STC EVOLVING: New Era of Opportunity and Growth

New South Texas College President Ricardo Solis outlines his vision for the College and community

It’s the community colleges that are now perfectly positioned to provide the next generation of skills providers in the nation, according to new South Texas College president Dr. Ricardo J. Solis.

Drawing upon a vision that includes continuous innovation for returning students and adults, Dr. Solis also adds ongoing globalization as his bold strategy to enhance STC’s current position as national leader in baccalaureate program offerings and other pioneering initiatives.

The goal now is to transform the college in preparation for the many new and emerging opportunities that lie ahead.

“Our vision is to develop the latest and most innovative high demand programs for the community,” Dr. Solis said. “Most importantly, it’s about using the most creative forms of our funding availability in providing the most relevant programs, such as short-term diplomas and certificates, while at the same time developing long-term transferability programs for our citizens so they can be able to continue returning to the college to upskill and reskill their careers.”

Dr. Solis is the former president of Laredo College, and previously served as Executive Dean for Academic, Professional, and Technical Education at Gateway Community College, Maricopa Community Colleges, in Phoenix, AZ.

Dr. Solis boasts an impressive resume in international trade and economic development. He is world-traveled, and accustomed to working in diverse regions from Mexico to South America, and half a world away in China.

In his forties, after two decades in the private sector, Dr. Solis returned to college to earn a Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration – Community College Leadership from the University of Texas. Dr. Solis says he can relate to today’s STC students returning to school for want of a better life.

“Given the present economic imperative of finding a qualified workforce, STC will continue evolving and being at the forefront in being able to provide for the economic recovery not just for the Rio Grande Valley, but for the entire global economy," Dr. Solis said.

“An example that sustains this vision is the present economic situation with global supply taking place, which clearly demonstrates the mission of STC is the best alternative to providing careers, professions, and opportunities to our students, but also meet the business needs of the Rio Grande Valley community.”