With its kickoff event at the college’s Pecan campus, the week-long camp was designed for elementary and middle-school aged children to embark on a hands-on exploration through the field of biology in a laboratory setting. 

Maribel Sanchez, a parent from McAllen, Texas, said she learned about the summer camp through its popularity among other parents, which prompted her to get her children involved in a new and exciting experience. 

"My biggest motivation was exposing my kids to a college setting while they also get to learn and develop new skills in topics that they like. This is our first time participating at STC’s camps, but we’re excited to continue enrolling them in these camps in the future," said Sanchez.

At the Biology summer camp, young scientists dive into a variety of activities that encourage curiosity like learning the basics of lab safety, examining their cells under a microscope and seeing the inner workings of an ecosystem through plant and bacteria growth. 

STC Associate Professor of Biology JeanMarie Fors, Ph.D., shares her excitement for the turnout and remarkable growth of the summer camp. 

“This is the third summer that I help facilitate the biology camp, and it’s a pleasure to see how much it has grown over the years. This year we have a full roster of new and returning children,” said Fors. “Knowing the kids are eager to learn about science within a college setting is exciting.”

Biology Explorer Elise Cantu, 12, said she was skeptical about trying something new until the first day opened up a new world of ideas and exciting opportunities that she gets to share with her fellow campers. 

“At first, I didn’t know what to expect with the camp, but I am loving what we are getting to learn so far and working with the other kids,” Cantu said. “I would love to be a doctor or work in a lab someday, so I am looking forward to all of the lessons they have planned for us, but I might be most excited to take my cool lab coat home.”

Upcoming Biology Explorers summer camps will also be held July 8 - 11 at STC’s Starr County and Mid-Valley campuses. 

For more information on all the camps being offered this summer at STC, visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/youth-camps/ 

Working in administration and finance with Commodities Integrated Logistics (CIL) Capital, Spamer said her role at the company was front and center when it announced its new McAllen Nearshoring Industrial Park, a 117-acre project located adjacent to STC’s Technology Campus that, once its complete, will feature 1.5-million-square-feet of industrial space designed to attract companies looking to expand or relocate to South Texas.

Anticipating that development, Spamer said she knew she had to receive additional training and entered STC’s Construction Supervision program in the fall.

While in the program, Spamer said not only did she receive valuable insight into the permit, inspection and code processes involved with large-scale construction, but she also immersed herself on a local level, visiting various residential properties and projects to connect with residents and communities.

“My company supported me in getting this additional training and they are very happy with what I've learned here along with the work experience I have been able to bring back,” Spamer said. “I’m typically focused on administrative and finance responsibilities, so this has been a little bit of a deviation for me, but it's been very informative. I feel like the knowledge that I've gained here in construction; it's really going to help me.”

Initially a graduate in theater management from St. Edwards University in Austin, Spamer said her first experience in construction was working in a scene shop where she performed various carpentry tasks such as building sets for television, film and various events as an undergraduate student.

That degree choice, however, lacked the finer details about installation along with construction and work permits when she entered the construction industry after graduation, which eventually led her to STC, she said.

Now a year after entering STC’s Construction Supervision program, Spamer was among the 3,000 graduates at STC’s spring commencement ceremonies and received a certificate in Construction Management Assistant.

“I just set out to learn everything I didn’t know about the construction process,” Spamer said. “The assistant certificate I received just really helps to give you a foundation which you can grow from. They give you the basic outline, and then it’s really on you to just learn more and more on each job site that you go visit. It’s these foundational pieces that are so helpful for when to what you need get out into the real world.”

Back on the job at CIL, Spamer said she hopes to break into real estate development while working on construction projects and development that are more creative or community-based as well as supporting more women seeking to enter the construction field.

“I hope that that I can inspire other women to take that journey. It can be difficult at times, but you just have to roll with the punches because we're all just trying to get the project done,” Spamer said. “With that being said, at CIL we're hoping to be able to bring STC construction students onsite so that they can see a commercial and an industrial lot being built from the ground up. We're very much in the pre-construction phase, but hopefully within the next year, we can get some students out there to see what industrial construction actually looks like. There have just been so many great things that have come out of this department and out of STC and I'm happy to help out in whatever way I can.”

WHEN: Friday, Nov. 17, 2023. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Performance begins at 7 p.m.

WHERE: Edinburg City Auditorium.

   200 N. 7th Ave., Edinburg, Texas 78539

WHO: This year Ballet Folklórico welcomes El Ensemble Folklorico Mexicano from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, México. Tickets are $5. Cash only.

WHY: STC Ballet Folklórico is comprised of Mexican traditional dances, which derive from the various cultures in México including those from indigenous tribes and communities

Professionals in the automotive industry from trucking businesses to diesel technicians and mechanics expressed the growing need for educated drivers and technicians. 

“It’s a big industry and right now there’s so many makes and models coming out that the need for technicians is huge,” said Roland Zamora with Payne Auto Group. “And we’re looking for newly certified automotive technicians heading into this industry.” 

As an automotive technician, Zamora said students need to be mechanically inclined with oil changing, tire rotating and engine safety. Upon hire, Payne’s Auto Group provides mentorship and live training courses.  

Ana Cardenas is an automotive technology student on the verge of receiving her associate degree this Saturday, May 7 who shares that the program helped her gain and certify those skills she was once curious about.  

“The program helped me learn the basics and nit and grits of this field,” she said. “When I was younger, I was fascinated by these big engines which looked so fun to work on, and it's something I see myself doing  every day.” 

STC’s two-year Automotive Technology program is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in the high technology automotive service industry.  Students will gain knowledge in automotive heating and air conditioning systems, electrical/electronic systems, fuel injection, both manual and automatic transmissions/transaxles, engine performance, brake systems, and steering and suspension systems. 

While she couldn’t fit work into her schedule, Cardenas lent a helping hand to family and friends with their car troubles.  

“I hope to become a certified technician in other areas and expand in the Valley,” she said.  

Daniel Garces, a 15-year automotive technician with Kyrish Truck Centers - a driving business, shares the demand for truck drivers and technicians surrounding the ongoing pandemic. 

“Everything revolves around trucks, and everything gets expedited through trucking deliveries,” said Garces. “We’re essential workers and the goods have to move. You can’t keep a truck from rolling.”  

“We need new hires with entry-level skills in diesel repairs to hire on the spot,” he said.  

Newly enrolled diesel technology student Jose Ramirez was interested in the driving business having prior diesel experience but felt inspired to solidify those skills.  

“I worked in agriculture up north for two years and I saw the mechanics work on the diesel engines we had and knew I wanted to go to school for this,” Ramirez said. “Having enrolled in January, I’ve already picked up a lot of things from my electrical and preventative maintenance (PM) courses.  

Students in the Associate of Applied Science Diesel Technology program will acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for the repair of diesel engines, electrical and electronic control systems, hydraulic systems, air brakes, suspension, steering, and transmissions through a combination of lecture and lab work. 

Over 20 automotive companies attended the career expo with Kyrish Truck Centers having 15 Texas locations and providing the Valley as one of the biggest dealerships for school buses.  

Hired in 2006 and 2011, brothers and alumni Eli and Alex Sarabia became full-time faculty members at the Starr County campus.

To enhance student resume building and community networking, they have served as advisors of the Psych Club since 2009.  

“We decided to start a psychology club based on research studies that demonstrate the benefits of student involvement with campus organizations,” said Alex. “It's proven that students who are actively involved on campus become more successful in the classroom have higher retention and graduation rates and helps develop their social  and network skills.”  

The Starr Psych Club serves as a social and academic platform for students that encourages and stimulates interest in the psychology field. Job opportunities in the discipline can include becoming a psychologist, licensed professional counselor, psychology college professor or a case manager at a counseling center or hospital.

Alex combined his passion for teaching and interest in psychology with credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), Certified Anger Resolution Therapist (CART) and Certified Laughter Yoga Leader (CLYL).  

“Ever since I was a child, I knew I wanted to become a teacher, but when my brother majored in psychology, I felt inspired to follow his career path and I fell in love with the subject,” shares Alex.   

The club hosts several signature events like “Starr County Role Models Get Inspired Conference,” “Crossing Disciplines Conference” and “Starr County Mental Health Awareness Conference" which invites guest speakers from the community.  

“The students get inspired by city mayors, doctors, and county leaders because they get to see and hear first-hand people from their areas in Rio Grande City or Roma make a difference in their communities,” said Alex.  

The“Psychological Science Faculty Profile Series,” hosted by the Sarabia brothers invite Mid-Valley and Pecan psychology professors to talk about their careers, academic backgrounds and psychological interests on topics of eating disorders, suicide prevention awareness and mental health. 

“It’s important to discuss these topics because mental health has this stigma associated with it that’s usually negative, leaving people and their families ashamed, but it’s important to talk and learn about it,” said Alex. “We want students to know it’s okay and help is always there – just like we maintain our physical health we should also maintain our mental health.” 

Students become active members in their community through fundraisers and causes through “Relay for Life,” “Starr County Fair and Parade” and “Adopt a Highway Trash Pickup.” 

For psychology club president Glendy Saenz, she prioritizes community engagement.  

“I want to make sure everyone is involved somehow,” she said. “I want them to be active in the community because we are in a field that raises awareness for people who need resources for their mental needs.”  

Previous members of the club who have since graduated with higher education return to thank the Sarabia brothers.  

“It’s a very rewarding feeling because you see first-hand how it benefitted the students and the community and that’s what STC is all about,” said Alex. 

The club has 50 student members and is open to all majors at the Starr County Campus. In addition to the club’s success and its core values, South Texas College and Rio Grande City awarded the student club a Community Service Award.  

Students who maintain a high G.P.A. and are actively involved in the community have been awarded $1,000 in scholarships with a total of $11,000 given out during the club’s lifetime.  

For more information about Starr County’s Psychology Club visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/psychology/pdf/Psych%20clubs.pdf  

Surgeons from Rio Grande Regional Hospital offered the engineering students a chance to operate the robot while understanding its real-world applications. 

"The DaVinci can perform anything we do that is laparoscopic," said general surgeon Dr. Ernesto Garza. “I personally use it for gallbladders, colectomies, hernia repair, gastric bypass, colon resection, liver and pancreatic resections and more.” 

Dr. Garza also points out the DaVinci’s limitations.   

“The robot specifically needs increments to be a certain distance apart so slim patients or small babies are not ideal to work with,” said Dr. Garza. “Certain surgeries also may take a while to perform, so the time it takes to set up the equipment for cases will differ from one that we can perform traditionally.”  

Another issue has become the need for availability of the nearly $2 million machine.   

“A lot of the other hospitals only have one, so if there’s only one system it could only be used once at a time, so now the question is, ‘Is it available for when I want it to be done?’.  

Dean of STC’s Technology campus, Sara Lozano said the live demonstration is beneficial to our students who will likely depend on robots in the future.  

"Showing students the potential of technology and the limitations is helpful for our students to learn because they’re the ones who are going to make the changes on how to improve technology and to see what exists and is used in the workforce right now is beneficial,” said Lozano.  

Veterans Memorial senior Manuel Salinas shares his decision in heading for a new direction based on STC’s dual courses. 

"Being in my STC dual credit classes has introduced me to new opportunities,” said Salinas. “I’ve been thinking of making the switch from civil engineering to manufacturing or mechanical because I want to make those innovations while I attend college."  

STC instructor for advanced manufacturing technology Erika Guerra adds that there is a need for local and skilled robotic engineers for the Valley’s growing industries.  

“Right now, in any industry, you can see the increase in where robotics and animation keeps increasing whether it’s in construction or the restaurant industry,” said Guerra. “And the medical field is one that keeps growing especially in the Valley and it’s great to expose our students who are taking these classes to see that this is something they’re definitely going to see in the future.”   

Guerra shares that her mechatronics dual students are FANUC certified— a level one credential in handling operations and programming that is beneficial in a variety of professions.  

The live demonstration was such a success between Valley surgeons and STC students that a similar demonstration will be held next semester.  

To learn more about our advanced manufacturing engineering dual program visit, https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/manufacturing/index.html.  

By Diane Teter, M.S.I.S., M.Ed

Professor Emerita of Biology

Faculty Senate President 2017-2019

teter@southtexascollege.edu

Dr. Maria Cervantes deserves 2021 RGV Citizen of the Year  recognition. Dr. Cervantes is chair of the biology department at South Texas College and supervises 40 full-time members and 21 dual credit faculty across five STC campuses and 26 high schools.

I worked with Dr. Cervantes as a biology faculty members and now as professor emerita of biology at STC and have witnessed her dedication and enthusiasm for teaching, her discipline, the numerous faculty who she guides, the students and our college.  

During the pandemic she judiciously and efficiently moved the biology classes that teach roughly 11,000 students from face-to-face instruction to online delivery – and remember that most biology classes require laboratory instruction. This feat was accomplished through foresight of having a template for all online biology classes and working with faculty closely to achieve this goal. She worked with faculty to make sure they have the support and tools necessary to transition to online. Due to all the efforts, students across the Valley were able to complete their degrees and graduate with their associates.

Also, recall that STC teaches dual enrollment classes (around 200 biology courses per semester), some on STC campuses and some on high school campuses, and in 2021 was accredited by National Alliance of  Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships.

For almost 10 years, Dr. Cervantes has taught numerous students of anatomy and physiology and has seen their successful completion of scholarly pursuits. Dr. Cervantes has also guided the department through achievement grants sponsored and written by biology faculty members for the National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Science Foundation and Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

As a matter of fact, the biology department was the institution in the RGV to get accepted into the prestigious  Science Education Alliance-Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science Program that has brought opportunities for exciting research into the biology classrooms.

As department chair, she has spearheaded the articulation of the biology degree with a bachelor of biomedical science degree at UTRGV and bachelor’s in agriculture with Texas A&M. Under her leadership, the biology department will be offering an expansion of courses in the agriculture area such as agronomy, horticulture, wildlife management and food science.

She recently was awarded the National Institute for Staff and  Organizational Development Award. NISOD is a membership organization committed to promoting and celebrating excellence in teaching, learning and leadership at community and technical colleges.

I enthusiastically endorse Dr. Cervantes for her dedication and her achievements as an educator of the year. 

WHEN: Oct. 28 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

WHERE: STC Pecan Campus Student Union ballroom Building “U” second floor.

WHO: Board members and superintendents from local partnering school districts are slated to be in attendance along with leadership from STC Dual Credit Programs.

WHY: NACEP is the sole national accrediting body for concurrent enrollment partnerships, and represents best practices of educational partnerships as well as a guarantee that an institution has met rigorous national standards.

STC successfully attained accreditation by following a rigorous two-year process that ensures its Dual Credit Programs will become a model for dual credit across the nation.

The Dual Credit Programs at South Texas College collaborates with 21 school districts and 70 high school partners across Hidalgo and Starr Counties.

Since the inception of its Dual Credit Programs, South Texas College has served over 118,000 dual credit students, has awarded over 13,000 certificates and/or associate degrees, and has saved dual credit students and families over $280 million dollars in tuition and fees.

“We were one of two Higher Education Institutions in Texas that made it to the final round of the application process. At the conclusion of a year-long process, we were granted the NACEP accreditation by the Accreditation Board – naming us the first in the state to receive this accreditation,” said Dr. Rebecca De Leon, Dean of Dual Credit Programs and School District Partnerships at STC.

The college and County’s efforts are to help mitigate the spread of the novel virus. The vaccine is free and open to students, faculty and staff who will register on-site.

The first and second dose of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, as well as the first dose of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, will be available. Boosters will also be available.

Students, faculty and staff must present their STC I.D. upon arrival at Building “H”. Once students, faculty and staff have received their vaccine, they will enter the “monitoring room” in the same building following CDC (Center for Disease Control) guidelines.

The College is committed to supporting these ongoing public safety efforts, with a renewed focus on providing vaccines to college-bound students, their families, faculty, and staff.

WHO: South Texas College and Starr County

WHAT: COVID-19 Vaccines Administered

WHEN: Thursday, Sept. 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE: 142 FM 3167, Rio Grande City, TX 78582 Student Event Center Bldg. H

Whether it’s through grants, scholarships, work study, or loans, Student Financial Services has a range of aid available to students that promotes access to post-secondary education for everyone.  

For many students in the Rio Grande Valley, another great benefit of attending STC is the prospect of graduating debt free thanks to Federal Pell Grants that never have to be repaid as long students meet eligibility requirements. 

STC will make all of this important financial aid information available to students and their families during STC’s fall Super Saturday event at its three main campuses Starr, Pecan and Mid-Valley on Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

The event will be a one-stop shop for students who are planning on attending college August 2022-July 2023 to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or their Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA). Current STC students also need to reapply for the 2022-2023 school year.  

 “As the 2021-2022 academic year gets underway, it is time to start preparing for the 2022-2023 academic year,” said STC Student Financial Services Director Juan Miguel Galvan. “Please join us for our annual FAFSA/TASFA Super Saturday event where our financial aid staff will be available to assist you with and answer any questions regarding your 2022-2023 FAFSA or TASFA.” 

Approximately 70 percent of STC students who receive the Federal Pell Grant at STC are eligible for the full amount, which was $6495 for two semesters. This grant enables students to be able to cover their tuition and still have funds available to help pay for books and other expenses. 

The average tuition and fees for two semesters at STC for an in-district resident for the 2021-2022 school year was about $3,324. Students also have various scholarships that are available, in addition to work-study employment, which are all determined by the results of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  

Financial aid specialists will be available during the Super Saturday event on Oct. 23. Important items to bring to Super Saturday include: 

• Student’s Social Security card (and parents’ if dependent) 

• Student’s alien registration or permanent resident card (if not a U.S. citizen) 

• Student’s 2020 Income Tax Return and W-2 Forms (if applicable) 

• Parents’ 2020 Income Tax Return and W-2 Forms (if required) 

• Parents’ Date of Birth, Marital Status Date, Social Security Numbers (if applicable) 

• Untaxed income records including child support paid or received 

Super Saturday will take place at Pecan Campus- Building K, Mid-Valley Campus- Building F, and Starr Co. Campus- Building G. 

If you cannot make it to the event, the 2022-23 FAFSA and TASFA become available on Oct. 1. Students may stop by the office of Student Financial Services anytime during hours of operation for assistance.

For more information, please contact STC Student Financial Services at 956-872-8375 or go online to http://studentservices.southtexascollege.edu/finaid/index.html. 

Texas Workforce Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez, Texas Workforce Commission Director of Apprenticeship, Desi Holmes, and South Texas College President Dr. Ricardo J. Solis will attend the event taking place on Wednesday, Sept. 22 at 5:30 p.m. at Brewsome located at 1303 N. Tenth St in McAllen,

Thanks to a unique apprenticeship program in partnership with Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) and local breweries, STC students have the opportunity to get an education in fermentation and brewing science.

The Brewery Apprenticeship program includes curriculum of the American Brewers Guild, which provides an academic foundation for the complex science of craft brewing.

Students receive hands-on experience through live brew projects using real industry facilities and technology.

WHO: South Texas College and Texas Workforce Commission

WHAT: Recognition ceremony of the first cohort of graduates from South Texas College’s Professional Brewer Apprenticeship program.

WHEN: Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021, at 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: Brewsome 1303 N Tenth St, McAllen, TX 78501

In recent cases of the COVID-19 and Delta variant spike, South Texas College has implemented the following safety measures to help mitigate the spread:  

•  The Fall semester begins Aug. 23, 2021. Face-to-Face courses offered on STC campuses will meet online for the first two weeks of class. At this moment, Face-to-Face courses are expected to resume on-campus instruction on September 7, 2021.
• Dual Credit courses taught at the ISDs will continue to meet face-to-face as planned unless otherwise determined by the ISD. 
•  Enrollment for on-campus face-to-face courses is reduced to a 70% capacity. However, face-to-face sections of a large enrollment will be converted to an in-person hybrid model to increase social distancing in classrooms. 
• The Governor’s order does not allow public institutions to mandate the use of face coverings; however, South Texas College strongly encourages the use of facial coverings. 
• The Governor’s order does not allow the college to require individuals to get vaccinated; however, the college strongly encourages individuals to get vaccinated. 

Additionally, the college announced a Vaccine Clinic for students, faculty, staff and the community at the Pecan Campus for Monday, Aug. 16 and Wednesday, Aug. 18. The vaccination schedule is located on the college’s main webpage and social media.  

•  Prior to arriving on campus, employees and students must self-screen themselves daily for new or worsening symptoms related to COVID-19. 
• The college continues to follow daily routine cleaning and disinfecting of high-touch surface areas.  
• Social distancing is strongly encouraged throughout STC’s classrooms and facilities.  

The College Safety Committee meets on a regular basis in an effort to discuss and stay abreast of the most current trends and news regarding the pandemic and to relay the information to the College community.  

This will be STC’s first COVID-19 vaccination clinic in collaboration with Hidalgo County. The college and county’s efforts are to help mitigate the spread of the novel virus. The vaccine is free and open to students, faculty and staff who will register the day of on-site. FDA-approved for emergency use vaccine Moderna, will be administered as the first dose.

Students, faculty and staff must present their STC I.D. upon arrival at the Student Union Building “U”. Once students, faculty and staff have received their vaccine, they will enter the “monitoring room” in the same building, room 2.102 following CDC (Center for Disease Control) guidelines.

The College is committed to supporting these ongoing public safety efforts, with a renewed focus on providing vaccines to college-bound students and their families.

WHO: South Texas College and Hidalgo County

WHAT: First COVID-19 Vaccine Administered

WHEN: Monday, Aug. 16, and Wednesday Aug. 18, 2021

WHERE: 3201 Pecan Blvd. McAllen, TX 78501 STUDENT UNION BLDG. U

South Texas College Board Chair Rose Benavidez, South Texas College Trustee Paul R. Rodriguez, and South Texas College President Dr. Ricardo J. Solis will meet on Aug. 4 with Hidalgo County Judge Hon. Richard F. Cortez, to announce the College’s planned coordination with Hidalgo County vaccination efforts.

The College has partnered throughout the COVID-19 pandemic with Hidalgo and Starr counties to support testing and vaccination efforts that have helped protect our communities. The College is committed to supporting these ongoing public safety efforts, with a renewed focus on providing vaccines to school- and college-bound students and their families.

Ms. Benavidez, Mr. Rodriguez, Dr. Solis and Judge Cortez will make a formal announcement at 3 p.m. at the South Texas College Nursing and Allied Health Campus, Building B Atrium, located at 1901 South McColl Road in McAllen, Texas.

What: Formal announcement about South Texas College coordinating with Hidalgo County regarding vaccination efforts.

Who: STC Board Chair Rose Benavidez, Trustee Paul R. Rodriguez, President Dr. Ricardo J. Solis, Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez, Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Chief Administrative Officer Eduardo Olivarez.

When: Aug. 4 at 3 p.m.

Where: STC Nursing and Allied Health Campus Building B atrium

NAH’s first Pathways Aligned to Health Science (PATHS) conference will take place at STC’s Nursing and Allied Health Campus Building A located at 1901 S. McColl Road in McAllen July 14-15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The event is set to be a collaborative project meant to provide support services and experiences for high school students interested in articulating into health sciences.

Representatives from STC’s NAH Campus will assist school districts in attendance with understanding the healthcare programs available to students in order for them to succeed in healthcare fields.

The College will be hosting sessions for advisors and counselors across Hidalgo and Starr Counties, and the conference will include presentations as well as vital materials and supplies distributed to participants in order to maximize the experience for acquiring integral healthcare field content.

“We all know that one of the duties of the high school counselors, advisors, and career technical directors is to provide information to high school students about post-secondary education and the job market,” said Dr. Jayson Valerio, STC Dean of Nursing and Allied Health. “According to the 2021 Texas Workforce Commission, we are very fortunate that there are 13 top job demands in healthcare for our local region, of which 11 healthcare programs are offered at STC.

“This PATHS conference in collaboration with Region One is an excellent opportunity for us to inform our partnering high school districts about the different healthcare programs we offer at STC,” Valerio said.

For more information, please contact Karen Castillo, NAH Project Manager at 956-872-3078 or akcastillo@southtexascollege.edu

What: STC Nursing and Allied Health’s inaugural Pathways Aligned to Health Science (PATHS) conference

Why: A collaborative project meant to provide support services and experiences for high school students interested in articulating into health sciences.

Where: Nursing and Allied Health Campus Building A located at 1901 S. McColl Road in McAllen.

When: July 14-15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Who: Hidalgo County and Starr ISD counselors and advisors. Participants need to register through Region One ESC

Commissioner Alvarez, who was on hand to present STC with a Skills Development Fund (SDF) check in the amount of $287,500 at a special recognition ceremony on July 6, said it has been amazing to see progress at the college, compared to one year ago.

"The unemployment rate continues to drop,” Alvarez said. "That's amazing considering what we were experiencing this time last year, and South Texas College was one of the first institutions to start training the workforce working with employers to adapt."

The SDF award provides over $10 million in training for businesses in response to the immediate needs of the COVID-19 pandemic, including skills training that was vital to keeping the state and nation's economy moving forward.

South Texas College is one of the first organizations in Texas to receive a portion of $10 million of the funding to train employees in essential industries.

"Like many, the COVID-19 pandemic brought upon a unique set of challenges to continue our mission," said Dr. David Plummer, Interim President of South Texas College. "I'd like to commend our team for adapting and using creative platforms on both the workforce and continuing education sides to support employers and train 358 employees."

Olivia De La Rosa, Director of Continuing, Professional, and Workforce Education at South Texas College, noted that training topics included billing for telehealth services, disinfection training, customer safety, cross-training for employees to fill job demands resulting from workforce reduction.

"Our training partners, including the Practice Management Institute and the Leadership Empowerment Group, helped us deliver over 5,000 hours for training," De La Rosa said. "The Physicians Health Plus Organization and the Doctor's Hospital at Renaissance worked with us to coordinate training for over 50 doctor's offices and clinics."

"This grant is a testament to innovation and thinking outside of the box when it comes to training local workers," said Representative Oscar Longoria of House District 35. "This investment enables our workforce to meet the needs of area employers, which helps our community thrive."

South Texas College's Associate Dean of Industry Training and Economic Development, Dr. Carlos Margo, said in addition to healthcare, employers including Metal Processing International, Black & Decker, and Interlink Trade Services utilized training in manufacturing and warehouse distribution.

"This grant added another level of training opportunities," Margo said. "There are lasting positive results from the curriculum and programs we've developed and the relationships we've built with our partners."

"Everyone wins when we use strategic thinking to ensure our workers have the skills area employers need," said Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr. of Senate District 27. "The ability of our local workers to pivot and learn new skills is one of the main reasons Texas is a top destination to do business."

Trustees approved the discharge of student debt incurred during the Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 terms.

At their regular meeting on June 22, the STC Board approved utilizing the college’s portion of institutional funding from the U.S. Department of Education’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) to discharge over $1.9 million in outstanding student balances.

HEERF Institutional Fund guidelines indicate the allotment of funds to reimburse sources of lost revenue, including unpaid student accounts.

“It is really important for us to find a way to help as many residents and students take charge of their lives again not just during the global pandemic but during the economic downturn as well,” said STC Board Chair Rose Benavidez. “The fact that we’re allowed to clear any debt they have and give them a fresh start is really significant for us in many ways, but most important, it’s knowing we have the ability to let someone begin a new journey.

“I think what this does is validate the fact that this Board at the college put students first above all, and the biggest investment we can make is not in bricks and mortar but human capital,” Benavidez said.

Representatives from STC will directly notify students if their account qualifies for debt discharge.

With the swipe of a student ID card, Jaguars can borrow industry-standard tools and high-speed computers the same way they borrow books in the library.

“It works just like they're checking out a book,” says Jose Vela, Chair of Construction Supervision, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, A/C & Refrigeration), and Electrician Technology. “The Lending Library has been something that our HVAC program has had an eye on for a while.”

It’s a game-changer for programs like heating and cooling, where students must acquire $800 worth of equipment as they go through their studies. From simple screwdrivers to complex gauges, the list of 20 tools is essential for when students take their capstone class and hit the ground running with work experience.

“It can be challenging for students to get all of these tools,” says the instructor. “We wanted to use our Perkins Grant to purchase some of these tools and check them out to students who might be struggling.”

Starting in March of last year, the lending library has been a hit for HVAC students and beyond. And unlike patrons in a typical library, they’re not staying quiet.

“We’ve already had some positive feedback,” shares Laura Salas, Program Chair of Architectural & Engineering Design Technology (AEDT). The last cohort of students in the high-tech drafting program had access to 20 state-of-the-art Canon DSLR cameras and eight G7 laptops.

As the instructor says, “There was an opportunity for us to really try and help the needs of our students during the pandemic with access to technology.”

The AEDT program has hefty software requirements, demanding high-speed computers with enough power to process high-res renderings. The top-of-the-line G7 laptops allow students to create advanced architectural environments in virtual reality. Meanwhile, using the semi-professional cameras, future drafters can document their projects for resume-boosting portfolios.

“Altogether, with the laptops, it gets pretty pricey,” says Salas. The computers themselves cost about $1,700 – and that’s just for the hardware itself. Students also need access to software for VR, advanced architectural drafting, and Adobe Creative Suite design. Between cameras, computers and software, it’s not unusual for a student to borrow $3,000+ worth of equipment at a time.

While the division does feature computer labs and a brand-new VR lab bearing industry-standard equipment, the ongoing health crisis has rendered it essential to provide learn-from-home options.

“Because of the pandemic, not everybody was able to come and use the equipment here,” recalls Salas. “With the laptops, it really helps that. They’re able to check it out and then use it on their own time.”

The strategy has been particularly helpful for learners who either did not have a computer or couldn’t run the RAM-intensive software on an older model. With demand for architectural and civil drafters climbing by seven percent annually in Texas, the need to learn on the latest equipment is more critical than ever.

Meanwhile, in HVAC, the lending program has helped keep learners on track to reach their career goals despite the challenges of the pandemic. When the current academic year started in a hybrid model, for example, HVAC students needed a way to keep up without coming to campus.

“We had this program that was meant to be hands-on … where students would be here in the classroom working on units,” recalls Vela. “Now, they couldn’t be doing that — they were at home.”

The Lending Library sprang into action, acquiring specialized kits so students could bring the same equipment they usually worked with in class home with them. From flow hoods that monitored airflow to thermal imagers, students had everything they needed to keep on learning … and they even made some surprising discoveries.

“They come back saying things like, ‘Wow, we didn’t realize how inefficient our homes were … These tools are amazing!’” says Vela. Putting concepts to work at home has helped students apply their studies to their own heating and cooling systems. As the proud professor says, “They’re actually able to see why they have those deficiencies.”

It’s the kind of personal discovery that students couldn’t have made without the Lending Library, and it makes their studies even more relevant to the real world.

Soon, the library will also have 20 standard HVAC toolkits, identical to the equipment students would typically have to buy over the course of their studies. While students will eventually have to purchase their own tools to enter the workforce, Vela says the ability to borrow lifts a financial burden and “gives them a little bit of a cushion” in the meantime.

Each borrower fills out a survey upon checking tools back into the library, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive. So far, a perfect 100 percent of students have reported satisfaction and success in their Lending Library experience, with each saying they would recommend the service to others.

The hope, says Vela, is that the success of the HVAC and AEDT tool lending library will open up the concept for other programs, including Electrical Technology. “We’re hoping that other programs see that success, and then they’ll want to jump on the bandwagon.”

AEDT, in particular, has plans to purchase some lighter-weight computers to serve the needs of first-semester students. As Salas says, “Just to start with the basic software still requires a computer that’s a little bit on the higher end when it comes to graphics cards and RAM.”

At the same time, the department is exploring the possibility of lending out VR headsets along with laptops, giving students a virtual boost while learning from home.

“I’m just grateful that we were able to provide this opportunity to our students,” says Salas. “I think it’s a win-win situation.”

For students like AEDT’s Maria Hernandez, it’s more than just the cost savings. It’s about the peace of mind that access to state-of-the-art tools can instill.

“I want to give thanks to the AEDT program and the library,” shares the grateful learner. “I felt more confident I was going to complete the requirements for the classes I signed up for.”

The future architectural drafter borrowed a G7 laptop along with a mobile NETGEAR Wi-Fi device, and she says they have made all the difference this semester.

“It saved me time and money,” reflects Hernandez. “I was in the comfort of my own home. And that gave me a stress-free experience to work on my assignment.”

For more information, students can contact Marianella Sanchez, Librarian II at STC’s Technology Campus, at 956-872-6207 or email marig@southtexascollege.edu.

FOR MEDIA ONLY:

Who: South Texas College Trustees, faculty, and staff

What: Update on search for college’s next president

When: Thursday, May 27, 10:30 AM

Where: McAllen Pecan Campus, Student Union Ballroom, 2^nd Floor (Bldg. U)

In addition to an update on the search for the College’s next president, trustees plan to also speak about a one-time payment approved for all staff and STC’s recent national rankings.

The American Rescue Plan provides $36 billion for nearly 3,500 public and private, nonprofit colleges and universities nationwide.

“Our college educators and students have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the American Rescue Plan will get them back on track,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “The American Rescue Plan is a historic investment in our local colleges and universities to provide these institutions and struggling students with much needed relief. I am proud that we were able to deliver this critical support for institutions of higher education and I am hyper focused on defeating the pandemic and building back a better economy for Texans.” 

“We are grateful for another round of HEERF allocation because these funds have truly benefited our students and have allowed them to continue their education without disruption during the pandemic. We appreciate Congressman Gonzalez’s support in helping UTRGV obtain these funds.” – President Guy Bailey, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV)

The colleges and universities in the Rio Grande Valley receiving funding under the American Rescue Plan are:

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley: $101,411,829

South Texas College: $73,866,947

For more information about how to apply for an emergency grant, visit SEMESTER POWER UP.

The American Rescue Plan also includes nearly $3 billion in additional funding – which will be distributed at a later date – for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), other Minority-Serving Institutions, and other under-resourced institutions. 

To read more about emergency education funding under the American Rescue Plan, click here. 

Rose Benavidez – Chair, Board of Trustees: The South Texas College Board of Trustees is pleased to provide the students, faculty, staff, and community with the most recent updates regarding the ongoing Presidential Search process.

First and foremost, a tremendous thank you and whole-hearted appreciation for the valuable feedback that you, the stakeholders, have provided during this process. Approximately 175 of you attended our forums and nearly 200 of you submitted your thoughts on the desired qualifications of the next President of South Texas College. Those comments and the themes they produced were used not only to formulate the Presidential Profile, but also provided guidance during the entire process. Your input has been critical, and we are guided by it as we continue through the search.

Additionally, the 19-member Search Committee which consisted of students, faculty, staff, and trusted community leaders represented our students, employees, and partners exceptionally well in helping select and interview the impressive candidates for this position. The committee recommended outstanding semi-finalists for the Board’s further consideration.

On May 11, 2021, the Board held interviews with the semi-finalists proposed by the Search Committee. In preparation for these interviews, the Board once again reviewed the Presidential Profile, which incorporates the community’s feedback in the desired characteristics of the next President of South Texas College. The Board found each of the semi-finalists highly qualified and attributed the caliber of the candidates to the great work of the community and the search committee.

The next step of this process will be for the Board to conduct further interviews with the two finalist candidates, with the anticipation of naming a sole finalist by the May 25, 2021 Regular Board Meeting.

Once the sole finalist is announced, the Board will provide opportunities for all stakeholders to meet the next President of South Texas College. Again, thank you so much for all of the input, ideas, and support you have given to this process.

We will continue to keep you updated on this important process. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to our ACCT Search Consultant: Bill Holda, Ed.D., ACCT Search Consultant, wmholda@gmail.com, or (903) 987-3332 (mobile).

Recently, RCPSE purchased and received a new training vehicle that will enable additional training for students. The equipment is set to enhance their skills in the Fire Science program as well as Continuing Education courses.

The demonstration will mark the kick-off of this exciting new equipment. I have attached a flyer to this message for your convenience.

What: Fire Equipment demonstration

Where: STC’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence 3901 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX

When: May 5 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Garcia and Garza are the innovators behind Bio-Dynamic Athletics, a new sports therapy and conditioning clinic in McAllen that endeavors to “bridge the gap between physical therapy and fitness.” For the proud STC alums, the budding business represents the culmination of decades of inspiration — not to mention a new level in a long-standing friendship.

“The partnership has developed, and it’s been great so far,” says Garza, who parlayed his STC degree into a bachelor’s degree, and will soon graduate from UTMB-Galveston’s Doctoral Physical Therapy program. “Mike is well-accustomed to the business mindset, how to be relevant, and he’s always finding the humor in every situation possible.”

“I think we both knew we did not want to necessarily open a traditional outpatient clinic,” says Garcia. “Having [Matt] as the evaluating therapist helps us keep all evals in-house — that works out extremely well for us.”

As classmates in STC’s Physical Therapist Assistant program, Garcia and Garza talked often, usually in non-committal terms, about starting a business together. The more they learned, and the more experience they gained, the more they began to realize the viability of their entrepreneurial objective.

“The idea sprung about while we were still in school — we used to joke about it,” says Garcia. “As we started moving along ... we decided to try to brand what we were doing.”

The result of 10-plus years’ combined hard work and a handful of academic degrees was Bio-Dynamic Athletics, a company that seeks to evolve sports physical therapy with high-tech solutions. Essentially, it’s a highly advanced, highly customized gym offering hybrid fitness/PT programs tailored to the client athlete.

A basketball player, for example, might want to add three inches to her vertical leap, or an offensive lineman four reps to his bench press. Through individual and team sessions, Garcia and Garza’s team would develop a program to safely increase capability in a specific sport or movement.

“They identified a need, expanded their knowledge, sharpened their skills, and ultimately created a dynamic, innovative practice that allows them to positively impact the community,” says Diana Hernandez, Instructor and Program Chair for the Physical Therapist Assistant program at STC. “They are truly living the mission, vision, and values we try to instill.”

“We talked a lot about trying to be different from other models,” says Garza, who gives credit to South Texas College for inspiring Bio-Dynamic’s patient-first philosophy. “You have to have that personal effect, knowing we’re here and we care about them.

“We’re licensed to work on real people with real problems.”

Launched just months before the outset of COVID-19, Bio-Dynamic Athletics has had to adapt like any other business that traditionally entails in-person visits. And while the pandemic managed to derail some of the original business plan, Garcia and Garza’s knack for innovation would carry the day. “We had to make our business survive outside of brick and mortar,” reflects Garcia. “It was a challenge for sure.”

Staying on track meant adapting conditioning programs to a remote platform while maintaining the same level of customization, analytics, and customer service. Meanwhile, as a government-mandated essential business, the partners still had to maintain a safe, distanced environment for in-person clients.

“We’re trying to build these resources into an eventual online program for our athletes,” says Garza, now working with Garcia to build a library for remote engagement through the company’s YouTube channel. “Warmup routines, simple movement progressions … they’d have that resource.”

To say that Bio-Dynamic Athletics was destiny for the fitness-focused friends is hardly a stretch. Though drawn to the profession under very different circumstances, both Garcia and Garza consider physical therapy a calling, inspired not by money or job security, but by organic life experience.

As a high school athlete suffering “every injury under the sun,” Garza became fascinated with the technique and technology employed by his own physical therapists. Driven by a will to succeed on his own terms, the former baseball star connected with the Physical Therapist Assistant program at South Texas College, and never looked back.

“Early on I let my professor know I wanted to go for the doctorate PT program,” says Garza. His initiative led him to a bridge program offering credit toward his Doctor of Physical Therapy for coursework and experience already obtained. “I worked really hard to obtain and maintain that 3.5 GPA, it prepared me for the intensity.”

Garcia’s spark of inspiration would happen more suddenly. When his daughter was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, he realized she would require decades of physical therapy, in addition to the usual financial and emotional support required by a child. Where he had previously envisioned himself teaching or working in retail, Garcia now had a singular goal: to become his daughter’s physical therapist.

“As a father, you want to help your children as much as you can, so I decided the best way to help her was to go back to school … so I could help her for her a lifetime,” reflects the father of three. “This profession wasn’t an initial passion but … it became an addiction.”

And while they discovered physical therapy on different emotional planes, Garcia and Garza would converge on the same path to success at South Texas College. With the support of Hernandez, her experienced team of PTA Program faculty and staff, and each other, the pair set a foundation for their life’s work in the Physical Therapist Assistant program, earning their associate degrees and going to work as licensed physical therapist assistants.

“Mrs. Hernandez ran a super-tight ship,” recalls Garcia. “Those skills they gave to us … we turned it into a business.”

“I wouldn’t be here talking to you if it wasn’t for STC and this opportunity,” adds Garza.

For Hernandez, the success of the Bio-Dynamic duo is just further proof that the affordable, accessible career education offered by STC is working as intended in the community.

“They are well-rounded, forward-thinking therapists,” says the instructor. “Mike and Matthew took the sound foundation provided by our program and decided to do more.”

Visit https://nah.southtexascollege.edu/pta/ for more information on the Physical Therapist Assistant program at STC. Have questions? Contact Diana Hernandez at 956-872-3152.

A future in fitness: Physical therapy careers are waiting!

Physical Therapist Assistants: $66,300

Occupational Therapy Assistants: $66,530

Physical Therapists: $89,200

Occupational Therapists: $82,990

*Avg. annual salary, Texas (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

*https://www.onetonline.org/find/quick?s=physical+therapy

Our students' safety and well-being is our utmost priority, and we know many may be facing challenges due to the winter storm. Please contact your instructor to discuss how we can help.

Please note that the Distance Learning help desk is open Saturday and Sunday from 8 am-7 pm to help with any Blackboard issues. They can be reached at 956-872-2598.

Employees who are unable to return to work either on-campus or remotely should contact their supervisor to discuss leave options.

South Texas College Library Art Gallery presents the first in a monthly spring semester series that highlights the connections between seemingly unconnected disciplines—Mathematics, AEDT, History, and Science-- with Art.

In collaboration with the Mathematics and Fine Arts Departments at STC, the Gallery presents: “A Common Journey of Mathematics and Art.”

The monthly series of exhibitions will be supported by virtual lectures, book displays and a library database exploring how, working between disciplines, we can achieve better outcomes—moving from STEM to STEAM and foster the creation of art by thinking across boundaries.

“A Common Journey of Mathematics and Art,” will be on view at the STC Pecan Campus Library Art Gallery, Jan. 19 to April 23, 2021. The STC Pecan Campus Library Art Gallery is located at 3201 W. Pecan Blvd., Bldg. F in McAllen, Texas.

There will be a virtual conversation and tour on Tuesday, Feb. 16th at 3 p.m. with the curators of the exhibit, STC Faculty Mario Morin and Nathan England, as well as select artists they have chosen.

“Throughout human history, two natural elements of human thought and progress can be evidenced by mathematics and art,” said Morin, an organizer of the exhibit and STC Mathematics Chair and Instructor. “While not usually combined in outright terms, the nature and behavior(s) of the two schools of thought both complement one another. and sometimes are necessitated in the study of the other.

“Our Spring 2021 Mathematics + Art Exhibit will highlight these interactions through three themes: Geometry, the Golden Ratio and Infinity,” Morin added. “Each of these concepts spans hundreds, if not, thousands of years of human history and has had remarkable impact on our everyday lives (whether we may recognize this or not). Our intention is to both expose this marriage of thought & art but also to encourage further exploration into the possibilities that may exist.”

STC’s Library Art Gallery Program organizes exhibitions and educational programs to engage student understanding of art and its role in culture, support academic curriculum, and inspire continued education through direct engagement with artists, scholars, and original works of art.

For more information contact gotvos@southtexascollege.edu or visit https://library.southtexascollege.edu/libraryart.

With the retirement of South Texas College’s Founding President, Dr. Shirley A. Reed, we find ourselves at a very important moment for the future of our esteemed institution. Dr. Reed, who served as the College’s first president, was integral in leading us from our humble beginnings into the world-class institution of higher education and workforce training that we are today. During her tenure, Dr. Reed built a premier institution with exceptional faculty, administration, staff, and students, that will continue to serve its communities and set the standard for colleges nation-wide.

The Board of Trustees understands the importance of strong leadership within South Texas College and we are committed to our governance role as we embark on a national search for the College’s next president. You will learn more about this process in the near future and we look forward to hearing from you to ensure this selection process is transparent and successful.

It is essential that the College continue its course with proactive administrative leadership as we head into the Spring 2021 semester. I am proud to share that as of Tuesday, December 8, 2020, the Board has formally appointed Dr. David Plummer to serve as Interim President, effective January 4, 2021 and until the next President of the College takes on these responsibilities.

Dr. Plummer earned his M.B.A. at the University of Texas Pan American, and his Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership at Texas A&M University – Kingsville. Dr. Plummer has extensive background in strategic planning, performance, and leadership, with over twenty years of higher education experience and over twenty years of service in the military. Dr. Plummer first joined South Texas College in 1995, and has served in various roles at South Texas College, including his current position as the Vice President for Information Services, Planning, Performance, and Strategic Initiatives, while concurrently serving as Interim Executive Vice President for Educational Programs and Student Achievement.

The Board of Trustees truly appreciates the opportunity to serve this fine institution and we look forward to working with Dr. Plummer as he carries forth the College’s important work in our beloved Rio Grande Valley during this important transition.

Sincerely yours,

Ms. Rose Benavidez

Board Chair

South Texas College

The biggest struggle was just to try, she said.

Initially returning to school in the summer of 2015, Idalia said she began slowly, taking one class at a time to test herself, but gathered her courage and opted to go full-time in order to pursue a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Technology Management.

Now through years of experience, Idalia says she has come to believe that culture, values, and a vision for success are tailored to a belief system, and hopes to leave a message for women her age to never stop dreaming.

“My college perspective has been to follow your heart and dreams and never doubt yourself. It is possible no matter what age you are,” Idalia said. “For me the biggest struggle was to try, but once I had one foot in, there was no turning back for me only because I really enjoyed it. My motivation is to strive for success and knowing that all the hard work will pay off soon.

“To accomplish goals in life, one must not give up,” she said. “Dreams do come true.”

Idalia will be among the thousands of students who will be receiving their degrees this week.

South Texas College will be holding its fall 2020 commencement virtually on Dec. 12. Students were asked earlier in the fall to begin submitting personal messages and photos, which will then be put on a web slide printed with the student’s name, degree, field of study, and honors.

STC will also share social media videos of faculty congratulating graduates leading up to the virtual ceremony. Students were also sent an email informing them of their marching order, along with specific instructions on how to access the link, and upload their photo and messages to their individual graduate slide.

“We are very pleased to have the opportunity to offer our students a virtual graduation ceremony and wish all graduates the best in their future endeavors,” said Cindy Blanco, Director of Student Records and Registrar at South Texas College. “We know this a dream come true for our students and despite COVID-19, STC made every effort to make this as celebratory as possible for them in honor of all of their sacrifices and achievements.”

What: Assembling care packages (food items, PPE, sanitizer) for South Texas College students with COVID-19.

Where: STC Mid-Valley Campus in Weslaco, Building G, Room 103 & Atrium

When: Tuesday, December 8, 2020, at 11am

Contact: Jenny Chamberlain, Social & Behavioral Sciences faculty, (956) 650-9181

Noel Ysasi, Social Work club sponsor (956) 789-9529

Dear South Texas College Board of Trustees, Faculty, Staff, and Students,

After an incredible twenty-six years as the founding president of South Texas College, it is time to announce my retirement from this outstanding institution, effective January 4, 2021.

I am so very proud of what we have done together. South Texas College was founded to address profound needs in our communities: high unemployment and low educational attainment contributed to generational poverty for many families throughout the Valley. Over nearly three decades, we have disrupted poverty; through workforce and academic programs, we have helped thousands of families break cycles of poverty. 

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your founding president. Together, we have built an institution, and a team, that stands among the best in the nation. Our recent stellar reaffirmation of accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges stands as a testament to our hard work, our quality, and our integrity. Our admission to the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships acknowledges the value of our innovative dual credit programs, which serve as an inspiration and role model nationally. Our economic development partnerships have supported robust expansion of highly skilled career opportunities throughout the Valley.

There are too many outstanding accomplishments to list in one letter. Just know, I am proud of you all, and grateful for your hard work and dedication to the mission of South Texas College.

It has been an incredible journey for me, but there is still more work to do, and more families to serve. I leave this exceptional institution in your capable hands to carry South Texas College toward its Mission. Go forward, South Texas College, and make the world a better place.

Thank you all,

Dr. Shirley A. Reed

“We think cake, and we think light, fluffy and sweet,” says Culinary Arts instructor and baking mastermind Larissa Reinitz. “But when you’re building something as big as a turkey, it could be as heavy as a real turkey.”

In fact, the term “carving the turkey” has a whole new flavor this year. To build a bird out of sweet bread, students will construct “bones” out of wooden dowels and Popsicle sticks for support. Then, they’ll “carve” the form of a turkey out of the sturdy sugary dough, following all of the curves and crevices of a real roast.

The instructor confides that while the students were a bit intimidated by the new project, they were eager to reach new heights of edible artistry. While discovering a new passion, they might even surprise themselves and their taste buds. “Some of these students have never even picked up a spatula or don’t know what buttercream is,” shares Reinitz, who is pushing cadets to their culinary limits.

“Our faculty work hard to develop innovative projects,” adds Jennifer Guerra, Program Chair for the STC Culinary Arts program. “These types of projects bring out the best in our students.”

In a typical year, students participate in “culinary wars,” Iron-Chef style baking competitions that have produced sugary sensations like carousel cakes that actually spin.

This year, team baking had to be called off for social distancing restrictions, but that didn’t put the kibosh on creativity. Instead, aspiring bakers in Cake Decorating One and Two classes are pioneering the Thanksgiving feast, and it’s been such a success, Reinitz aims to continue the project in the future.

“Students get to expand their imaginations,” says the thinking-outside-the-bakery-box instructor. For instance, this year’s apple, pumpkin, and pecan holiday pies were made with zero actual apples, pumpkins, or pecans, sculpted instead from — you guessed it — pure cake.

“I have never carved a cake before,” says student Freida Marie Luna. “I am very excited to see how it turns out!”

For her faux pecan pie, Luna is using fondant as a fake crust and molding dark brown icing to make “nuts.” She’ll even be painting the bottom and outside of her “crust” with silver luster dust to create the illusion of a foil pie “tin.” Finally, she’ll be topping the cake with a pie-like glaze to trick the eye and tickle taste buds.

The future pastry professional credits her STC professor for inspiring culinary acumen: “Chef Larissa always has high hopes for all her students which, I believe, make us strive to accomplish the best work we can.”

For these “sweet dreamers,” even the plates and utensils will be edible. A thick sugary paste called Pastillage will be processed by the scientists to become a ceramic-like material. So, who says you can’t have your cake and then eat the fork too?

“They’re very proud,” says Reinitz about her bold baking students. “They’re discovering new passions.”

“I hope to take these skills one day into my future career,” confides Luna, who will graduate this December with an Associate Degree in Baking and Pastry Arts. “I want to open my own cake shop one day and be able to decorate and execute any kind of cake that gets thrown at me!”

Baking students like Luna aren’t just igniting interests, they are also turning up the fire on careers. Grads employ their talents to open small businesses or work for bakeries, restaurants, catering companies and hospital kitchens.

“The employment opportunities our graduates seek are as diverse as our students’ interests,” shares Guerra.

Some alum even become culinary instructors… Like Reinitz herself, a proud STC grad of the Baking and Pastry Arts program. Her passion? Inspiring the next generation of culinary artists.

In particular, she mentions a student who mastered molding chocolate into flamingos. Like so many culinary Allstars from the program, he found the flair to bolster his family’s business with a brand-new treat. As Reinitz says, for many of her students, “They’re learning these skills to be able to continue a tradition.”

There’s no doubt in Guerra’s mind that, even amid difficult times, demand for cakes created with love persists. “Our graduates are prepared and still in demand in the marketplace.”

After all, folks are still celebrating weddings and birthdays, including socially distanced quinceañeras. And what would a celebration be sans dessert?

“You can still have that big extravagant cake with just a few adjustments,” advises the boss of baking hacks. If you’re hosting a small wedding, for instance, but still want a cake that looks like it can feed 100… no problem: “Throw in a fake tier, have it integrated, and no one will even know that it’s fake cake!”

It’s the kind of MacGyver-like maneuver that STC students master to make mouthwatering menus. To give culinary cadets in-demand workforce skills, the College consulted with industry and community leaders in its advisory board and added the Baking and Pastry Arts associate a few years ago.

And just recently, STC introduced two new courses to the menu. The College now offers Quantity Bakeshop Production and Advanced Pastry Shop, affording students yet another opportunity to take their careers to the next tier… and make the world just a little sweeter.

“Sugar always makes people happy,” says Reinitz, who’s excited to spread some holiday cheer this year with the cake equivalent of a trompe-l’oeil. As an instructor, she says she’s grateful to keep on learning and sharing her love of the craft. For her, the delicious and ambitious project is worth it, “just to bring that smile to somebody’s face.”

Max out Your Nom This Holiday with Original STC Recipes

CMAS has provided a QR code on the attached poster serves as a Zoom registration link. Upon registration, visitors will get a link to view the talk/documentary via email. Please note that because the session will be conducted on Zoom, there is a limit on capacity.

This documentary will make its national debut shortly after on all PBS stations. There will be a Q&A session afterwards with Valadez. 

The film is about two brothers who both volunteered and fought in Vietnam. They come home wounded physically and broken mentally from the trauma of war. Now 50 years later they are being deported. They soon learn there are thousands of veterans who are being deported after completing their service in the Armed Forces. The brothers respond by becoming veterans rights activists; with one brother attempting to confront President Trump, and the other self-deporting to Mexico where he writes a memoir of his experience, and is welcomed as a hero. The film asks vexing questions about race, national service, and what it means to be American.

For more information, contact Victor Gomez at vgomez@southtexascollege.edu.

Staff and faculty with South Texas College’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence (RCPSE) have arranged a visitation between college personnel and law enforcement Sept. 29-30.

This visit will provide prospective students the opportunity to speak with an STC representative to learn more about the programs available at South Texas College as well as the process to get started.

A recent partnership that allows peace officers the opportunity to convert their academy training in college credits has sparked interest from the qualified candidates to get back on track to complete their college degrees.

All Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office employees including commissioned personnel are welcome to stop by for information.

Sheriff Eddie Guerra is pleased to approve the visit as a proponent of education, and encourages all HCSO employees who wish to continue their education to stop by and take advantage of the opportunity.

For more information about this event visit www.southtexascollege.edu/law-enforcement/pathways or call 956-872-6749.

What: Information sessions for Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office employees

When: Tuesday, September 29, 2020, & Wednesday, September 30, 2020 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Where: Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, Academy Library 715 El Cibolo Road Edinburg, Texas 78542

Why: A new partnership now allows peace officers the opportunity to convert their academy training in college credits.

As the health crisis threatened to decimate the traditional workforce, the Texas Workforce Commission and its higher education partners were staring down a problem of preparedness. In an instant, the South Texas business environment had shed its skin. And while it might take years for workers to properly adapt to the new, socially distanced and sanitized conventions… for now, they needed camouflage.

The TWC launched the Skills Development Fund COVID-19 Special Training Initiative in June, awarding direct-response funding to community and technical colleges across the state. South Texas College was among the institutions receiving grants, with $287,500 earmarked for industry-essential skills and training. Suddenly, as abruptly as the crisis had taken hold, STC was working with local businesses and trade organizations to innovate solutions.

“We have years of experience working under grants,” says Olivia De La Rosa, Director of Professional and Workforce Education at South Texas College. “We’ve developed partnerships with community partners… we quickly reached out to those partners, and said ‘what can we offer you… what can we do?’”

That experience would prove vital, as businesses across all sectors — from healthcare and IT, to manufacturing and construction — scrambled to adjust to COVID life. The most pressing concern would be safety — how to evolve procedures and habits to adapt to a “new normal” in post-crisis productivity. Close behind was the urgent need for remote communications training, particularly as it concerned technology.

“Doesn’t matter what industry,” says De La Rosa. “[It’s] how to work with patients under the new guidelines... how to work with customers while still providing the service safely.”

The COVID-19 Special Training Initiative provides crisis-impacted industries with up-to-the-minute skills for coping and communicating. Specific training topics prescribed by the grant include telemedicine and billing, disinfection training, patient and customer safety, departmental cross-training, and tools for managing stress.

“The grant is for anybody that needs training, to address that need right now,” says De La Rosa.

With an infrastructure for fast-pivoting workforce training already in place, South Texas College and its partners were able to focus on execution. Within weeks, local healthcare and manufacturing businesses were commission-approved and ready to receive critical training on the state’s dime.

Among those taking advantage was Dr. Umesh Pathak, of Mid Valley Pediatric and Allergy Center (MCPAC) in Weslaco. His practice, complicated by its particularly vulnerable categories of clientele, was one of the first regional employers to complete its customized, grant-funded program.

“It’s extremely important to consider the safety of staff and patients,” says Pathak, who attended the training sessions alongside his staff. “It was an intensive 14 hours [covering] every aspect of what we need to know.”

As the crisis began forcing more health appointments online, clinics like the MVPAC had to bolster their capacity to deliver services remotely. Thanks to South Texas College’s decades-deep commitment to workforce readiness, training partners like San Antonio’s Practice Management Institute (PMI) were already on board to help “connect the dots.”

“This allows providers to have confidence in a well-trained staff, which allows them to concentrate on taking care of the people we love,” says Michael Moore, Vice President of Business Development at PMI. “It means absolutely everything.”

“It’s not only a benefit to them – we’re doing it for all of us,” adds De La Rosa. “Eventually we’re all going to need a doctor.”

The initiative has been so successful, in fact, that applications are beginning to bottleneck. Thus far, South Texas College has submitted applications on behalf of 40 healthcare employers, and De La Rosa says the Commission is reportedly working to keep up. “It gets difficult because the medical facilities now are so strained.”

Meanwhile, the grant is making its mark on other essential employment sectors in South Texas. On the manufacturing side, the new funding meant that local businesses like Metal Processing International in Mission could continue paying employees while the state bore the burden of safety and professional development training.

“We know they’re overworked and tired right now, so we’re flexible,” says De La Rosa. “We work with them.”

The COVID-19 Special Training Initiative advances a long-standing collaboration between STC and the Texas Workforce Commission, which granted the College $1 million last year for customized training through the same Skills Development Fund. The TWC’s broader COVID-19 response entailed a $10 million commitment, with success depending on input from businesses, economic development boards, and institutions of higher education statewide.

As the TWC collaborated with those partners to develop guidelines for grant eligibility, the questions continued to emerge: What specific training would be needed? Which categories of worker would benefit most from training? Would funding cover equipment and/or PPE? In the end, the partners decided on a flexible, inclusive model that allowed more employees to benefit.

“Texas is a great state to be in business, as such programs go far to support and lift them up, especially in times of crisis,” says Moore. 

For Moore’s company, already on the vanguard of web-based training when coronavirus hit, the collaboration with South Texas College and the Texas Workforce Commission was something of a no-brainer. The connections provided by partners like PMI would allow STC to leverage existing infrastructure, essentially killing two birds with one stone.

“Olivia De la Rosa and her team…are unbelievably awesome partners in this pursuit,” declares Moore.

While the challenges have proven unique, South Texas College’s objective of uplifting the regional workforce remains indomitable.

“It’s why we do it,” says De La Rosa. “We work at a community college to serve our communities.”

Typically defined as a semester-or-longer hiatus devoted to professional development between high school and college, it’s a trend that as many as 750,000 students nationwide plan on following this fall, according to the Gap Year Association.

But is taking a gap year the smart thing to do? According to Dr. Nancy Garcia, Director of Comprehensive Advisement & Mentoring Services, students have options.

“Instead of things being ‘either-or,’ still taking community college classes can be a part of a gap-year plan,” says Dr. Garcia.

Usually, during a gap year, students travel, volunteer, and perform paid work or internships to boost their resumes. While traveling may be out of the picture, students can stay involved, perhaps volunteering with an organization in a career field that interests them. Whether they are working to help support their families or pursuing new interests, there is still time to pick up a few classes and keep moving forward with their education.

“Why not take a lighter course load?” posits Dr. Garcia. “Students can get ahead by taking those classes and still … get a job or volunteer.” Since the bulk of South Texas College’s classes are online, she says it’s the perfect opportunity to make progress, since coursework can be done on students’ own time.

Not to mention the dicey business of taking a total break from school. Often, students who plan a later start can lose momentum, or even fail to make it back to school at all. Studies show that over half of students who delay their education do not return to earn a bachelor’s degree, according to a recent article by Inside Higher Ed. Even for those who return, there are disadvantages.

“Students who take more time off and come back after years, it’s hard for them,” says Dr. Garcia, who has seen the difficulties firsthand in seven years as the advising director. When students come to college straight from high school, they are used to studying, going to class and doing their homework. Also, their reading, writing and math skills are still fresh in their minds. Dr. Garcia says that for those who come straight from high school, “they’ll likely place at the college-ready level, versus developmental, when students take time off.”

Placing at the developmental level means students have to catch up by taking more classes, delaying their career paths even further. It’s yet another reason why the Federal Reserve Bank of New York stated in a recent analysis that a gap year could cost individuals $90,000 of lifetime earning potential. When college is delayed, careers and years of higher wages are set back.

“Getting into a career pathway as early as you can, that’s a plus,” advises Dr. Garcia. By taking just one, two, or even three classes, students can maintain steady progress toward their goals, and before they know it, find themselves closer to a degree.

“It’s about going slow and steady to keep progressing through that career pathway.”

Nationwide, most students seem to agree. In an annual survey by the College Savings Foundation, more than a third of students reported a plan to either take a break or head to community college to save money on tuition. Financial advice sites like NerdWallet are joining the chorus in recommending community colleges as affordable alternatives to university this fall.

“If schools are going to be online, why not come to the most affordable option?” asks Dr. Garcia. “Students can take advantage of the courses we offer at the community college and really save money in the process.”

Long before COVID, South Texas College offered some of the lowest tuition rates in the country. And on top of the already affordable price, more than 75 percent of students avail themselves of some form of financial aid.

That support is only increasing. STC is offering brand-new dual enrollment and “last dollar” scholarships this fall, totaling $1.2 million in funding. Financial aid can even be used to purchase laptops this semester, making online classes more accessible than ever. Says Dr. Garcia, “It’s a really good time for students to take advantage of those [scholarships].”

Across the nation, the loudest complaint from students at four-year universities is that they don’t want to pay $50,000 or more for haphazard virtual instruction. At STC, exceptional and affordable online classes have been going strong since 1997. In fact, the College was named among the “30 most innovative online colleges” in the nation, according to Online Schools Center. Among all those ranked, STC rated number one in affordability.

By 2018, 10 percent of STC students were taking courses exclusively online, building credits on their own schedules with top-notch instruction and support. With the virtual campus rolling out even more classes online, interest has only increased. Since March, the College has bolstered virtual support, offering more orientations and tutorials, as well as online tutoring sessions, available 24-7.

“We’re known for quality learning in our online programs,” says Dr. Garcia. “It’s the same quality as our other classes, and it gives students the opportunity to do things in their own time.”

According to Dr. Garcia, advisors are seeing more students return from the workforce to take college classes. Some have lost their jobs because of COVID, and now they’re looking for new employment while they are in school — a smart choice, says the administrator.

By enrolling in as little as one class, students have access to the school’s Career & Employer Services, which has moved 100-percent online to help students with their job searches. From resume help to exploring the exclusive student job board for internships and careers, it’s a one-stop-shop for an occupational makeover.

This support, coupled with the flexible schedule that online learning provides, lays out a perfect launchpad for students who want to find work. And whether students are returning to college, or thinking about higher education for the first time, they can take advantage of free expert advice at STC to ensure they are making the best decisions.

“It’s crucial for students to talk to someone about their current situation,” says Dr. Garcia. “Advisers really care about our students, and they want to make sure students get on the correct career pathway.”

August is typically the school’s busiest month for academic advising, with advisors making upwards of 10,000 contacts to help students plan for brighter futures. Dr. Garcia urges students who are looking for direction to take advantage of the free service.

In the end, Dr. Garcia says, while COVID may have thrown us a curveball, there’s no need for students to face the crisis alone.

“Anyone considering attending can contact us,” says Dr. Garcia. “It’s about turning a challenge into an opportunity.”

The check presentation is scheduled for 11 a.m. at STC’s Technology Campus Building E lobby located at 3700 W Military Hwy in McAllen.

This award will provide financial assistance for up to 50 students who have earned a significant number of semester credit hours, but have stopped attending prior to graduating with their Certificate, Associate’s or Bachelor’s degrees. The funding period is from June 1, 2020 through May 31, 2021.

This award aligns with Strategic Goal #4, Foster Student Success, by providing students with accessible pathways and effective support structures that promote persistence, educational attainment, academic achievement, as well as personal and professional growth.

“We aim to provide scholarships to reengage adult students who have earned a significant number of semester credit hours, but have stopped attending prior to graduating with their Certificate, Associate’s or Bachelor’s degrees,” said STC Interim Dean of Enrollment Services Miguel Carranza. “Financial assistance in the form of scholarships plays a critical role in encouraging adult students to re-enroll and ultimately provides them with the confidence to finish what they started.”

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What: Check presentation by the Rio South Texas Education and Community Development Foundation, Destination Graduation Program to South Texas College

When: June 25 at 11 a.m.

Where: STC’s Technology Campus Building E lobby located at 3700 W Military Hwy in McAllen.

Why: Financial assistance for up to 50 students who have earned a significant number of semester credit hours, but have stopped attending prior to graduating with their Certificate, Associate’s or Bachelor’s degrees.

STC will distribute over $10 million in federal funds to eligible students from the United States Coronavirus Aid Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act grant, recently awarded to the College.

“We are so proud of our students for hanging in there with us as we made the transition to online courses,” said Matthew Hebbard, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.

“Our students are dealing with job losses and very difficult hardships. They are balancing economic stresses, the needs of their families, and keeping up with their assignments. We are so grateful that we can give them direct financial help,” Hebbard said.

An application is now available to students. Students should check their student email and the College website for information on how to apply. The application must be submitted online, as campus services are very limited and by appointment only. Students who have questions can email stccares@southtexascollege.edu for assistance.

“It’s been a fast-moving process,” Hebbard said. “We were extremely excited about the initial announcement, but we needed more federal guidance on how to distribute the funds. Many institutions in Texas and in the nation had a lot of questions and the Department of Education provided further clarification on a number of issues,” he added.

Based on federal guidelines, dual credit students and students who were enrolled exclusively in an online program on March 13, 2020 are not eligible. Further guidelines from the Department of Education clarified that international students, DREAMers, and DACA recipients are not eligible for CARES Act emergency grants.

“We truly want to help all of our students as we know this has impacted many and we hope other options become available students who do not qualify,” Hebbard stated.

The maximum aid per student is $500. Students must fill out an application to be considered. A committee will review each application and aid amounts will be based on need. The College will send out the aid checks as quickly as possible directly to students. The funds are grants and do not need to be paid back to the College.

Appointments will be available for students dealing with issues they are unable to clear online or remotely including enrollment, financial aid, counseling, and advising.

“We are not open for normal business,” said Dr. David Plummer, Vice-President of Information Services, Planning & Strategic Initiatives.

“We have received approvals to provide limited essential services that can’t be done online, and Hidalgo and Starr Counties are also allowing some of our limited technical programs to conduct labs that have a required hands-on component like welding and allied health programs,” Dr. Plummer said. “All of these are by appointment only as we need to limit the amount of students on campus at any one time.”

STC will still be ensuring it is following local, state, and federal guidelines for scheduled appointments including making sure there are no more than 10 people per group, social distancing, and the use of personal protective equipment.

“We are working with health departments within the counties to make sure we adhere to work safe measures,” said Matthew Hebbard, Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “In my area, we have appointments for limited essential services for admissions and financial aid, we have virtual services online and call center support. That’s what we are doing at this point. The goal is to get limited essential services at our campuses but they are not officially opening.”

Students can find a range of services at www.southtexascollege.edu, by clicking on the COVID-19 Updates banner.

To request an appointment for student support services, click here:

https://www.southtexascollege.edu/go/appt.

For open labs and computer reservations, visit:

https://library.southtexascollege.edu/services/reservations

STC’s student food pantry will also be available to eligible students. The Department of Student Activities and Wellness will be placing calls to students registered with the pantry who are seeking to make an appointment to receive food assistance, and will distribute pantry items using a curb-side system on select days.

“We have a pantry at Pecan, Starr, and Mid Valley Campuses, and we will open them by appointment only for students,” said Elibariki Nguma, Director of Student Activities and Wellness. “We already have students who are registered with the food pantry so those are the students we are going to call to make an appointment. We also plan to enroll new applicants.”

For additional information on pantry services please email your full name, address, phone number, and student “A” number to tamarsha@southtexascollege.edu at the Mid Valley Campus, clopez74@southtexascollege.edu at the Pecan Campus, or elopez1@southtexascollege.edu at the Starr County Campus.

In order to assist students who have a compelling need to use a lab computer in order to complete their coursework however, a limited number of Open Labs computers and printers are being made available during this time.

STC has begun offering services at its Starr County Campus by appointment only.

Services are available at Starr County Campus Building B-208 CLE Open Lab Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. via appointment.

Students can make a reservation by accessing the following link at https://library.southtexascollege.edu/services/reservations.

The proposed revision to the Academic Calendar was a approved by the South Texas College Board of Trustees, April 23.

Students who feel the need to withdraw should speak to their instructor to discuss if this option is best for them.

In addition, South Texas College would like to remind everyone of the following options available:

• Pass/No-Pass Grading Policy
• Summer Pell Grants
• Open Lab Reservation
• Online Tutoring

          A. If a student was awarded the Pell grant under full-time status (12+ credit hours) for both Fall and Spring, they may be eligible to receive an additional semester Pell grant award for Summer; we call this Year Round Pell. Here are some of the requirements to receive the Year Round Pell grant during Summer:

· Be Pell Grant eligible

· Be registered for at least 6 credit hours*

· Be meeting Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress

· Have not reached the Pell Lifetime Eligibility Limit

· If registered for less than 6 credit hours, students must complete 2020-2021 FAFSA at fafsa.ed.gov to be considered for Pell Grant funds in the summer.

*Please note that if students register for 3 credit hours Summer I and 3 credit hours Summer II, their aid will not disburse until Summer II

          B. If a student was not awarded 100% of their Pell grant funds because they did not enroll full-time (12+ credit hours) during Fall and/or Spring,:

• they may use the remainder amount of their current award year Pell Grant amount with no minimum credit hours requirement to receive it, assuming they meet Pell eligibility requirements, or
• they may receive a combination of the Pell remainder amount and Year Round Pell, up to a semester Pell grant award, depending on enrollment, if they meet the requirements discussed above.

For Senate Bill 1528 students, although the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant (TEOG) is not available for Summer semester, we are able to assist students who maintain Financial Aid Satisfactory Academic Progress, as long as funds are available. Please note that these funds may only cover a portion of their bill.

Students may view their award offers on JagNet or they may contact the financial aid office at finaid@southtexascollege.edu for more information.

Summer I classes begin June 1 and Summer II classes begin July 8. Register now! 

https://www.southtexascollege.edu/register/index.html

The Comptroller’s office recently published Texas' Community Colleges: Statewide Overview, highlighting the tremendous positive impact that two-year schools have on both students and the state.

The overview shows that community colleges generate more than $820 million dollars in the South Texas region alone, and the rewards are much more than monetary. In Fall 2017, a whopping 46 percent of the state’s higher education students enrolled in community colleges, more than any other type of higher learning institution. That’s about 700,000 community college students who found pathways to college degrees and skills to enter the workforce.

The high demand for community college education comes as no surprise to Keith Patridge, CEO and President of the McAllen Economic Development Corporation. He has been working with South Texas College since its inception to help create jobs and generate revenue for residents. He knows how crucial community colleges are for economic stability and growth.

“It’s really been the engine that has driven a lot of growth that we’ve had.”

According to Patridge, the key to developing the McAllen economy in the first place was encouraging companies to move into the area. Now, those companies are looking to their local community colleges to build their workforce through professional development opportunities.

For instance, South Texas College partnered with the McAllen Economic Development Corporation 15 years ago to develop training for customer care centers, which continues to attract new call centers and jobs to the area. Not only do students learn skills that are applicable across industries, but their employers also provide flexible working hours and tuition reimbursement to encourage their employees to continue their education.

“Everybody wins,” Patridge concludes about the partnership, which provides direct access to careers paying starting wages of up to $60,000 per year. “This has allowed literally thousands of our kids to not only develop the skills they need, but also to get an education without going into debt.”

It’s just one example of how Texas community colleges are making education affordable to all. In the 2017-18 school year alone the state’s community colleges ranked as the fourth-lowest for tuition and fees in the entire country, averaging just $2,209 a year, according to Exhibit 2 of the overview. In comparison, the overview lists the average cost of one year at a Texas four-year public school as $8,375. The savings are substantial. That’s why community college students graduate with about half the debt of a four-year student.

“Community colleges offer great value,” says Hegar. They can bridge the journey to a four-year degree, provide an entryway into the workforce, or both. Community colleges are an accessible and affordable way for students to experience the benefits of higher education.

South Texas College is also among the first community colleges in the nation to offer dual credit programs, through which students can earn up to an associate degree before they get their high school diploma. And, they can do it tuition-free, saving students a total of more than $200 million over the past 20-plus years.

Equally impressive is the fact that South Texas College is one of only a select few community colleges in the state to offer bachelor's degrees in Applied Technology and Applied Science! This makes the pathway to higher education even more accessible in the Rio Grande Valley.

“They now offer four bachelor’s degrees that are focused on both the technical skill sets to do the job, as well as management,” says Patridge. “It’s working really well.”

When it comes to education and career options, community colleges like STC can jump-start student success. According to the Overview, in 2018, workers in the South Texas area who took college classes or earned their degrees were paid an average of $4,000 more than those with a high school diploma. According to the Comptroller’s report on the South Texas Region, this boosted the cumulative wages in the area to nearly $820 million per year.

“That’s good for South Texas, and that’s good for Texas as a whole,” Hegar says.

One thing we know is that during this time, community colleges will continue to do what they do best: provide affordable education and worthwhile workforce training.

“During every economic downturn, community colleges have offered a low-cost option for students … to become more marketable and better prepared to take on new jobs once the economy recovers,” says Hegar.

The agility of community colleges like STC will continue to provide options for getting ahead of any changes that occur in the workforce and the economy. At a university, according to Patridge, program development can take as long as three or four years. Meanwhile, in response to industry needs, STC has created programs in less than six weeks — and in some instances, less than a week. 

South Texas College recently added another baccalaureate degree, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Amid the current health crisis of COVID-19, community colleges remain a steadfast source of resources, support, and accessible education, says Hegar.

“I see South Texas College and all of Texas’ community colleges as critical to ensuring that Texas will emerge from this challenge stronger and better prepared for the next cycle of economic growth,” says Hegar.

MCALLEN, TX (March 6, 2020)

The event will take place on the STC Pecan Campus in McAllen, from 6 to 8:00 pm in the Student Union, West Ballroom (Building U).

Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Epidemiologist Steven Hinojosa will be the featured speaker. Discussion will include the source and spread of Covid19 Coronavirus, how to prevent its spread, symptoms of the virus, myths vs. facts and other important information. The community is invited.

Who: STC Biology Department

What: Hosting Covid19 Coronavirus Talk with Epidemiologist Steven Hinojosa

Where: South Texas College Pecan Campus, Student Union West Ballroom (Building U)

When: 6 to 8:00 pm

For more information about the Covid19 Cornovirus Talk, contact Atenea Garza at (956) 872-6459 or send email to agarz297@southtexascollege.edu.