- 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 QualifyArticle 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.
- 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 QualifyArticle 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)Article by Melinda Eddleman They’ve worked hard and dreamed of the day they would graduate. That day came with the Del Mar College (DMC) Fall 2023 Commencement on Dec. 15 at the American Bank Center (ABC). “Pomp & Circumstance” filled the ABC Arena, and the platform party and special guests––including keynote speaker Corpus Christi Fire Chief Brandon Wade––donned traditional ceremonial regalia and took the stage while faculty marched onto the floor to form a tunnel where the Del Mar College Class of Fall 2023 walked before taking their seats. The “sea of blue caps and gowns,” along with family and friends sitting in Arena seating, listened to the keynote address prior to each “prospective” graduate one-by-one took the time-honored walk across the stage to receive certificates, associate’s degrees or occupational skills awards before moving collectively their tassels from right to left and embarking on their next journey. Out of the 518 “prospective graduates” making up the DMC Class of Fall 2023 and earning 644 associate’s degrees, certificates and occupational skills awards combined, 395 participated in the ceremony. An additional 30 Summer 2023 graduates also took that walk. Below is the list of Class of Fall 2023 “prospective” graduates, including a listing of Honor Graduates, along with the full list divided by divisions and departments. A downloadable PDF file of the Fall 2023 Commencement Program is located in the upper right-hand corner of this release page above “”CONTACTS." If you missed attending or viewing the livestream of Fall 2023 Commencement, the video of the full ceremony is available at the end of the list. Honor Graduates Summa Cum Laude Anthony R. Akuna, Sr.; Angela F. Arredondo; Adrian Avila; Dorothy M. Barringer; Michael G. Castillo; Judy H. Dinh; Matthew A. Dominguez; Ashley N. Esparza; Julia Franco; Marilyn Gallegos Trevino; Brenden C. Galvan; Justin Gonzalez; Sarah C. Haynie; Cheri L. James; Cody S. Key; Jeffrey G. Larkin, Jr.; Weston L. Major; Enrique Martinez III; Marcy D. Martinez; Kenneth W. McCreless, Jr.; Melissa M. Millsap; Harley L. Osborn; Selina A. Perez; Ryan T. Puszczewicz; Antonio Ramirez III; Aidan M. Rios; Matt C. Roberson; Samuel V. Rush; Dolly L. Saldana; Amanda K. Salinas; Alyssa E. Sandoval; Minju Toy; Phillip A. Valenzuela and Mark W. Young II Magna Cum Laude Manuel G. Alvarez; Kassidy B. Barker; MacKenzie E. Brass; Zachary G. Cerda; Jania B. Flores; Natali P. Freeman; Thomas Gallegos, Jr.; Rene Gonzalez, Jr.; Miranda E. Griggs; Emma G. Hogan; Gabriella R. Jimenez; Ashley J. Johnston; Alberto Martinez IV; Shawna M. Pruitt; Jordan L. Salinas; Lauren A. Salinas; Samantha J. Sanchez; Katherine A. Trejo; Allison C. Tudela; Amie L. Valdez; Nelson G. Villarreal and Brian L. Williams Cum Laude Emma J. Durbin; Maria G. Garcia; Noemi Garcia; Christy A. Garcia Trevino; Melissa A. Gonzalez; Kristin V. Grundstrom; Loren D. Haubelt; Gabriel B. Painter; Christina N. Palmer; Andrea M. Silva; Jesse J. Smith; Kami N. Tiemann; Bryan M. Webb and Timothy J. Zincke December 2023 Prospective Graduates * Military Veteran DC Dual Credit H Honors Program VV Viking Volunteer KP Member, Kappa Pi - International Honor Art Fraternity PTK Member, Phi Theta Kappa - International Honor Society of the Two Year College ABG Member, Alpha Beta Gamma® - International Business Honor Society SAP Sigma Alpha Pi - National Society of Leadership and Success SKD Sigma Kappa Delta - English Honor Society LEX Lambda Epsilon Chi - National Paralegal Honor Society SPA Sigma Phi Alpha - National Dental Hygiene Honor Society LN Lambda Nu National Honor Society for Radiologic and Imaging Sciences ADN Alpha Delta Nu Nursing Honor Society LB Lambda Beta Society for Respiratory Care DIVISION OF BUSINESS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND HEALTH SCIENCES ALLIED HEALTH Associate in Science Brittany M. Figueroa; MaCaitlyn L. Martinez; Nicole A. Orta and K L. Weber Associate in Applied Science Belem Frias; Melissa M. George; Arthur D. Nguyen; Dulce B. Perez; Tiana J. Perez-Mendiola; Leslie N. Reyna and Brenda E. Saavedra Certificate Yvonne S. Recio BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION and Entrepreneurship Associate in Arts Simon C. Aleman, Jr.; Angela F. Arredondo; Armanda Benavidez ABG; Rebecca M. Brooks; Lora E. Cabrialez; Jasmine J. Castillo; Dorothy A. Castro; Tristan M. Cavazos; Ana I. Diaz Rodriguez *; Jessica Y. Elizalde; Eliazar Espinoza II; Ciara M. Garcia; Adriana Garza; Aubriana R. Garza; Rylee M. Garza; Melissa A. Gonzalez; Jahggar Z. Griffis; Claudia Guerra; Allana K. Hughes; Heather R. Lynch-Guerrero; Joseph A. Martinez *; Rose M. Martinez; Valentina L. Montiel; Hailey P. Murray; Brookelynn M. Ortega; Gabriella V. Palacios; Justyne N. Rodriguez; Michael R. Ryerson; Victoria M. Salazar; Jose T. Sanchez; Kimberly G. Silvas *; Karrina R. Soliz; Laurie L. Trevino; Joshua S. Valdez; Tracy M. Valdez; Andrew O. Vargas, Jr.; Bernardo Vela IV and Brian L. Williams PTK Associate in Applied Science Elizabeth Barron; Michael G. Castillo; Nichole D. Chavez; Mark A. Cirilo; Yaneli Diaz; Raeann Escobar; Giovannie E. Flores; Itzel A. Gaeta; Maria G. Garcia; Noemi Garcia; Katalina A. Luna *; Michaelah N. Maddalone; Ashlyn R. Martin; Andrea M. Silva; Alonzo J. Torres; Monica Valdez and Thomas M. Wallin Certificate Kassidy B. Barker; MacKenzie E. Brass; Hannah G. Brush; Alisyn L. Burington; Kailey A. Burington; Mark A. Cirilo; Carina C. Cruz; Yaneli Diaz; Raeann Escobar; Jania B. Flores; Marilyn Gallegos Trevino; Karey D. Hargrove; Sarah C. Haynie; Emma G. Hogan; Joshua I. Hok; Gabriella R. Jimenez; Katalina A. Luna *; Ashlyn R. Martin; Perzia A. Mendoza; Kayleigh N. Moses; Kayla D. Nieto; Shawna M. Pruitt; Kaleigh A. Ruiz; Dolly L. Saldana; Amanda K. Salinas; Lauren A. Salinas; Alyssa E. Sandoval; Rebecca L. Sigman and Bianca Y. Valdez Occupational Skills Award Kimberly M. Chavera; Mark A. Cirilo; Yaneli Diaz; Raeann Escobar; Itzel A. Gaeta; Katalina A. Luna * and Dolly L. Saldana DENTAL AND IMAGING Associate in Applied Science Myranda G. Ayala-Jimenez, Judy H. Dinh LN; Emma J. Durbin; Baleigh A. Eppolito LN; Ashley N. Esparza LN; Natali P. Freeman LN; Ysatis E. Garcia-Robles; Amanda B. Helsel; Ashley J. Johnston LN; Kristen V. Lopez LN; Kasandra G. Rodriguez LN; Samantha J. Sanchez LN; Minju Toy PTK LN; Allison C. Tudela LN and Amie L. Valdez LN Nurse Education Bachelor of Science in Nursing Liana Joslin Associate in Arts Ashley N. Alvarez; Caitlyn Baumann-Campbell; Kimberly Bosque; Kristal L. Bower *; Anya C. Charba; Stephenie M. Decker *; Monica A. Del Bosque; Joseph C. Delarosa; Luis A. Deleon, Jr.; Julia M. De Los Santos; Tatiana D. Estanislao; Tyler B. Fairchild; Brittany M. Figueroa; Bernice L. Flores; Victoria M. Galvan; Mario A. Garcia; Summer L. Hinojosa; Amanda L. Huff; Makayla D. Johnson; Megan M. Kaufmann; Kimberly A. Kretzmeier; Lizette O. Madrid; Abrianna A. Mauricio; Kanisha L. McNary; Abriee S. Mendoza; Moriah R. Morin; Tania B. Morris; Amanda M. Naude; Brayden R. Nuckols; Izzy Olivas; Christina N. Palmer; Audrey L. Perez; Rebecca E. Perez; Norene V. Pumarejo; Sabika Rawjani; Reyna C. Rodriguez; Ariela J. Rodriguez-Palomares; Victoria M. Salazar; Samuel Salinas; Frank Torrez; Thuy Lien T. Tran; Jacqueline I. Trevino; Alejandra Villela; Katie L. Wheeler and Joseph J. Zamora Associate in Applied Science Diana G. Acosta; Gloria A. Aguilar; Naomi P. Arroyo; Miranda D. Balderas; Caitlyn Baumann-Campbell; Kimberly Bosque, Kristal L. Bower *; Logan G. Byrd; Mario A. Castillo; Anya C. Charba; Rachel A. Coppin; Michelle B. Crawford; Ashley M. Davis; Catherine A. Davis; Julia M. De Los Santos; Joseph C. Delarosa; Macey E. Dietz; Ashley S. Dixon; Shianne L. Eden; Tatiana D. Estanislao; Karee A. Evans; Tyler B. Fairchild; Brittany M. Figueroa; Victoria M. Galvan; Melissa Z. Gamboa; Heather C. Garcia; Mario A. Garcia; Vanessa L. Garcia; Anicia C. Gonzalez; Loren D. Haubelt; Serenity H. Haynes; Summer L. Hinojosa; Kaitlin M. Houlihan; Cheri L. James *; Makayla D. Johnson; Kimberly A. Kretzmeier; Austin L. Longoria; Theresa M. Lopez; Sebastian O. Macias; Abrianna A. Mauricio; Karah N. May; McKenzie T. McCoy; Abriee S. Mendoza; Erika R. Mendoza; Marissa M. Mendoza; Rolinda Mendoza; Melissa M. Millsap; Amanda M. Naude; Christine A. Norman; Brayden R. Nuckols; Audrey M. Olivarez; Jessica L. Owens SAP; Christina N. Palmer; Alexis G. Perez; Audrey L. Perez; Rebecca E. Perez; Samantha L. Posada; Vivianna C. Ramirez; Ashley N. Rodriguez; Destiny A. Rodriguez; Reyna C. Rodriguez; Sabrina C. Rodriguez; Selinda Rodriguez SAP; Jacob M. Ruiz; Debra A. Salazar; Victoria M. Salazar; Miranda D. Salinas; Samuel Salinas; Erin R. Sandoval; Nadia C. Smith; Alexis L. Tatum; Jose L. Terrones; Daffanee L. Thomas; Erica R. Thomas; Megan N. Torres; Tracy D. Torres; Thuy Lien T. Tran; Gabriela M. Trevino; Jacqueline I. Trevino; Julie D. Valdez; Asta Vaughn; Irene S. Velazquez; Katie L. Wheeler; Jose Zamora III and oseph J. Zamora Certificate Sampson R. Valadez DIVISION OF COMMUNICATIONS, FINE ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES Art and Drama Associate in Arts Faith A. Camp; Timothy J. Carreon; Caitlin M. Garza; Sonya R. Hill and Samantha I. Lucio Communications, Languages and Reading Associate in Arts Adnan Agreda Martinez; Ana A. Alldredge; Manuel G. Alvarez *; Robert J. Barrera; Andrew C. Clements; Briana De Leon; Yolanda N. Garcia; Sara R. Gonzales; Corey D. Landa; Heather L. Meza; Michelle L. Mirelez; Cassandra B. Ortiz; Evan J. Oviedo; Jiselle Ramirez; Samantha Z. Silva and Mark W. Young II Certificate Sarina G. Garza English and Philosophy Associate in Arts Savannah G. Mohr Liberal arts Associate in Arts Tabitha R. Alspach; Juan C. Aranda, Jr.; Trinity N. Avalos *; Aden J. Barrera; Maria F. Castillo; Jose D. Correa; Veronica G. Escamilla; Emilee M. Flores; Sesily P. Glover; Mario H. Lopez III; Ashton B. Millsaps; Analisa Munguia; Ashley N. Padron; Nicole Serna; Veatrice G. Torres; Marvin Vargas Done; Michael N. Villarreal and Erin E. Williams Music Associate in Arts Breanna D. Ayala and Zachary N. Munoz * SAP Social Sciences Associate in Arts Luis J. Benavidez *; Solenne T. Campbell; Diana V. Colunga SAP; Destiny J. Cruz-Sada; Angel Godinez; Keniyah K. Lusk; Alberto Martinez IV *; Ciara N. Morin; Donald E. Osborn, Jr.; Kelly A. Posada; Brooklyn V. Rhoder; Miah N. Rodriguez; Mariah R. Silva; Harley J. Soliz; Lucinda L. Vargas; Marcella L. Venegas; Roberto E. Villarreal and Alexandria N. Webb Associate of Arts in Teaching Dorothy M. Barringer DIVISION OF INDUSTRY AND PUBLIC SERVICE Architecture, Aviation, and Automotive Associate in Science Adrian Fernandez Palomo Associate in Applied Science Edward N. Borrego *; Grant Z. Brou; Kevin Bui; Jose L. Caraballo *; Joshua E. Davis; Taylor N. Diebel; Joshua Flores, Kristin L. Holland; Matt C. Roberson *; Samuel V. Rush *; Cruz A. Zamudio, Jr. * and Timothy J. Zincke * Certificate Michael D. Armstrong ; Adrian Avila; Michael A. Ayala; Edward N. Borrego *; Justin D. Canto; Jose L. Caraballo *; Zachary G. Cerda; Matthew D. De Luna; Taylor N. Diebel; Edward Escareno *; Sean D. Feely; Joshua Flores; Julia Franco; Aaron G. Garcia; Juan L. Gonzales; Justin Gonzalez; Robert F. Graham; Isaac A. Guerrero; Jason C. Guinn; Kristin L. Holland; Dylan E. Kurtz; Jeffrey G. Larkin, Jr.; Kenneth W. McCreless, Jr. *; Haven T. Mish; Douglas B. Opperman DC; Adrian Fernandez Palomo; James S. Rayburn; Aidan M. Rios; Reynaldo Rios; Matt C. Roberson *; Jose B. Rodriguez, Jr.; Jesse J. Smith; Tomas Trujillo IV; Ryan H. Utley; Cruz A. Zamudio, Jr. * and Timothy J. Zincke * Occupational Skills Award Dylan E. Kurtz Industrial Technology Associate in Applied Science Anthony R. Akuna, Sr. *; Austin W. Alexander; Jose C. Alvarez III; Maximus M. Anderson; Juan D. Arciniega, Jr.; Jacob C. Berry; Elizabeth C. Brown; Ian J. Cameron; Rick Castillo; John Nathaniel L. Fernando; Alberto J. Garcia; Julian R. Garcia; Gabriella D. Gonzalez; Ismael R. Gonzalez; Rene Gonzalez ,Jr.; Jon Michael Guerrero; Brandon J. Haynes; Ashley M. Hernandez; Braden W. Herndon; Juan A. Hinojosa *; Adam L. Hirle *; Alexandra M. Joslin; Alberto Juarez IV; Roger A. Luna III; Weston L. Major; Marcy D. Martinez; Jose E. Mata; Robert F. McQueen, Jr.*; Cleyton Nichols; Jackson T. Norquist; Juan Ortiz; Harley L. Osborn *; Carlos A. Osorto; Anthony J. Paiz; Selina A. Perez; Irving J. Perez-Calderon; Ryan T. Puszczewicz; Robert J. Quinonez; Abran Rodriguez, Jr.; Dominic Rodriguez; Michael E. Rodriguez; Jaden C. Rowe; Ivor Sanchez, Jr.; Jose L. Serna III; Arianna B. Serrata *; Daniel J. Silvas; Donaven X. Smith; Steven M. Tapia; Ricardo Baez Tello, Jr.; Robert B. Thurman; Phillip A. Valenzuela; Edgar O. Vega, Jr.; John R. Villarreal; Nelson G. Villarreal; Bryan M. Webb and Juan P. Zapata Certificate Maximus M. Anderson; Juvenal G. Arredondo *; Aden J. Barrera; Elizabeth C. Brown; Diego J. Cardenas; Josiah Cardenas; Matthew F. Cortez; Julie A. Foss; David I. Goldapp; Luis J. Gonzalez; Christian A. Hernandez; Juan A. Hinojosa *; Cody S. Key; Mia G. Leal; Andres Martinez, Jr.; Jose E. Mata; Jackson T. Norquist; Antonio Ramirez III; Andres Rodela V; Ivor Sanchez, Jr.; John M. Sanchez; Matthew I. Sanchez; Joseph M. Summers; Braulio R. Torres and Edgar O. Vega, Jr. Public Service Associate in Arts Danielle A. Armadillo SAP; Autumn M. Bosze; Maria Brozek SAP; Phillip L. Chapman III; Leeandra Flores; Adrianna R. Garcia; Natalia A. Garcia; Kristin V. Grundstrom; Bella B. Lotzin and Jordan L. Salinas Associate in Applied Science Raul A. Adame; Edward N. Borrego *; Kaylee E. Butts; Marcus A. Cantu; Tony O. De Leon *; Anthony M. Dorame, Jr.; Rebecca L. Farias; Christy A. Garcia Trevino; Griselda Green; Jessica J. James; Leslie N. Kissling *; Carlie L. Ledesma; Marcial Martinez, Jr.; Travis A. May *; Michael B. Meyer *; Paloma L. Moreno; Donald E. Osborn, Jr.; Gabriel B. Painter; Caleb A. Sanchez; Hannah C. Spitzer; Katherine A. Trejo; Phillip D. Vaiz, Sr.; Crystal E. Valde; Nicole R. Vale *; Elyanna Vela; Liliana L. Venne and Allyson R. Vondran Certificate Raul A. Adame; Michael A. Corona; Joe Everett; Elvin J. Garcia *; David E. Garza *; Gabriel L. Gomez, Jr.; Xavier Ledesma; Abram A. Monita; Andrew R. Montez; Skyler M. Rayos; Ricardo Rivera; Adrianne H. Saenz; Hannah C. Spitzer; Phillip D. Vaiz, Sr.; Nicole R. Vale *; Liliana L. Venne and Allyson R. Vondran DIVISION OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATHEMATICS AND KINESIOLOGY AND EDUCATION Computer Science, Engineering, and Advanced Technology Associate in Science Jacob A. Bryson; Edgar A. Camarena; Matthew A. Dominguez; Alex Galang; Brenden C. Galvan; Raul A. Perez and Brailon D. Sanders Associate in Applied Science Joshua J. Chapa; Thomas Gallegos, Jr.; Enrique Martinez III and Dylan J. Sanmiguel, Sr. Certificate Aaron G. Garcia; Enrique Martinez III and Dylan J. Sanmiguel, Sr. Occupational Skills Award Aaron G. Garcia Kinesiology and Education Associate in Arts Stone A. Gomez and Ethan D. Zepeda Associate of Arts in Teaching Jasmine Bazaldua; Alexandria L. Del Bosque; Jesica J. Juarez; Sarah Martinez and Janette Perez Mathematics Associate in Science Miranda E. Griggs and Nickolaus P. Rispoli Natural Sciences Associate in Science Adnan Agreda Martinez, Alexandra S. Gomez, Sierra S. Martinez and Kami N. Tiemann Associate in Applied Science Marivel O. Escamilla SAP; Charley R. Garrett; Sierra S. Martinez and Nathin Shiryaev Certificate Marivel O. Escamilla SAP; Sierra S. Martinez and Nathin Shiryaev
- DMC “Elves” Pull Together to Make 150 Salvation Army Angels’ Christmas BrighterArticle 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 HonoreesArticle 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 coursesArticle 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 5Article 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. 6Article 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. 6Article 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 HallArticle 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 2024Article 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 DistrictArticle 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.
- “In Focus: An Exhibition of Digital Photography” Opens at Del Mar College’s Center for Economic Development on Nov. 28 (Exhibit closes Dec. 14)Article by Melinda Eddleman They have a passion for photography, and the images they capture tell the story from their own unique visual perspectives. This fall, the Del Mar College (DMC) Continuing Education (CE) Department’s Digital Photography class includes 13 students whose work will go on display for a two-and-a-half-week show titled In Focus: An Exhibition of Digital Photography. The free exhibit begins Tuesday, Nov. 28, with an opening reception from 6 to 8 p.m. in the lobby of the DMC Center for Economic Development located at 3209 S. Staple St. (78411). Get online directions and map. The reception features light refreshments, along with the opportunity to view and purchase some of the best work produced by the Digital Photography class. In Focus features over 60 photographs and will run through Dec. 14. Center hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 9 a.m. until noon on Fridays. For more details about the exhibit or the reception, contact DMC Continuing Education at 361-698-2122 or ce@delmar.edu. In Focus: An Exhibition of Digital Photography, includes photos taken by Dora Alaniz, Adriana Bernardo, Patricia Bradshaw, Mary Hernandez, Leticia De la Garza, Rosa Lazaro, Donna Mesmer, Lisa Perales, Nicole Serrao, Candace Suarez, Jesse Suarez, John White and Robert White. These digital photographers’ subject matter ranges from landscapes and still life to nature. For more information about Del Mar College Continuing Education courses like Digital Photography and other personal enrichment or job training programs, visit www.delmar.edu/ce or contact the department at 361-698-2122 or ce@delmar.edu. (Shown in the release page baner and newsroom rotator is fall 2023 Digital Photography student Nicole Serrao's “Pink Rose.”) CLICK ON PHOTOS TO ENLARGE, DOWNLOAD AND READ CUTLINES.
- DMC Employee and Student Volunteers Took Over, Taught Junior Achievement Principles at West Oso ISD Elementary Schools as Part of “JA in a Day”Article by Melinda Eddleman The mission is all about teaching “possible.” It’s the mantra of Junior Achievement USA, the organization dedicated to inspiriting and preparing America’s youth for success in what is now a global economy by engraining concepts focused on education and career pathways, financial confidence and even business ownership. For West Oso Independent School District (ISD) second through fifth graders, they learned about these concepts during Junior Achievement (JA) of the Coastal Bend’s “JA in a Day” on Nov. 10 as 57 Del Mar College (DMC) employee and student volunteers clad in “Team Del Mar” tee shirts headed into classrooms to provide age-appropriate lessons to ignite these youngsters’ dreams for the future. JA of the Coastal Bend Program Manager Ezra Moreno added, “Our ‘JA in a Day’ event and partnership with Del Mar College is an invaluable opportunity for local elementary school students to hear from many individuals with various backgrounds and skillsets. This event gives volunteers a unique opportunity to teach an evidence-based curriculum while also incorporating their personal and professional experiences that relate to the content.” During an early morning pep rally with the West Oso Elementary Dazzling Bears Drill Team to get DMC’s volunteers revved up to teach, Moreno shared that the day’s activities would reach over 500 students in 30 classrooms that day at both West Oso ISD elementary schools combined. As an extended program of San Antonio-based Junior Achievement of South Texas, JA of the Coastal Bend prepared and divided out the College’s 31 faculty and staff and 26 students to teach age-appropriate concepts to all third through fifth graders attending West Oso Elementary School and second graders at the John F. Kennedy Elementary School. DMC student volunteers represented majors from several programs, including education, allied health, biology, business management, education and English. All volunteers received training and materials to cover curriculum tailored to their assigned grade levels. Lessons included the following: • Second graders: JA Our Community introduces students to the daily life of their community, including how citizens benefit from and contribute to a community's success. •Third graders: JA Our City stresses the importance of money to a city and its citizens ; choices people have with money and how entrepreneurial businesses meet the needs and wants of citizens. • Fourth graders: JA Our Region provides students with a practical approach to starting a business while preparing them to be entrepreneurial in their thinking to meet the requirements of a demanding and ever-changing workforce. • Fifth graders: JA Our Nation provides students with practical information about the nation's free market system and how it serves as an economic engine for businesses and careers. Junior Achievement USA’s website states that their “proven lesson plans in financial literacy, work and career readiness and entrepreneurship are shown to positively impact the lives of young people. These lessons align with national and state educational standards and are delivered to millions of students across the country with the help of our education partners and volunteers from the local community. Research shows that JA Alumni are more likely to have a college degree, feel confident managing money, have career success and have started a business as an adult.” For the 2022-2023 school year, the impact of JA of South Texas experiences, including its two extended programs––JA of the Coastal Bend and JA of Laredo––reached 63,687 students and 2,122 teachers at 278 schools through the efforts of 2,167 volunteers as reported on their website. And, a national Junior Achievement poll found that 91% of JA alumni felt their experience motivated them to learn and 90% felt JA played an important role in their believing they can achieve their goals, among other statistics. Poll findings also showed that 56% of the respondents said they were currently in a career or job or had worked in a similar position as the one their JA volunteer had held. For that one day … Nov. 10 … DMC’s 57 volunteers began igniting that inspiration. (Shown in the page banner is a group photo of Del Mar College faculty, staff and student volunteers, along with Valdar the Viking, at the West Oso Elementary School on Nov. 10 prior to heading into their designated classrooms to teach as part of “JA in a Day,” an event organized by Junior Achievement of the Coastal Bend.)
- DMC Board of Regents holding workshop and regular monthly meetings on Nov. 14Article by DMC College Relations Office On Tuesday, Nov. 14, the Del Mar College (DMC) Board of Regents will hold a workshop at 10:30 a.m. and their regular monthly meeting at 1 p.m. in Room 106 of the College’s Center for Economic Development, 3209 S. Staples St. (78411). Get online directions and campus map. Both the workshop and regular meeting also will be livestreamed. Community members may access both by going to the online video link at www.delmar.edu/webcast/ by 10:25 a.m. and 12:55 p.m., respectively. Copies of the Nov. 14 Agenda Notices and Board Packets are available using the following links: • 10:30 a.m. workshop: www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/ws-packet-11-14-23.pdf • 1 p.m. regular meeting: www.delmar.edu/regents-and-community/board-of-regents/_resources/agendas/rm-packet-11-14-23.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.
- Nov. 14 Literary Reading and Book Signing Spotlighting One of Del Mar College’s Own Faculty, Sarah LenzArticle by DMC College Relations From the discovery of a post-mortem photograph of her great-uncles who were killed by lightning to the daily pancake-making days with her preschooler son during the COVID-19 pandemic, Del Mar College (DMC) Assistant Professor of English Sarah Lenz confronts the complexities of being sandwiched between aging parents and a young child while also navigating her own thyroid cancer diagnosis in her debut essay collection, What Will Outlast Me? (Unsolicited Press, 2023). Lenz will read from that body of essays as part of the Communications, Languages and Reading Department’s literary reading and book signing event scheduled Tuesday, Nov. 14, at 1 p.m. to spotlight one of the College’s own faculty members and authors. “I think what makes this event special is that Sarah teaches Contemporary American Essays in her class, which allows her students to learn about this specific genre, to find their voice and to learn to express their opinions with informed thought and respect,” says Dr. Andrea Elizondo, Reading Instructor and Reading Lab Coordinator who organized the event. “[Her] students also get the opportunity to understand that Sarah is a human being who faces challenges and has ups and downs just like them, creating a real meaningful connection and relationship that transpires between Sarah and her students.” Dr. Elizondo notes that research shows how these connections are critical for adult development, and connection fosters transformation, inspiration, academic motivation and college and life success. “As a READ 0305 instructor, I am also incorporating a few of her essays into my curriculum to foster critical thinking and analysis,” she says. Lenz’s reading and book signing will take place in the College’s Reading Lab, Room 119, in the Coles Classroom Building on the Heritage Campus, 101 Baldwin Blvd. (78404), get online directions and campus map. The event includes refreshments, and the general public is invited to attend. For more information, contact Dr. Elizondo at aelizondo43@delmar.edu or 361-698-1952. Lenz’s writings have appeared in Crazyhorse, Colorado Review, New Letters, Triquarterly, The Fourth River, The Texas Review, Pen Dust Radio, Crab Orchard Review, South Dakota Review and elsewhere. Her work has been named Notable in Best American Essays three times. What Will Outlast Me? is described as a moving, heartfelt meditation on how to face mortality and how to grieve; but most importantly, the essay collection shows readers how to awaken to the ephemeral beauty of the world and is a powerful reminder of all that will outlast us and what’s found in those we love. While her subject matter is dark in What Will Outlast Me?, Lenz finds beauty, warmth and wisdom as she shares haunting moments in her life. The collection bares Lenz’s personal topics ranging from finding herself comforting her father, who’s fixated with where to spread his ashes, in “Driving the Section Line” to suffering postpartum depression and imagining all the ways her baby can die in “So Many Ways” to attempting a misguided effort to cook a whole hog’s head from her beloved, late grandmother’s recipe. The author grew up in central Nebraska and earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in fiction writing from the University of Nebraska, a Master of Arts degree in literature from Boise State University and a Master of Fine Arts degree in creative nonfiction writing from Georgia College & State University. After moving to Corpus Christi to join faculty with the College’s English and Philosophy Department, Lenz founded Writers’ Studio Corpus Christi, a community-based literary arts organization that offers free creative writing classes for writers at all skill levels. She also serves as the prose editor for the Switchgrass Review, which is a national journal of health, healing and transformation published annually by the Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation. Lenz lives with her husband, who also teaches at Del Mar College, her son, three cats and 12 typewriters.
- DMC Industry-focused Students Learn about Gulf Coast Growth Ventures’ Competitive Spring 2024 Internships, How to ApplyArticle by Melinda Eddleman As a college student, getting a paid internship is like landing that big fish But, “learning the ropes” alongside a potential employer’s workforce can provide the experience and extended knowledge that springboards them to a successful career either with that employer or somewhere else. On Oct. 30, about 60 Del Mar College (DMC) students majoring in fields taught in the College’s Industry Technology pathway––including Process Technology, Millwright, Industrial Instrumentation, Industrial Machining and other programs–– heard about such an opportunity available next spring semester. Gulf Coast Growth Ventures (GCGV) presented an informational session about their competitive paid internships that will start in late January. McKenzie provided the presentation about the internships and their role in building local labor for the company, which GCGV is specifically targeting students currently training to become process technicians to meet GCGV’s immediate workforce demand. When asked how many interns the company would select to start Jan. 29, he noted only six to seven students who apply would be chosen for the highly-competitive spots; but, they’re not guaranteed full-time employment when the internship is completed. “We’re looking to fill vacancies with the best and brightest when areas lose employees to retirement, the company experiences growth or experiences attrition,” he said. Gulf Coast Growth Ventures began operations in late 2021 as a joint venture between ExxonMobil and SABIC in San Patricio County. The world-scale facility produces polymers that become products that enhance our everyday lives. The facility has about 600 employees with an average salary of $90,000. The internships, which can last six months or more, will provide students extended hands-on training while contributing to operations alongside GCGV employees in the plant after they complete their first five weeks. Students will also earn a competitive wage and benefits, McKenzie noted when asked. Workforce Solutions Coastal Bend reports that 3,000 jobs are currently available in the region’s petrochemical industry. Those positions include not only process technology operators and petrochemical laboratory technicians but also instrumentation technicians, millwrights, electricians, industrial machinists and analyzer technicians. GCGV’s paid internships aren’t the only investment made by the company to support Del Mar College and its students. Since 2018, GCGV has donated $185,000 toward scholarships through the DMC Foundation that have benefitted 72 students majoring in fields producing the skilled workers the company seeks. Additionally, in March 2019 as part of their “Good Neighbor” Program, GCGV donated $1.5 million for the College’s purchase of the most contemporary training equipment available, including distillation, extraction and water treatment units and flow trainers that are now housed in the “Gulf Coast Growth Ventures Process Technology Lab” in the Workforce Development Center on the Windward Campus. The donation was part of GCGV’s commitment to workforce development and enhanced quality of life in the Coastal Bend. (DMC news release) The lab now provides DMC students with crucial hands-on experiences with cutting-edge technology before they join industry. Currently, DMC students from several programs train with equipment in the Gulf Coast Growth Ventures Process Technology Lab, including those majoring in Process Technology, Industrial Instrumentation, Industrial Machining, Occupational Safety and Health, Environmental/Petrochemical Lab Technology and Millwright`–––all programs that reinforce the workforce needs of GCGV and other industry employers in the region.
- Del Mar Drama Opening Neil Simon’s Uproarious Farce, RUMORS, on Nov. 10 in Heritage Campus’ Finley Theatre (UPDATED: KEDT Interview Audio Included)Article by DMC College Relations Office (Updated with audio file on Nov. 6, 2023) Things aren’t what they seem when four prominent, successful couples arrive at the home of New York City’s deputy mayor and his wife, Charlie and Myra Brock, for a 10th wedding anniversary celebratory dinner party. They find Charlie wounded in bed. Myra is missing. And, their marriage is not what it had appeared to be! Regarded as one of acclaimed playwright Neil Simon’s most popular titles, Del Mar Drama presents their production of his uproarious farce, RUMORS, for a two-weekend run, Nov. 10-11 and Nov. 16-18, in the Sue Sellors Finley Theatre in the Fine Arts Center on Del Mar College’s Heritage Campus (101 Baldwin Blvd., 78404, get online directions and campus map). Set in 1989, this period comedy reflects a world with house phones rather than cellphones, answering services instead of texting and societal scuttlebutt as the precursor to social media with the Brock’s invited guests conspiring to get their stories straight before authorities arrive after their evening is riddled with minor catastrophes and mayhem. The production is the first farce performed by Del Mar Drama since the wildly successful The Ladies Man by Charles Morey in 2014, which Yowell also directed. RUMORS features a small cast of 10 characters, all played by DMC students who have performed in previous Del Mar Drama productions. The cast includes Edwardo Alejandre, Brennen Bellows, Miguel Cerda, Alexa DeLeon, Mia Dobbins, Erin Heflin, Sam Howarth, Kimberly Porfirio, Chloe Spencer and Ethan Sullivan. And, their characters represent upper middleclass New York professionals, including a psychiatrist, an aspiring politician, an accountant and a trophy wife, so, audiences can expect to see a lot of glitter, metallics and shoulder pads on stage. Of costume designs, DMC Drama Professor Shara Haghjoo says, “It’s been so much fun dressing these young actors in the outfits that were stylish in New York City when I lived there. I worked in the fashion world, and I remember all of these trends firsthand.” Rated PG-13 due to strong language, RUMORS starts at 7:30 p.m. each night with the Del Mar Drama Box Office opening at 6:30 p.m. Online advance ticket sales are now available at delmardrama.ludus.com/show_page.php?show_id=200441305 with ticket prices as follows: $10 general admission; $6 for seniors, military and DMC employees; and $3 for DMC students with a valid ID. The Nov. 10 opening performance will feature a cash bar and post-production reception. Additionally, Del Mar Drama invites all area students for a free showing on Student Appreciation Night scheduled Thursday, Nov. 16. Each student with a current valid I.D. will receive one free ticket and need to redeem their ticket in-person at the Del Mar Drama Box Office beginning one hour before the 7:30 p.m. performance. Student Appreciation Night also includes a post-production reception in the lobby. For more information about the production and ticket sales, contact the Art & Drama Department at 361-698-1216 or Del Mar Drama at drama@delmar.edu. Patrons can also visit their website at www.delmar.edu/degrees/drama/events.html. Take a listen to Professor of Drama and RUMORS Director Carl Yowell during his interviw with KEDT Public Radio's Lon Gonzalez. The interview aired on Nov. 3, 2023, at noon.
- 2023 Scholarship Dinner Brings Recipients and Donors Face-to-Face …. Many for First t Time … on Oct. 19 as Del Mar College Foundation Marked 40th AnniversaryArticle by Melinda Eddleman Scholarships can be life-changing. Students getting the chance to share with donors how scholarships are making their dreams possible through education is priceless. For Del Mar College (DMC) students, that opportunity occurred during the DMC Foundation’s 2023 Scholarship Dinner held Thursday, Oct. 19, at the Windward Campus with both recipients and donors meeting face-to-face…many for the first time. The event gave scholarship recipients a chance to share with benefactors their personal stories and show appreciation for their support. Donors included individuals who have given directly to the DMC Foundation as well as those representing outside organizations that have awarded scholarships to DMC students. This year’s event also marked a milestone––the DMC Foundation’s 40th anniversary. Among the individuals credited with starting the College’s Foundation are late former DMC presidents Dr. Jean Richardson and Buddy R. Venters, Corpus Christi businessman and philanthropist Eugene “Gene” Bouligny, retired DMC Executive Director of Strategic Communication and Government Relations Claudia Jackson and Dr. Edgar Cortes, Jr., DMC alumnus and former DMC Board of Regent and Foundation Trustee whose wife––Dr. Imelda Delgado––was recognized for her $100,000 commitment as a Planned Giving donor. Busby noted that since 2010 alone, more than $20 million in DMC Foundation scholarships and privately-funded student emergency aid has been awarded to over 16,450 students attending Del Mar College. For the 2023-2024 academic year, $1,842,549 has been awarded to 802 students in DMC Foundation scholarships while 148 students have received $248,569 with funding coming from external organizations. The Foundation manages a total of 276 scholarship funds. Currently overall, 950 DMC students have received over $2 million combined in support for their education at Del Mar College. The Scholarship Dinner featured videos highlighting three recipients for this academic year as well as Dr. Imelda Delgado, who has committed to a $100,000 Planned Giving Scholarship donation, which is a gift that does not become active until the donor’s passing. Dr. Delgado is a DMC retiree, Hall of Fame inductee and a Del Mar College alumna. Long before the College began offering Dual Credit programming, DMC Music Department founder C. Burdett Wolfe recruited Dr. Delgado as a Music major after hearing the young pianist play a recital in McAllen, Texas, while she was still a junior in high school. Wolfe convinced Dr. Delgado and her family that she was ready for college … Del Mar College. Dr. Delgado moved to Corpus Christi and attended W.B. Ray High School in the mornings and then took classes at DMC late in the afternoon and evenings to complete both her high school diploma and first two years of music study at a time when faculty in the department were very limited in number and stage performances were held at Roy Miller High School because the College didn’t have a stage. Dr. Delgado made her living at this time (mid-1950s) as an accompanist and was paid 50 cents an hour. She also relied on scholarships to get through school. And, Dr. Delgado credits becoming a firs-rate musician herself by completing her studies at Del Mar College and then moving on to study at The University of Texas at Austin and Indiana University. Regarding the Planned Giving Scholarship, she noted, “I wanted to honor C. Burdette Wolfe because he began the Music Department, he began the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra, and he opened the doors for me to come to college.” The Scholarship Dinner attendees also saw unique stories from students who have received scholarships for this academic year. Process Technology major Amanda Wright, a recipient of the Chemours Future of Chemistry Scholarship, found herself raising three boys on her own and supporting her family by cleaning houses. “I found myself contemplating, ‘Is this something I’m going to do for the rest of my life,’” she said, noting that she recalled 10 years earlier she had an opportunity to work at a plant to become an operator and reflected that seizing that prospect “would have given my children a better life by getting out of our daily financial struggles.” Even though she still faces weekly and monthly challenges, Wright noted, “Scholarships have meant a lot to me because now I don’t have to only put a hundred dollars down on a bill. I can just go pay it off that semester so services don’t get turned off.” Wright said that even small donations mean so much to people who don’t have it. “And, anyone who can do that and give from their heart … it empowers, inspires and touches people who are recipients of these scholarships.” Ethan Sullivan’s story showed no less a need for scholarship support, too. The Drama major said about himself, “Growing up, my mother was a victim of the Opioid crisis, and so that led into a longer history of drug abuse. It was very difficult for my family.” His parents divorced when he was around age 10. He also recalled that mending his relationship with his mother took several years, but he figured out what had happened and what his mother’s addiction meant as he grew older. Becoming his biggest supporter last fall, Sullivan’s mother saw his first performance as a freshman at Del Mar College, Shakespeare’s “A Mid-summer Night’s Dream.” The production was the first and only performance she saw. Sullivan’s mother died this past January with the young actor losing his “number one fan.” His Sue Sellors Finley Drama Endowed Scholarship now allows him to pay for books, tuition, food and even gas to drive to auditions. Beginning Feb. 1, 2024, the Foundation will start taking scholarship applications for the next academic year, which is 2024-2025. Donations can be arranged year-round. To learn more about the DMC Foundation either as a scholarship applicant or a donor, visit www.delmar.edu/foundation or contact the DMC Office of Development at 361-698-1317 or foundation@delmar.edu.
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