. To view the College’s guidelines, visit www.delmar.edu/rtc/index.html.