2012 ANNUAL REPORT
HARLINGEN
ethos | CHANGE IS IN THE AIR
Change “ And that is how change happens. One gesture. One person. One moment at a time. � - Libba Bray, The Sweet Far Thing
Karen Marroquin La Feria, Texas Education & Training (ET) “TSTC has changed my life in a good way. I am more responsible and decisive about my studies and career.”
TSTC has changed my life in a good way.
Message from the President
Greetings! Margaret Mead is credited with saying, “Never underestimate the power of a small group of people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.” At Texas State Technical College Harlingen we are working to change our world, one student, and one class at a time. Our administrators, our faculty and our staff are hard at work educating students while promoting values. Together, every year we are improving lives through education, new programs and new opportunities. Every day here at TSTC I see students of all ages taking that first step toward the dream of an education. Driven by a desire for a better life, they come forward, make that one phone call, take that first step that leads to change. It’s the kind of change that impacts not just one person’s life, but a whole family, even a community. More often than not that change for the better lasts for generations. In this year’s Annual Report you’ll meet some of those amazing students striving for change. You’ll meet some of those TSTC educators who are inspiring students of all ages to reach for the stars. And, you’ll meet the TSTC supporters who help us succeed as a change agent in our community and the state. Indeed, change is in the air…
we are working to change our world, one student, and one class at a time.
Sincerely,
Cesar Maldonado, P.E. President
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
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06 11 21 31 37 45 53 61
LEADERSHIP COMMUNITY SUCCESS FACULTY STAFF PROGRAMS CAMPUS GIVING NUMBERS
Leadership
Chancellor TSTC System
Board of Regents Mike Reeser Chancellor, TSTC System West Texas Mike Reeser has served as Chancellor of TSTC System since 2010. Prior to that appointment, Reeser served as president of TSTC West Texas for six years. He has a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University and a Master of Business from UT Arlington.
Ellis M. Skinner II Chair Spicewood, Texas 2009 - 2013 Ellis M. Skinner II is president of Ellis M. Skinner Company, Inc., a construction services company in Dallas. He is also a partner in Pegasus Texas Construction.
Joe M. Gurecky Vice Chair Rosenberg, Texas 2006 - 2017 Joe M. Gurecky is the owner/founder of Gurecky Manufacturing Services. He served the city of Rosenberg for 16 years as mayor and council member.
Linda McKenna Executive Committee Place 1 Harlingen, Texas 2009 - 2015 Linda McKenna is the vice president of Physician Alignment, CHRISTUS Spohn Medical Group out of Corpus Christi. The Harlingen native has a master’s degree in Public Administration from UT Pan American. 06
ethos | change is in the air
The TSTC System is governed by a nine-member Board of Regents and operated under the direction of a system-wide chancellor. These regents, who provide a statewide perspective, are appointed by the governor to six-year terms. The board meets quarterly to provide leadership and enact policies for the successful management and operation of the system. Gene Seaman Executive Committee Place 2 Corpus Christi, Texas 2008 - 2013 Gene Seaman served the State of Texas as a state representative from 1996 to 2006 for District 32. He has devoted much of his career to the insurance industry, first for Prudential and then for Mutual of New York.
Joe K. Hearne Dallas, Texas 2006 - 2017 Joe K. Hearne is a retired quality assurance engineering and supply chain manager from ELCAN Optical Technologies – Texas, a division of Raytheon Systems. He presently is serving as a substitute teacher for the Dallas I.S.D.
Penny Forrest Waco, Texas 2009 - 2015
James Virgil (J.V.) Martin Sweetwater, Texas 2004 - 2015
Penny Forrest is the librarian and museum curator of The Scottish Rite Foundation of Texas. She received her bachelor’s degree from Baylor University, and pursued graduate classes in library and information studies from Texas Woman’s University.
J.V. Martin is president and CEO of First Financial Bank in Sweetwater, where he is currently the chairman of the bank board. He is a graduate of Texas Tech University and Southwestern Graduate School of Banking.
John K. Hatchel Woodway, Texas 2011 - 2017
Mike Northcutt Longview, Texas 2002 - 2013
John K. Hatchel is the newest member of the board. Retired from Texas First Group where he served as a Municipal Consultant, Hatchel has served on numerous state boards. He has a bachelor’s degree from West Texas A&M University.
Northcutt is president of the Longview Branch of Southside Bank - Tyler. He earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin.
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
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Leadership
TSTC Harlingen Administration
Dr. Cesar Maldonado, P.E. President Vice Chancellor for Institutional Research and Commercialization
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Teri Lyn Zamora Executive Vice President for Financial and Administrative Services Associate Vice Chancellor for Institutional Research
Adam C. Hutchison Provost
Cathy Maples Vice President for Student Development
Dr. Stella Garcia Chief of Staff
Mary Adams Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management
Barbara Bennett Associate Vice President of Student Learning (Engineering/Industrial/Allied Health)
Dr. Regina Garza Mitchell Associate Vice President of Student Learning (Education & Humanities/ Computers)
Javier Deleon Associate Vice President of College Readiness & Advancement
Charles Smith Associate Vice President of Administrative Services
Our Ideals Be a world class, unique, globally recognized leader in science, technology, engineering, life science education and academics. Our Focus In support of the vision and mission of the Texas State Technical College Harlingen community, we strive to reach these ideals by creating and maintaining: • stakeholder commitment and enthusiasm for education. • a culture dedicated to integrity, morale, teamwork and service. • success for all stakeholders.
We place a priority on beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that promulgate the highest standards of excellence.
development that encourages job enthusiasm, safety, and effective teamwork through:
We Value Our Students
• involvement of all members of our TSTC team in our efforts.
We are a partner with our students in providing high-quality education by: • supplying them with relevant programs in the current career environment. • preparing them for lifelong learning.
• clear communication.
• professionalism and pride in our work, actions, and appearance. We Embrace Our Employers
• establishing reliability and trust with our students to ensure mutually beneficial long-term relationships.
We seek to form strategic relationships with employers to create a commitment to continuous improvement in quality and in recognition of the value of intellectual capital.
We Prize Our Faculty and Staff
We Embrace Our Benefactors
We seek to provide an environment of professional
Our benefactors are integral to the success of the TSTC
community and are an invaluable resource. We Promote Technology We are a science and technology leader in education and therefore committed to maintain state-of-theart processes, systems, and equipment in our dedication to excellence. We Achieve Success We recognize that sustained success is necessary for the benefit of all our stakeholders. We nurture our students, employers, benefactors, faculty, and staff to reflect our investment we make together in Texas State Technical College Harlingen.
THIS IS OUR VISION, THIS IS OUR MISSION.
Pedro Chaires Harlingen, Texas Biomedical Equipment Technology (BET) “Since I graduated from high school in three years, TSTC has helped me grow up quickly by becoming more responsible and more outgoing.�
TSTC has helped me become more responsible and more outgoing.
President Maldonado returns
TSTC opens Raymondville
Corporate Education gets
TSTC hosts 2nd Annual
to Crockett Elementary
Satellite this fall. The center
$353,000 job training grant
Robotics Competition.
to talk to students about
offers adult education and
from the Texas Workforce
The event attracted aspiring
educational opportunities.
after school tutoring for
Commission. The funds will
engineers from high schools
current students.
be used to train over
Valley-wide and as far away
300 employees.
as Corpus Christi.
11 COMMUNITY
Community
Dr. Maldonado Launches Public School Celebration Your imagination begins with you. Imagine, explore, discover.
Texas State Technical College President Cesar Maldonado returned to his original alma mater in Harlingen to talk to students about educational opportunities at TSTC. This, during a kickoff celebration for Texas Public Schools Week. Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD) held its main ceremony March 5 at Crockett Elementary, where Dr. Maldonado began his formal education as a boy. “Once a bear, always a bear,” Maldonado said to start his presentation and the audience responded with a loud cheer at the mention of its symbolic mascot.
