Article by: Richard Guerrero, Jr.  It’s one thing to receive recognition for your research project at the state level, which is a major accomplishment. But going the distance in the nation’s capital and receiving an award in front of representatives from more than 240 community colleges is definitely the next level. Del Mar College students Megan O’Shaughnessy and Kristen Waddell, both Biology and Biotechnology majors, recently experienced the honor. Led by DMC Natural Sciences Department faculty member and mentor Dr. Daiyuan “Daisy” Zhang, Professor of Biotechnology, and accompanied by Vice President and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Jonda Halcomb, the Viking pair attended the 32nd National Advanced Technical Education (ATE) Principal Investigators’ Conference held in Washington, D.C., Oct. 29-31. During the conference, O’Shaughnessy presented her research poster examining whether the extracellular vesicles (EVs) found in the blood of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake and the Virgina opossum could protect these animals from rattlesnake venom. Her results show that the EVs from the snake and the opossum did weaken the venom, making it less able to break down fibrinogen, which helps blood clot, and gelatin, which is like the material found in tissues. O’Shaughnessy, who graduated from Kingwood High School and the Texas Connections Academy in 2022, said her favorite experience during the trip was presenting her research poster to a range of professionals working in STEM fields. “Being able to break down my poster to people at different levels definitely increased my confidence in my knowledge of my project and made me a better presenter,” O’Shaughnessy said. “Del Mar College has provided me with so many opportunities and experiences that have made a big difference on my confidence as a student.” Waddell’s poster focused on a very local and critical area of concern––environmental pollution in Baffin Bay. Baffin Bay and the creeks that flow into it are used for ranching, farming, fishing, bird-watching and other outdoor activities.  But some of these waters have a problem. They contain too much fecal bacteria, which can come from humans or animals, which pollutes the environment.  Scientists are already studying where this pollution comes from—cows, pigs, humans and birds. And in this project, researchers have added another tool to help track pollutants: a special gene called Class 1 Integron-Integrase gene, or intI1. This gene is important because it is often found in bacteria that carry antibiotic resistance that can be harmful. Including Waddell, researchers collected 142 water samples from Baffin Bay and three nearby creeks. The gene was present in every test site with some places having more than others. San Fernando Creek had the most, followed by Los Olmos Creek, Petronila Creek and then the bay. The amount of the intI1 gene also increased when there were more signs of poop from humans, cows and pigs. This means the intI1 gene is a good clue for spotting pollution caused by people and their activities. Adding this gene to water-testing studies will help scientists better understand how fecal pollution and antibiotic-resistant bacteria spread in the environment. Waddell, who graduated from Veterans Memorial High School in 2023, said she especially enjoyed having a meaningful conversation with a Florida researcher who was interested in the genetics side of her research. “I loved hearing how his lab approached the same techniques I was using as they were incredibly innovative and inventive,” Waddell said. “This conversation was inspirational, and I saw the significance of continuing research in this area.” Dr. DeRionne Pollard, President and CEO of co-sponsor American Association of Community Colleges, noted that 800 National Science Foundation grantees attended the conference and remarked that the conference provided students and faculty with remarkable opportunities to share their work and learn from others. “Helping students see pathways from learning to application in the workplace builds the pipeline of skilled workers in our economy,” Pollard said, adding: “Since economic stability drives further innovation in businesses, these are investments in our shared futures.” For O’Shaughnessy and Waddell, attending this year’s ATE Principal Investigators’ Conference is one step among many toward bringing their own innovation to STEM professions that will benefit us all.

Article by Melinda Eddleman The program keeps growing. Data shows that credit student participation in Del Mar College’s Dual Enrollment Program has grown nearly 40 percent from fall 2020 to this semester, increasing from 2,628 to 3,671 Coastal Bend high school students who are well on their way to a brighter future through access to higher education. In fact, regional Dual Enrollment students make up over 31 percent of the college’s fall 2025 credit enrollment, which totals 11,700 students overall (preliminary enrollment*). Additionally, another 1,390 high school students are taking Continuing Education courses leading to Marketable Skills Awards or licensure in certain offerings. * The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will certify figures this month for final fall 2025 enrollment figure, which is subject to change from today’s reporting. Currently, 51 independent school districts (ISDs), parochial schools and charter schools combined, along with home schooled students, participate with the Dual Enrollment Program. Last year, the number was 43. On Nov. 18, DMC officials, superintendents from partnering Coastal Bend ISDs and other guests met for the second annual Superintendent Symposium scheduled at the Oso Creek Campus to cover the progress the college’s Dual Enrollment Program has achieved over the past year and what the next steps will be. The symposium targeted the impact the Dual Enrollment Program provides in preparing students for either additional workforce training or transferability to the university level and how Del Mar will continue progressing forward through ISD partnerships to make higher education attainable for Coastal Bend high school students. Presenters, including students and faculty, highlighted the Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Program and “next steps” as college officials prepare for another cohort in fall 2026. Additionally, Flour Bluff ISD Superintendent Chris Steinbruck provided an address focused on his district’s partnership with the college and other area entities to prepare students for regional high demand job opportunities. Listen to KEDT Radio’s Nov. 19 broadcast of interviews with Dr. Escamilla and Steinbruck conducted during the symposium: The Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Program focuses on transitioning not only graduating seniors who participated in the college’s Dual Enrollment Program but also graduating seniors who may not have taken DMC credit courses while in high school. Data shows that 232 students who were Dual Enrollment seniors this past year enrolled in the program while 662 spring 2025 high school graduates without college credits enrolled. Together they make up nearly 50 percent of this fall’s Freedom to Dream cohort. DMC’s Dual Enrollment Program offers students in the ninth through twelfth grades attending high schools that partner with the college the opportunity to take courses whether they’re through Continuing Education programs to earn industry credentials or Marketable Skills Awards in healthcare, construction, welding or process technology or through the college’s academic programs for workforce preparation with Level I and II Certificates or associate’s degrees or for core course completion for university transfer. In fall 2023, the college rolled out the Dual Credit Financial Aid for Swift Transfer (FAST) Program with funding administered through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. A part of House Bill 8 (HB 8), the Dual Credit FAST Program provides greater accessibility to higher education at no cost for students defined as educationally disadvantaged, specifically those who qualified for free or reduced-priced lunch during any of the four school years prior to enrolling in an eligible dual credit course. Del Mar College chose to expand “no cost” tuition and fees to all high school students, including those considered non-qualifying FAST dual credit students who are taking eligible credit and Continuing Education courses and attending one of the partnering ISDs, parochial schools or charter schools in the region. Dual Enrollment allows high school students to start earning college and industry-specific credentials in one of nearly 110 DMC certificate and degree programs among eight career pathways, including: – Architecture, Aviation and Automotive – Business Administration and Entrepreneurship – Communication, Fine Arts and Social Sciences – Health Sciences – Industrial Technology – Kinesiology and Education – Public Service – Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics   Dr. Rivera said that it’s never too early to introduce youth to the concept of attending college and notes that DMC began familiarizing middle school-age students, specifically eighth graders, and their parents with the college’s Dual Enrollment Program to encourage participation when they reach high school.  “We’re student-centric and a leading force in building the Coastal Bend’s workforce for today and in the future,” he noted. “With new initiatives in place and more to come, we’re ensuring students have choices to earn the credentials they need for successful academic and career pursuits that impact their own lives and everyone living in the Coastal Bend region.” The Superintendent Symposium concluded with a video produced onsite featuring a few of the area’s superintendents providing quick remarks about what is the most exciting achievement occurring in their district now, along with a special message from retired West Oso ISD Superintendent and current DMC’s Superintendent in Residence Conrado Garcia, who emceed the event:

Article by Richard Guerrero, Jr.  On Veterans Day, we recognize and honor the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform. This day serves as an opportunity to reflect on their dedication, express gratitude for their contributions and reaffirm our collective commitment to supporting those who have defended our freedoms. To honor all who have served, Del Mar College Veterans Services presented its annual Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11. The ceremony was held in the courtyard at the Peace `Pole between the Harvin Student Center and the Memorial Classroom Building. DMC Regent and U.S. Navy veteran Dr. Nicholas Adame was the guest of honor, according to Dr. Jennifer Armentrout, Sergeant Major, USMC (ret) and DMC Veterans Services Director.    Currently, 812 total veteran students and family members are enrolled in fall 2025 courses at DMC with 510 receiving Veterans Affairs benefits and 302 Hazelwood Act tuition exemptions. Gov. Greg Abbott announced in early September that Del Mar College is one of 33 two- and four-year public higher education institutions to receive a Gold, Silver or Bronze award based on criteria set forth by the Texas Veterans Commission and outlined in the Governor’s release. Del Mar College's Veterans Services received a Gold Award. Read about the college's announcement: https://vikingnews.delmar.edu/dmc-veterans-services-receives-tvc-gold-veterans-education-excellence-recognition-award-us-rep-michael-clouds-office-presents-congressional-acknowledgement-during-board-of-regents-regular-october-meeting/ The Veterans Education Excellence Recognition Award was established by the Texas Legislature and is given after thorough review of college and university applicants that demonstrate educational excellence and support services that “significantly contribute to the academic success of student veterans and military-connected students.”  

Article by DMC College Relations Office Tuesday, Nov. 11, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents will hold a workshop beginning 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 located at 3209 S. Staples (78411). Get online directions and map. The college will also livestream the regular meeting. 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-11-11-25.pdf • 1 p.m. Regular Meeting: www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/regular-meeting-board-packet-11-11-25.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 Scholarships mean the world to Del Mar College (DMC) students needing funding assistance to attend. Receiving that help can make the difference between Foundation Scholars achieving their dreams or postponing their education and career goals. In turn, one word describes the philanthropic support that the Del Mar College Foundation receives to assist students through scholarships or emergency funds to fulfill their dreams. It’s generosity.  “Freedom to dream is what Del Mar College is all about,” says Matthew Busby, the college’s Vice President of Development and Donor Advising. “Scholarships provided by DMC Foundation supporters are the fuel that empowers students in their journey to dream, earn their education and achieve fulfilling and well-paid jobs.” On Oct. 30, a record 325 DMC students who received scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year attended and thanked their scholarship supporters in-person during the DMC Foundation’s 2025 Scholarship Dinner at the Hilliard Center with CITGO as the Presenting Sponsor. The event grew to 620 participants overall, exceeding last year’s attendance and setting another record.   The increased participation is not surprising. Last academic year (2024-2025), more than $2.9 million in total scholarships were awarded by the DMC Foundation to help 1,449 Vikings––another record set. Additionally, 564 students received donor-funded student emergency aid totaling over $158,000. Students’ need for assistance couldn’t be greater, and DMC Foundation representatives noted that more than 3,750 students applied for scholarships in the spring for the current academic year (2025-206).  In fact, the college’s fall credit enrollment grew a little over 14 percent to 11,701 students* this semester from last year’s 10,256 in large part to Del Mar College’s Freedom to Dream Tuition Waiver Program. The DMC Foundation is one of two sources providing first-in funding that’s supporting the pilot program by using previously donated funds for the Viking Promise Program with the Board of Trustee’s approval. * Preliminary, uncertified number reported to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board on 12th class day. Overall enrollment growth that includes both credit and Continuing Education for fall 2025 is 10 percent and 14,023 students. During the 2025 Scholarship Dinner program, participants watched a special video featuring recorded messages from DMC and Foundation leaders providing encouraging messages, including those from Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Lenora Keas, DMC Foundation Board of Trustees President Sandra Alvarez and Dr. Mark Escamilla, DMC President and Chief Executive  Officer. View the video below: Additionally, 2025 Scholarship Dinner attendees watched a second video highlighting donor and Sembradores de Amistad of Corpus Christi President Louis Lopez; DMC Court Reporting Instructor Sonia Trevino, who credits receiving a scholarship that opened doors leading to her success in her professional and as an educator at Del Mar College; and Nursing major Joelle Penny, a current recipient of a scholarship from Sembradores de Amistad of Corpus Christi. Watch their remarks below: Beginning Feb. 1, 2026, the Foundation will start taking scholarship applications for the next academic year, which is 2026-2027, at www.delmar.edu/scholarships/. Donations can be made year-round and Foundation staff have a holistic, philanthropic advising approach. Busby notes, “Creating a scholarship at Del Mar College allows a person’s story to be shared and inspire a student while being the hand-up investment so important for many of our students.” (View stories.) To learn more about the DMC Foundation either as a scholarship applicant or a donor, visit www.delmar.edu/foundation or contact the DMC Office of Development at 361-698-1317 or foundation@delmar.edu.  

Article by Richard Guerrero, Jr. Bigger names. More activities. Del Mar College’s second annual Viking Fest is building on the success of the first event held in October 2024. Organizers are putting together an amped-up Viking Fest 2025 scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 15, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the Windward Campus (4101 Old Brownsville Rd., 78404). Viking Fest’s transformation has been a labor of love across the entire college from academic programs and student services to the Del Mar College (DMC) Foundation and community partners, says Jason Houlihan, DMC Executive Director of Marketing and Events and the primary organizer of the festival. Houlihan and other organizers anticipate more than 3,000 participants this year. Admission is free with costs for some activities and for concessions sold by participating food trucks. More details about Viking Fest 2025, scheduling and map are available online at www.delmar.edu/vikingfest. or by contacting the DMC College Relations Office at 361-698-1247 or colrel@delmar.edu. As mentioned, West Texas country artist Kat Hasty is the featured performer on the bustling Live Stage that will also include several local acts and DJs all day. Hasty, who has more than 55,000 followers and more than 172,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, released her first album, “The Time of Your Life,” in May. She and her band will headline afternoon entertainment before awards are presented as part of the college’s Fourth Annual Día de los Muertos Welding Competition. Hasty is best known for “Pretty Things,” a spare acoustic tell-off ballad that generated nearly 20 million plays on Spotify and led to tours across the United States and Europe. Her latest singles include “Breakin’ Up the Band” and “The Family Business” – both of which are opening cuts on her “The Time of Your Life” album. Other highlights include a professional 5K run organized by VFit Productions. Viking 5K participants will have a chance to win prizes by showing their Viking spirit in the following categories: ·       Best Beard ·       Best Braids ·       Longest Beard ·       Longest Braids ·       Best Overall Viking Costume VFit organizers say that participants will be a “part of history with the first-ever Viking 5K Run through Del Mar College’s Windward Campus with the race beginning with the iconic blowing of the Viking Horn,” noting that the sound will reverberate through the campus streets to wake the Viking spirit and kick off Viking Fest 2025. Runners can still register for the 5K run at v-f-productions.raceentry.com/del-mar-college-viking-5k10k/race-information. There is no fee for the run, and all participants will receive finisher medals with top runners receiving awards in categories designated by age brackets. The festival also features the DMC Welding Applied Technology Program’s Fourth Annual Día de los Muertos Welding Competition for high school and post-secondary education welders, which organizers expect to draw more than 300 competitors who will vie for over $15,000 in scholarships. Spectators are invited to watch contestants work during each division and even quiz DMC Welding faculty about the college’s program and its offerings. And everyone’s invited to catch the Awards Ceremony at 5 p.m. where contest organizers will recognize divisional standouts with prizes and scholarships. Activities throughout the event include over 50 guided mini tours for prospective students, family members and the general community interested in exploring selected academic programs and occupational and technical career training that Del Mar College offers.  And what community festival would be complete without inflatables for the younger set? Viking Fest 2025 attendees looking to burn some energy and calories will love spending time in the 28-foot Kraken Dual Slide, trying to keep balance on a mechanical surfboard, and hoping to be the last one standing in the Meltdown zone. In fact, this year’s event includes five activity zones. Viking Fest 2025 is made possible by the following sponsors: Corpus Christi Medical Center, H-E-B, Steel Dynamics, Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority, Pepsi, Adamson & Company, Rally Credit Union, First Community Bank, ArcelorMittal, Gignac & Associates, Gulf Coast Growth Ventures, Schneider Electric, Coastal Bend LNG and In the Game Funtrackers.   Access a downloadable, printable flyer for Viking Fest 2025 located below: