The Prospector 11 30 2021

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UTEP pairs students with best career options.

Profile: Dolores Anguiano, 30 years in college.

CAPS helps students cope with stress as semester ends.

UTEP wraps up historic season:

VOL. 107, NO. 8 NOVEMBER 30, 2021

Assayer of Student Opinion

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

theprospectordaily.com

T H E G R A D U AT I O N I S S U E

PHOTO BY ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ /THE PROSPECTOR

A UTEP student takes their senior graduation picture in front of the pick located at the front of the UTEP campus.

PAGE 2 · NOVEMBER 30, 2021· THE PROSPECTOR

Opinion

Julian Herrera, editor in chief

A farewell to articles: Graduation, and ever after JULIAN HERRERA The Prospector

I always anticipated that the end of my time as an undergraduate would be bittersweet, but I am ecstatic to share that it is as wonderful of a sendoff as I could have hoped for. I was certain of my degree path the moment I selected it; I never once hesitated to share my passions and a not a sliver of doubt existed about following through with my program.

As many criticisms, justified or otherwise, that may be shared about UTEP, I am elated to say that I never had a single “bad” professor. The instructors that guided me through my interests were knowledgeable and unequivocally spirited and sincere. I feel that they not only facilitated my learning but affirmed my place among those that saw the world the way I did, who preferred camera lenses to eyes and spoke in prose and poetry because just saying something was never good enough.

Greg Beam, thank you for nurturing my fascination with the art of filmmaking, your guidance and unwavering support — whatever

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ / THE PROSPECTOR

comes of it, it was wonderful to feel accepted and recognized.

I spent most of my initial time in college meandering in the library around the religious studies section, pondering if I would ever make something of myself. I felt as though the portion of my life that I dedicated to being a writer was wasted. I couldn’t find work anywhere and I never felt like there was a purpose to being in college beyond fulfilling an expectation

and getting a slip of paper that confirmed I passed all the right tests.

My first job was here on campus with UTEP Marketing and Communications, then-known as University Communications (UC), and I still remember feeling teary-eyed the first time I saw my name committed to print below something that I had written. It was a simple piece of interview work — but it consoled a part of me that had been suffering for an awfully long time.

I struggled with a variety of mental illnesses for years, many of which kept me from feeling like nothing I did would ever matter and the years of pages I had poured myself into would wither, seeing no other eyes but mine. However, I was overcome by the realization that my words could potentially make a difference, and I decided that I would dedicate my life to helping others through my writing.

When the pandemic hit, I was unfortunately released from my position as a communication assistant and I panicked, unsure what I could do to pay the bills now that I had just moved out on my own –until a

few days later.

I was hired as a staff reporter for The Prospector, and I know that I will look back at this time in my life as one of the moments that helped define me as a person.

After a few months I was promoted to Copy Editor before ultimately becoming the Editorin-Chief. A large chunk of the staff graduated or left the paper, and I was set to the task of assembling an entire team of new people, in the meantime managing the duties of multiple editors at once. I recall one night that I collapsed onto the bed, dehydrated, and malnourished, crushed by the responsibilities of my work and huge changes at home. As much as I wish I could have stopped the world then, I think that putting myself through those hours and facing the challenges directly pushed me to become a better person and amounted to one of the most memorable experiences I wholeheartedly cherish.

I would like to thank The Prospector for giving me the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people and prove to myself that there is far

more to enjoy and celebrate in my life than I ever could have known.

Tracy, thank you for being such an inspirational force during my time with the paper, appreciating my work and fostering such a progressive and prosperous environment here in the office. Staff, my good friends, thank all of you for your trust in my leadership, for putting up with me, and for making me happy — something I once thought was unattainable.

I leave UTEP with a better understanding of myself, of my place in this world, and the heart to believe I am prepared to undertake anything that life has waiting for me. If nothing else, I am a better person than I once was, and I hope to shed the same light that was shared with me on the lives of others that might need it.

Julian Herrera is the editor-in-chief iand may be reached at jaherrera13@miners.utep.edu; @j_at_utep on Instagram.

Starting a new chapter after graduation VICTORIA RIVAS The Prospector

Graduating from college always seemed so far away, yet here I am, at 20–years old and only a few weeks away from walking across the stage and finally celebrating my achievements.

Education has always played a key role in my life. I believe higher education is the road to professional success. It leads individuals to their passions, and it opens opportunities for generations to come.

I grew up in a family that always motivated me to go far and beyond in achieving my educational goals.

Although some may say I am an over-achiever, my dreams of earning a Ph.D. have led me to work hard to make my parents proud since I was young.

I attended Valle Verde Early College High School to accelerate two years of my college education and

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ / THE PROSPECTOR

earned an associate’s degree at the age of 17.

Although I have stumbled through various challenges throughout these past years, including not sleeping, late-night tears and remote learning, I can

confidently say I would never trade this experience for anything.

Thanks to my parents’ words ‘No te des por vencida, yo sé que tú puedes’ and seeing my sisters accomplish their goals during their Ph.D. programs, it motivates me to continue fighting even when situations get stressful.

Without my friends, family, and mentors’ constant support and advice, this dream would not have come true – especially during a global pandemic.

I still remember my first day at UTEP in 2019, walking around and admiring our beautiful campus.

I would have never thought my stories would be published at The Prospector, let alone be promoted to Arts and Culture editor.

Although I have only worked at The Prospector for two semesters, I am thankful for the experience and friendships I have built along

VOL. 107, No. 8 November 30, 2021 EDITORS & STAFF Julian Herrera, Editor in Chief Hugo Hinojosa, Designer Victoria Rivas, Entertainment Editor Maria Luisa Guerrero, Web Editor/Copy Editor Alberto Silva Fernandez, Photo Editor Anahy Diaz, Multimedia Editor Emily Autumn Velasquez, Sports Editor Maria Salette Ontiveros, Audience & Engagement Editor Kristen Scheaffer, Staff Reporter

Itzel Giron, Staff Reporter Daniel A. Lopez, Staff Reporter Levi Carlos, Staff Reporter

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ADMINISTRATION

VIDEOGRAPHER

Veronica Gonzalez, Director Tracy Roy, Assistant Director Amy Bocanegra, Administrative Assitant Isabel Castillo, Accounting Specialist Vacant, Account Executive Victoria Almaguer, Advertising Coordinator

Monica Chavarria

Connor Martinez Anabella Mireles

CONTRIBUTORS Alyson Rodriguez Beatriz Velazquez Eduardo Flores Julia Lucero Katrina Villareal

the way.

I would like to thank Anahy for taking a chance on me and allowing me to join the Prospy team as a contributor and letting me report on any issues I felt passionate about, even when I did not have much experience.

Thank you, Julian, Tracy and Vero, for motivating me along the way and for always supporting me even when I felt unsure or stressed.

Tracy, thank you so much for all your letters of recommendation, for always answering any questions I had and giving me advice.

I am thankful that I get to call The Prospector not only my workplace, but a second home.

To my co-workers, who I am thankful to call my friends – Emily, Itzel, Vicky, Anahy, Maria, Annabella, Salette, Levi, Albert, and Hugo – thank you for all the laughs, tears, hugs, and happy mo-

ments we have shared throughout the weeks.

As I prepare myself to close this chapter in December, I am thankful for the education and opportunities that I have received at UTEP. I will forever be a proud Miner.

Thank you, Professor Kate Gannon, for being so patient with me and always providing me with great opportunities. Thanks to Professor Angela Kocherga for helping me believe in my skills and work, and thanks to Professor Eraldo Chiecchi for showing me my love for journalism and helping me explore outside my comfort zone.

This is not a farewell, but a see you later as I enter graduate school next semester.

Victoria Rivas is the Arts and Culture editor and may be reached at vrivas7@miners.utep.edu; @VicRivas_18 on Twitter.

SP E A K YO U R M IND! …and submit a letter for publication. Please include your full name, street address, telephone number and e-mail address, as well as your student major, classification and/or titile if applicable. Write us to 105 E. Union, prospector@utep.edu, call us to 747-516, or send a fax to 747-8031.

Personal information (phone numbers and address) will be used for identification only.

Letters are subject to editing to fit available space, clarity and brevity.

The Prospector is published by the Student Media and Publications Board, 105 Union East, 500 W. University Ave. El Paso, Texas, 79968. The Prospector appears in print once per week on Tuesdays during the fall and spring semesters. The newspaper is not printed during holidays and when classes are not in session. The Prospector does provide news online at www.theprospectordaily.com.

The Prospector is provided to students through student fees. First copy is free. Any additional copies, if available, must be purchased for $1 through the Department of Student Media and Publications. The Prospector is not responsible for claims made by advertisers. Additional policy information may be obtained by calling the Prospector at 915-747-5161. Opinions expressed in The Prospector are not necessary those of the university.

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

NEWS Page 3

All the pandemic left behind for us MARÍA L. GUERRERO DURÁN The Prospector

As the semester comes to an end, it is important that we look back and acknowledge how we survived our first semester back on campus after being isolated for almost two years, and we step into this “new reality.”

Almost two years ago, we received an email saying our spring break would be extended two more weeks; after those two weeks passed, our lives changed forever.

Our notifications were filled with breaking news of countries under lockdown, hospitals over capacity, and people fighting over toilet paper. This past year and a half have been filled with many transitions, with the fear of the unknown, illness, loss and grief. We had to adapt to a virtual world, to solitude, but mostly to hope.

I will not sugarcoat the tragedy that most of our population experienced, but I want to highlight how we tried to entertain ourselves at home to avoid insanity. How many of us started a Chloe Ting fitness challenge? How many tackled that To Be Read list, binged watched your favorite show, or engaged in quarantivities with your family to get along together? But mainly, how many of us were left alone in our heads to reevaluate life and

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ /THE PROSPECTOR

ourselves?

The time we had alone with our thoughts served as a way of getting to know ourselves, and valuing our relationships, our interests and personalities. Even if you did not lose weight or read 20 books a month, you did something great; you kept going. You got to know yourself even more and realized what was most valuable for you and your growth as an individual. Maybe that friend you called your best friend was not the best support you had, and if you decided to cut that

friendship, it is okay! You learned to do what is best for you.

This past year was a year of many changes for me as well. I got my first non-retail job and had the pleasure of working with incredible people as an undergraduate assistant for the Parking and Transportation department. I will be forever grateful for their encouragement to get out of my comfort zone and pursue opportunities that will benefit my goals.

Now, as I am finishing my first semester as The Prospector’s web

editor, I know I made the right choice. It is common to fall into the comfort zone, and stay in what we already know, and the change of scenario helped me to burst out of my bubble of solitude. Connecting with other people my age, and the exposure to news, has helped me become aware of my surroundings after months of experiencing the world through the screen.

As the new web editor, I hope to help the student community engage with their campus and become aware of the opportunities to enjoy their college experience. It is important that we, as students, connect with our institution, especially during this recovery and readaptation process. So much potential is hidden inside each of us. I will continue working hard to showcase the reporters’ and photographers‘ work on the website, so you can all appreciate the amazing job they do and relate to them.

I am here to serve the student community. That is why this semester, I have worked alongside the editors and directors to make the website more engaging for you. So, you can easily access all the stories that are happening around you and enjoy reading a newspaper. It is important, especially in times like these, that we stay in touch with the world, and be aware of everything

that is happening around us. That is our main goal here at The Prospector, to provide the students with sound journalism.

I would like to thank Editor-inchief Julian Herrera, and Assistant Director Tracy Roy for seeing potential in me and being patient as I adapted to this new-to-me world of journalism. I would also like to thank all editors, reporters and contributors for welcoming me in their team with open arms.

Lastly, I would like to congratulate every single student that persevered through these tough times and worked their way toward finishing this semester. To those graduating, I wish you nothing but the best in life. I am proud of you, and I am sure you will achieve great things in life. Keep working on your goals and dreams.

“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far can one go” - T.S. Eliot María L. Guerrero Durán is the web editor and may be reached at mlguerrerod@miners.utep.edu

The Prospector would like to thank our Graduation Issue sponsors: Center for Accommodations and Support Services – College of Business Administration College of Engineering – College of Health Sciences – College of Liberal Arts College of Science – Dean of Students – Department of History – English Department Earth, Environmental and Resource Sciences – Housing and Residence Life Mechanical Engineering – Office of International Programs and Study Abroad Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution – Physics Department President’s Office – Recreational Sports Department – Office of Special Events Student Government Association – Union Services – University Career Center University Marketing and Communication – Office of Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs – Vice President for Business Affairs – Vice President for Student Affairs

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

Page 4 NEWS

Grad students wield competitive edge UTEP Graduate School forges useful relationships and professional development

In grad school all the classes you take lead directly to what your goals are for the future.

Cheyanne Lozano, graduate student in communication

JULIA LUCERO The Prospector

Graduation is creeping up for students and while some may go right into their careers others may consider graduate school as an option. UTEP Political Science Graduate Studies Director and Advisor Rebecca Reid said graduate school is a terrific option for most students.

“In previous times, most career advice included going to college for a BA in order to make one competitive in the job market,” Reid said. “Today, most everyone has a bachelor’s or associate’s degree, so that degree is no longer sufficient to be competitive in the job market —especially where the modern job market is extremely competitive and globalized.”

UTEP offers graduate programs in business, education, health sciences, engineering, liberal arts, nursing, and science.

According to the 2021-2022 UTEP graduate catalog, each school has a wide range of fields of study with 157 degree programs.

Reid said graduate school teaches more in-depth, substantive courses that require higher levels of critical analysis, writing and researching.

Reid said students do not need to

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ/THE PROSPECTOR

A graduating UTEP student holds a diploma folder given to students when they receive their Master’s degree

have majored/minored in the discipline to apply to graduate school, and students should select graduate programs by the people you want to learn from and work with.

Reid also advises students to plan ahead and look at the admissions criteria or requirements for each program, including the deadlines.

GPA and GRE scores aren’t the only criteria considered on applications; a good personal statement is also sought out. Students should also talk to graduate students in or from that program so they can gain insights from other or previous students, Reid said.

For Cheyanne Lozano, a graduate student in creative writing, UTEP presents a prime environment of diversity and inclusion that facilitates greater creative output and makes

their programs stand out.

“Post-bachelor degrees are more and more necessary to get a good career moving forward,” Lozano said. “When I was looking into graduate school programs in creative writing, UTEP was always on my radar because of the multicultural aspect. We have the great ability to house a diverse group of students that bring with them their own ways of thinking and processes... that really helps to create a healthy learning environment.”

Lozano appreciates the level of control and independence that graduate programs at UTEP offer, stating that despite the difficulty of the work, every step directly contributes to a student’s ability to progress towards their career in the company of like-minded and

helpful peers.

“I’d say the most common question is‚ ‘is it hard?‘ to which I reply: Yes, but different,” said Lozano.

“Graduate school is rigorous, but the great thing about it is that it is focused on what you want... in grad school all the classes you take lead directly to what your goals are for the future.”

College of Education Department Chair Beverley Calvo says some challenges students may face in graduate school is the expectation of students to work independently, not meeting as often in classes, outside learning, more reading, research and practical applications of the material.

“What I would recommend is that if you have any ideas of things you might be interested in, I would con-

tact faculty who are teaching those courses,” said Calvo. “Just reach out to them and get some advising.”

The benefit of graduate school is students are able to specialize in an area in which they are mostly interested. Students are able to become an expert in that field, Calvo said.

“You pick your classes or can even make your own,” said Lozano. “It‘s nice having people around you that can understand what your struggling with because they are right there with you. These peers, your teachers, and the opportunities you will find in grad school are all connections that will help you in the future of your career.”

Calvo said that if there is a desire to apply to graduate school then it’s something students should explore and not avoid or fear thinking it might be too complicated.

“I really think that the biggest thing is just get informed, do your research, go talk to faculty and find out, ‘If I went into graduate school, what would this degree offer me?’”

Calvo said.

Julia Lucero is a contributor and may be reached at jlucero13@miners.utep.edu

UTEP students weigh in on career readiness JULIA LUCERO The Prospector

With the semester coming to an end and graduation fast approaching, UTEP students were asked if they felt their colleges have prepared them well enough for their careers.

Junior Nathaniel Regaldo, mechanical engineering major at UTEP, said the College of Engineering has prepared him for practical solutions and theory based learning.

Regaldo said he has developed time management skills which help him complete projects and tasks efficiently, giving him a competitive advantage in the industry.

Regaldo feels professors in mechanical engineering could be more understanding and patient with students since this is their first time being exposed to the material.

“They got to realize that we’re not as advanced and it’s not common knowledge for certain aspects in that subject,” Regaldo said. “For us to understand as opposed to them.”

Junior Ruben Martinez, a multimedia journalism major at UTEP, says he had prior knowledge

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ/THE PROSPECTOR

A flyer for Job Mine alongside multiple career ready pamphlets sits outside the Career Center in room 103 in the Union West

of video editing but his classes taught the skills that are required of editors in the field to appeal to prospective employers.

“I feel like the classes I have been taking have really prepared me,” Martinez said. “And all the classes I am going to be taking later down

the line will help me continue and further my knowledge for my career.”

Martinez said classes have offered him networking opportunities but he prefers to find connections on his own; he believes that positions offered to the broader public might

be more difficult to obtain.

“Even if you don’t choose to go to the ones through a class offers like the one I am in, you could always go look for them on campus which I think is really great,” Martinez said. “Everything starts with a question.”

Sophomore Paola Martinez said the College of Business hosts a variety of career serving events for students and encourages students from every college to attend.

“Every single week there’s people from different companies that come and speak to us and we’re always invited, we even get extra credit,” said Paola Martinez. “Those are always good opportunities for your future.”

Martinez says that students are networking in class with other students and professors can be important for their career.

“Networking is something really big in the College of Business because that’s the biggest thing for your future,” Paola Martinez said.

“Even with classmates, meeting someone, maybe in the future you‘ll have a company with that person or your professor can hire you if he has something going on.”

Julia Lucero is a contributor and may be reached at jlucero13@miners.utep.edu.

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

NEWS Page 5

UTEP Career Center pairs students with best career options EDUARDO A. FLORES The Prospector

For many students, landing their dream job might seem a distant goal. Career counseling services have played an essential part in colleges and universities across the United States in helping students develop and plan their careers.

Students attending UTEP have the benefits of the University Career Center available whenever they need to find resources to get a job or have a resume check to attend graduate school.

The Career Center aims to expose students to options that best fit their individual career needs and aspirations during and after their undergraduate years.

“The University Career Center has a number of great resources that can help students and alumni explore career options that align with their interests and values,” said Betsy Castro-Duarte, director of the University Career Center.

Some of the services offered include résumé reviews, job search assistance, interview coaching, oncampus and virtual mock interviews, career closet and employer contacts.

The UTEP Career Center has opened its services for students even after they graduate.

Gabriela Maynes, multimedia and

resources manager of the University Career Center, said that recent alumni can potentially encounter job offers.

“There can be a six-month time period of job hunting after graduation,” Maynes said. “We want to assist with reducing that timeframe as much as possible.”

Alumni career services feature resources and essential information that can help them throughout the application process for graduate school or a prospective place of employment.

“We have an alumni page on our website at utep.edu/careers under the ‘Alumni’ tab,” Maynes said.

“However, even after graduation, alumni may need career guidance.

The services we offer are support that many alumni can utilize to their advantage. We recommend making an appointment with us by calling 915-747-5640 or emailing careers@utep.edu to meet with one of our staff members to begin your career development and path.”

Some students across UTEP said they are unaware that they can come back once they graduate and still take advantage of the services offered by the Career Center at no cost.

“It is amazing that we can always count on their services,” said Cristina Chavez, a 21-year-old econom-

ics major at UTEP. “I think there are always questions, and having someone explaining the process can increase your chances of getting hired.”

A statement released by the Alumni Association invited members and recent graduates seeking

employment to “come in to brush up on their job search skills.”

The UTEP Career Center also shared a piece of advice for upcoming fall semester graduates when they are applying for a job.

“Walk out knowing what you want,” Duarte said. “Do an assess-

ment of what your interests are and be prepared by doing your research about the organization you want to work in and always ask questions at the interview if you are unsure of your tasks.”

Eduardo A. Flores is a contributor and may be reached at eaflores17@miners.utep.edu.

ANNABELLA MIRELES /THE PROSPECTOR

UTEP’s Keck Center for 3D Innovation and Additive Manufacturing recently opened their facility on Cotton Street. .

THE UTEP STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES PROGRAM (SSSP)

ULATES T A R ITS NG O C

FALL 2021

GRADUATES We are very proud of your accomplishment and wish you the very best in your bright future

CARLOS ALVAREZ - DAISY AVILA - DANIELA CASIANO - AMBER ENRIQUEZ KARLA GALVAN - ARACELI GARCIA - JOSE GINER-GRAJEDA - KARINA GUTIERREZ GIOVANNA HERNANDEZ - LIZ HERNANDEZ RIVERA - GABRIEL LOYA - CASSANDRA OCAMPO KASSANDRA PACHECO CARRILLO - LAURA QUEVEDO - FELIPE VELASQUEZ - JOVAN VIZCAINO

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

Page 6 NEWS

PROFILE

Dolores Anguiano to walk the stage of the Don Haskins after 30 years in college.

Do not give up.

Just go for it.

No one should stop you.

It does not matter how old you are.

Just go for it.”

Dolores Anguiano, age 86, is graduating from UTEP with a multidisciplinary degree.

PHOTO BY ANNABELLA MIRELES

ITZEL GIRON The Prospector

When entering UTEP, you find students across campus diverse in age and ethnicity, all striving for the goal of one day graduating and earning their degree. For years, Dolores Anguiano has strived for the moment to walk across the stage of the Don Haskins — about 30 years to be exact.

Dolores Anguiano is 86 years old and graduating this semester with a degree in multi-disciplinary studies.

After graduating from Stephen F. Austin High School in 1954, Anguiano has finally reached a lifelong milestone of hers. For years she has continuously pushed herself to reach this point, walk the stage, and receive her diploma.

“I came from a very poor family, and I saw how my parents suffered to put food on the table, that’s what pushed me really,” Anguiano

said. “My mother would go cotton picking and my father would do construction work, but he still wouldn’t have enough (money) to put food on the table. Being poor made me want to finish my degree.”

Along with determination forged by her circumstances as a young girl, the start of her academic journey was not an easy one. Although she enrolled at New Mexico State University, Dolores struggled due to the abusive marriage she was in at the time.

“I was an abused wife,” Anguiano said. “When I started at New Mexico State, my husband would throw away my books because he didn’t want me to get educated.”

Despite her obstacles, Dolores was supported from the very beginning to continue her education. Her former boss, Margret Borton Zenich, is the person Dolores credits with pushing her not only to leave

her husband but to continue her education.

“I would go into work with a black eye, and she would tell me, ‘When are you going to leave him, Dolores?’ but all I could do was put my head down,” said Anguiano.

“She is one of many people who helped me go to school; if it weren’t for her, I don’t think I would have left my husband and gone back to school.”

While attending school, Dolores also kept a full-time job at White Sands Missile Range for 32 years and took care of a family. She later became a substitute teacher at both Socorro and El Paso Independent School District until 2016.

With her perseverance and humility, Dolores has continued to be a breath of fresh air everywhere she goes. Her carefree and gentle humor is a reminder that there is no limit to having fun and enjoying life

to the fullest. As she reaches this big milestone in her life, one might ask what she plans to do next.

“I thought about doing my master’s, but I can’t. All the walking and coming to school is going to be tiring,” said Anguiano. “My advisor even tried to convince me to do my master’s, but it’s too much.

I am thinking of being a volunteer somewhere, but we’ll see.”

From developing close relationships with the people at the Center for Accommodations and Support Services to her advisor, Dolores has always wanted to finish her degree even if it means finally leaving a place she calls home.

“I‘m sad to leave this place, (UTEP) has been my home for so long,” Anguiano said. “I have friends and heroes here that I want to thank. From my advisor Julio Rogers to Mr. Flores and the other lovely people of CASS and

to people across campus, they’ve all helped me get here. They’ve all helped me get here and I‘m blessed to have these people be there for me.”

It is an emotional end for Dolores as she closes this chapter of her life.

She wishes to thank everyone who has helped her reach this point and reminds students who feel like they cannot finish that it is possible, no matter how old you are.

“Do not give up. If you get bad grades, you can make it up,” said Anguiano. “Go for it; just go for it. No one should stop you. It does not matter how old you are. Just go for it.”

Itzel Giron is a staff reporter and may be reached at iagiron@miners.utep.edu; @by.itzel.giron on Instagram; @ itzel_anahi_16 on Twitter.

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

NEWS Page 7

NEWS BRIEFS UTEP finance major awarded diversity scholarship

Photo courtesy of UTEP Marketing and Communications.

Eduardo Sano, a finance major in The University of Texas at El Paso’s College of Business Administration, was awarded a $10,000 scholarship from PGIM, the principal investment management business of Prudential Financial Inc. (PFI), according to a news release from UTEP Marketing and Communications.

Sano was among 242 interns from 105 universities who participated in PGIM’s Ron Andrews Diversity Scholarship (RADS) Program in summer 2021.

From June to August, Sano interned with PGIM Real Estate’s debt originations team in Chicago, where he was involved in financial

modeling of potential new deals, market research and due diligence during the deal process, the release stated. He also networked with PGIM’s senior executives and worked with a mentor.

“I want to go into a career in finance because I love the analytical side of the industry,” said Sano in the release, a member of the University Honors Program and vice president of the UTEP chapter of Delta Sigma Pi, professional business fraternity. Sano has been offered a job as an investment analyst at PGIM Real Estate after he graduates from UTEP in May 2022. “Being able to see whether or not an investment can pay off is very rewarding. Additionally, finance is part of every industry, so your options are very wide with a degree in this field.”

RADS was established in 2020 in honor of Ron Andrews, retired head of human resources for the U.S. businesses of PFI, to help advance diversity in the asset management industry.

Winners receive a 529 Savings Plan funded at $10,000, a paid internship, mentorship and professional development opportunities.

Photo courtesy of UTEP Marketing and Communications.

UT System Board of Regents contributes $1 million to create endowment in honor of Diana Natalicio The University of Texas System Board of Regents has allocated $1 million to create an endowment to benefit the new Diana Natalicio Institute for Hispanic Student Success at The University of Texas at El Paso, according to UTEP officials.

A news release said the endowment will be used to fund a distinguished directorship of the institute, which is named for the longtime and beloved UTEP president who died in September. The Diana Natalicio

Institute for Hispanic Student Success will be dedicated to studying and implementing systemic changes that will promote greater access to higher education and will serve as a national resource and model for Hispanic student success.

Natalicio served as president of UTEP for 31 years before her retirement in 2019 and was instrumental in the University’s ascent to Carnegie R1 research status. She was a steadfast advocate for students and was

dedicated to ensuring UTEP’s growing enrollment reflected the demographics of the surrounding Paso del Norte region.

“We are deeply grateful to the Board of Regents for providing the funding to help us recruit and retain outstanding leadership for the new institute,” UTEP President Heather Wilson said in the release. “But more importantly, it secures ongoing support of Dr. Natalicio’s legacy.”

PROSPECTOR STAFF REPORT Information courtesy of UTEP Marketing and Communications

CONGRATULATIONS

CLASS OF 2021 HAVE YOU THOUGHT OF STARTING A CAREER WITH THE EL PASO POLICE DEPARTMENT?

Contact a recruiter today!

1-888-550-7174

For more information, visit

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THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

Page 8 NEWS

Commemorating commencement Celebrating the occasion is too costly for some students You’re going to buy all this stuff.

It’s like, ‘I just spent all that money here.’

Elias Rivas, UTEP student

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ /THE PROSPECTOR

Graduation cap, gown and medal for upcoming UTEP graduates. Packets are available at the University Bookstore KRISTEN SCHEAFFER The Prospector

As graduation draws near, it’s time to decide who to invite, where to hold your family get-together, and what to buy to commemorate the event. You have already dropped a lot in tuition, and you had to pay for your cap and gown – do you feel obligated to spend money on adornments as well?

Some students say yes, there is a pressure to get an expensive frame or a class ring to commemorate their time at college. Some stu-

dents have voiced that society and advertising companies play a big role in the pressure to spend, while others say their families push for it.

“I know my mom has already stated, ‘when you graduate, we’re going to go all out, we’re going to send out invitations; you have to buy them from your school,’” said Zipporah Rios, a sophomore at UTEP. “Personally, I feel there is a lot of pressure, but I don’t see a point in doing all of that nonsense.”

According to Cost Helper, the total cost of a graduation ranges be-

tween $300-$2,500, depending on what you purchase along with your cap and gown. These additional accessories can include a commemorative medallion, a class ring, announcements, graduation packs, frames, and additional materials for graduation parties.

“I would be the first person in my household to graduate college, so I could see how they’re proud of me and they want to flaunt it or whatever,” Rios said. “But for me, I’ve been working towards this goal since I was younger. I knew I

wanted to graduate college since I was younger. So, it’s just another milestone for me.”

UTEP senior Sadie Carrillo said she feels obligated, but is probably not going to make these types of purchases.

According to Education Data Initiative, the average four-year public university cost for a student living on campus is about $25,000 per year. This is before books and additional fees are factored in. In the 2015-2016 school year, 58% of full-time students held a job.

With college prices rising and the U.S. minimum wage remaining idle, students are struggling to cover costs. According to Urban Institute, 30-40% of undergraduates take out student loans to cover their costs,

and 70% of 4-year college graduates have debt afterwards.

Considering the mounting cost of attending university alone, a grand celebration may not be an option for every student and some feel there is no reason to stigmatize a refusal to spend much on commemorative décor or memorabilia.

“It’s one thing to go through all these years of college and finally finish. Then to graduate, you need to buy a cap and gown,” said Elias Rivas, a sophomore at UTEP. “You’re going to buy all this stuff. It’s like, ‘I just spent all that money here.’”

Kristen Scheaffer is a contributor and can be reached at kmscheaffer@miners.utep.edu.

Students feel pressured to decide their future KRISTEN SCHEAFFER The Prospector

As the fall semester ends, some students will be wrapping up the last loose ends before crossing the stage. College can be daunting, knowing students must decide who they want to be at a young age.

According to Liz Freedman, 20-50% of college students start college undecided and 75% change their majors at least once. Is 18 years old too early to make this decision?

“I felt very put on the spot to be like, ‘I need to know for sure what I need to study and stick with it,’” said UTEP senior Sabrina Sosa. “I feel like if you are still confused on who you are as a person, you feel pressure to decide on a certain topic based on what society would want

you to do, or your family.”

Then there are students who know exactly what they want to do but have no back-up plan because they cannot imagine what else they could do.

“It is a lot of anxiety right now because I’m in the first phase of nursing and then the second phase of nursing is a little tough to get into because you have to apply, take an exam, and you have to maintain a really good GPA,” said Emily Gomez, a sophomore at UTEP. Some students’ families are insistent that they follow a specific degree path while others feel there is a societal push to go one direction, or another.

“I feel like, ‘well, I want to do this, but I want to do this too, so I need to go through this route first, to

get to this route,’ and I feel like that just builds that stress and anxiety,” Sosa said.

According to NYU, six out of 10 college students state there was one or more times where they could not complete their work due to stress.

How does one remedy this?

There is hope. According to the University of Bridgeport, an undecided student has options: Explore your academic passions andtake a variety of general classes to see what engages you Work alongside academic advisors Join clubs and organizations to help you find a sense of belonging Take advantage of career advising; there are many career options within each college At UTEP, students have access to the Career Center where they are

provided with a timeline for their college career, a section dedicated to informing students what careers fall into what majors and the corresponding internships, a section on how to prepare for your career and a section on how to research careers.

The Career Center’s resources are available to students in-person and remotely by calling 915-747-5640, scheduling an appointment by emailing careers@utep.edu, or visiting their website at https://www. utep.edu/student-affairs/careers.

Kristen Scheaffer is a staff reporter and can be reached at kmscheaffer@miners.utep.edu.

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THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

NEWS Page 9

UTEP spirit marches NYC’s Macy’s Parade ITZEL GIRON The Prospector

Many woke up Thanksgiving morning with the energy to prepare for the feast taking place later in the evening, all while both UTEP dance and cheer teams found themselves in New York City for the 95th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade.