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“Your imagination begins with you. The people who instill that imagination in you are your parents and your teachers. With that you can explore and discover all the amazing possibilities for your lives,” said Maldonado, who also serves as president of the HCISD Board of Trustees. More than 18,500 students attend 28 campuses within HCISD, which joined more than 1,000 school districts to mark the occasion. Maldonado urged children to follow the Texas Public Schools Week motto of “Imagine, Explore, Discover.”
He cited how interests about careers in law enforcement, transportation, public safety, renewable energy, and medical technology could become realities for each individual if students pursue academic opportunities that lead to TSTC or universities. “It doesn’t make any difference whether you’re a boy or a girl, you can be whatever you want to be,” he added. “TSTC will help you go wherever you want to go.
Rio Grande Valley educators look at innovative ways to improve student access and success.
TSTC Active in Vista Summit Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen administrators and students have spent the year participating in the VISTA Summit, an initiative to bring Rio Grande Valley educational leaders and community partners together to dialogue on pressing education issues. Sponsored by the University of Texas System (UT), local leaders have worked to explore efficient, effective ways to serve students, the education system, communities, and workforce partners. “The summit’s proposals fit exactly with what TSTC has been working on with its higher
education partners as well as the school districts,” said Dr. Cesar Maldonado. “The cooperation between TSTC and the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District to offer its Early College High School on our campus is an excellent example of educational innovation.” Dr. Maldonado has served as moderator for summit panels including one that featured students’ input. TSTC engineering student Sotero Regalado III encouraged improved student counseling.
They need to understand their options,” Regalado told the summit audience of more than 200 guests from high schools, colleges, universities, businesses and philanthropic agencies. Among the education proposals for South Texas being discussed: transition-tocollege coaches as counselors, expansion of early college high schools and dual credit programs, and establishment of an academy to enhance training for master teachers.
“Too many students are going into college really lost. TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
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Community
College Readiness and Advancement team set up shop in Raymondville.
TSTC Brings Education and Training to Willacy County This fall, Raymondville and Willacy County leaders joined Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen officials to formally open the college’s new satellite center and advisement services in the Raymondville Rural Technical Training Center. “Statistics show a very large, youthful segment of the county’s population could attract employers,” Willacy County Judge John Gonzalez told a crowd of about 100 people. “Unfortunately, statistics also show that up to 50 percent of your youth lack sufficient education for employment. The programs through TSTC and the partnerships forming at this center will help us improve our economic development opportunities.” City Manager Eleazar Garcia Jr. said that GED courses at the TSTC Raymondville Satellite will add more job training options and career planning advisement at the Raymondville Rural Technical
Training Center located on Farm-to-Market Road 3168 across from Raymondville High School. The Ramondville Satellite offers GED instruction, Accuplacer training, and GED and TSTC developmental tutoring. Those who pass the GED and decide to further their education will also receive assistance with college financial aid applications. Instructional courses to prepare for GED reading, writing, math, science and social studies exams began in early June. Desiree Hernandez of Raymondville, who works for the Willacy County treasurer, became one of the first students to complete the TSTC class in Raymondville and pass the GED exams.
Currently 75 students from Willacy County area are enrolled in GED classes. Another dozen students are taking advantage of the Accuplacer Prep Class. Accuplacer test scores assess a high school student’s reading, writing, math and computer skills. A higher test score can mean a student goes straight into college-level courses instead of having to take remedial classes. TSTC is also offering tutoring to TSTC students who live in Willacy County.
“I liked the class because the instructor took the time to show us again and again until we all mastered the material. Some of the students also benefited from one-on-one tutorial assistance,” she said. TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
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Community
TWC Chairman Andres Alcantar signs over job training grant.
TSTC, Companies Share Job Training Grant Almost 300 employees at four companies are now eligible for job training services through Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen thanks to a $389,173 grant from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). Officials from ITD Precision, Mexican Snacks Inc., Penn Aluminum International LLC and Valley International Cold Storage Inc. joined TWC Chairman Andres Alcantar, Texas District 27 Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr. and TSTC President Cesar Maldonado for the check signing ceremony at the University Center on the TSTC campus this past August. Dina L. Martin, director of Human Resources for Valley International Cold Storage in Harlingen, said that she received positive feedback from several employees who took the cardiopulmonary resuscitation course made 16
ethos | change is in the air
available by the Skills Development Fund grant. She plans to have 45 employees gain certification in fire extinguishing techniques and 70 employees undergo certification for forklift operation.
in bringing together higher education and business advancement. The state senator also thanked Alcantar for keeping the Rio Grande Valley economic development issues high on the TWC priority list.
Some of the other courses and training for the company will involve advanced manufacturing system controls on the production line, food handling certification, blueprint procedures for several departments, and online courses for hydraulics.
“The Skills Development Fund and partnerships like this are vital to our region to guarantee our competitiveness in the global marketplace,” he added.
“Employers know what they want and it’s up to higher education to help them realize their business goals,” Dr. Maldonado said. “In this case, the TWC check is an investment from the state.” Lucio praised Dr. Maldonado for his foresight and leadership
Alcantar said that improving education and training for students and employees creates a bright outlook for the Texas workforce. He cited several industry magazines that rank Texas first nationally as the best state to do business.
Continuing Education Program Offers Student Second Chance Last year, Julie Montemayor of Santa Rosa was five months pregnant when she was laid off from her job at the local convenience store. The 27-year-old mother of three and high school dropout, already struggling to make ends meet, decided it was time to go back to school. A phone call to Texas State Technical College (TSTC) put her in touch with the Adult Basic Education (ABE) Certification Pathways program where she learned she could get her GED and a certificate in the
“This is my second chance. In high school I didn’t have much of a GPA (grade point average) and here I’m ranking number one in my class. I try harder now for myself, my kids and my family,” said Montemayor. In addition to the EMS program, TSTC also offers a GED and certificate for the Phlebotomy and the Automotive Mechanics Programs. Director of Continuing Education Juan Leal said these programs are the right fit for those students who need to be job-ready in a short period of time.
families and can’t make the time commitment to a long-term education plan. We help make the program affordable through the use of sponsorships that come from hiring agencies and grants that help pay for tuition.” Workforce Solutions, Motivational Educational Training, Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement and the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services all contribute funds for student scholarships.
Emergency Medical Services
“These programs work well
Montemayor said she was
program all at the same time.
for people who already have
awarded funds to pay for her
tuition and books. The young mother says coming back to school without financial help wouldn’t have been possible. “If there’s someone thinking about coming back to school, I want them to know there’s help for you. TSTC can help you. I get help with my tuition and even my daycare. I’ve always wanted to do something in the medical field. Now here I am. I love it,” said Montemayor. Montemayor graduated as top student in the four-month long EMS program.
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
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Community
As parents, we have a responsibility to understand technology.
Seminar Addresses Internet Concerns
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ethos | change is in the air
Parents and educators attended a technology conference titled “Bridging the Technology Generation Gap” held in May at the Cultural Arts Center at Texas State Technical College Harlingen. Sponsored by the TSTC Women’s Leadership Institute and the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District Parental Involvement Department, speakers at the TSTC Cultural Arts Center outlined social and educational advancements in communications and offered tips on internet safety.
benefits of having my son
“I want to learn more about laptop computers and the
said that applications for
use it at home,” said Olivia Garcia of Harlingen as she and her son, Victor Aguilar, a sixth grader at Vernon Middle School, strolled through the exhibits. Aguilar said that he wants a laptop computer for use on school assignments and to chat with friends. “If I keep behaving well, save my allowance and keep my grades up, my mother will get me a laptop,” he added. Dr. Regina Garza-Mitchell, associate vice president for student learning at TSTC, smartphones and computer
pads or notebooks extend education collaboration beyond classrooms and normal school hours. New computer software increasingly improves the learning environment with simulations and visual training images. But, her youngsters are required to turn off cellphones and laptops at 8 p.m. weeknights and set the devices on the kitchen table. “As parents, we have a responsibility to understand technology, both its positive and negative uses,” she said.
Second Annual Robotics Competition Attracts Hundreds Harlingen South took top honors at the BEST (Boosting Engineering Science and Technology) WARP XX Robotics Performance Competition held at Texas State Technical College this year winning the right to go on to the state tournament. Hawks team president, high school junior and aspiring engineer Marc Rodriguez said they worked hard for this victory, staying after school and coming in on weekends. “It’s great, awesome, and fantastic. We really just wanted to place; so winning is just great. Football players live for Fridays, we work for this day. Now we’re in the playoffs!”
Fifteen teams from as far away as Corpus Christi competed in the tournament-style engineering battle. This year’s competition was space-themed with teams having to build robots that rode up an elevator tower transporting cargo balls and fuel bottles to a cargo ship. Organizer and TSTC Associate Vice President Javier Deleon said the goal is to inspire students to pursue engineering and science degrees.
Oklahoma. They come from right here. We’re working with local schools to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers to all our students.” This is the second year TSTC has hosted the BEST Robotics Competition. Because of the interest from area schools, Deleon is predicting next year’s competition will double in size.
One of the main objectives is to teach students that learning is fun.
“One of the main objectives is to teach students that learning is fun. The leaders and builders of tomorrow don’t just come out of D.C. or TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
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Cristhian Cuevas Arroyo City, Texas Auto Collision Technology (AUB) “TSTC has changed my perspective of myself. I now know I can work with my hands and do things by myself in a male-dominated industry.�
I now know I can compete in a male-dominated industry.
TSTC top students visit the
Surgical Technology graduate
TSTC students register over
Dozens of TSTC students
Nation’s Capital and attend
excels in the classroom and
1,000 people to vote as
took part in 2012 Make a
the Hispanic Association of
in life. The army veteran
part of Operation MUSTang
Difference Day.
Colleges and Universities
graduated top of his class.
Vote. The SGA students also
They participated in a
sponsored candidate forums.
Harlingen landscaping project.
Conference.
21 SUCCESS
Success
TSTC Student Success Profiles
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ethos | change is in the air
Matt Lashbrook Mechatronics
Orlando Vasquez Aviation Maintenance Technology
Sylvia Hinojosa Dental Assistant
Matt Lashbrook is a stellar student in the Mechatronics Program. The Rio Hondo native is a Chevron Scholarship recipient and has excelled at electronics and robotics associated with the engineering program. He hopes to get employment with an oil company after graduation in summer 2013.
Orlando Vasquez is a STARS Scholarship and Lozano Long Scholarship recipient seeking an Associate Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology. Vasquez is the first in his family to go to college, a fact that has inspired this Harlingen native to pursue and excel at his academic studies.
Sylvia Hinojosa is a STARS Scholarship and Lozano Long Scholarship recipient. A President’s Honor Roll recipient, Hinojosa has completed the Dental Assistant Program and Dental Hygiene Program. She is currently preparing for the national board examinations for state licensure to become a Registered Dental Hygienist.
Johanna Garcia Peña Nursing
Coretta Miles Digital Media Design Technology
Ruth Treviño Digital Media Design Technology
Johanna Garcia Peña is a STARS Scholarship and Lozano Long Scholarship recipient. The single mother of three boys returned to school at the age of 30. Garcia Peña is working towards an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Preparatory. She’ll be graduating in May 2013 and plans to pursue her vocational nursing license at that time.
Coretta Miles serves as vice president of the Student Government Association. She’s a Digital Media Design Technology student who plans to continue her education and pursue a bachelor’s degree in marketing. In addition to her many SGA duties, the Corpus Christi native works as a community assistant for residents in the campus dorms.
Ruth Treviño, an Eagle Pass native, is currently serving her second term as president of the Student Government Association. Most recently, she led students in the very successful MUSTang Vote Initiative registering over 1,000 new South Texas voters. Treviño is a Digital Media Design Technology student.
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
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Success
TSTC Students Visit Nation’s Capital These students have the ability to go anywhere and do anything.
Texas State Technical College students came home to the Rio Grande Valley from Washington D.C. with renewed excitement over their studies and career goals and more determined than ever to achieve academic and personal success. The four, Nursing Preparatory student Lisa Ortega, Biology student Daniela Sanchez, Computer Networking and Security Technology student Robert Peña, and Architectural Design and Engineering Graphics Technology student Jesus Trejo attended the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) Conference. The annual conference brings together representatives from federal agencies, private companies and
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educational institutions to make students aware of leadership responsibilities, job opportunities, internship options and scholarships for higher degrees.
This is the second year TSTC sends students to the HACU Conference and there are already plans to send another group to Washington D. C. next year.
“The reason I wanted to participate in the HACU Conference was to make my family proud and to encourage my brother and sister to also try to achieve their dreams, just like I have achieved them,” said Trejo.
“I hope the message that they took from this trip is that they have the ability to go anywhere and do anything. TSTC is just the first step on their path,” said Dr. Regina Garza-Mitchell, the associated vice president of Student Learning.
The TSTC students, all with grade point averages above 3.0, were chosen from among dozens of students who applied for the chance to represent the college in the nation’s capital. TSTC provided the students with scholarships for travel and meals.
Garza-Mitchell and Dr. Daniel Gonzalez accompanied the students to the nation’s capital.
Military Veteran Graduates with Honors Whether protecting his nation or protecting patients and his family, Juan Mendiola Jr. takes care of people. The Surgical Technology student from Texas State Technical College (TSTC) and military veteran graduated as the ST valedictorian at Summer Commencement 2012. Mendiola enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve in 2006 and began basic training after he graduated from Harlingen High School in 2007. He gained the rank of specialist E-4 during deployment to Iraq for one year in 2010. After his service he returned to enroll at TSTC. “A college education opened doors for me and I could get more medical experience by earning an Associate of Applied Science degree in Surgical Technology than in any other program at TSTC,” he said. Mendiola is the first person in his family to complete middle school, high school and college. His father is unemployed and his mother occasionally finds part-time work, so he devotes his military benefits to the family’s financial support. Mendiola is now a surgical technologist and he plans to start work on his bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
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Success
This was the first year that TSTC administered MAARS which includes $320,000 from federal funds.
MAARS Students Excel Seventy high school students from throughout the Rio Grande Valley are gaining education rewards that include a financial incentive to pass summer camp classes at Texas State Technical College (TSTC). The Migrant Academic Achievement Residential Summer Program (MAARS) included students from Laredo, Mission, Sharyland, PharrSan Juan-Alamo, Weslaco, Raymondville, Harlingen and San Benito. The courses allowed students to recover credits toward a higher grade level and advance them closer to high school graduation. Each student received $100 every two weeks for passing scores and good behavior. The final payoff for graduates was certificates 26
ethos | change is in the air
and $900 at a closing ceremony on July 18 in the TSTC Cultural Arts Center after completing course grades of “C” or higher. “The six-and-one-half week MAARS courses will substitute for two full semester high school classes that I otherwise would take this next year,” said Juan Hernandez, who will be a junior at Harlingen High School this coming fall. His MAARS courses included Algebra II, English II and Machining Technology. This was the first year that TSTC administered MAARS which includes $320,000 from federal funds for students’ tuition, meals, housing, supplies and books, said Adan Treviño, program director. TSTC hired advisors and certified
instructors for the summer camp that’s designed to place high school students in a college environment to provide them with hands-on training and perspectives about possible careers. “I wanted to get the college experience,” said William Cepeda, who will be a senior at San Benito High School. “I like the social interaction of meeting people from across the Rio Grande Valley.” The MAARS camp is implemented through the Center for Science & Math Education within the TSTC College Readiness & Advancement Department.
Success
SGA reaches its ambitious voter registration goal. Over 1,000 people are ready for the polls.
TSTC Students Rally Potential Voters Operation MUSTang Vote, a student-driven, voter registration initiative at Texas State Technical College succeeded in reaching its goal of signing up 1,000 new voters for election 2012. “We feel very accomplished. We did something positive for the community and the Rio Grande Valley. We take pride in the work we’ve done,” said Student Government President Ruth Treviño. The TSTC Student Government Association kicked off the nonpartisan election year effort after learning of grim voter statistics in South Texas – six 28
ethos | change is in the air
out of 10 people vote in the state of Texas and only two out of 10 people vote in the Rio Grande Valley. Inspired to improve those numbers, students worked with the Advocacy Alliance Center of Texas (AACTNow), a South Texas voter education network, to deputize more than 40 students. Students were aggressive in registering members of the campus community to vote. They set up registration booths at the cafeteria and campus events. They also made presentations in classrooms and new student orientations.
Director of Student Life Adele Clinton was among the staff members who worked to help TSTC students make a difference. “They’ve been committed to this project since last spring. They were tenacious in getting every student on campus educated on the importance of having a voice and getting registered. Operation MUSTang Vote may well be one of the most impactful initiatives students have ever undertaken.”
TSTC Students Make a Difference Patrick Davis of Harlingen, a Computer Systems Management Technology major at Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen, joined more than 100 of his peers for a National Make a Difference Day community service event in October. Students placed about 1,600 plants along terraces of the Highway 77-83 intersection at Dixieland Road. The college’s Office of Student Life and Student Government Association (SGA) proposed the project. Harlingen Proud provided $28,000 in funding, and the city Parks and Recreation Department
designed and managed the scenery upgrade. “I know people and organizations occasionally need help. That’s why I get involved to help build homes with Habitat for Humanity, join SGA activities, and assist TSTC clubs,” Davis said. He assisted a crew of seven students dig holes for plants and then applied mulch. “I felt tired when I finished, but I felt like I accomplished something for people.”
are extremely grateful to the leadership and generosity of Harlingen Proud and Keep Harlingen Beautiful for funding and organizing the landscaping project at Dixieland Road and the Expressway,” Boswell said. “This is a major gateway to our retail area and the entire city. It’s important to our families, visitors and investors that we keep our city looking clean and beautiful.”
TSTC students do their part to keep Harlingen, their college hometown, looking clean and beautiful.
Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell thanked and congratulated students on their success. “The citizens of Harlingen TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
29
Adele Clinton Harlingen, Texas Student Services “TSTC has afforded me the opportunity to change so many students’ lives for the better. They register as students and we transform them into leaders.”
TSTC has afforded me the opportunity to change so many students’ lives for the better.
Two TSTC educators are
Three TSTC employees
Members of the Office of
Hundreds of TSTC students
recognized for their work
received the Chancellor’s
Institutional Research were
and staff members come out
in the classroom. Beyda
Award. They were chosen
honored with the President’s
for Generation Texas Day.
Ramirez and Virginia Serna
for advancing TSTC’s
Award for their SACS
It’s all part of a state effort to
received the Excellence in
new direction.
reporting. First time the
increase college enrollment.
Teaching Award 2012.
award has gone to a group.
31 FACULTY STAFF
Faculty Staff
Faculty & Staff Awards 2012
Excellence in Teaching Award Virginia M. Serna Full-Time Instructor
Excellence in Teaching Award Beyda M. Ramirez Full-Time Instructor
Staff Excellence Award Rebecca Zuniga Cashier
Staff Excellence Award Ruben Abarca Associate Project Manager
Serna is an Associate Professor with the English and Foreign Languages Department. She started at TSTC in 1996 as a part-time faculty member and became a full-time employee three years later. Today she teaches Spanish and Spanish literature classes. She was nominated by her students.
Ramirez has worked at TSTC for 18 years and has been a full-time instructor in the Medical Information Specialist/ Transcriptionist Program and the Health Information Technology Program since 2001. Ramirez is a Harlingen native and a TSTC alum.
Zuniga is a cashier with the Cafeteria Food Service Department. In addition to working the register, Zuniga can also be found assisting as a server behind the grill. A customer favorite, Zuniga is well known by all the cafeteria patrons.
Abarca has been with TSTC for four years and works in General Services as an Associate Project Manager and is in charge of small and large-scale building renovations on campus. His latest project was the major renovation of the Consolidated Student Services Center.
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ethos | change is in the air
Staff Excellence Award Elizabeth Medrano Accounting Representative The La Feria native joined TSTC as an Accounting Representative in the Accounts Payable Department 3 years ago. The TSTC alum was recognized for her customer service skills. Medrano says she loves her job and feels like she “won the lotto” when she got hired at TSTC.
President’s Award Lisa Cavazos Executive Director Ester Bodnar Assistant Director Celina Hernandez IER Specialist Maria Magaña Administrative Assistant Gus Perez System Analyst 1
This year the President’s Award, usually given to an individual for commitment and dedication to TSTC, was given to a group of people for their teamwork on the SACS Assessment Report in the wake of a cited warning. The group from Institutional Effectiveness Research worked all year to compile data and information on student
to faculty ratio, length of distance learning programs and assessment of student learning outcomes. Because of the group’s successful research and reporting, TSTC was removed from warning status in early December of 2012.
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
33
Faculty Staff
2013 Chancellor’s Award Recipients
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ethos | change is in the air
Each year Cabinet members nominate several faculty and staff members for the coveted Chancellor’s Excellence Award. This year’s Harlingen nominees were chosen for their contributions to advancing TSTC’s new direction. The nominees will join top performers from other colleges at the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development award ceremony to be held in Austin in May 2013.
Mary Castañon Assistant to the Provost
Hector Yanez Department Chair/Senior Instructor
Mary Prepejchal Director of Human Resources
Castañon currently serves as Assistant to the Provost in the President’s Office. She’s been at TSTC since 2000 and got her start working for higher education in the Tech Prep Office.
Yanez is a Department Chair and Senior Instructor in the Drafting and Design Technology Program. He’s been at TSTC for 22 years and is currently working on his doctorate degree in Educational Leadership.
Prepejchal has been a dedicated employee with TSTC since 1985 and has served as Director of Human and Organizational Development since 2000.
TSTC Participates in Generation Texas Day A crowd of Texas State Technical College Harlingen (TSTC) students and employees clad in colorful TSTC apparel gathered to support the second annual GenTX (Generation Texas) Day to increase college enrollment in May. Generation TX is a statewide, grassroots movement creating a culture of college and career readiness that organizers hope will lead to the most successful generation ever. “Our students and employees always are great ambassadors
for TSTC and higher education,”
TSTC G-Force students attended
said Director of Student
the GenTX rally May 4 at the
Development Dora Olivares,
Student Services Building.
who supervises many
The G-Force students are part
recruitment activities. “It’s
of a statewide work-study
more than one event on one
mentorship program created
day. This year, we invite the
with the passage of Senate
entire community to join us
Bill 1050 by the 80th Texas
in encouraging more high
Legislature. G-Force students
school graduates to challenge
support GenTX on its missions
themselves to go further in
to advocate higher education
school. We encourage more
in community centers and
people to pursue career
high schools. Members of the
opportunities within their
G-Force program help future
grasp if they earn a
college students and their
college diploma.”
families find information and
Faculty and staff rally to encourage students to enroll. Over 5000 students attend TSTC Harlingen.
resources for college. TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
35
Peter Rocha Harlingen, Texas Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology (ACT) “TSTC has given me an opportunity to really start my life in terms of now I have a career instead of just having a job.�
Now I have a career instead of just having a job.
TSTC receives approval to
Record number of students
Dickies provides students
TSTC Wind Energy
start an RN program.
graduate from the High
in the Air Conditioning and
Technology students receive
The inaugural class of 24
School Equivalency Program.
Refrigeration Technology
OSHA training. The safety
students started classes
A majority of the students
program with new uniforms.
training will make WET
last fall.
plan to continue their
The company is celebrating its
students more employable
education at TSTC.
90th anniversary.
once they graduate.
37 PROGRAMS
Programs
New RN Program Added Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen began a Registered Nursing program this fall to meet the health-care needs of the medically under-served Rio Grande Valley. “Hospitals, clinics, doctors, and administrators that cooperate with TSTC have an urgent workforce demand for registered nurses. There is a shortage of medical professionals as the baby boomers age and the needs grow for more health care so this program is a perfect fit for the region and the state,” college President Dr. Cesar Maldonado said.
Twenty four students enroll in the inaugural Registered Nursing Program this fall.
The RN Program recently gained accreditation from the Texas Board of Nursing (TBN) rounding out the college’s Allied Health Technology Division which already includes Vocational Nursing (VN) and Nurse Assistant (NA) programs. The RN classes began in August and the new program represents the highest level of nurse training provided by two-year colleges.
38
ethos | change is in the air
“Our RN Program is designed to accommodate the college’s top students within the Allied Health Technology Division including those who spend one year to complete the Vocational Nursing Program. It’s a full RN program covering the full RN curriculum. Everything in this program will put graduates on track toward more success in their nursing career or in pursuing a bachelor’s degree,” RN Chair Rachel L. Wilson said.
HEP ACHIEVING STUDENT SUCCESS Sixty-seven students from the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) at Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen clad in blue caps and gowns stepped closer to higher education and their dream jobs this past summer. Graduate Julian Garza of Harlingen told the audience in the TSTC Cultural Arts Center that education allows the graduates to go beyond jobs as farmworkers. He traveled to Ohio and Oregon as a migrant laborer in his youth and more recently worked on his grandfather’s ranch near Rio Hondo. He credited his father and grandfather for teaching him how to persevere as family leaders through difficult times. He thanked his family for love, prayers and patience. “I have learned humility from the fact that hard work can be rewarding when I apply myself and give it everything I have got, one day at a time,” Garza said. “This achievement will allow me and my wife Jessica to give our four children a better future.”
Garza is now studying toward an Associate of Applied Science degree in Biomedical Equipment Technology, and he thanked the HEP faculty and staff for support. “At TSTC I got personal attention and the faculty gave me hope because they go the extra mile for every single student. I would tell anyone who’s serious about getting an education and getting a GED that there’s no way they’re going to walk out of TSTC without a diploma.” HEP graduate Lucia Almaguer of San Benito said that she began her education in Mexico, but as a youngster she missed education credits as she traveled with her family for field work in Ohio, Florida and Indiana. She held on to her dream of a career in health care and she plans to enroll in the college’s Medical Assistant Program.
she said. “I had good and bad experiences being a migrant worker, but now that I have received an opportunity to continue studying I can achieve my goal of working in the field of medicine.” HEP at TSTC is ranked number 10 nationally among colleges for productivity and effectiveness. More than 800 HEP students have earned GEDs at TSTC during the past 12 years.
At TSTC I got personal attention and the faculty gave me hope because they go the extra mile.
“You can go to college,” TSTC President Dr. Cesar Maldonado told graduates. “It’s within your reach and you can do it. We’re known for moving our students from the classroom into the workforce.” HEP is a federal program funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Migrant Education.
“With the help of my teachers, members of HEP, friends I made at TSTC, and my parents I succeeded in earning my GED,” TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
39
Programs
TSTC Prepares Chevron Employees Energy corporate giant Chevron hires Mechatronics Technology (MT) majors from Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen and many get on-the-job training even before actual graduation. Oz Mejia, a 2005 graduate of Lopez High School in Brownsville and a MT major, began work for Chevron prior to commencement. Alfonso Arjona of Weslaco, also left
behind TSTC classes to report for six months of operation and maintenance training with Chevron in August at Lovington, N.M. before completing his degree. “The Mechatronics Technology Program is well suited for entry-level opportunities in our oil fields because the TSTC experiences with mechanical and electronic equipment provide students with a
foundation to build on as they learn about our oil production,” said Greg Yoxsimer, human resources business partner for Chevron in Midland. “We recruit employees from all the TSTC system campuses and I always encourage young people to take a strong look at TSTC before they choose a college.” Mechatronics combines mechanical and electrical
systems through automation and computer control systems. Chevon employers say TSTC mechatronics students are well trained and come in with strong technology and communications skills needed to succeed.
PG41 dickies We’ve made
a lot of sacrifices to get me back to school. I really appreciate Dickies for donating these uniforms.
ACT Students Dress For Success Married with four kids, Santos Canales took a leap of faith when he decided to return to school. Canales enrolled in the Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technology (ACT) program at Texas State Technical College in order to pursue an associate’s degree and deem himself more attractive to potential employers. But the transition from full-time worker to full-time student hasn’t come without sacrifice. On Dec. 7, Dickies made life a little easier for Canales and 59 other ACT students at TSTC. Dickies, the global leader in performance work wear, launched a new test program for ACT students called “Tomorrow’s Workers Sponsored by Dickies” that will equip students with new work wear.
Each student received five shirts, five pants and a pair of work boots. The new wardrobe was valued at approximately $300. The Dickies team was on hand to present the new work uniforms to the students.
appreciate Dickies for donating these uniforms. It really helps a lot. And our instructors have been very helpful too. They do everything they can to help the students and this is proof of that.”
“Dickies is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year,” Dickies Public Relations Director Misty Otto said. “The new program is one way the company is honoring its longstanding relationship with America’s workforce”.
Ruben De La Rosa, the ACT department chairperson, said Dickies’ contribution to the program not only affects the students and faculty but it will have a lasting impression on the workforce.
Dickies will follow up with students and faculty at TSTC periodically to get feedback on the uniforms and find ways to make their product better. For Canales, it couldn’t come at a better time.
“It’s an honor to be a part of this pilot program,” De La Rosa said. “Our students can now come to school and wear their new uniforms and be prepared for the workforce when they graduate. A lot of employers require their workers to wear uniforms. Our students will be prepared to work anywhere.”
“We’ve made a lot of sacrifices to get me back to school,” Canales said. “I really TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
41
Programs
Safety Training for Wind Energy Students Wind Energy Technology (WET) students participated in the first Occupational Safety and Health Administration certification drill for the program at Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen at its new, 20-foot practice tower. Student Luis Torres demonstrated a series of life-saving techniques on a volunteer victim. “It was amazing,” said Torres, who lives in San Benito. “Knowing how to react and perform in an emergency situation means a lot.” Businesses that construct or maintain wind energy farms prefer to hire entry-level employees who have achieved OSHA certification. The training can cost a company up to $5,000 in equipment, travel and education expenses per employee to provide required OSHA instruction. WET Program majors at TSTC undergo the access, rescue, 42
ethos | change is in the air
descent and evacuation drills on the practice tower and they receive at least eight hours of classroom instruction within the WET curriculum. A total of nine students completed the rigorous OSHA specifications during the two days of training. All wind energy technicians in the U.S. industry must renew OSHA certification at least every two years.
OSHA training makes students more valuable to employers. “It’s nice to get a feel for properly and repeatedly getting on and off a turbine ladder under various circumstances in the heat wearing 15 to 20 pounds of equipment,” said Juan Flores, another WET student.
“It’s better to get hands-on work rather than just sitting in a class to discuss it or reading about it in a textbook.” Flores received a Certificate II diploma from the WET Program in August and began pursuing an Associate of Applied Science degree this past fall semester. The level of preparation at TSTC ultimately will affect his salary because statistics show that average starting pay for wind energy technicians, depending upon the diploma, ranges from $37,000 to $52,000.
Ingleside Celebrates Inaugural Wind Energy Class Wind Energy technicians employed before graduating date.
The first class of the Texas State Technology College (TSTC) Wind Energy Technology (WET) class at the Renewable Energy Education Center (REEC) in Ingleside celebrated graduation with a pinning ceremony in late spring 2012. Fourteen students received a Certificate of Completion developed by TSTC, Del Mar College (DMC) and the colleges’ industry partners. Gene Seaman, a former Texas legislator and member of the TSTC System Board of Regents who promoted development of the WET Program at Ingleside, delivered the keynote address. Among the students and guests were future wind energy technician Ryan Mayhugh of Ingleside and his family. “I’ve been smiling from ear to ear for three weeks waiting for this special day. Renewable energy is the future. It’s picking up and taking off,” he said after the ceremony. The former retail sales specialist likely will face a career choice to accept a job
offer from Vestas or Mitsubishi Power Systems.
building a solar energy circuit as part of his studies.
Dr. Maldonado praised three students, Rickey Gonzales, Jeff Mayhugh and Paul Simon of the Coastal Bend region, for earning straight A’s in the WET Program to become Board of Regents Honor Graduates. He congratulated instructor George Lister for his role in implementing the program, and he thanked Seaman for being a tireless advocate of the Ingleside facility and other higher education initiatives.
“I don’t want to just do the job. I want to do the job well,” he said. “I’m a people person who gets along with everyone. I’m used to working hard in terms of physical demands of the job so I think I’ll fit in.” Much of the funding to develop the REEC came from a $1.9 million grant provided by the Governor’s Office and $500,000 from the Texas Workforce Commission.
“The teamwork that brought about the success of this program should be an inspiration for you to follow as you advance in your careers,” Dr. Maldonado told the students. Graduate Mayhugh said the opportunity to increase his family’s income lured him to the WET Program. He had a little experience with residential electricity before he enrolled in the program and he took a special interest in TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
43
Ivanna Rodriguez Lyford, Texas Digital Media Design Technology (DMDT) “TSTC has helped me to become a more responsible and mature person. I’ve improved my communication skills and have been allowed to pursue my dreams and career.”
TSTC has helped me pursue my dreams and career.
Energy-saving improvements
The University Center
TSTC is seeing a record
Governor Perry visits TSTC
at TSTC Harlingen could
gets the top award for
number of graduates.
to announce a new skilled
save the college millions of
environmental construction.
Graduation numbers are
workforce initiative.
dollars. The campus-wide
It’s the first building south
up 60 percent in the past
The goal: to move technical
initiative upgraded lighting
of San Antonio to get LEED
four years.
workers through training
and heating services.
Gold certified.
programs faster.
45 CAMPUS
Campus
TSTC in Energy-Saving Mode Texas State Technical College
“TSTC Harlingen eagerly
Harlingen campus has
participated in this opportunity
undergone major energy-
to save up to 30 percent
saving improvements that will
in energy bills while at the
save local and state taxpayers
same time reducing future
millions of dollars. The
maintenance costs. This was
work is part of an ongoing
a positive project for the
campus-wide initiative to
college, the taxpayers and the
upgrade lighting, heating and
environment, with savings to
air conditioning services in
be realized decades into the
buildings, most of which were
future,” said Zamora.
built in the 1970’s.
TSTC received a low interest
Teri Zamora, the executive
LoanSTAR loan from the State
vice president for Financial
Energy Conservation Office
and Administrative Services,
to pay for the improvements
said TSTC will save about
and hired Schneider Electric,
$250,000 in annual energy
a full service electrical
bills and experts say that’s a
contractor which specializes
conservative estimate.
in energy efficient solutions,
46
ethos | change is in the air
to do an assessment, make recommendations and oversee execution of the project. During the year-long assignment, inefficient high bay lighting in several of the larger classroom buildings was replaced; improving lighting while reducing operating costs. Automatic occupancy controls and sensors were installed in most campus spaces. Now when a room is empty the lighting automatically turns off. New equipment and software were installed to monitor and adjust building air conditioners from the Central Chiller Plant allowing units to be turned down or off when everyone
leaves and turned back on when the work day begins. Improvements and upgrades were also made to the chilled water system so it would operate more efficiently. And finally, even all campus vending machines were equipped with energy misers, a device designed to reduce power consumption by almost half. So far, improvements have been made to 27 different buildings.
The University Center becomes the first building south of San Antonio to achieve gold status based on the LEED ratings system.
University Center Earns Gold Standard One of the leading building
Green, Rubiano & Associates of
construction honors has been
Harlingen. Cleary Zimmerman
awarded to the University
of San Antonio served as the
Center at Texas State Technical
commissioning agent. Among
College (TSTC) Harlingen. It is
several distinctions, the facility
the first building in Texas south
also became a Green Building
of San Antonio to achieve
Award of Merit winner for 2011
gold status based upon the
Best Projects in Texas and
Leadership in Energy and
Louisiana from the publication
Environmental Design (LEED)
Engineering News-Record.
ratings system.
“The achievement of LEED
Companies that were involved
Gold for the University Center
with the project include
is an important validation of
SpawGlass as the general
SpawGlass’ commitment to
contractor, lead design by
green building,” said Rene
ERO Architects of McAllen,
Capistran, president of the
Kirksey Architects of Houston
company’s South Texas
as LEED consultants, Halff
Region. “Wherever possible,
Associates of McAllen, and
we implement building
practices that maximize energy efficiency. We are proud to be the design builder that helped TSTC realize their vision.” Among the energy conservation applications for the building are 434 solar energy panels on the roof that reduce the building’s energy expenses by about onethird and the use of recycled building materials.
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
47
Campus
Mother and Daughter Graduate with Honors Fall Commencement 2012 was quite the special day for the Noelle family. Linda Noelle was a Board of Regents Honors student graduating with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. She earned an associate’s degree in Culinary Arts. She wasn’t the only Noelle walking across the stage. Daughter, Alisa, also earned a certificate of completion of
48
ethos | change is in the air
her core academic classes and graduated with honors. “I’m more happy to see her graduate,” Alisa said. “She did it and she did it with honors. It’s a great accomplishment and I’m very proud of her.” The Noelle’s were two of 154 graduates to earn either an associate’s degree or certificate of completion. For Linda Noelle, it’s been a long but pleasant journey.
Linda and her husband, Richard, home-schooled their 10 children. “My husband really encouraged me to go back to school,” Linda said. She now plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree from the University Center at TSTC. For Alisa, this is the start of a new chapter. She will moved to San Marcos in January to
pursue a bachelor’s degree from Texas State University. She plans to major in finance and minor in education.
I just want to find a stable career.
TSTC Recognized at State Level This award validates the work we are doing here at TSTC.
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) awarded the 2012 Partnership Award to Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen at the 16th Annual Texas Workforce Conference. The award recognizes TSTC for its “collaboration and contributions to the great state of Texas in the area of workforce development.” TSTC President Cesar Maldonado said the TWC Partnership award highlights the important role TSTC plays in providing a skilled workforce. “This is a real honor. The award validates the work that we are doing here at TSTC to educate and prepare our students to become skilled and valuable employees for Valley and Texas industry. Every employee at TSTC should stand a little taller today knowing he/she is
making worthy contributions to the economy of this region and this state,” said Maldonado. TSTC has a history of being at the forefront of workforce development and innovative training solutions. The TSTC Corporate Education Department administers the Skills Development Fund and Skills for Small Business Projects, two initiatives which help provide customized job training in everything from customer service and computer skills to technical manufacturing and management training. TSTC was one of only two state colleges to receive the prestigious recognition.
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
49
Campus
Governor’s Press Conference Texas Governor Rick Perry announced in November a skilled workforce initiative at Texas State Technical College aimed at cutting the time for a student to earn a certificate and join the workforce. The initiative is a partnership between the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the Texas Workforce Commission, the Texas Education Agency, the governor’s office and the TSTC System, Perry said.
Perry made the announcement on the TSTC Harlingen campus along with TSTC Chancellor Mike Reeser, President Cesar Maldonado, State Representative J.M. Lozano, State Representative Eddie Lucio III, Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Williams and Dow Chemical representative Doug Whipple. “Texas has a firm grasp of the definition and characterization of being the most job-friendly state in the nation,” Perry said.
“The real drivers of the Texas economy are the men and women who risk their capital and have been able to create an amazing climate that’s led to a noticeable increase in demand for certified, skilled workers. “ “The framework for technical training is now put in place to enable workers to earn technical certification fast and make it affordable,” Perry said. “This will cut the time necessary to earn a certificate
without sacrificing one iota of quality.” Perry said the first effort in the initiative will target the advanced manufacturing and industrial business sectors. Perry said the initiative targets specific groups like veterans, displaced workers and careerfocused high school graduates and removes any “roadblocks” a potential worker might face in finding work that calls for specific qualifications.
Chancellor Reeser praised the efforts being made by all agencies including the TSTC system, as this initiative will be started in Harlingen but placed in all four TSTC campuses across the state. “Texans get great jobs in Texas industries and likewise Texas industries have the skilled workforce they need to continue the prosperity of the Texas economy,” Reeser said.
TSTC Transitions to Outcomes-Based Funding Texas State Technical College Harlingen has long championed itself an institution that places its graduates in well-paying jobs following graduation. Now it can get paid for it.
15 biennium for all TSTC campuses and will reward job placement and graduate earnings projections instead of time training or contact hours, officials said.
The TSTC system, including TSTC Harlingen, is the first college system in the nation where the instructional funding will be determined solely by results or outcomes, officials announced last summer.
TSTC leaders began open communications with legislators approximately five years ago concerning pay for performance. Officials said the formula is conducive to TSTC’s goals because the system’s overall focus is to place students in jobs as quickly as possible.
In the future TSTC will receive State funding for students placed in well paid jobs.
The new formula funding is expected to get legislative approval in the 2013 session.
The new funding model is a collaboration between the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, TSTC and the Legislative Budget Board, according to TSTC officials. The funding formula will be implemented for the 2014TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
51
Jose Almaguer San Benito, Texas Auto Collision Technology (AUB) “TSTC has changed my life by opening doors for opportunities in my chosen field. Before you looked for jobs; but with this degree, now jobs look for you.�
Before you looked for jobs; with this degree, now jobs look for you.
Noche de Gala, the annual
Presidential Scholarship
Meet TSTC Foundation Board
Thank you donors. Local
TSTC fundraiser, raises more
is awarded to Harlingen
Member Rene Capistran.
contributors have helped
than $88 thousand in student
resident Hana Mitchell.
The Rio Grande Valley native
raise close to $100,000 in
scholarships. The funds
The aspiring engineer is now a
is an advocate for South
scholarship funds.
are matched by the Long
freshman at TSTC.
Texas students.
Foundation dollar-per-dollar.
53 GIVING
Giving
Students Shine at Noche de Gala Texas State Technical College raised more than $88,000 in scholarship money at the 8th Annual Noche De Gala scholarship fundraiser honoring Valley Baptist Medical Health System President and CEO Manny Vela in December.
“This event is significant because it recognizes both the strong support the college receives from the community as well as raise support to build bright futures for our students,” Maldonado said.
The funds raised are matched dollar-for-dollar by the Long Foundation up to $100,000 to provide full and partial scholarships to TSTC students.
Three recipients of the LozanoLong Promise Scholarship were on hand to tell their success stories. All three scholars are close to entering the work force.
TSTC President Cesar Maldonado said the event was a great way to honor those who lend a hand to the college and drum up financial support for current students.
Sylvia Hinojosa is a dental hygiene student and pursuing an Associate’s degree. She said the $2,000 scholarship has helped ease her burden this school year.
54
ethos | change is in the air
“I would have really struggled to pay for school if I didn’t have this scholarship,” Hinojosa said. Johanna Garcia Peña is a nursing student pursuing her associate’s degree in Applied Science. She’ll be done in May and hopes to pursue her vocational nursing license at that time. “I’m a full-time student and work part-time (12 hours per week),” Garcia Peña said. “Without the scholarship, I could not afford to go to school.” Orlando Vasquez is a secondyear student in the Aviation
Maintenance Technology program. He said the scholarship money has given him the extra motivation he’s needed to finish his degree. “It’s helped me buy tools and get a lot of hands-on experience,” Vasquez said. Vela, who’s served as emcee of the event in the past said the Gala is always a great event for TSTC and the community. “I love the opportunity to be part of an event that raises money to create opportunities in higher education for the men and women of our community,” Vela said.
Thank You Donors
Diamond
Bronze
Long Foundation
ROFA Architects
STARS Foundation
Gurecky Manufacturing Services, Inc. Sokolosky Sullivan Wealth Management
Platinum Coca-Cola United Launch Alliance TSTC State Charitable Campaign OXY USA
First Community Bank Valley Baptist Legacy Foundation Valley International Airport Aileen & Valmond Corbie Dr. Nolan Perez
Gold
Star
H-E-B
Cardenas Metroplex
Harlingen Cotton Committee
Theresa & Bill Reagan Texas Regional Bank
Silver Lone Star National Bank
Ruthie & Norbert Ewers McCullough & McCullough
Texas Gas Service
Connie & Juan Salas and Hon. Judge Migdalia Lopez
Boggus Motor Company
Dr. Bill & Regent Linda McKenna
Dr. Linda & Bryan Burke
Rio Grande Valley Partnership
Dr. & Mrs. Cesar Maldonado
H. William Card III & Dennis Mitchell
Help America Corporation
Susan & Ferriel C. Hamby
Valley Baptist Health System
Anne & James H. Denison
UT Health Science Center
Gail & Craig Vittitoe
The Vela Family
Frost Bank
SpawGlass
Law Office of Robert Garza
AEP Texas
Dr. Larry Dahm
Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr.
Brendan Hall
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
55
Giving
Harlingen Student Earns TSTC President’s Scholarship Hana Nichole Mitchell of Harlingen High School South became the first-ever recipient of the Texas State Technical College (TSTC) Harlingen President’s Scholarship. Mitchell was among 438 seniors from the Harlingen High School South to receive diplomas at Boggus Stadium on May 26. TSTC President Dr. Cesar Maldonado, who serves as president of the HCISD Board of Trustees, delivered the keynote address for the commencement ceremony.
He shook hands with her on stage as he presented her with the diploma. Mitchell participated in the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps at South. She plans to earn an Associate of Science Degree in Computer Engineering at TSTC. “It’s easier to start college close to my family and TSTC is a very good college,” said Mitchell, who began her TSTC career with a dual enrollment in english class offered at South.
Dr. Maldonado, said that the new scholarship serves as a reward for academic excellence and a goal for all students who seek financial support for higher education. “There are scholarships, grants, financial aid, and school loans all available to you, but you have to go after them,” he said. “The fact is you cannot afford not to. This is your chance to set the right path to success.”
It’s easier to start college close to my family and TSTC is very a good school.
TSTC supporter Rene Capistran served as TSTC Fall Commencement speaker.
Rio Grande Valley Native Epitomizes Community Service Rio Grande Valley native Rene Capistran epitomizes community service. A 19-year veteran of the construction business, Capistran’s dedicated almost as much time and effort into giving back to the community he’s called home his entire life. And nowhere is that effort more visible than in the work Capistran does in the field of education and for the youth of the Rio Grande Valley. Capistran currently serves as the president and South Texas regional manager of SpawGlass, a Texas-based general contractor, construction manager, design/builder and civil contractor. Capistran oversees the operations and administration of the SpawGlass South Texas region. But even when he’s not at the office or a construction site, Capistran makes sure he keeps busy. Capistran has served on the board of the Texas State
Technical College Foundation Board for the past two years. The Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to assist the colleges of the TSTC System and their students. The Foundation helps TSTC with student scholarships, discretionary dollars, capital needs and other projects determined by the TSTC Board of Regents. Capistran also serves as the chairperson for the RGV LEAD board of directors and recently served as the Master of Ceremonies at the Noche De Gala. Capistran also serves as chairperson of the RGV Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America; VicePresident of Hooked for Life Kids Gone Fishing; board member of the South Texas Medical Foundation; committee member of the Harlingen 100 Education Committee and board of directors of the
Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce.
get it right and be the model for the rest of the state.”
Capistran’s also served on the boards of the Cameron County Children’s Advocacy Center, the Boys & Girls Club of Edinburg, and United Way of Southern Cameron County, where he served as Campaign Chair in 2009.
Capistran has received numerous honors and awards for his business leadership and dedicated community service. He received the Distinguished Business Leader of the Year award from the University of Texas at Brownsville School of Business in 2012 and an Outstanding Community Leadership award from the Career and Technology Education Association of Texas in 2011. Capistran was inducted into the Rio Grande Valley Walk of Fame in 2010. He was also honored with a proclamation from the City of Brownsville for community involvement in 2010, and received a State Senate Proclamation honoring his community leadership in 2008.
Capistran said his involvement with the community and an institution like TSTC is very rewarding. “I know enrollment is up at TSTC and the school keeps moving forward under the leadership of Dr. (Cesar) Maldonado,” Capistran said. “I know we’re making a huge impact on the kids and the community. I see the change that TSTC is making in the community. We’re getting our students career ready and college ready. And it’s very important as we move forward in making a difference in the lives of many students that we
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
57
Giving
North Harlingen Rotary celebrates a decade of giving.
Rotary Scholarships For the past decade, the North Harlingen Rotary has helped finance at least one student’s education at Texas State Technical College each year. Every year, the North Harlingen Rotary awards a $1,000 scholarship to a TSTC student to help pay for books and classes. The scholarship is designated to a student in the Computer System’s Management Technology program each year. North Harlingen Rotary president-elect Mike Buck said helping students in the area attain a postsecondary education is important to every Rotarian. “We give the scholarship because we believe in TSTC and we have seen the benefits of having a college in our community and the potential 58
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for services to our students that are often overburdened by rising costs of higher education,” Buck said. “Ours is a small club but about onefourth of our membership has worked at TSTC and are familiar with the need. Funds are raised primarily through proceeds from the Rotary Shrimpfest that we have held for 18 years.” The North Harlingen Rotary also awards a $1,000 scholarship to a student from Harlingen High School and Harlingen South every year.
New Scholarships Established
Gene Seaman Scholarship As a former lawmaker, Texas State Technical College Regent Gene Seaman made it his mission to push for a more skilled workforce and careers in technology as a way to improve the economy and the lives of Texans. Continuing his vision as part of the governing arm of the TSTC System, Seaman his established the Gene Seaman Scholarship that will benefit Wind Technology Students attending the program at the Ingleside campus. “My wholly belief is that if you can feed the brain and instill in people a ladder to change, and move upward, is to change the economy and workforce in Texas,” Seaman said. “Feeding the brain, providing the knowledge and tools to succeed is forever.” The scholarships will provide $500 a year to students
Dr. and Mrs Rolf R. Haberecht Scholarship enrolled in the TSTC Ingleside program. Seaman, a native of Corpus Christi, has been on the TSTC Board of Regents since 2008. His philanthropic work also includes scholarship opportunities at Coastal Bend Community Foundation and Del Mar College.
Thanks to a $75,000 contribution to TSTC Harlingen, the Haberecht Scholarship for Allied Health will help students obtain degrees in the medical field.
Dr. Haberecht served as a member of the TSTC Board of Regents from 2006 to 2011. He played a significant role in expanding technical training and degree offerings system-wide. He and his wife’s generosity has also led to gifts of scholarship money for veterans of the armed forces and scholarship and capital dollars benefiting other medical facilities in the state.
Dr. Haberecht said it is his belief that providing support for the training and education of our medical personnel is an investment in improving healthcare in the state of Texas.
Dr. Cesar Maldonado, President of TSTC Harlingen, applauded Dr. and Mrs. Haberecht for their gift to helping to further their education of many TSTC students.
“We are very much interested in TSTC and its significant value to the State of Texas,” Dr. Haberecht said. “Regarding our scholarship donation, we want to support technical education, training and developing technical skills for the medical field in the Valley.”
“We very much appreciate the contribution that they have made. Dr. and Mrs. Haberecht understand the value of education,” he said. “His personal and professional dedication to improving lives is an inspiration to all of us.”
Longtime friend of Texas State Technical College Harlingen and former Regent Dr. Rolf Haberecht and his wife, Ute, are helping to make a significant contribution in healthcare.
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
59
Elizabeth Landeros Harlingen, Texas Chemical Environmental Technology (CET) “Participating in the CET program has been a rewarding experience. I’m looking forward to what earning this degree will do for my future.”
Participating in the CET program has been a rewarding experience.
TSTC boasts a record
Enrollment increases for
Almost half of all TSTC
TSTC is a Hispanic Serving
number of graduates.
Spring 2013 Semester.
students are the first in their
Institution . Eighty-seven
Harlingen graduation
Over 5,000 students are
family to go to college.
percent of students
numbers are up 60 percent
enrolled at TSTC Harlingen.
are Hispanic.
for the past five years.
61 NUMBERS
Numbers
2012 Graduates By Industry Cluster Biotech and Life Sciences
69
Information & Electronics Professional & Financial Services
8.6%
Aerospace & Aviation Industrial Manufacturing Petroleum & Chemical Products Logistics & Transportation
198
39
230
24.5%
4.8%
99
Food and Beverage Processing Core Completers/FOS
12.3%
8
807
1%
28.5%
24
128
3%
15%
12 1.5%
Total Degrees Awarded
4 Year Totals
60% Increase in the Number of Graduates
95%
513 2009
532
692
807 2012
2011
2010
Job Placement Rate
150
The number of students who graduate from Allied Health Services every year. One-third of TSTC students transfer to four-year institutions to continue their studies. 62
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Texas State Technical College’s graduation numbers have increased by over 60 percent in the past four years under the leadership of Dr. Cesar Maldonado. That growth is expected to keep rising in the coming years. In 2009, TSTC graduated 513 students. By 2012, that
number increased by nearly 300 students as the college saw 807 students receive an associate’s degree or certificate. TSTC Provost Adam Hutchison credited a complete team effort in the rise of graduates stating that “every employee plays a role in the success of
our students, from the first day that they apply until they cross the stage at graduation.” Of those 807 graduates, 95 percent were employed following graduation and one-third of the graduates transferred to a four-year institution to continue their education.
Of 807 graduates 95 percent were employed following graduation.
Numbers
Fall 2012 Enrollment 500
1,000
Biotech & Life Science
Academics
959 Dual Credit
607 Industrial & Manufacturing
588 Information & Electronics
327 Professional & Financial
192 Logistics & Transportation
115 Food & Beverage
46 Aerospace & Aviation
23 Petro/Chemical/Energy
64
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1500
2,000
53%
1,573 1,423
47%
87% Hispanic 9% White, 4% Other
Full Time 36% Part Time 64%
7K 6K 5K 4K 3K 2K 1K ‘08 ‘09 ‘10 ‘11 ‘12
Fall Enrollment 5-Year Breakdown
Total Enrollments
5,853
46% First Generation
53% Pell Eligible
TSTC | 2012 Annual Report
65
Numbers
Points of Excellence
2 Graduates of the Dental Assisting Program at TSTC Harlingen are at 100 percent pass rate for the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners certification exam.
100%
The Business Management Technology Program has a 100 percent job placement rate.
TSTC Harlingen has the only Wind Energy Technology program south of San Antonio.
24 Sixty-eight percent of CAMP students successfully completed their first year of college. 66
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TSTC’s Dental Lab Program is one of two in the whole state of Texas and the only one in the Rio Grande Valley.
90%
of all TSTC Allied Health Graduates stay and work in the Rio Grande Valley after graduation.
The HEP Program at TSTC is ranked 10 nationally among colleges for productivity and effectiveness.
#10
800
More than 800 HEP students have earned GEDs at TSTC in the past 12 years. The University Center on the TSTC campus has a total of eight university partners and offers 31 bachelor’s programs, 24 master’s programs and one doctorate. TSTC’s Fire Academy is celebrating its 25th anniversary in spring 2013.
Jessica Estrella Harlingen, Texas Chemical Environmental Technology (CET) “TSTC has inspired me to succeed in life and to obtain my chemical/ environmental degree to further my career.�
TSTC has inspired me to succeed in life and to obtain my degree.
Cristian Martinez Harlingen, Texas Vocational Nursing (VN) “TSTC has changed my life because it’s broadened my experiences, I have learned new things and met people from different backgrounds.”
TSTC has changed my life because it’s broadened my experiences.
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Texas State Technical College System is a coeducational, two-year institution of higher education offering courses of study in technical education for which there is a demand within the state of Texas.
1902 N. Loop 499 Harlingen, Texas 78550 Tel: 800-852-8784 956-364-4000 www.tstc.edu
Š Copyright Texas State Technical College. All rights reserved. Published 2013. Equal opportunity shall be afforded within the Texas State Technical College System to all employees and applicants for admission or employment regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age or disability. TSTC will make reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities.