- DMC Board of Regents holding called meeting on January 31Article by DMC College Relations Office On Tuesday, Jan. 31, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents will hold a called meeting at 11 a.m. and scheduled in the Community Room in the Culinary Arts Building located on the Oso Creek Campus at 7002 Yorktown Blvd. (78414). Get online directions and campus map. The meeting also will be livestreamed. Community members may access that meeting by going to the online video link at www.delmar.edu/webcast/ by 10:55 a.m. A copy of the Jan. 31 Agenda Notice and Board Packet is available using the following link: www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/called-meeting-1-31-23.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 current guidelines, visit https://delmar.edu/rtc/index.html.
- Daughters and DMC Foundation Surprise Centenarian Maxine Snapka with $25,000 Endowed Scholarship Honoring Parents, Founders of Snapka’s Drive Inn RestaurantsArticle by Melinda Eddleman She’s now part of a special group called Centenarians after celebrating her 100th birthday recently. And, the burger joint that her late husband Method and brother-in-law Rudy first started in Robstown in 1948 and then expanded into Corpus Christi in 1953 became and still is an iconic destination for locals and out-of-towners wanting that famous Dixieburger, specially-seasoned tacos or down-home fried chicken and onion rings. Snapka’s Drive Inn has been synonymous with quality fast food for almost 75 years in the Coastal Bend, and Maxine Snapka has been a part of that family dream and business when she married Method Snapka in 1949. To honor the family business matriarch, daughters Kathryn Snapka and Marlene Carper––along with the Del Mar College Foundation and other College representatives, friends and guests––continued Maxine’s birthday celebration with a surprise announcement on Jan. 26, which was a $25,000 gift to establish the Method and Maxine Snapka Endowed Scholarship that honors both parents and their deep-seated beliefs about education. Maxine thought she was just taking a tour of the Hospitality & Culinary Arts Institute on the College’s new Oso Creek Campus. Instead, her daughters made the announcement and handed her a plaque to inaugurate the new source of financial assistance for DMC Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management students. During the announcement, Maxine said that the College was an excellent opportunity to start higher education. “Both my daughters went to Del Mar,” she noted, adding, “And, I would have anyone go there first as a good starter school to prepare you for [further education].” Maxine’s own story isn’t just about the family business. Not only did her daughters Kathryn and Marlene as well as her late husband attend the College, the Snapka’s Drive Inn owner is also a member of DMC’s alumni family, graduating in 1941 as Valedictorian from Corpus Christi Junior College (now Del Mar College) with fond memories of the friends she made and the classes for which she excelled. Prior to attending the College, Maxine Winkler moved with her family to Corpus Christi and attended high school at what is now Roy Miller High School, graduating Valedictorian in 1939. Upon completing her studies at DMC, Mary Hardin-Baylor College offered Maxine a scholarship; but the second world war loomed, and her older brother was drafted. Maxine was needed at home. As part of the war effort, Maxine went to work at the new Naval Air Station in Corpus Christi. In 1948, she met Method Snapka, who was buying military surplus where she worked. Education became a top priority for both Method and Maxine Snapka, and they took courses at Del Mar College throughout their lives. They also impressed the importance of education on their two daughters. When Marlene graduated from high school, she began DMC courses that same summer, got her basic courses out of the way and then earned her bachelor’s degree at Texas A&I University (now Texas A&M University-Kingsville). Her sister Kathryn wanted to “go off” to college, but Maxine and Method insisted she stay home for the first year after high school graduation. “I became involved in clubs and student government,” Kathryn Snapka says. “And in the spring of my freshman year, I ran for chairman of the Student Advisory Committee (now the Student Government Association) and won the election. So, I also finished my second year at DMC.” In fact, her campus involvement and success earned Kathryn an induction into the College’s prestigious Hall of Fame in 1976, and the local attorney’s photo can be found among all the other inductees in the upper hallway of the Harvin Student Center on the Heritage Campus. Kathryn noted that she and Marlene recalled how their father supported his employees who wanted to attend college by arranging their work schedules to accommodate classes. “There were also more than a few loans to help them pay for college expenses,” she added. Happy Birthday, Maxine! The Method and Maxine Snapka Endowed Scholarship is a gift that will keep giving for years to come. To learn more about Del Mar College’s Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management Programs visit the Business Administration and Entrepreneurship Pathways page at www.delmar.edu/degrees/index.html. To learn more about all scholarships available at Del Mar College, visit the DMC Foundation’s web page s at www.delmar.edu/scholarships. Each spring, the DMC Foundation accepts applications Feb. 1 through April 30 for the following academic year, which begins with the fall semester.
- DMC Cultural Programs Series Presents Lt. Col. Olga Custodio, First Latina Military and Commercial Airline Pilot, as Guest Speaker on Feb. 8Article by: Rosa Linda Reynoso There’s a first for everything, and holding the distinction as America’s first Latina military and commercial airline pilot belongs to Lt. Col. Olga E. Custodio. The retired U.S. Air Force and American Airlines pilot will share her story during a guest lecture, “Lessons from the Flight Deck: Overcoming Doubt/Imposter Syndrome” as part of Del Mar College’s Cultural Programs Series on Wednesday, Feb. 8. As the first Latina to complete U.S. Air Force Undergraduate Pilot Training and to graduate in the top five percent of her class with fighter qualification to fly the T-38 as an instructor pilot, Lt. Col. Custodio proved that gender is never a hindrance to success in professions dominated by men. During her lecture at Del Mar College, Lt. Col. Custodio will share how she overcame self-doubt, stayed open to possibilities, saw herself as an equal and how this vision of equality is paramount to making the impossible possible in any career path. The presentation is FREE and begins at 6 p.m. in Richardson Performance Hall, located on the Heritage Campus at 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404). Get online directions and campus map. The public is invited to participate. For more information, contact Dr. Erinn McComb, DMC Associate Professor of History, at emccomb1@delmar.edu or 361-698-1368. In addition to the College’s Cultural Programs Series, the event is sponsored by the DMC Social Sciences Department and its History Program, Mexican American Studies Program, Aviation Technology Program, TRiO Program, Student Leadership and Campus Life Office and the Veterans Services Office. A pioneer of many firsts during her aviation career, Lt. Col. Custodio has shattered stereotypes and served as a powerful role model for those aspiring to become a pilot. From breaking barriers and overcoming challenges as a woman in a male-dominated profession throughout her career, she has gained essential life insights and perspectives that she shares with everyone, especially women working to achieve their dreams. The daughter of a U.S. Army non-commissioned officer from Puerto Rico, Lt. Col. Custodio grew up traveling between continents and saw the world before she was 15-years-old. Her exposure to several opportunities to fly globally instilled a great fascination with airplanes and sparked her dream of becoming a pilot. However, the path to her dream was not a walk in the park. During her journey to become a pilot, Lt. Col. Custodio faced numerous rejections. While studying at the University of Puerto Rico, she tried to participate in the Reserve Officer Training Corps program but was denied the opportunity because women were not allowed at that time. She waited a long time for a training slot to open at Officer Training School, but a now-or-never moment finally arrived while Lt. Col. Custodio held a job with the Department of Defense. After graduating from Officer Training School, she qualified for Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT) at Laughlin Air Force Base (AFB) in Texas. After graduating a year later, she became the first female UPT T-38 instructor pilot with the 47th Flying Training Wing and the 560th Flying Training Squadron for Pilot Instructor Training (PIT) at Randolph AFB. As a pilot instructor, she received an Aviation Safety Award for superior airmanship for her handling of an engine failure in-flight emergency. But, that wasn’t all for the female pilot instructor. Lt. Col. Custodio continued to fulfill her dream and became a commissioned military officer. As a female military aviation pioneer, she served for 24 years in the U.S. Air Force, and retired at her current military rank. After transitioning to the U.S. Air Force Reserves, Lt. Col. Custodio became American Airlines’ first Latina commercial airline pilot, and she was later upgraded to Captain. Currently retired with over 11,000 flight hours to her credit, Lt. Col. Custodio serves as a speaker and a community leader, sitting on the boards of several nonprofit organizations that includeg Latino Pilots Association, Order of Daedalians, Dee Howard Foundation and Women in Aviation Alamo City, which advocate for inspiring and empowering students, especially those from underserved communities, to pursue careers in aviation and aerospace. As a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) advocate, she volunteers her time as a speaker and role model at local schools, universities, corporations and military base groups to encourage young women and men to reach for their dreams. Additionally, she is a mentor with the Women in Aviation International, Aviation Explorers and the School of Aeronautics of the InterAmerican University in Puerto Rico, to mention a few. In 2017, Lt. Col. Custodio was inducted into the San Antonio Aviation and Aerospace Hall of Fame. She recently helped co-author the “Latinas in Aviation” anthology and is included as one of the 30 inspiring Latinas/Latinos who have shaped the United States in “Nuestra América,” which was published by the Smithsonian Institution. She also is the 35th Hispanic Heritage Foundation’s 2022 STEM Award honoree. To learn more about Lt. Col. Custodio, visit www.purflygirl.com.
- Del Mar College Board of Regents Accepting Applicants for Vacant At-large SeatArticle by DMC College Relations The Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents officially announces today, Jan. 4, the process for filling the At-large seat left vacant due to the resignation effective Jan. 1 of Dr. Linda Villarreal, who has accepted the position of Dean of the College of Education and Human Performance at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. The Board formally accepted Dr. Villarreal’s letter of resignation at its Dec. 13 meeting. Dr. Villarreal was appointed to the At-large seat in June 2021. The selected candidate will fulfill the unexpired remainder of the term, which runs through 2024. The Board is now accepting application documents from candidates interested in seeking appointment to the At-large seat. Individuals interested in filling the vacant seat must submit the prescribed materials for consideration by the Board. Criteria include: Candidate must be a resident of Texas (at least one year) and the Del Mar College District (at least six months) and be a registered voter. The Del Mar College District includes all of the area within the Calallen, Corpus Christi, Flour Bluff, Tuloso-Midway and West Oso Independent School Districts, as well as within the boundaries (city limits) of the City of Corpus Christi. For a complete list of eligibility requirements, go to: https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docs/el/htm/el.141.htm or contact DMC General Counsel Augustin Rivera, Jr. at ariverajr@delmar.edu or 361-692-8644. AND Candidate should submit 1) a letter of interest, 2) resume and 3) up to five letters of reference addressing their qualifications. Requested documents may be submitted to the Office of General Counsel on behalf of the President’s Office by one of the following ways: U.S. Mail: Office of General Counsel, Del Mar College, 101 Baldwin Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78404-3897 In-person: Office of General Counsel, Room HA131, Heldenfels Administration Building, Heritage Campus, 101 Baldwin Blvd. (get directions and campus map) Electronically: Fax to 361-698-1196 or email to ariverajr@delmar.edu. APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applicant materials must be received by noon Friday, Jan 27. Questions? Contact the DMC Office of General Counsel at 361-698-1097 or 361-692-8644. The Board plans to interview candidates, make a selection and swear-in the new At-large Regent on Tuesday, Feb. 14, the same day as their scheduled regular monthly meeting. The selected candidate should be prepared to participate during the regular meeting after being sworn in. The Del Mar College Board of Regents includes nine regents in a modified single-member district configuration. The Del Mar College District boundaries can be found on the map using the following link: https://www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/election/dmc-single-member-district-map-2012.pdf DMC Board of Regents web pages are available at: https://www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/index.html
- Registration for Del Mar College Spring 2023 credit courses continuesArticle by: Rosa Linda Reynoso It’s not too late! If you’re thinking about taking credit courses this spring at Del Mar College, you can still register! Advising and registration continues for the Spring 2023 semester, and there’s only limited opportunities left! The College’s remaining Online and On-campus Late Registration opportunities include: Currently through 6:30 p.m. Wed., Jan. 11: Online registration Saturday, Jan. 7, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Online and On-campus with virtual assistance for Late Registration available Heritage, Windward and Oso Creek Campuses. Free meningitis immunizations will be available 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Room 165 at the Heritage Campus Harvin Student Center. Tuesday, Jan. 10, 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Online and On-campus with virtual assistance for Late Registration. Free meningitis immunizations will be available 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Room 165 at the Heritage Campus Harvin Student Center. Wednesday, Jan. 11, 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Online and On-campus with virtual assistance for Late Registration. Free meningitis immunizations will be available 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. in Room 165 at the Heritage Campus Harvin Student Center. Payment deadline for tuition and fees for all Late Registration opportunities is Wednesday, Jan. 11, at 6:30 p.m. DMC Spring credit courses begin Tuesday, Jan. 17, with the College closed Jan. 16 in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Visit www.delmar.edu/registration for details regarding registering, the admissions process and other pertinent information. Additionally, information about the required meningitis vaccine is available at www.delmar.edu/becoming-a-viking/apply/meningitis.html. Spring credit course scheduling includes 8-, 12-, 15- and 16-week sessions and the Maymester session. Delivery formats include online, hybrid and face-to-face offerings to fit your learning style and flexible scheduling. Questions? Email Del Mar College’s Student Enrollment Center at enroll@delmar.edu or call 361-698-1290, 361-698-1741 or 1-800-652-3357.
- DMC Transportation Training Services Graduate Ashley Leiva Wins National Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award for VeteransArticle by Melinda Eddleman The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes Program announced the winner on Dec. 16 in Washington, D.C. The finalists all waited to hear who was the recipient of the 2022 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award after thousands of nominees had been narrowed down to only 11 during the selection process. That winner turned out to be Ashley Leiva, age 36, who completed Del Mar College’s Transportation Training Services Program in November 2021 even though she already held her Commercial Drivers License through the U.S. Army. And, she did hit the jackpot. Not only did Leiva receive the 2022 award but also a $155,000 Kenworth T680 Next Gen Truck, fully-equipped for comfort and safety as a head start to her entrepreneurial career. Leiva, who now owns with her brother their late mother’s trucking company, also received a full scholarship that will cover the cost of pursuing a degree. She plans to continue her entrepreneurial endeavor by earning a bachelor’s degree in business management. The Transition Trucking initiative began in 2016 and is part of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes Program in collaboration with Kenworth and FASTPORT to address the driver shortage and create immediate jobs for the nation’s transitioning military personnel, including veterans, national guard members and reservists in the trucking industry. And, the year-long search for America’s “top military rookie driver” culminated with voting ending Nov. 11 (Veterans Day) among the top 11 individuals selected from thousands of nominees with Leiva included among those finalists. Leiva’s nomination, along with one for her brother Johnny Leiva, age 32, was made by the director of the College’s program that trains Coastal Bend residents to become truck drivers, including veterans who make up about 5% of each class. Criteria for the final selection included each candidates’ successful transition from military service into civilian life as a truck driver and their focus on safety in the profession. The siblings’ nominations were the third time that the College had submitted program graduates’ names for the award and the second time a DMC nominee made the semi-finals. “Honestly when I found out Lynette nominated us, I initially thought the award was related to a competition within Del Mar College,” said Johnny Leiva. “But after I looked it up, I realized this was a national award and was very surprised and honored we were nominated for something of this nature.” He was also in Washington, D.C., to support his older sister during the award announcement. Lynette Redding-Cervantes, Director of DMC Transportation Training Services, added, “I decided to nominate Johnny and Ashley because both exhibited excellent communication skills, as well as encouraged their fellow classmates during training.” She noted that Johnny helped classmates when performing vehicle inspections and backing maneuvers while Ashley was a born leader and helped her classmates throughout her classes. Both siblings served with the U.S. Army––Johnny as an Army Specialist in Infantry and sister Ashley as an Army Sergeant First Class. Her 15-year career serving her country took Leiva on deployment to Iraq twice, and she served as Senior Culinary Management NCO, overseeing daily operations for dining facilities at locations across the United States and abroad during her service. Circumstances brought the two closer together as co-owners of their late mother’s trucking business. She died from cancer in 2021, which initiated Ashley Leiva’s retirement from military service earlier than she expected. Regarding this move, Johnny Leiva, noted, “I know my mother is proud of us and what we have accomplished for ourselves and with continuing her legacy.” Last month on Nov. 15, the Corpus Christi City Council presented Leiva with a Certificate of Commendation for being one of the 11 finalists prior to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s award announcement. (Access the release with more information about Leiva.) Of Leiva winning the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, Redding-Cervantes, said, “When I heard Ashley’s name called, I screamed and clapped so hard that I hurt my hands. But, when Ashley mentioned that I was her mentor, I broke down. THAT is the most humbling of all.”
- DMC Class of December 2022 (Graduate List) Moving Forward to Next Adventure (Video Included)Article by: Rosa Linda Reynoso The occasion was all “Pomp and Circumstance.” Del Mar College held its Fall 2022 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 16, with prospective graduates walking across the stage in the American Bank Center. C. Michelle Unda, Manager Regional HR & Public Affairs for NuStar’s Central West South Region, provided the keynote address. Out of the 494 Vikings who completed their studies during the fall semester, 341 “prospective” graduates participated during the ceremony. Overall, the College awarded approximately 625 certificates and associate’s degrees combined to the Class of December 2022. Among the graduates are: ALICE Associate in Science Amanda C. Gray (Summa Cum Laude) Certificate Level I Shay Z. Davis ARANSAS PASS Associate in Arts Alyssa L. Martinez, Clement F. Monreal II and Lizbeth Ugorji Associate in Applied Science Michael A. Bonner (Summa Cum Laude) and Lizbeth Ugorji Certificate Level II Roberto Elizondo III Certificate Level I Ricardo Baez Tello Jr. BEEVILLE Associate in Applied Science Isabel N. Contreras Certificate Level II Jordan R. Pendergraph Certificate Level I Jordan R. Pendergraph BROWNSVILLE Associate in Arts Elizabeth San Juan CORPUS CHRISTI Associate in Arts Julia F. Abrego, Julissa H. Abrego, Ramon Acosta Jr., Yshia Ghianna M. Aguilar, Dalton J. Allen, Adelina Amador, Sierra N. Anderson, Ryenn C. Angeles, Alan O. Avila, Lydia A. Basurto, Wendelyn Benally-Forrester, Briannah M. Benavidez, Roberto M. Benavidez, Andrea L. Bethke, Lauryn P. Boardman, Matthew E. Botello, Erminia Brandon, Gerardo M. Cabrera, Melissa R. Calderon, Qadira K. Carter, Briana L. Casarez, Hannah J. Cayford, Fabiola Cedillo (Magna Cum Laude), Ernesto J. Constante Jr. (Summa Cum Laude), Paulo A. Corrales, Victor A. Covarrubias, Kailey M. Cruz, Jessica R. Del Real, Destiny E. Deleon, Sierra R. Dominguez, Kayla R. Elizondo, Amanda N. Esparza, John A. Flores, Belen C. Castellanos Frederick, Merissa A. Fuentes, Mary G. Gaczewski, Roxanne A. Garcia, Austin L. Garza, Brandon J. Garza, Jessica M. Garza, Sarina G. Garza, Enzo A. Gentile (Summa Cum Laude), Roy D. Gomez, Jordyn A. Gonzales, Cassie J. Gonzalez (Magna Cum Laude), Celestina G. Gonzalez, Melanie A. Granado, Maytanee E. Grassman, Shannon L. Griffin, Avangelin M. Guajardo, Jazmin N. Guajardo, Sefwon Y. Gusbi, Sarah V. Gutierrez, Breana L. Harris, Corey B. Haywood Jr., Yancey J. Hernandez (Summa Cum Laude), Lois M. Hinojosa (Summa Cum Laude), Matteson J. Kapa, Alan S. Kauffman, Trianna N. Kubanik, Lauren R. Lara, Alejandro J. Lerma, Marissa T. Lopez, Nya M. Lotts, Alondra Lozano, Kekoa A. Madeira, Rose M. Martinez, Virginia R. Medrano, Alexis A. Mendez, Chanti Miller, Sebastian F. Mondragon, Rodolfo Montelongo, Adriana D. Mora, Diana E. Morales, Nijat I. Orujlu, Melida R. Palomo-Limon, Nhi H. Pham, Kenia H. Pineda, Kristine Mae S. Plants, Alexis M. Pulido (Cum Laude), Renee A. Pulido, Cortnee N. Ramirez, Michelle E. Ramirez, Roxette Ramos, Victoria C. Ramos, Taylor A. Rice (Magna Cum Laude), Vanessa Rivera, Breanna M. Rodriguez, Camille C. Rodriguez, Kayla P. Rodriguez, Lisa M. Rodriguez, Miranda A. Ruiz, Victoria L. Rust, Jacob R. Rylander (Cum Laude), Jezell M. Salazar, Kelly A. Salinas, Monica A. San Miguel, Victoria Sanchez, Maribel Sangabriel, Sharla L. Sebastian, Amanda M. Siler, Samantha Z. Silva, Abigail L. Smith, Ruben M. Soto (Summa Cum Laude), Leah R. Steadman, Mary J. Tejada (Summa Cum Laude), Kate L. Tiemann, Alexis M. Tijerina, Cindy Torres, Samuel J. Torres, Belinda Trevino, Fernanda Y. Valadez, Madison A. Valadez, Seth R. Valadez, Thaliyana Y. Vasquez, Zannah E. Vasquez, Elizabeth D. Vela, Cristobal Vilchis, Amie R. Villalpando, Zachary G. Walker, Mary B. Williams, Whitney K. Winkler, Rosemary Zavala and Kaleigh R. Zuniga Associate in Science Cydni Y. Barnes (Cum Laude), Trinidad C. Martinez, Marcos D. Munguia, Julia A. Muniz, Maureen O. Ogechukwu-Anozie (Summa Cum Laude) and Karol M. Ramirez-Prado Associate of Arts in Teaching Teena M. Erwin (Magna Cum Laude), Mary G. Gaczewski, Valerie M. Garza, Samantha M. Jimenez, Samantha A. Lugo, Kati M. Medina, Holly K. Moore, Kaela A. Nieto, Alanna Ann L. Perez, Sarah D. Preston, Samantha T. Rodarte and Valerie A. Rodriguez Associate in Applied Science Patricia Aguilar, Yshia Ghianna M. Aguilar, Juliana G. Alarcon, Andrea R. Alonzo-Chavez, Adelina Amador, Allexys E. Andrae, Andrey G. Arnisto, Celeste N. Arrisola, Alan O. Avila, Lydia A. Basurto, Wendelyn Benally-Forrester, Roberto M. Benavidez, Eduardo M. Besinaiz Jr., Andrea L. Bethke, Mercedes Bonilla, Erica Breen, Gerardo M. Cabrera, Melissa R. Calderon, Corina Cano, Andrew N. Carranza, Troy A. Casarez, Matthew J. Casler (Cum Laude), Ernan Castro, Fabiola Cedillo (Magna Cum Laude), Nohemi Cordova, Paulo A. Corrales, Jose Cortez Jr., Taylor A. Davenport, Jainita R. Delacruz, Benjamin M. Deleon, Amanda Diaz, Rogerio Dominguez IV, Marvin Vargas Done, Kayla R. Elizondo, Courtney J. Elliott, Arturo Franco Jr., Michael W. Freitag, Joe R. Gamez Sr., Bianca A. Garcia (Summa Cum Laude), Marcus I. Garcia, Meredith R. Garcia, Monica M. Gomez (Cum Laude), David P. Gonzales (Cum Laude), Cassie J. Gonzalez (Magna Cum Laude), Jose A. Gonzalez, Orlando J. Guerrero Jr., Sarah V. Gutierrez, Luis A. Guzman, Ryan W. Harlan, Jose Hernandez Jr., Kimberly M. Housley, Mark P. Howard, Brittni L. Kriegel, Matthew K. Kriegel, Cecilia A. Kubanik, Trianna N. Kubanik, Vivian A. Le, Lourdes Llamas, Jessica A. Lopez, Mariscela Lopez, Yuliza G. Lopez, Nya M. Lotts, Sonya Lugo, Adrian C. Martinez, Heather Martinez, Matthew P. Martinez, Sierra N. Martinez, Alexis Mendoza, Jack E. Meredith, Stephanie M. Metoyer, Haley M. Miller, Ian H. Miller, Adriana D. Mora, Diana E. Morales, Alyssa M. Moreno, Stephanie L. Morris-Nelson, Jesus R. Rios Nuncio, Rosalyn Orona, Daniela Palmerin, Theresa A. Paz, Ryan M. Pemberton, Sidney R. Perez, Rodrigo R. Perez III, Mitzie E. Perkins, Kenia H. Pineda, Kristine Mae S. Plants, Alexis M. Pulido (Cum Laude), Renee A. Pulido, Katelyne A. Ramirez, Marilee Ramirez, Skyla A. Ramirez, Jessie Ramirez III, Steven Reynolds, Kirsten M. Rice, Tani M. Rios, Angelica M. Rivas, Kathryn N. Rivera, Ariel R. Robledo, Ashley M. Rodriguez, Edwin M. Rodriguez, Lisa M. Rodriguez, Robert Rodriguez Jr. (Cum Laude), Nicolas Roman, Alyssa M. Saenz, Ryan C. Saenz, April L. Salinas, Jakob N. Salinas, Joann Salinas, Kristin N. Sanchez, Robert C. Sanchez, Victoria Sanchez, Maribel Sangabriel, Sharla L. Sebastian, Elisia Sepulveda, Fabian M. Soto, Wyatt J. Strong, Samuel L. Thompson Jr., Cindy Torres, Kristen A. Trevino, Erika N. Valdez, David P. Valle, Isaac H. Van Nice, Beatriz Campos Vega, Andres N. Vega III, Erica Velasquez, Cristobal Vilchis, Amie R. Villalpando, Adrianna L. Villarreal (Cum Laude), Kimberly Villarreal, Trang H. Von Zur Muehlen, Braden W. Wickliffe, Ca’Misha R. Williams, Jade E. Wilson, Travis A. Wilson, Donald R. Woodson Jr. (Magna Cum Laude), Rosemary Zavala and Kaleigh R. Zuniga Certificate Level II Ryan A. Alvarez, Andrey G. Arnisto, Clarence Butler Jr., Matthew A. Caceres, Orion A. Carpio, Andrew N. Carranza, Troy A. Casarez, Daniela V. Chapa, Benjamin M. Deleon, Rogerio Dominguez IV, Marvin Vargas Done, Baldomero Duran Jr., David P. Gonzales (Cum Laude), Jose A. Gonzalez, Jason R. Guerrero (Magna Cum Laude), Kandice L. Gutierrez, Nicholas C. Hernandez, Jose Hernandez Jr., Sonya Lugo, Matthew P. Martinez, Ethan C. Miller, Vanessa L. Morton (Summa Cum Laude), Isabel Rivera, Lorenzo Rocha, Ryan C. Saenz, April L. Salinas, Maribel Solis, Liberato D. Viray Jr. and Donald R. Woodson Jr. (Magna Cum Laude) Certificate Level I Larissa O. Alvarez, Clarence Butler Jr., Barbara J. Cano (Cum Laude), Orion A. Carpio, Ethan E. De Leon, Benjamin M. Deleon, Marvin Vargas Done, John P. Escobedo, Angel Garcia, Juaquin Garcia Sr., Jose A. Gonzalez, Luis J. Gonzalez, Marisa N. Gonzalez, Santiago A. Gonzalez II, Roberto M. Guajardo, Jason R. Guerrero (Magna Cum Laude), Daniel M. Hatten, Nicholas C. Hernandez, Jose Hernandez Jr., Erica M. Herrera (Cum Laude), Allyson M. Houlihan, Tara A. Houlihan, Erika Cardenas Iglesias, Luz M. James, Alisha G. Lewis, Mariscela Lopez, Milagros V. Lopez, Sonya Lugo, Matthew P. Martinez, Gabriella M. Medina, Mia B. Medina, Melanny Melendez, Erica D. Ortega, Jose R. Palacios, Luis A. Ramirez, Jessie Ramirez III, Kirsten M. Rice, Michael A. Rivera, Lorenzo Rocha, Ashley M. Rodriguez, Robert Rodriguez Jr. (Cum Laude), Ryan C. Saenz, Camila E. Saldarriaga, April L. Salinas, Serenna D. Smith, Beatriz Campos Vega, Adrianna L. Villarreal (Cum Laude) and Donald R. Woodson Jr. (Magna Cum Laude) Occupational Skills Award Adan Cabrera, Noah C. Cantu (Cum Laude), Theodore P. Donna, Tara A. Houlihan, Mariscela Lopez, Erica D. Ortega, Jessie Ramirez III and Kirsten M. Rice D’HANIS Associate in Applied Science Trent M. Koch Certificate Level II Trent M. Koch Certificate Level I Trent M. Koch EDINBURG Certificate Level I Lynette Montalvo FALFURRIAS Associate in Arts Rodolfo Hinojosa Jr. and Rachel L. Perez FULTON Associate in Applied Science Gary A. Davis Certificate Level II Gary A. Davis GOLIAD Certificate Level II Theresa L. Boggess GREGORY Associate in Applied Science Rene S. Rios HOUSTON Associate in Applied Science Eugenie S. Raymond INGLESIDE Associate in Arts Edward E. Aguilar, Mary A. Carmicheal, Geneva M. Mora, Miyelis Portela and Bradley S. Stebbins Associate in Applied Science Lara A. Breeding (Summa Cum Laude), Diego A. Garcia Davizon, Christina Hernandez-Gonzales, Juan M. Hinojosa Jr., Miyelis Portela and Bradley S. Stebbins JOURDANTON Associate in Applied Science Emily A. Ponton KYLE Associate in Applied Science Rebecca R. Uribe MATHIS Associate in Arts Patricia Garibay and Victor R. Perez Associate in Applied Science Angelica D. Gonzales (Cum Laude) Certificate Level II Juan C. Moya II Certificate Level I Linda Bolin Occupational Skills Award Linda Bolin MISSION Associate in Arts Gloria Covarrubia Associate in Applied Science Gloria Covarrubia ODEM Associate in Arts Breanna L. Candela, Tatiana C. Pena, Rheanna L. Villalobos and Zachary A. Zuniga Associate in Applied Science Breanna L. Candela, Javier Rodriguez, Joshua T. Vargas (Summa Cum Laude), Rheanna L. Villalobos and Zachary A. Zuniga Certificate Level I Nicole E. Gonzalez PORTLAND Associate in Arts Krista A. Adame, Jadyn M. Hall, Nicole L. Potter, Jared M. Schmidt, Cinthya A. Young and Ruby A. Zipprian Associate in Science Derik E. Mahan and Ledvic M. Martinez Associate of Arts in Teaching Alyssa R. Atilano Associate in Applied Science Catarino G. Barrera, Heather E. Boothby, Alfredo A. Fonseca, Valerie N. Garcia, Fahsai Little (Cum Laude), Erika N. Martinez, Joel Martinez, Sunni A. O’Neill, Nicole L. Potter, Alberto O. Rodriguez (Cum Laude), Jared M. Schmidt, Tyler E. Wyatt and Ruby A. Zipprian Certificate Level II Joel Martinez Certificate Level I Daniel Ballesteros, Lexandra Z. Gonzales, Fahsai Little (Cum Laude), Joel Martinez and Ledvic M. Martinez REFUGIO Associate in Applied Science Christina F. Nanez ROBSTOWN Associate in Arts Kara I. Amador, Amber C. Ashworth, Kristina E. Hall, Aliyah M. Orobio (Cum Laude), Erica T. Ortega and Adriana M. Rios Associate in Applied Science Joseph O. Carrillo, Gina M. Galvan, Israel Gomez, Debanhi E. Gonzalez, Kristina E. Hall and Alexis J. Sanchez Certificate Level I Taylor T. Jennings ROCKPORT Associate in Arts Daniel Garcia and Audrey L. Hernandez Associate in Applied Science Alex M. Hernandez and James D. Nesbit Certificate Level II James D. Nesbit Certificate Level I Joe G. Garza II and James D. Nesbit SAN ANTONIO Certificate Level II Nathan C. Millard (Cum Laude) SAN DIEGO Certificate Level II Jose O. Carrillo III Certificate Level I Jose O. Carrillo III SINTON Associate in Arts Krista A. Munguia and Celia Oelrich Associate in Applied Science Serena Anaya, Jamie J. Garcia, Malachi J. Mata, Rosalba Rodriguez and Mason C. Tannehill Certificate Level I Austin J. Ardoin Occupational Skills Award Miranda L. Barrett TAFT Associate in Arts Jordan A. Downie, Rosa I. Rodriguez and Angelica G. Soliz Associate in Applied Science Valdemar Alaniz III, Jordan A. Downie, Rosa I. Rodriguez, Isabella M. Saldivar and Naomi N. Saldivar TYLER Certificate Level II Keondra Jackson VICTORIA Associate in Applied Science Gabrielle A. Escalona (Summa Cum Laude) WESTHOFF Associate in Applied Science Dylan J. Yeoman (Magna Cum Laude) Certificate Level I Dylan J. Yeoman (Magna Cum Laude) WOODSBORO Associate in Arts Roberta L. Vega HONOLULU, HI Associate in Arts Felicity S. Gonzales CHESAPEAKE, VA Associate in Arts Johnny J. Suarez III Watch the Dec. 13 ceremony below:
- Online Registration for DMC Spring 2023 Credit Courses Runs During Two-week Winter Break for Students Who QualifyArticle by: Rosa Linda Reynoso Admissions file done. Check. No holds on records. Check. Financial aid application completed online. Check. Advising and degree plan determined. Check. What else do I have left to do? Oh, yeah! Register! Even though Del Mar College (DMC) will close for the two-week Winter Break Dec. 21 through Jan. 3, individuals who qualify to register online for the Spring 2023 semester can do so during those dates. The closing includes the Heritage, Windward and Oso Creek Campuses, the Center for Economic Development and the Northwest Center in Calallen. The College will reopen at 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 4, 2023. However, students with complete admissions files and no holds may register online during the break. Registration and other pertinent details are available at www.delmar.edu/registration. The deadline for paying tuition and fees is Wednesday, Jan. 11, at 6:30 p.m. for all registrants. Spring 2023 credit courses begin Tuesday, Jan. 17. The College will be closed Monday, Jan. 16, for the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Spring credit course scheduling includes 8-, 12-, 15- and 16-week sessions as well as the Maymester session. Delivery formats include online, hybrid and face-to-face to fit your learning style and flexible scheduling. Both current and prospective students can access WebDMC at www.delmar.edu to view course offerings. Students can also check their financial aid status, review their degree plan and find other pertinent information using the WebDMC portal. Don’t wait to register until after Winter Break! Get the classes you need at the times you want by registering online if you qualify. Registration questions before the Winter Break? Contact Del Mar College’s Student Enrollment Center at enroll@delmar.edu or 361-698-1290, 361-698-1741 or 1-800-652-3357.
- First-Generation Student with Dyslexia Overcomes Disability to Graduate This Friday from DMCArticle by: Rosa Linda Reynoso and Melinda Eddleman According to The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity, the neurologically based learning disability known as dyslexia that’s marked by difficulties with decoding and reading comprehension affects 20 percent of the U.S. population. The center estimates that figure to be one in five Americans who are challenged by the disability. For Camille Carmen Rodriguez, age 24, who will graduate from Del Mar College this Friday night, having dyslexia hasn’t stopped her from pursuing her dream. She’s earning her Associate in Arts degree from the Social Work Program in the Department of Social Sciences. She’ll take that momentous walk across the stage beginning at 7 p.m. tomorrow night, Dec. 16, at the American Bank Center. “I decided on the field of social work because I have always wanted to give children a voice—those who don’t feel like they have a voice or are afraid to speak up,” says Rodriguez. “I would like to make a difference in the world, and this is how I want to do it.” About having dyslexia, she adds, “Before … if someone had asked, I would have said that I didn’t face any challenges, but I’m truly proud of myself and what I have accomplished.” The May 2016 Flour Bluff High School graduate wanted a career in social work since the eighth grade and enrolled at DMC that fall. However, life events two years later meant stopping her studies two years later, and she spent that time holding down two to three jobs to meet her family responsibilities. Rodriguez returned to the College in fall 2021, but she still faced the challenges her dyslexia posed as she completed work toward her associate’s degree. Academically, Rodriguez says that her disability made understanding course materials difficult. If she didn’t understand the subject based on how a professor taught a lesson, she sought tutoring to learn another way that addressed her dyslexia. And, taking classroom exams also was extremely difficult. As a first-generation, low-income student, Rodriguez says that she automatically faced not knowing anything about “how to do college,” including time management. That’s when she accessed DMC student resources such as the College’s Disability Services Office, which helped make a difference. Certain subjects––math and reading––were especially hard for Rodriguez. Getting assistance from the College’s Stone Writing Center helped her understand how to properly write research papers and utilizing math tutors provided her with the assistance she needed to comprehend her mathematics courses. Completing her coursework was like a full-time job, but Rodriguez also worked a full-time job with 10-hour shifts and work-study hours with the College’s TRIO Student Support Services (SSS), along with pre-practicum hours for a social work class to complete her degree. “Finding time to study and for self-care were some of the hardest challenges because I wanted to give up and sleep, but I studied instead,” says Rodriguez. “Maintaining my family with my 18-hour days was difficult. We also faced food insecurities while I attended school, and we only have one car for our household. Thanks to Del Mar College’s resources, that weight was lifted slightly.” Rodriguez also credits moral support she received from DMC staff that helped her stay focused, including Nina Fischer, Academic Coordinator with TRIO SSS, and Administrative Assistant Myra Alaniz. She highly recommends any first-time generation college student to look into the College’s TRIO SSS for assistance. “TRIO SSS staff really helped me advance and learn new information that I can use,” notes Rodriguez. “They not only made me feel included but treated me like an equal in their department, and that’s good work experience to have on my resume.” When not working, studying, attending class or taking care of family, Rodriguez was also a member of the Social Work Association, a registered student organization with the College’s Student Leadership and Campus Life Office. As Rodriguez counts down to tomorrow night’s milestone, she adds that her fiancé encouraged her to return to Del Mar College, overcome her challenges and continue the path toward her dream. She says, “He got me out of my shell and encouraged me to speak up. He is the reason why I was able to finish my degree, and I owe a lot of credit to him!” What’s next for Rodriguez, who is among the 494 students competing a combined 625 degrees and certificates as the Class of Fall 2022. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree as well as become a fully-licensed social worker.
- Board of Regents Swears-in Two of Three Seats Before Dec. 13 Regular MeetingArticle by Melinda Eddleman Prior to today’s Del Mar College Board of Regents regular meeting, two of three Regents who filed unopposed for three seats available during the General Election were sworn-in after signing the appropriate statement. David Loeb, who represents District 2, and Libby Averyt, who remains in the At-large seat she has represented for over three-and-a-half years, took the Oath of Office before joining the other Regents for the Dec. 13 meeting. The Oath of Office was administered by Jessica Alaniz, DMC Director of Risk Management, who oversees the College’s election process. District 5 Regent Carl Crull was unable to attend. Averyt, President and Chief Executive Officer of the United Way of the Coastal Bend, will serve her “first” full term on the Board. The 2022 election was her first time to run for the At-large seat. In March 2019, Averyt was sworn-in after the Board selected her among applicants to fill the seat vacated in December 2018. Both Loeb, Owner and President of Landlord Resources LLC, and Crull, Owner of Crull Engineering LLC, will serve for the first time on the College’s Board of Regents. Terms for all three individuals run through 2028. Following the swearing-in ceremony, protocol called for the Board of Regents to reorganize and elect officers. The results are as follows: · Chair: At-large Regent Carol A. Scott · First Vice Chair: At-large Regent Dr. Nicholas L. Adame · Second Vice Chair: At-large Regent Libby Averyt · Secretary: District 1 Regent Rudy Garza, Jr. The Board also recognized the service of Susan Hutchinson and Ed Bennett, who did not seek re-election during the 2022 General Election. Hutchinson joined the Board by appointment in May 2009 to represent District 2 and is a partner in the law firm of Davis, Hutchinson & Wilkerson, L.L.P. She served several roles during her terms with the Board, most recently as Second Vice Chair. Hutchinson has also served on the DMC Foundation’s Board of Trustees and is a Trustee Emeritus. Bennett was elected in 2016 to represent District 5. He is a Certified Public Accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner and worked as Chief Financial Officer for two publicly traded companies. During his term, one of Bennett’s roles was Chair of the Board’s Audit Committee. The Del Mar College Board of Regents includes nine regents in a modified single-member district configuration. Five regents represent specific geographic districts while four serve At-large. The Del Mar College District includes all the area in the Calallen, Corpus Christi, Flour Bluff, Tuloso-Midway and West Oso Independent School Districts. Among his roles with the Board, he served as Chair of the Audit Committee. For more information about the DMC Board of Regents, visit https://www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/index.html.
- Fall Commencement Scheduled at American Bank Center on Dec. 16 with DMC Awarding Combined 625 Degrees and CertificatesArticle by Melinda Eddleman They’ve worked hard for their certificate, associate’s degree or both; and now it’s time to take that traditional walk marking their next steps toward further study, entering the job market or moving up the ladder where they already work after Del Mar College’s (DMC) Fall 2022 Commencement on Friday, Dec. 16, at the American Bank Center. Overall, the College will award a combined 625 degrees and certificates to 494 graduates who make up the Class of Fall 2022. During Friday night’s ceremony, 341 students will walk the stage with all the “Pomp & Circumstance” beginning at 7 p.m. But, before this newest class of DMC graduates officially take the spotlight and then move collectively their tassels from right to left, they’ll hear words of wisdom from keynote speaker C. Michelle Unda, Manager Regional HR & Public Affairs for NuStar’s Central West South Region. Unda is responsible for employee relations, charitable contributions, sponsorships and partnerships and coordinates milestone celebrations and volunteer efforts across Central and South Texas and Nuevo Laredo. She also works as a liaison between the media and NuStar Corporate Communications. She is proud to serve as campaign leader for her region’s United Way Pledge Campaign and continuing the tradition of 100% employee participation. Prior to joining the NuStar team, Unda worked as the Director of Communications for the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce. A South Texas native, Unda graduated from Del Mar College (2003) with Associate in Arts degrees both in journalism and liberal arts, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from Texas A&M University-Kingsville (2005) and her Master’s degree in organizational leadership (2016) from the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Additionally, she is a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi Class XXXVI (2008). Unda’s current volunteer activities include serving as President of the Del Mar College Foundation Board, Board Member and PR Chair for Workforce Solutions of the Coastal Bend and Board Member and Grants Committee Chair for the Coastal Bend Community Foundation. She also serves on the Coastal Bend Industry Association Public Relations Committee and is a facilitator and team member for the St. Patrick Catholic Church RCIA ministry. Past volunteer involvement includes the Leadership Corpus Christi Alumni Association, The Spirit Center, Corpus Christi Mayor’s PRIDE and Downtown Redevelopment initiatives, YWCA Corpus Christi and St. Patrick’s Church ACTS ministry. She was also a part of the reinvented Corpus Christi Under 40 Awards during her time at the Chamber and honored by the organization as a recipient both in 2010 and 2014 and served as an Event Co-Chair (2011). Unda was named the Del Mar College Foundation’s 2015 Distinguished Alumni, 2019 Texas A&M University-Kingsville Rising Star, 2019 Leadership Corpus Christi Alumnus of the Year and 2019 United Corpus Christi Chamber Foundation Mi Casa Su Casa Honoree. Unda and her husband, Raúl, recently celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary, have three beloved dogs––Dino, Mya and Cocosette––and are a certified foster family through the State of Texas.
- DMC Board of Regents holding regular monthly meeting on December 13Article by DMC College Relations Office On Tuesday, Dec. 13, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents will hold their regular monthly meeting at 1 p.m. and scheduled in the Community Room in the Culinary Arts Building located on the Oso Creek Campus at 7002 Yorktown Blvd. (78414). Get online directions and campus map. The regular meeting also will be livestreamed. Community members may access that meeting by going to the online video link at https://www.delmar.edu/webcast/ by 12:55 p.m. A copy of the Dec. 13 Agenda Notice and Board Packet is available using the following link: https://www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/regular-agenda-12-13-22.pdf. Meeting agendas and other resources are also available on the DMC Board of Regents web page at https://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 current guidelines, visit https://delmar.edu/rtc/index.html.
- DMC and Continuing Education Programs Receive Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s 2022 Star AwardArticle by Melinda Eddleman The award recognizes exceptional contributions toward meeting one or more goals of the state’s strategic plan, Building a Talent Strong Texas. Del Mar College (DMC) and its Continuing Education (CE) & Off-Campus Programs Division was one of five state institutions that received the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s prestigious Star Award for 2022 during the THECB’s Leadership Conference held in Austin Dec. 7-8. Additional 2022 Star Award recipients include two other community colleges––Amarillo College and San Jacinto College––as well as the University of Houston and The University of Texas at Arlington. Award criteria focus on the state’s strategic goals to build the workforce and include the following categories: • increasing attainment of postsecondary credentials for adult learners by expanding work-based learning programs and a broader array of short-term credentials. • streamlining academic and career pathways through innovative courses, program redesign and enhanced support services that lead to increased credentials of value and allow for upward social mobility while addressing the state’s workforce needs. • increasing opportunity and affordability through strategic uses of financial aid programs and making the cost of postsecondary education more transparent. • aligning applied research and development efforts with state economic and workforce development priorities, particularly in fields with high current or projected demand. The College’s revamping of its CE workforce training programs fit the criteria to meet the state’s goals. In November 2021, DMC Continuing Education received a $500,000 Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE) Institutional Capacity Grant from the Coordinating Board to assist students impacted by COVID-19 by providing short-term postsecondary workforce credentials and training programs that target high-demand fields that fortify Texas’ economy. The College’s division also received the following month another $200,000 through Coastal Bend College (CBC) as part of a collaborative TRUE Grant award to train individuals for high-demand jobs in the Beeville area. This past September, the College and DMC Continuing Education recognized 110 students––including about 10 from the CBC collaboration––who completed training and earned Workforce Skills Awards (WSAs) in CE healthcare and trade industry programs, including Certified Nurse Aide, Electrocardiography, Medical Billing and Coding, Medical Secretary, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning), Welding, Carpentry, House Wiring, Plumbing and Construction IBC. The College’s CE programs served over 150 individuals overall during the grant award period, which ran through Sept. 30. By working with Workforce Solutions of the Coastal Bend and other community and industry partners, DMC Continuing Education created post-secondary credentials of value for local targeted occupations in the area. This collaborative work resulted with the redesign and alignment of short-term credentials that over the past year prepared Continuing Education students for employment and increased accessibility to credit courses, meaning these “stackable” courses take an industry-based credential and open the door for students to progress to a Level 1 certificate and ultimately to an associate’s degree. “The CE to Credit stackable process has revolutionized a student’s ability to receive in-demand workforce skills training in small steps or milestones that promote employability in a matter of weeks or months rather than in years—all without losing progress toward earning an associate’s degree or higher,” noted Dr. Rivera. In July, the College received $200,000 from another TRUE Grant in partnership with Coastal Bend College from the Coordinating Board and will continue to prepare residents for the South Texas and Coastal Bend workforce. To learn more about workforce training programs offered by DMC Continuing Education, visit www.delmar.edu/ce or contact the division at 361-698-2122 or ce@delmar.edu.
- Corpus Christi City Council Approves 10-year Interlocal Agreement with Del Mar College for Fire, EMS and Other Public Safety TrainingArticle by Melinda Eddleman During the Corpus Christi City Council’s regular meeting today (Dec. 6), members approved a 10-year interlocal agreement between Del Mar College (DMC) and the Corpus Christi Fire Department (CCFD), which will renew annually thereafter. The agreement provides for fire, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and other related training in the firefighting field. Additionally, the agreement allows for joint use of the College’s Regional Fire Academy training facilities and equipment located on the Windward Campus. The College and CCFD have had a 42-year relationship focused on the preparedness of the City’s firefighters through training and resources provided by DMC. DMC President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Mark Escamilla said, “Forty-two years says it all, and this agreement complements the partnership Del Mar College has held with the City and the Corpus Christi Fire Department. It’s forward-thinking and gives back tremendous value to the tax base that is drawn upon to operate the College by providing the City with cost benefits to train and serve those first responders who are out there protecting us every day.” Highlights of the agreement include: • CCFD maintaining control of academy and cadet activities throughout their training. • CCFD cadets receiving training by an accredited institution with DMC faculty providing instruction. • CCFD cadets earning 60-plus college credit hours toward an associate’s degree and upon academy graduation the City providing financial assistance for personnel to complete their degree through its tuition reimbursement program. Additionally, the City benefits from a 20% reduction for tuition costs at $3,752 for the Paramedic Program and $2,213 for the Fire Program. The CCFD will continue to have use of the Emergency Training Building (FEMA Dome), burn tower and training props. CCFD will also receive Continuing Education (CE) credits at no cost for core courses needed for the profession. Fire Chief Robert Rocha pointed out that CCFD training through the DMC Regional Fire Academy includes a 98.4% pass rate by cadets completing the College’s Paramedic Program and a 100% pass rate for the Fire Science Program when cadets tested for their certification in these areas. “The College’s Regional Fire Academy has the highest pass rate in the State of Texas,” noted Public Service Department Chair Melissa Stuive when asked about pass rates by the Council. About the DMC Regional Fire Academy · The DMC Regional Fire Academy offers a Level II Basic Firefighter Certificate and an Associate in Applied Science degree in Fire Science/Basic Firefighting Option. · The program is one of eight in the College’s Public Service Department, and the Academy is certified by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP). · To meet growing emergency medical services responsibilities of modern firefighters, the Academy also requires Basic– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training through DMC’s Medical Emergency Services (EMS) Program. · Curriculum meets or exceeds state and national standards endorsed by the TCFP and established by the National Fire Academy—Fire and Emergency Services in Higher Education committee. · The TPFC requires a minimum of 471 hours in the basic firefighter academy; but to ensure success of cadets as firefighters; the DMC Regional Fire Academy is 724 hours in length. Employers avoid costs associated with additional training needed by new hires to meet all responsibilities of the job. Cadets trained by DMC graduate with all credentials needed. · The DMC Regional Fire Academy works with the Council of Governments, an 11-county consortium in South Texas, to meet the workforce needs for firefighters as well as other Public Service Department trained professionals. · In April 2003, Del Mar College District taxpayers demonstrate confidence in the institution by passing an $108 million bond referendum for a capital improvement program to expand, renovate and build new state-of-the-art facilities to meet the workforce demands of Coastal Bend employers. Capital improvements included the $11.5 million Public Safety Complex with a 47,000 square-foot classroom building and a training field with burn tower, burn residence, street system, HazMat area and Hogan’s Alley for firearms training, among other features. · DMC has invested significant funds in equipment to ensure the Regional Fire Academy exceeds training standards. Equipment ranging as large as fire trucks and rescue/extrication tools to firefighting nozzles, ladders and high-angle rescue hardware. · Del Mar College recently spent $850,000 on upgrades to the training field to increase training opportunities for industrial firefighting and structural firefighting.
- DMC Continuing Education’s Rockport EKG Program Now Training Five Students for Careers in the Healthcare ProfessionArticle by Melinda Eddleman “In such little time, I’ve learned so much already; and I’m grateful tuition was not something I had to be concerned about. It was a big relief and a huge help,” said McKenzy Perez about taking the Del Mar College (DMC) Electrocardiography (EKG) Program currently offered in Rockport. Normally, the cost for the fast-track training course is $248. But, for 17-year-old Perez, who dropped out of high school last year as a junior due to pregnancy, the assistance and opportunity for workforce training puts her closer to her dream of entering the medical profession and one day becoming a nurse. Perez is one of the first five students who started EKG technician training on Nov. 29 in Rockport as part of the College’s collaboration with Aransas County and the Aransas County Partnership Economic Development Corporation to establish the Aransas County Workforce Development Center. The students––including Perez, Addison De La Cruz, Crystal Garza, Thomas Morris and Christina Ransom––are training through DMC Continuing Education’s Health Care Programs using money from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. The College is temporarily providing that training at Rockport’s First Baptist Church (1515 N. Live Oak Street) while waiting for the renovation of the county-owned facility. For the current students, the College’s EKG Program is a path toward that prosperity. As an entry level opportunity in health care, the starting wage for an EKG technician in the Coastal Bend region varies based on facility type. Job opportunities with hospital systems, specialty clinics, physician offices, diagnostic labs, long-term care facilities or private practices range with a starting hourly wage between $13 and $17 per hour. The current EKG technician training is a four-week evening course with Perez and her classmates attending class from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays until Dec. 20. They’re learning how to trace electrical impulses transmitted by the heart, which involves attaching electrodes to the patient’s chest, arms and legs and then utilizing the EKG machine to obtain a reading that a physician would interpret. The procedure is conducted before most kinds of surgery, during a routine physical examination and during critical times of cardiovascular complications. Prior to enrolling in the EKG Program, Perez, who lives in Portland, signed up for the College’s Adult Basic Education Program after having her baby; and within two months, she earned her equivalency certificate to finish her primary education before her former high school classmates. Of her training and determination to become a healthcare professional, Perez said, “Even if you don’t think you can achieve anything, just know that you can because I am. I thought that I couldn’t do anything after having a child and not finishing high school, but I finished school early.” For Rockport resident Crystal Garza, age 39, training to become an EKG technician is a career change. “During the past 15 years, I’ve helped my husband run a successful custom home building company,” she said. “However, recently he just got offered a job as a pilot, and being a pilot is something he’s always dreamed of doing.” She said that since her husband decided to switch careers, she chose to go back to school and start her own new path. “When I saw on Facebook that Del Mar was offering EKG technician courses here in my hometown of Rockport, Texas, I was so excited and knew in my heart this is what I wanted to do.” While Garza said that the course was very affordable and that she was ready and willing to pay for the training, she was accepted for the grant covering the tuition cost much to her surprise. Dr. Rivera added, “Making higher education accessible is inherent in Del Mar College’s mission. Establishing our temporary off-campus site at the First Baptist Church is an example of the College’s commitment to promoting access to valuable workforce education programs whether it’s health care, construction, safety and other in-demand occupations needed by Rockport-based businesses and industry located in Aransas County and other neighboring communities.” The next training opportunity begins Jan. 9 with DMC Continuing Education’s Carpentry Part I course, followed by Carpentry Part II on Feb. 7. The next round of the two-part carpentry training is Feb. 20 and March 21, respectively. The College will also offer other healthcare-related training later in the spring, including Coding and Insurance beginning March 1 and a Coding Certification Exam Review beginning April 25. The next EKG technician training opportunity begins April 3. To learn more about the College’s training in Rockport, apply for a tuition-free grant and training scheduling, visit www.delmar.edu/rockport/. Questions? Contact DMC Continuing Education at 361-698-1328 or ce@delmar.edu.
- DMC Rallying Up with Registration Events for Spring 2023 Semester on Nov. 29 and Dec. 6Article by Rosa Linda Reynoso While the holiday season is now in full swing, you don’t need additional stress by worrying about registering for spring courses at Del Mar College (DMC)! Whether you’re already a Viking or ready to become one, DMC has two Registration Rallies scheduled for one-stop assistance to get you registered for the Spring 2023 semester. Credit courses begin Tuesday, Jan. 17, and the College will be closed for Winter Break Dec. 21 through Jan. 3. Offices will reopen at 7:30 a.m. on Jan. 4. Get registered before the break or complete the admissions process during one of two Registration Rallies scheduled as follows: · Tuesday, Nov. 29, 4 to 7 p.m., Coleman Center, DMC Windward Campus, 4101 Old Brownsville Rd. (78405) · Tuesday, Dec. 6, 4 to 7 p.m., Oso Creek Administration Building, DMC Oso Creek Campus, 7002 Yorktown Blvd. (78411) · Get online directions and campus maps. DMC representatives will be on-hand to provide you the assistance you need, including Advising, Admissions, Registrar’s Office, Veterans Services, Retention Services, Disability Services, Financial Aid Services and Career Development. Participants who register early during the rallies will receive a free DMC tee shirt (while supplies last). Spring credit course scheduling includes 8-, 12-, 15- and 16-week sessions as well as the Maymester session. Delivery formats include online, hybrid and face-to-face to fit your learning style and flexible scheduling. For more information about registration, visit www.delmar.edu/registration. Early Registration has been underway, so don’t miss this opportunity to get the courses you need at the times that fit your schedule by registering before the break or accessing student services all in one place. Questions? Contact DMC Student Enrollment Services at enroll@delmar.edu or 361-698-1290 or 1-800-652-3357.
- DMC Continuing Education holding Nov. 29 opening reception for “Digital Eleven” exhibit featuring work by Advanced Digital Photography classArticle by: Rosa Linda Reynoso “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” and “Perspective comes from one’s own experiences.” You can engage in both on Tuesday, Nov. 29, during the opening reception for the “Digital Eleven” exhibit hosted by Del Mar College Continuing Education and the Advanced Digital Photography class. “The wonderful thing about a show of this type is that it will reveal that photography is a personal way of looking at the world,” says Jeff Janko, an instructor of photography for DMC Continuing Education. Eleven students took the Advanced Digital Photography class this fall, and “Digital Eleven” features over 60 of their best photographs. Subject matter ranges from landscapes and still life to nature—all using digital photography. The opening reception is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. in the lobby of the DMC Center for Economic Development, located at 3209 S. Staples (78411), get online directions and facility map. The reception and exhibit are FREE with light refreshments available during the opening event. The exhibit continues through Thursday, Dec. 15, with viewing hours scheduled 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 9 a.m. until noon on Fridays. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase some of the students’ creative works. For more information about the reception and the exhibit, call the DMC Continuing Education Office at 361-698-2122. “Digital Eleven” includes perspectives by Ruth Avila, Jasmine Belyeu, Ashley De la Rosa, Kathy Estrada, Rosa Lazaro, Olga Rios, Elizabeth Salinas, Nicole Serrao, Ashtin Streams, Joel Torres and Christian Villarreal. See the world through each student’s lens and how they personally interpret what’s around them. “Everyone has a different vision and a unique way of looking at things. I believe for those who see this show, they will see the world through the eyes of eleven unique photographers.” To learn about personal enrichment courses and other programs offered by DMC Continuing Education, visit www.delmar.edu/ce or email ce@delmar.edu.
- Del Mar College Foundation’s 2022 Scholarship Reception Brings Recipients and Donors Face-to-FaceArticle by Melinda Eddleman Scholarships can be life-changing. Getting the chance to share how a scholarship is making a student’s dream possible through education is priceless. On Nov. 15, during the Del Mar College Foundation’s 2022 Scholarship Reception on the Windward Campus, both DMC students and donors met face-to-face so that scholarship beneficiaries could meet their benefactors to share personal stories and show appreciation for their support. Donors included individuals who gave directly to the DMC Foundation as well as those representing outside organizations that have awarded scholarships to DMC students. The event, which included dinner service, was the first Scholarship Reception that the Foundation has held in-person since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The Foundation’s Scholarship Reception is one of the most meaningful experiences that our supporters and students enjoy, and we’re happy to now have the opportunity to bring them together in-person, again,” said Matthew Busby, DMC Associate Vice President of Development. “Giving our Foundation Scholars the chance to meet and exchange stories with the individuals and organizations supporting their education allows these DMC students to demonstrate the impact that scholarships provide while they complete their studies and face life’s other challenges that might otherwise keep them from reaching their goals without receiving scholarship support.” For the current academic year (2022-2023), the Foundation has awarded over $1.5 million to over 801 students supported by 300 donors over the past year as well as processed over $236,490 in designated awards to 153 students with that funding coming from external organizations. Overall, over 955 DMC students received a combined $1.77 million in support for their education at Del Mar College. Among the donors who attended the reception were Tim and Cyndy Legamaro. In April, they donated $1 million in appreciated stock to establish and support the Legamaro Family Endowed Scholarship, which is the largest scholarship donation targeting first-generation students that the Foundation has ever received. The couple joined Foundation Board President C. Michelle Unda and Legamaro Scholarship recipient and DMC alumna Brittany Jones for a Q&A session covered the importance of philanthropy, the impact that scholarships have on students’ lives, the motivation to support scholarships and personal stories related to the outcomes that giving generates for DMC students and the communities where they live. The Legamaros noted that homelessness in the community is a key factor for their giving and one of the main causes they support in addition to education. Cyndy expressed, “We believe that education is the key to preventing or eliminating homelessness.” Jones is a May 2022 DMC graduate who completed her studies in the College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program and spoke during the April 2022 announcement as one of the first recipients of the Legamaro Scholarship. Currently, she works in pediatric occupational therapy with a local hospital. “As a student, I was 100% dependent on financial aid and appreciated how my Legamaro Scholarship helped me continue to pursue my goals,” said Jones. “I want my donors to know that I’m grateful for their support and their recognizing my perseverance as a student because returning to school was a very daunting task, but I’m glad I chose to pursue my education.” She added, “I wish to help others reach their goals in the future and to encourage them to keep going despite difficulties. Thank you so much to the Legamaros for their support!” Sponsors of the Nov. 15 reception were CITGO as Presenting Sponsor, along with in-kind donations from Eddie’s Restaurant, Pepsi Cola Bottling Company and Black Tie Roses. Beginning Feb. 1, 2023, the Foundation will start taking scholarship applications for the next academic year, which is 2023-2024. To learn more about the 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.
- Corpus Christi City Council Awards Certificate of Commendation to DMC Trucking Graduate, Transitional Driver Ashley LeivaArticle by Melinda Eddleman She served her country for 15 years with the U.S. Army. As an Army combat veteran, she deployed twice to serve in Iraq. The Sergeant First Class (SFC/E-7) Senior Culinary Management NCO oversaw daily operations for dining facilities at locations across the United States and abroad during her military career. But, family circumstances required Ashley Leiva to retire sooner than she had planned; and in April 2021, she transitioned from military life to become a civilian. Leiva’s mother died from cancer six months before the Gregory, Texas-native had planned to separate from military service. She decided to help her brother Johnny Leiva take over their mother’s trucking business, Noemi Trucking, and now they haul crude oil across South Texas for Draco Energy. “Both my brother and I took over my late mother’s trucking business; and knowing nothing of the Industry, I attended Del Mar College’s Transportation Training Services Program to get an in-depth sense of direction in commercial trucking,” she wrote as part of a nomination packet submitted by DMC faculty for Transitioning Trucking’s 2022 Driving for Excellence Award. Before Leiva started driving to maintain her mother’s legacy, she learned how to maneuver the big rigs and earned her Commercial Drivers License (CDL) on Nov. 19, 2021, from the College’s program ,which is a member of the Women in Trucking Association and firmly supports gender equity in the profession as well as veteran drivers. On Nov. 15, Mayor Paulette Guajardo and the Corpus Christi City Council presented Leiva with a Certificate of Commendation for being one of 11 and the only woman finalist for the 2022 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award. During the presentation, Leiva noted that both she and her brother were nominated for the award. “If I win, we both win,” she said after expressing her gratitude to the College’s training program for her learning experience and the nomination for the national award. The Transition Trucking initiative began in 2016 and is part of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes Program in collaboration with Kenworth and FASTPORT to address the driver shortage and create immediate jobs for the nation’s transitioning military personnel, including veterans, national guard members and reservists in the trucking industry. And, the year-long search for America’s “top military rookie driver” culminated with voting ending Nov. 11 (Veterans Day) among the top 11 individuals selected from thousands of nominees with Leiva included among those finalists. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce will announce the winner on Dec. 16 and not only present the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award but also a $155,000 Kenworth T680 Next Gen Truck, fully-equipped for comfort and safety as a “head start to their entrepreneurial career.” Criteria for the final selection includes each candidates’ successful transition from military into civilian life as a truck driver and their focus on safety in the profession. As mother to five-year-old Olivia, Leiva wrote that her own mother inspired her to go into driving. “It made my mother feel like she ‘was on top of the world,’” she recalled her mother saying. Leiva loves driving, too, serving as her own daughter’s inspiration as she continues her career in the trucking profession and works on her Bachelor of Arts degree in business management. That combination should take her far.
- Veterans Day Message from Del Mar College Veterans ServicesVideo Produced by CRO Digital Services Join Del Mar College and the DMC Veterans Services in honoring all of our veterans who have served our great nation. Below is a message from Daniel Esparza, Veterans Affairs Assistant who served with the U.S. Army, and Edward J. “EJ” Goodroe, Director of the College’s Veterans Center who served with the U.S. Marine Corps. Happy Veterans Day! Learn more about DMC Veterans Services at www.delmar.edu/offices/veterans/index.html.
- “NASA, Punk Rock, and the Galveston Movement: An Evening with Del Mar College History Professors” Presentation Scheduled Tuesday, Nov. 15Article by: Rosa Linda Reynoso History is more than studying the past or the continuous recording of important or public events. You can find out how by joining Social Sciences Department History Program faculty for a panel presentation titled “NASA, Punk Rock, and the Galveston Movement: An Evening with Del Mar College Historians” on Tuesday, Nov. 15. Learn about some of their exciting projects outside the classroom that range from the local to the Cosmos. “A democratic society needs well-informed critical thinkers, and history is one of the avenues that gets us there. I think that is why it is such a hotly debated subject,” says DMC Associate Professor Dr. Dawson Barrett. “History isn’t just a list of facts that can be memorized. History is active.” The presentation starts at 6 p.m. in Room 227 of the Coles Classroom Building on Del Mar College’s Heritage Campus, located at 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404), get online directions and campus map. This event is FREE and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Barrett at dbarrett2@delmar.edu. or 361-698-1630 Presenting faculty include Dr. Barrett, Dr. James Klein, Dr. Erinn McComb, Dr. Mark Robbins and Dr. Bryan Stone. Dr. Barrett’s Punks in Peoria, a history of youth and underground music in a mid-sized, Midwestern city, was named 2022 “Book of the Year” by the Illinois State Historical Association. Additionally, the book’s publication included an article in the Washington Post, an all-day punk rock festival and the release of a soundtrack compilation on LP and CD. Dr. Klein has been a leader in numerous state and local organizations dedicated to higher education, civic engagement and protection of the environment. He is also President of the Texas Association of College Teachers and former President of the Texas Conference of the American Association of University Professors. Dr. Klein ran and was elected as a Councilman At-large for the City of Corpus Christi during the Nov. 8, 2022 general election. Currently finishing a book manuscript entitled “Gender and the Race for Space,” Dr. McComb was invited to speak on the topic by NASA’s Academy of Program/Project and Engineering Leadership. Dr. Robbins is part of a community effort to preserve and document the history of an early 20th Century Mexican-American farmworker cemetery near Driscoll, Tx. He is also involved in a related oral history project that records and shares the stories of local residents who worked in the fields. Currently, Dr. Stone is working on two projects, including editing the memoir of Morris Riskind, a Jewish man whose family ran a department store in the Texas border town of Eagle Pass. He is also studying the “Galveston Movement,” an immigration program that occurred in the early 20th Century that brought Jewish immigrants directly from Europe to Galveston and then distributed them throughout the western United States. “I think there is an almost cartoonish public perception of historians as stuffy and boring, but the reality is that history is lively, exciting and cutting edge,” adds Dr. Barrett. “We’re asking, and trying to answer, some of the most important questions about what it means to be human.” Join these DMC History faculty to explore those questions and ponder the answers during what is sure to be a lively presentation.
- DMC Bringing Local Employers and Job Seekers Together During Veterans Career and Education Fair Scheduled Nov. 16 on Windward CampusArticle by Rosa Linda Reynoso Looking to get your foot in the door or need a career change? The Del Mar College (DMC) Career Development Center and the DMC Veterans Center are co-hosting a Veterans Career and Education Fair on Wednesday, Nov. 16. Multiple employers are set to discuss with participants a variety of career opportunities available here in the Coastal Bend. Now’s the time to update those resumes or pull one together before attending the fair targeting different job sectors. Organizers have reserved the first hour, 10 to 11 a.m., of the Veterans Career and Education Fair for area veterans. All job seekers can attend between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. with the fair located in the Emergency Training Building, or FEMA Dome, on the Windward Campus at 4101 Old Brownsville Rd. (78405). Get online directions and campus map. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact DMC Career Development Counselor Mari Villarreal at 361-698-2687 or mvillarr28@delmar.edu. Job seekers can learn about DMC programs and talk to employers representing a variety of sectors. Among employers already confirmed to participate are Altus Hospice, Corpus Christi Independent School District, Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority, Christus Health, Corpus Christi Police Department, Corpus Christi Army Depot, Customs Border Protection, Kiewit Offfshore Services, Nueces County Sheriff’s Office, Portland Fire Department, Texas State Aquarium, United States Navy and U.S. Coast Guard, along with other area employers seeking new hires. And, if you’re a veteran and need help creating a resume, writing a cover letter or acing that interview, look no further. The College’s Career Development Center and the DMC Veterans Center are collaborating this Thursday and Friday, Nov. 10 from 2 to 4 p.m. and Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., to provide assistance in preparing resumes and cover letters and honing interview skills that will get you that job! DMC Career Development staff welcome walk-in resume reviews exclusively for veterans in Room 207 in the College’s Harvin Student Center on the Heritage Campus (101 Baldwin Blvd., 78404) and in Room 106 in the Coleman Center on the Windward Campus (4101 Old Brownsville Rd., 78405). So, take the opportunity to get your documents in order this week to land that next job on Nov. 16 during Del Mar College’s Veterans Career and Education Fair!
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