News

It’s Income Tax Time, Again! Free VITA Program services at DMC underway now through April 11 on Heritage Campus

Article by Melinda Eddleman It’s time to file income taxes, again. And, while the main deadline may be less than three months away, many individuals are already getting down to business. For many Coastal Bend filers, trying to make sense of the different forms or changes in tax credits can be a struggle. Furthermore, paying for an accountant to prepare returns may not be part of the budget. However, as part of a program supported by the United Way of the Coastal Bend, Del Mar College students trained in tax and accounting software hope to make the tax season a little less stressful for area filers as they provide FREE services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, which starts today, Jan. 30. Palacios, a Certified Public Accountant, oversees the VITA Program at Del Mar College. As a nationwide program established by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the VITA Program involves volunteers who prepare tax returns free for individuals who make $60,000 per year or less. The free income tax preparation with the College’s IRS-trained tax volunteers is available every Tuesday and Thursday from 2 to 6 p.m. through April 11 in Room 206 in the Venters Business Building located on the Heritage Campus, 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404), get online directions and campus map. Appointments are not necessary, so walk-ins are welcome. VITA Program services will not be available during DMC’s Spring Break, which is March 11-16. Questions? Call the United Way of the Coastal Bend at 361-882-2529 or visit www.uwcb.org/vita. Filers need to bring tax information, including their W-2 form, other documentation of earned income, Social Security cards for everyone being claimed on the return and a form of identification, such as a drivers license or other photo I.D. A full checklist is located on the United Way's VITA Program web page. For nearly 25 years, Del Mar College has been one of several local organizations involved with the VITA Program to provide tax return preparation services to lower income households. At the end of the tax season, the IRS recognizes volunteers––including Del Mar College students–– with a certificate for their involvement and hard work.

“CCAD Campus Interview Day” for Del Mar College students and alumni scheduled Wednesday, Jan. 31, at Windward Campus

Article by DMC College Relations Office Del Mar College’s Career Development Center and the Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) are joining forces to hold interview opportunities for current DMC students and alumni (there are a lot of them out there) who have wanted to become a part of the Army Depot’s mission and workforce. To find those workers, the two organizations have scheduled a “CCAD Campus Interview Day” from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 31, at the College’s Windward Campus. If you have the skills and experience, the Army Depot is looking to fill machinist and painter positions. Bring your resume and dress for success to impress those conducting the interviews. You just might get hired on the spot! Interviews will be conducted in Room 120 in the Workforce Development Center on the Windward Campus, located at 4101 Old Brownsville Rd. (78405). Get online directions and campus map. Organizers ask that participants pre-register by filling out an online form by end-of-day tomorrow, Jan. 30. (This interview event is not open to the public.) Questions? Contact DMC Career Development Director Jennifer Gonzales at jgonzales124@delmar.edu or 361-698-2467 or Career Counselor Mari Villarreal at mvillarr28@delmar.edu or 361-698-2687. The College’s Career Development Center provides comprehensive career planning and employment services to DMC students and alumni of all majors and classifications. Staff expedite recruiting efforts among area companies and organizations using a single-point-of-contact strategy to connect students and alumni with their future employers. Learn more about the Center and services offered by contacting DMC Career Development at 361-698-2692 or visiting www.delmar.edu/offices/career/index.html.

Del Mar College and Coastal Bend Blood Center Launch Collegiate Hero Program Today to Save Lives, Observe National Blood Donor Month

Article by Melinda Eddleman Give blood. Save lives. Be a hero! Those words could very well become the personal mantra for many student Vikings at Del Mar College (DMC) who have already or will sign up for the Coastal Bend Blood Center’s (CBBC) Collegiate Hero Program. The College and Blood Center partnered today with a launch event to encourage students to donate blood to ensure a much-needed supply is available in the region. According to American Blood Centers statistics, every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood or platelets, yet, approximately only three percent of age-eligible individuals donate blood each year. Sanders shared those statistics with event participants and then noted, “I think our students, even our faculty and staff here at Del Mar College, can do better. I think we can encourage more than three percent of our campus community to get involved and donate blood.” She then challenged both student Vikings and DMC employees to donate blood while the CBBC Blood Mobile was on campus this afternoon as part of the launch and in recognition of National Blood Donors Month. Organized by the College’s Student Leadership and Campus Life Office, the event gave DMC students the opportunity to learn about the Collegiate Hero Program from CBBC staff, sign up at the Blood Center’s table and enjoy food and games before heading to the Blood Mobile later in the afternoon. DMC Psychology major and Student Government Association President Sofia Jimenez, who emceed the announcement, encouraged her fellow Vikings that “being active at your college allows you to make connections” and “learn leadership and communication skills, along with many other valuable skills, so I encourage all students to play an active role, especially with making this new program a success.” The Collegiate Hero Program requires that students make two donations within the academic year prior to graduation to earn the “Medal of Merit,” which they can wear during their commencement ceremony as a designation of being a “hero.” For DMC students graduating this May, there’s time during the spring semester to make those two donations according to CBBC officials since full blood donations require only 56 days between donations. The College’s Spring 2024 Commencement is May 17. During her remarks, Jimenez held up a Medal of Merit and shared her personal feelings. “So, for those of you who earn one of the Medals of Merit, know that when you walk across the stage on graduation day, you’ll be recognized as an active college student but also as a ‘hero’ because you gave blood and saved lives,” she added. Jimenez also announced that for the student club that signs up the most members to participate in the program, the Student Leadership and Campus Life Office will add $100 to their fundraising account supporting the winning club’s community service projects. The Collegiate Hero Program allows students to make their blood donations during campus drives or anywhere the CBBC Blood Mobile is located. For DMC students who couldn’t make the program launch, they can register using the Coastal Bend Blood Center’s online form. More information about the program is also available online at www.coastalbendbloodcenter.org/collegiate-red-cord-program/. Basic qualifications for anyone wishing to donate during area blood drives include: · Eat a well-balanced meal. · Drink plenty of water. · Bring a picture I.D. · Must be feeling well. · Must be age 17 or older. Ramirez added, “Our ultimate goal is that students become lifelong blood donors. And, we can’t wait to view DMC graduates wearing our Medal of Merit and reminding family and friends during commencement about donating blood. Del Mar Vikings who participate in the program are truly our heroes.” Del Mar College has participated with blood drives for many years. From 2013 to 2015, DMC even earned the CBBC’s Top Performer Award in the Education Category for blood collections on what is now called the Heritage Campus. By partnering with the Coastal Bend Blood Center and launching their Collegiate Hero Program, the College aims to be a “Top Performer,” again, while saving lives.

Del Mar Drama Alum and Actor Nathan Ray Clark Returns to DMC for Week-long Student Improv Workshop, Free “Improv Show” on Jan. 27

Article by Melinda Eddleman He attended high school “across the pond” … Corpus Christi Bay, that is … as well as Del Mar College (DMC). Now his resume includes national commercial spots and hit television shows. This week, alum and actor Nathan Ray Clark returns to the Coastal Bend to teach DMC students the art of improv during a 5-day evening workshop before the troupe hits the stage this Saturday night, Jan. 27, for a free “Improv Show” that’s open to the public. You may remember comedian Drew Carey hosting the hilarious show called “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” Actors used improvisational techniques to create rib-tickling scenes from audience suggestions. Attendees can expect the same during Del Mar Drama’s own version that includes audience engagement throughout the “Improv Show” featuring Clark and 16 DMC students who signed-up for his workshop to prepare for an evening of sidesplitting antics that will keep you rolling with laughter. The “Improv Show” begins at 7 p.m. in the Sue Sellors Finley Theatre located in the Fine Arts Center on the College’s Heritage Campus at 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404). Get online directions and campus map. Seating is open with no reserved tickets required, and theatre doors open at 6:30 p.m. Del Mar Drama’s “Improv Show” has been generously funded with support from the Del Mar College Cultural Programs Committee. Questions? Contact the DMC Art & Drama Office at 361-698-1216 or drama@delmar.edu. When asked, “Why improv and comedy?” Clark responded, “Making others laugh and money. Kidding...money then laughter.” Bit, with kidding aside, he said, “No, with comedy it’s a number of things, and I’ve found that you can make people laugh not just with jokes but by sharing personal experiences and unconceived ideas about everyday life. [They] give us an opportunity to laugh at ourselves and difficult or taboo subjects.” Clark noted that he had dabbled with stand-up comedy but that improv has been a big part of his career and life. “I love it because it forces you to work with others, who could be complete strangers, to create something funny on-the-spot.” That’s the experience he hopes to teach DMC students during this week’s workshop before they take what they’ve learned into the spotlight Saturday night. A Gregory-Portland High School graduate, Clark attended Del Mar College between January 1999 and May 2002. He moved to Los Angeles and enrolled in classes in April 2023 at The Second City Hollywood, graduating from the California branch of the world’s premiere comedy theatre and largest school of improv and sketch comedy. He has appeared in several national commercials (watch the reel), including spots for Lowes, Subaru and CarFax, but said that his favorite is one for Pretty Litter, which only ran online for a brief period. “I had a blast and played an old-timey magician, improvising some and totally hamming it up for the camera,” Clark said. Clark’s appearances on hit television shows include NCIS: Hawai’i, Modern Family, 2 Broke Girls and Glee. And, even though it’s not a comedy, he said his favorite television role was on the Paramount+ drama Criminal Minds: Evolution, which was a great opportunity to showcase his dramatic skills. “I played a serial killer’s victim who gets eaten by a dog,” he said, adding humorously: “I know, typecasting, but it was a really intense scene––half naked and crying. But hey, if you can do comedy then you can definitely do drama. Trust me.” We won’t show that reel! Clark says that the most fulfillment during his career he’s had was working on his web series, Born Losers. “I acted, wrote and produced it with my writing partner; so, having full control over a project is something I greatly appreciate.” Visit Clark’s online resume page and his IMDB page to learn more about his career. While he credits current DMC Drama Professors Carl Yowell and Michael “Kim” Frederick for influencing his path toward acting and improv, Clark said, “Theater, acting and film were my passion before I even got into high school, but the great thing about Carl and Kim is they cultivated a space where not only are they educating young actors but also giving them the freedom to explore the craft and apply their own personal creativity.” He added, “If it wasn't for their encouragement to teach improv, I don't know if I would be doing it at all.” You can see Clark’s own influence on the next generation of comedic improvisors Saturday night during Del Mar Drama’s free “Improv Show.”

UPDATE: Del Mar College campuses and centers opening tomorrow, Jan. 17

Article by DMC College Relations Office Del Mar College officials are announcing the opening tomorrow, Jan. 17, of its campuses and centers, including the Heritage, Windward and Oso Creek Campuses, the Center for Economic Development and the Northwest Center in Calallen. Campus and center offices will open at 7:30 a.m., and classes will begin as scheduled for the Spring 2024 semester. WELCOME BACK, Vikings!

WEATHER ALERT (UPDATE): Del Mar College officials announce campus and facilities closure for tomorrow, Jan. 16

Article by DMC College Relations Office Del Mar College officials are announcing the closure of its campuses––including Heritage, Windward and Oso Creek––Center for Economic Development and the Northwest Center in Calallen for tomorrow, Jan. 16, due to the inclement weather. Campus and facilities offices will be closed and classes are canceled. Below freezing temperatures and precipitation have created hazardous conditions for travel. The College currently plans to open and resume classes on Wednesday, Jan. 17. DMC officials ask that students and employees stay safe and continue to monitor College email, website (www.delmar.edu/offices/cro/weather.html) and social media for further updates.

Del Mar College officials monitoring impending weather conditions (WEATHER UPDATE 1)

Article by DMC College Relations Office Del Mar College officials are monitoring the weather forecast and aware of the below-freezing temperatures expected early this next week. Currently, DMC plans to be open for normal operations and hold classes as scheduled on Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 16-17. However, any outdoors events for those days will be cancelled or moved inside. Students and employees should follow all weather-related advisories and exercise caution when traveling during the freeze. Employees who live in outlying areas should use their own judgement and consult with their supervisors about modified schedules. The College asks that both students and employees to continue monitoring DMC email, website and social media platforms for further updates. As a reminder, DMC campuses––including Heritage, Windward and Oso Creek––the Center for Economic Development and the Northwest Center in Calallen will be closed Monday, Jan. 15, in observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

Dec. 15 Graduates Included Public Service Majors Who’ve Prepared for Journeys into World of “First Responders”

Article by Melinda Eddleman Their personal journeys may have been different, but their choice to become “first responders” makes new Del Mar College (DMC) Public Service Department graduates unsung heroes and heroines before they even start. They’ve already dedicated themselves to serving the public, worked hard to complete their training and now they’ll step into the world and face the challenges and rewards that first responders confront just like Fall 2023 Commencement keynote speaker Corpus Christi Fire Chief Brandon Wade. Among the College’s 518 graduates making up the Class of Fall 2023 are EMT-Paramedic Program graduates Hannah Spitzer, Liliana Venne and Allyson Vondran, who “walked the stage” on Dec. 15 at the American Bank Center, and Phillip Vaiz, who couldn’t attend. All four earned a Certificate and an Associate in Applied Science degree in the field. Twenty-one-year -old Flour Bluff High School graduate Hannah Spitzer said she was influenced by both her boyfriend and other peers who completed the College’s EMT-Paramedic Program and encouraged her to do the same. “Even though I didn’t really have plans to become a paramedic in the beginning, I knew that I wanted to work in the healthcare setting,” Spitzer noted. She also said that her mother was a phlebotomist and was another influencer on her decision to pursue the program. “We always watched Grey’s Anatomy and Private Practice, and those shows made me really develop an interest in the healthcare field,” she said, adding: “I was initially planning to go into nursing school, so I figured I would get my basic certification before I started. But, once I did those ride outs, I realized I loved the pre-hospital setting and wanted to pursue paramedicine.” Spitzer plans to work in 911 in Alice, not leaving the area anytime soon. She also said that she’s made lifelong friends through the EMT-Paramedic Program with faculty, who provided support and experiences over the past year-and-a-half that she won’t forget. For 20-year-old Liliana Venne, who graduated from Richard King High School, the experience of a ride out to observe the world of a paramedic also sold her on completing the College’s program. “I took courses in the EMT Program for fun, but, I fell in love with this field after my first ride out,” she said. In fact, Venne noted that she experienced her first ‘code’ on that ride, an experience that finalized her decision to enter the field and complete the EMT-Paramedic Program. “So now, I have a job lined up for a 911 position in Alice as a paramedic,” she added. For Allyson Vondran, age 23, entering the field is a family matter, and she has always wanted to be a paramedic since she was seven-years-old, mostly because her father was one and her mother worked as an EMT-Basic. “My parents really had a lot of respect for the field and instilled a sense of pride regarding [the occupation],” Vondran said. Not originally from Corpus Christi, family obligations became another reason Vondran came to the Coastal Bend from Waco to earn her EMT-Paramedic certificate and associate’s degree after finishing her initial training as an EMT-Basic. Her sister was going through end-stage lung failure, so Vondran was working an incredible number of hours in addition to her school and clinical load to help her mother with bills and the cost of travel for out-of-town doctor appointments. “Due to the nature of my sister’s condition and when I wasn’t involved with work or school, I spent a lot of time trying to correct my sister’s respiratory distress or prevent her from going into full-blown distress,” she said, adding: “That required a lot of attention and energy.” Vondran noted that all of her instructors helped her get where she is now. “After my sister died, they really supported me in a way that allowed me to finish my program and establish myself as a medic,” she said. Her sister passed away in September. Even though she’s now completed her EMT-Paramedic training, Vondran said she’s not ready to leave the area nor her mother, yet. Fellow graduate who couldn’t make the ceremony is 35-year-old Phillip Vaiz, completed the DMC Regional Fire Academy and EMT-Basic training in 2022 but has now earned his Certificate and Associate in Applied Science degree this in EMT-Paramedic because many fire departments require those skills. As an older student, the Robstown High School graduate completed his training while also meeting family obligations with his wife Gabrielle for their two children––four-year-old Mia and Phil, Jr. who’s age two. “Attending school while having family obligations can be difficult, but we just found a balance and knew it would all be worth it in the end,” he said. Those sacrifices have paid off, and Vaiz will begin his new job with the Corpus Christi Fire Department on Jan. 2, where he plans on “growing my career with [the department] and [taking advantage of] all the opportunities they have to offer while also gaining invaluable experience.” Vaiz added, “It has always been my dream to serve my community as a first responder and help people, and I am grateful to the Del Mar instructors who guided me along the way in my journey to where I am now.” To learn more about the Department of Public Service's Emergency Medical Technician-Paramedic Program, visit www.delmar.edu/degrees/emergency-medical-technician/index.html.

Online Registration for Del Mar College Spring 2024 Credit Courses Runs During Two-week Winter Break for Students Who Qualify

Article by Melinda Eddleman 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. 20 through Jan. 2, individuals who qualify to register online for the Spring 2024 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. 3, 2024. 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. 3, at 6 p.m. for all students who have registered for credit courses prior to and during the two-week break. Spring 2024 credit courses begin Tuesday, Jan. 16. The College will be closed Monday, Jan. 15, 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 needs. 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. Have registration questions before the Winter Break? Contact Del Mar College’s Student Enrollment Center at enroll@delmar.edu or 361-698-1290.

Del Mar College “Prospective” Graduates Took Center Stage at American Bank Center Dec. 15 (List, Video and Downloadable Program in PDF Format)

DMC “Elves” Pull Together to Make 150 Salvation Army Angels’ Christmas Brighter

Article by Melinda Eddleman On the morning of Dec. 12, colorfully-packaged gifts placed under the Christmas tree located in the Del Mar College (DMC) Purchasing and Business Services Department’s lobby awaited pick-up by the Salvation Army of the Coastal Bend to deliver to children dreaming of Santa’s arrival. The collection of gifts––including toys, bikes, clothes and other items––were donated by 103 DMC “elves” supporting 150 children who submitted their wish lists as part of the local Adopt-an-Angel Program. For many families in need this time of year, the magic of Santa wouldn’t occur without organizations like the Salvation Army and those who volunteer or donate gifts to make the holiday wishes of Coastal Bend children possible. The College began participating in the annual Adopt-an-Angel drive in the 1990s and has been organized through the Print Services Office with DMC’s Purchasing and Business Services Department. Maldonado has served in the key role of that effort. During the gift pick-up, Major Nathaneal Doria, Commander of the Salvation Army of the Coastal Bend, noted that the College was the largest organization to participate this year. “We had over 1,000 children submit lists to the Adopt-an-Angel Program for 2023, and Del Mar College makes up well more than 10 percent and the largest number of the gifts donated by a single group this year,” he said. One group of students with the Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Echocardiography Programs were among the College’s elves and pulled together to support the Adopt-an-Angel Program as their community service project. A combined 25 students from these two programs and two faculty members, including Associate Professor of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Program Director Christin Vega and Instructor of Echocardiography and Program Director Amy Alvarez, sponsored gifts to make Christmas for 14 children merrier this year. And, this year’s collaborative effort between the two programs is not the first time they’ve participated with the Adopt-an-Angel Program. “I organize participation among our students in both programs every year,” says Vega. “Two students are paired per child, and they collaborate on getting the gifts.” Vega, Alvarez and some of their students even dressed in their scrubs and helped Valdar the Viking and DMC staff load the Salvation Army’s truck during the gift pick-up. Of Del Mar College’s annual participation with the Salvation Army’s program, Maldonado said, “Children with the Adopt-an-Angel Program may not receive any gifts other than what the Salvation Army provides, so I feel blessed to participate with the program and to see how our campus community pulls together to help others. The personal reward from such an effort is incredible!”

Del Mar College Announces New Corpus Christi Fire Chief Brandon Wade as Commencement Speaker, Giving Address This Friday (Dec. 15)

Article by Melinda Eddleman New City of Corpus Christi Fire Chief Brandon Wade worked his way through the ranks as a member of the Austin Fire Department. That hard work has led him to now oversee Corpus Christi’s Fire Department beginning this past May. As Del Mar College’s December 2023 Commencement speaker, he shares a similar beginning with the “prospective” graduates who are participating during the Dec. 15 ceremony––Fire Chief Wade started his training at a community college and earned an associate’s degree before moving forward with his education and career as a first responder. The ceremony begins this Friday at 7 p.m. at the American Bank Center (1901 N. Shoreline Blvd., 78401). Overall, the College will award a combined 644 associate’s degrees, certificates and occupational skills awards to 518 “prospective” graduates making up the Class of Fall 2023. Out of that number, 395 students are participating in the ceremony, along with approximately 30 Class of Summer 2023 graduates who will “walk the stage” with them. But, before DMC’s newest graduates take the spotlight, Fire Chief Wade will provide his keynote address, providing words of wisdom, insight and encouragement to take with them as they move forward with their own education or careers. For family and friends who cannot make the ceremony, DMC Digital Services will livestream December Commencement 2023 beginning at 6:45 p.m. Access the event online by using one of the links below: Boxcast: https://boxcast.tv/view/fall-2023-commencement-ceremony-xxtlwrx6iyccmou6x17a YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wl8GBzj2ZMc Facebook: www.facebook.com/delmarcollege/live Prior to taking the helm of Corpus Christi’s Fire Department, Chief Wade served with the Austin Fire Department for over 24 years and rose through the ranks to become the Assistant Chief of Operations and Logistics. He also served in various roles ranging from Assistant Chief of Homeland Security and Special Operations to Airport Rescue and Firefighting to Communications while in Austin. Additionally, Chief Wade oversaw the Austin Fire Department’s Training Division, Medical Operations, and Wildfire and Recruiting Divisions as a Chief Officer. As a Company Officer, he was assigned to the Special Operations Battalion where he served on the department’s HazMat and technical rescue teams. From 2013 to 2023, Fire Chief Wade served as a member of the Texas A&M Task Force 1 FEMA USAR Team as a Rescue Specialist, Rescue Squad Officer and Safety Officer. He responded to numerous natural disasters across Texas as well as the southern region of the United States. Fire Chief Wade holds a bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management from West Texas A&M University and an associate’s degree in Fire Science from San Antonio College. He also has obtained numerous Texas Commission on Fire Protection and technical rescue certifications throughout his career. Fire Chief Wade has spoken at conferences across the nation on topics such as leadership, strategies and tactics, along with lessons learned from critical incidents he has experienced. And, on Dec. 15, he will speak to Del Mar College’s newest graduates … the Class of Fall 2023.

Del Mar College Board of Regents Grants Distinguished Title of “Professor Emeritus” to Three Newest Honorees

Article by DMC College Relations Office During the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents’ regular December meeting, three retired professors were bestowed the prestigious title of “Professor Emeritus,” a distinction that marks their exemplary teaching and dedication to DMC students and the institution. The Board unanimously granted the title to Professor of English Norma Ayala-Maynard, Professor of Child Development/Early Childhood Benita Flores-Muñoz and Professor of Accounting Dolores G. Huerta, who all retired during the past year and met the requirements to become “Professor Emeriti.” Ayala-Maynard’s career at DMC spanned more than 34 years as both a full-time and adjunct faculty member. During her tenure, she consistently advocated for student success and provided leadership in the areas of developmental education and English. Her accomplishments while with the College are quite notable, including receiving Diamond Pin Awards and recognition for her years of service in teaching. Additionally, Ayala-Maynard was nominated as a Del Mar College Teacher of the Year during multiple semesters since 2008, and she was invaluable in serving students through several organizations such as the Hispanic Student Association, Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education and the DMC Mexican American Studies Program. Ayala-Maynard also provided dedicated service to the College as a member of multiple faculty hiring committees, instructional program review committees and College standing committees that included the Faculty Council, the Affirmative Action Committee and the Recruitment and Retention Committee. Among the campus community, Ayala-Maynard was known for her mentorship to students and faculty, innovative teaching methods and involvement with college and professional affiliate activities. She was instrumental in developing curriculum for early versions of the College’s Mexican American literature courses and did so at a time when Mexican American literature anthologies were practically non-existent. She also served the English and Philosophy Department and the College for over a decade as the English Adjunct Mentoring Coordinator, facilitating professional development for scores of adjunct faculty members during that time. Ayala-Maynard’s engagement through professional affiliations included the Conference of College Teachers of English, the College English Association, the Conference on College Composition and Communication and the National Council of English Teachers. Throughout her career at DMC, Flores-Muñoz demonstrated outstanding contributions in the classroom, on campus and in the community for more than 27 years, first as an adjunct instructor for nine years and then for more than 18 years as a full-time, tenure track instructor and term instructor. Retiring as a tenured educator, she earned high regard from both her students and peers with a teaching style marked by passion and enthusiasm that created a positive, conducive learning environment where she shared relatable real-world experiences. Students’ evaluations consistently praised Flores-Muñoz as an excellent instructor who was approachable and inspiring to them. In fact, for her hard work and commitment , she was selected and honored as the College’s 2021 recipient of the Dr. Aileen Creighton Award for Teaching Excellence, which is the highest faculty award given by Del Mar College. Flores-Muñoz demonstrated adaptability and growth through technology integration and flexible scheduling to meet student needs, and she contributed significantly to developing online courses in the Child Development/Early Childhood Program (CDEC). She also served as the CDEC Program Director and played a vital role in mentoring faculty while also meeting her teaching duties. Additionally, she led the CDEC Program through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) National Accreditation in 2019, a feat that only 11 Texas colleges achieved. Among her other accomplishments, Flores-Muñoz was recognized as the Disability Advocate of the Year and as the Blue and Silver Alumni Faculty of the Year at Del Mar College in 2016. She also actively participated in several college-wide committees such as the Curriculum Committee, Del Mar NOW Committee, Dual Credit Committee, Wellness Committee and the Faculty Professional Development Committee as well as participated in outreach activities and community events, including Week of the Young Child, the annual Teddy Bear Drive, Special Olympics and with the YWCA as a volunteer. Huerta served for more than 45 years as a full-time, tenure-track faculty member, beginning her career at Del Mar College in 1977. Her dedication to higher education was recognized twice by the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development by receiving their Excellence Award in both 2002 and 2012. Among her other accomplishments, Huerta was named Who’s Who Among American Teachers and Educators, along with being a three-time recipient of Del Mar College’s Faculty Academic Advisor of the Year Award. While at DMC, Huerta served as an active member of numerous committees, including the Curriculum Committee, Employee Grievance Policy Review Committee, Accounting Advisory Committee, Retention Committee and one of the College’s Presidential Search Committees, along with numerous other committees. And, her commitment to her students and the discipline she taught was evidenced by her collaborations to establish work-based learning experiences with external organizations for accounting students completing practicum requirements before graduating from Del Mar College. Additionally, her demonstrated dedication to the College’s community were numerous and invaluable including participation and promotion of Junior Achievement, involvement with the Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education as well as participating with the American Association of University Professors. Huerta also demonstrated the value of lifelong learning by consistently seeking professional development to enhance her own teaching skills and knowledge within the accounting discipline. To see the Professor Emeritus presentations for all three retired faculty members and to hear their own words about their experiences at Del Mar College, the inspiration that led them to teaching and their thoughts about receiving the prestigious title, view the edited video from the Dec. 5, 2023 regular Board of Regents meeting.

College providing other “stress-sacking” opportunities during Holiday Registration Event this Wednesday along with early in-person registration for Spring 2024 courses

Article by Melinda Eddleman That jolly red-suited man is still sacking up gifts for his seasonal deliveries. And, current and potential students can still take advantage of Del Mar College’s Holiday Registration Event at all three campuses this Wednesday, Dec. 6, with extended services hours until 7 p.m. to “sack the stress” by not waiting until after the holiday hustle to complete the admissions process, apply for financial aid or register for Spring 2024 credit courses, which begin Jan. 16. Individuals can access Student Services and get registered at the Heritage Campus (Harvin Student Center, 101 Baldwin Blvd., 78404), Windward Campus (Coleman Center, 4101 Old Brownsville Rd., 78405) and Oso Creek Campus (Main Central Building, 7002 Yorktown Blvd., 78414). Get online directions and campus maps. Participants can even receive some goodies as part of the holiday cheer! Additionally, don’t just take advantage of early in-person registration on Dec. 6. The Art and Drama Department is extending their gallery hours until 7 p.m. the last day of the fall art exhibit, “Now Let Us Shift,” located in the Joseph A. Cain Memorial Art Gallery in the Heritage Campus Fine Arts Center. The show features works of 20 artists inspired by the late Chicana activist Gloria E. Anzaldúa (1942-2004) with stirring paintings of borderland landscapes to thought-provoking mixed-media installations. This one-of-a-kind exhibit represents diverse artwork in dialogue with Anzaldúa’s writings about the U.S.-Mexico border. Call 361-698-1216 or email art@delmar.edu for more details. Going to the Oso Creek Campus to register? Then join the Architectural/Drafting Technology Program while there to see the Winter Exhibit comprised of student projects located on the first floor of the STEM Building. Campus and general community members are invited to celebrate the design work of DMC students from 5:30 to 7 p.m. as they receive awards and discuss one-on-one their projects. For more details, call 361-698-1757 or email lwright15@delmar.edu. On all three campuses where Student Services and in-person registration are located, Go For Results! (G4R) representatives will have tables to check eligibility for current DMC Pell Grant recipients and potential Pell Grant-eligible students to receive on-the-spot either a free tablet or cell phone, free one-year internet services and health boxes delivered monthly directly to their doorstep. The offering is in partnership with the College’s Financial Aid Services. Get more details or contact G4R representative Autumn Kelley at 210-998-9599 or autumngo4results@gmail.com. If you can’t make the Holiday Registration Event but need more information, you can fill out a quick request form to have your questions answered! Early advising and online/on-campus registration for Spring 2024 credit courses will continue through 5 p.m. Dec. 19 when the College’s two-week Winter Break begins. Online registration will continue during the break for students who qualify (no records holds). Tuition and fees payment is due by 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3, when the College reopens for all individuals who have registered either on-campus or online since Dec. 5. Have questions about the Holiday Registration Event or about registration in general? Contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu. For more Spring 2024 registration information, visit www.delmar.edu/registration. “Sack the stress” and get the classes you need at the times you want so you don’t have to worry when the New Year rolls around!

DMC Board of Regents holding regular monthly meeting on December 5

Article by DMC College Relations Office On Tuesday, Dec. 5, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents will hold their regular monthly meeting at 1 p.m. in Room 106 in the Center for Economic Development at 3209 S. Staples St. (78411). Get online directions and center map. The regular meeting also will be livestreamed. Community members may access the meeting by going to the online video link at www.delmar.edu/webcast/ by 12:55 p.m. A copy of the Dec. 5 Agenda Notice and Board Packet is available using the following link: www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/regularagenda-packet-12-5-23.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 delmar.edu/rtc/index.html.

DMC Financial Aid Services partnering with Go For Results! to provide free essential devices, internet services to current and potential Pell Grant students during Holiday Registration Event on Dec. 6

Article by Melinda Eddleman As a college student these days, finding the resources to purchase a much needed tablet or cell phone and internet services to pair with one of those devices can be challenging when finances are limited. But, for students attending Del Mar College (DMC) who receive a Pell Grant or potential students who are Pell Grant-eligible, the opportunity to get these resources free will be available during the College’s Holiday Registration Event scheduled next Wednesday, Dec. 6, with services hours extended to 7 p.m. DMC Financial Aid Services has partnered with Austin-based Go For Results! LLC (G4R) to provide eligible individuals with one of the two devices and free one-year internet services. G4R representatives will be on-hand at all three campuses––Heritage, Windward and Oso Creek––during in-person registration Dec.6 to check individuals’ eligibility on-the-spot and hand directly to them one of the two devices after qualifying. Tables will be set up in the buildings where other registration day services will be conducted as follows: · Harvin Student Center, Heritage Campus, 101 Baldwin Blvd., 78404, · Coleman Center, Windward Campus, 4101 Old Brownsville Rd., 78405, · Main Central Building, Oso Creek Campus, 7002 Yorktown Blvd., 78414, · Get online directions and campus maps. Additionally, current and potential students can sign-up through G4R’s representatives for free “health boxes” that will be delivered monthly to their doorstep. The health boxes include COVID-19 antigen home tests, dental essentials, personal care items and other products as the shipments evolve. They’re also fully covered by Medicare and Medicaid, and more than one box can be delivered to qualifying households. For G4R representatives to process individuals’ eligibility, current and potential students need to provide the following: · valid identification, including last four digits of their Social Security Number, · email address and phone number, · documentation showing Pell Grant recipient or Pell Grant-eligible, · Medicare and/or Medicaid documentation, and · if not already a participant with any government program, have one or more of the following: employer’s income statement or paycheck stub, tax return (W-2 form), Unemployment or Workers’ Compensation document, divorce decree child support award or any document that contains income information. Questions? Contact G4R representative Autumn Kelley at 210-998-9599 or autumngo4results@gmail.com. G4R offers personalized health consultations and coaching and is an approved provider of Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which is a Federal Communications Commission program designed to ensure U.S. households can afford the broadband needed for work, school and even healthcare, among other uses. For more information about Go For Results!, visit their website at go4results.info/.

Sack the stress … Give yourself a gift and register during Del Mar College’s Holiday Registration Event on Dec. 6

Article by Melinda Eddleman The jolly man in the red suit isn’t the only one who can sack up gifts for the holiday season. You can give yourself a gift and “sack the stress” to alleviate those seasonal woes by not waiting until after the holiday rush to complete the admissions process, apply for financial aid or register for Spring 2024 credit courses. How? Get registered on Wednesday, Dec. 6, during Del Mar College’s Holiday Registration Event at all three campuses –– Heritage (Harvin Student Center, 101 Baldwin Blvd., 78404), Windward (Coleman Center, 4101 Old Brownsville Rd., 78405) and Oso Creek (Main Central Building, 7002 Yorktown Blvd., 78414). Get online directions and campus maps. While early online/on-campus registration is still ongoing, the College is extending its Student Services business hours to 7 p.m. on Dec. 6 to give current and potential students that extra in-person attention to get registered for Spring 2024. And, you’ll even receive some goodies as part of the holiday cheer! If you can’t make the Holiday Registration Event but need more information, you can fill out a quick request form to have your questions answered! DMC representatives from Admissions, Advising, Financial Aid, the Registrar’s Office, the Student Enrollment Center and Veterans Services, among other services, will be available to provide assistance to ease some of your stress during the holiday hustle, including removing those “HO HO HOlds” on your student record before registering. Potential students can get College information regarding processes, assistance with completing both Apply Texas and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online, meeting with advisors and registering for spring classes. The College offers 8-, 12-, 15- and 16-week as well as Maymester options. And, both current and prospective students can access WebDMC at www.delmar.edu to view course offerings, which are frequently updated throughout the registration process leading up to spring courses beginning. Current students can also use WebDMC to check their financial aid status, review their degree plan and find other information. Early advising and online/on-campus registration for Spring 2024 credit courses is currently underway. Get the classes you need at the times you want so you don’t have to worry when the New Year rolls around. Credit courses start Tuesday, Jan. 16. Have questions about the Holiday Registration Event or about registration in general? Contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu. For more Spring 2024 registration information, visit www.delmar.edu/registration.

Music Genius in the Making … Local 13-year-old prodigy performing with Del Mar College’s Corpus Christi Chamber Orchestra This Sunday, Nov. 19, in Richardson Performance Hall

Article by Melinda Eddleman She started her musical journey with a portable keyboard in mid-summer 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown, advancing quickly with the ability to play anything she wanted. In May 2021, she had her first piano lesson at age 10 and by summer 2022 composed her first Piano Sonata. Now 13-years-old and hoping to compose scores for film and television one day, Haleigh Arden O’Neill has been invited to perform during a music festival in Kaufbeuren, Germany, in January 2024. But, this Sunday, Nov. 19, the young composer and pianist will play with the Del Mar College (DMC) Music Department’s Corpus Christi Chamber Orchestra and premiere a new piece, Piano Concerto No. 1 in G minor. The free performance begins at 4 p.m. in Richardson Performance Hall on the Heritage Campus located at 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404). Get online directions and campus map. The DMC Corpus Christi Chamber Orchestra, which includes the talent of both music students and community members, will also perform a program featuring Mozart’s Symphony #41 (Jupiter) and The King’s Musicians by J.B. Lully in addition to O’Neill’s piece. For more information, contact DMC Music faculty member R. Todd Ehle at 361-698-1223 or tehle@delmar.edu. After a few lessons with Dr. Will Bailey at The Piano Gallery on South Padre Island Drive, O’Neill was recommended to Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) Professor of Piano Dr. Joachim Reinhuber, who agreed to see her once a month while she took lessons from one of his students. She was only 10-years-old at that time. And since fall 2022, O’Neill now studies piano exclusively with Dr. Reinhuber as well as composition with Dr. James Wilding, a Professor of Theory and Composition at The University of Akron in Ohio. O’Neill has performed several times, including nine recitals at TAMUK, a recital for the Corpus Christi Music Teachers Association and during the College Student Recital held as part of Piano Celebration Week 2023 at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s Performing Arts Center. She is a member of the Corpus Christi Area Youth Orchestra and has composed multiple symphonies, piano concertos, pieces for smaller ensembles and solo piano works. This Sunday, you can hear her latest composition at Del Mar College.

It’s never too early … Del Mar College Early Advising and Online/On-Campus Registration is underway for Spring 2024

Article by Melinda Eddleman If you think it’s too early to register for Del Mar College’s Spring 2024 credit courses, it’s not. Early Advising and Online/On-campus Registration is underway, so why wait until it’s too late to get the classes you need at the times you want? Now is the time to complete the admissions process, apply for financial aid or register before the holiday rush. But don’t wait! The first Early Registration period ends Monday, Dec. 4, at 6:30 p.m. with the tuition and fees payment due the same day and same time to keep your course schedule. Credit courses start Tuesday, Jan. 16. For On-campus Registration, students need to contact the department of their declared major for specific instructions (access the Academic Advisor Directory). Online Registration will reopen on Dec. 5 at 12:01 a.m., and On-campus Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. with a Jan. 3 payment deadline for tuition and fees. On-campus registration will end at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 19, for the Winter Break closure, but Online Registration will continue throughout the break. The College offers 8-, 12-, 15- and 16-week as well as Maymester options. And, both current and prospective students can access WebDMC at www.delmar.edu to view course offerings, which are frequently updated throughout the registration process. Current students can also use WebDMC to check their financial aid status, review their degree plan and find other information. Questions? Visit www.delmar.edu/registration or contact the DMC Student Enrollment Center at 361-698-1290 or enroll@delmar.edu. Del Mar College will be closed Nov. 22-25 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Closure includes all campuses––Heritage, Windward and Oso Creek––as well as the Center for Economic Development and Northwest Center in Calallen. Classes resume and 0ffices reopen at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 27.

DMC Board of Regents appoints DeeAnna Heavilin to serve on Board of Directors of Nueces County Tax Appraisal District

Article by Melinda Eddleman During their November regular monthly meeting today, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents announced the appointment of DeeAnna Heavilin to serve on the Nueces County Tax Appraisal District Board of Directors. The term begins Jan. 1, 2024. Heavilin is Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of YellowFin Digital, a family-owned full-service digital marketing agency that assists small businesses across the country with competing online. She is also Founder and President of another entrepreneurial endeavor, Wisp Lashes, located in Knoxville, Tn., and formerly in Austin, Tx. Her past experience includes serving as an operations manager for CC Autoplex and as a project manager and client consultant for a specialized business software company called Autostar Solutions. Heavilin attended Del Mar College and graduated from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Among her credits, she is a Leadership Corpus Christi graduate with the LCC Class of XLVI (46). She was also recognized as a Corpus Christi Under 40 (CCU40) award recipient in 2022. Among her volunteer work, Heavilin served on Texas State Rep. Todd Hunter’s Windstorm Task Force in 2022 and is currently a TAMU-CC National Alumni Association board member. General duties of the appointee to the Tax Appraisal District Board include providing services to and representing the property owners and taxpayers of the Del Mar College District. The Board of Regents’ appointment requires Heavilin to 1) attend regularly scheduled meetings, workshops and budget planning sessions of the Tax Appraisal District Board, and 2) keep the College informed in a timely manner about major issues and decisions made by the board. The DMC Board’s appointee must be a resident of the Del Mar College District, which is comprised of five independent school districts: Calallen, Corpus Christi, Flour Bluff, Tuloso-Midway and West Oso. And, they must have resided in the College District at least two years prior to appointment. Heavilin will replace retired former City of Corpus Christi Secretary Armando Chapa, who has served three terms as the College’s representative on the Nueces County Tax Appraisal District Board since 2018.