Earlier this semester both teams announced they were invited to Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade and were fundraising money in hopes of being able to attend. After many generous donations, both teams had raised enough money to take part and be the first program in the UT System to do so.

“This trip gave the team a new sense of gratefulness,” said Yamel Garcia. “We had so much support coming from El Paso, it was truly and unbeatable feeling. I hope the UTEP community knows now that (UTEP) is on a national scale and our community is more appreciated now than ever before.”

Arriving a week early, both teams were able to not only explore the city but create closer bonds with one another while preparing for a once in a lifetime experience.

“It was my first-time visiting New York. I had so much to look forward to,” said UTEP dancer Brianna Cedillo. “Sightseeing was one of my favorite experiences. The Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty,

PHOTO COURTESY: UTEP CHEER

A UTEP cheerleader waves during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade on Nov. 25, 202, in New York City.

The Empire State Building – it was so fascinating to witness in real life.”

“One of my favorite things was definitely just bonding with the whole team and really getting to know everyone on a different level,”

said Garcia.

From practices throughout the week to enjoying the scenery New York has to offer, both teams put their best foot forward to represent themselves but the community of

El Paso well.

“This experience changed me by making me realize how even more blessed I am to be a part of an amazing team,” said UTEP dancer Jaqueline Reyes. “I hope that participating shows the UTEP community that no matter what, the spirit teams are always doing their best to represent the university in any way that we can.”

The bonds formed while in New York were highlighted throughout the performance as both teams along with other universities across the nation danced in front of thousands of people, as well as the millions watching from home. Even among the bustle of everyone in the parade, the amount of time and effort both teams put in to getting there shined through.

“It was definitely exhilarating,” said UTEP cheerleader Victoria Huerta-Murray. “I hadn’t processed we had just performed because it felt so quick... The cheering from the crowd reminded me of what we had just done and knowing that we performed on national TV for millions of people to see was unbelievable.”

“I definitely left New York with a motivated mindset to work even harder to be the best dancer I can be,” Cedillo said. “The cold weather, long rehearsals and sleepless nights were all worth going through considering that the memories will

stay with me forever.”

Now back home, gratitude and appreciation are being felt all around.

To how they each felt personally to how as a whole how appreciative they were of the opportunity. It is not only a great achievement but also something that will continue to push both teams to continue to do their best to show off their pride for UTEP and their hard work.

“This experience changed my team and I for the better.” said dancer Briana Carranco. “As a collegiate team I think we all learned that anything is possible if we all put the same amount of time and effort.”

“Every dancer left New York with something positive they wanted to make better, and I cannot wait to see how we continue growing,” Cedillo said. “Without the support of our teammates and our coach, Leslie Lopez, nothing would be possible.”

The UTEP Cheer team released the following statement expressing its gratitude Saturday through their social media platforms: “We would like to give the biggest shoutout to the El Paso community, UTEP alumni, family, friends and our fellow UTEP Miners. We are so grateful for your generous donations and continued support through this amazing experience.”

Itzel Giron is a staff reporter and may be reached at iagiron@miners.utep.edu; @by.itzel.giron on Instagram; @ itzel_anahi_16 on Twitter.

CASS ONLINE PORTAL Connect from anywhere, anytime!

cassportal.utep.edu

CHECK YOUR STATUS

REQUEST ACCOMMODATIONS

APPLY TO BE A NOTETAKER

FACULTY PORTAL

Sign on using your UTEP credentials, no new passwords or usernames to memorize!

The Center for Accommodations and Support Services (CASS) has an online portal with a three-question application for students with disabilities or temporary disabilities. CASS will then meet with students virtually or in person to discuss their case and determine what accommodations the student is eligible for.

utep.edu/cass cass@utep.edu (915) 747-5148

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

Page 10 NEWS

From The Prospector Staff: Congratulations!

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ /THE PROSPECTOR

Part of The Prospector staff pose in front of the Centennial Plaza on Nov. 29, 2021

2021 Fall Commencement Don Haskins Center

Congratulations Miners, we are proud of you!

Saturday, December 11

Sunday, December 12

1 p.m.

1 p.m.

Liberal Arts

6 p.m.

Business Administration and Education

6 p.m.

Health Sciences and the School of Nursing Engineering and Science

For more information, visit: www.utep.edu/commencement

SUMMER 2021 Graduate

College of Engineering Doctor of Philosophy Sergio Cordova Jr Robert Edwin Ferguson II Md Nawshad Arslan Islam Anabel Renteria Marquez Mahdi Saghafi Maryamsadat Shokrekhodaei Oscar Samuel Veliz

Master of Engineering in Civil & Environmental Engineering Ana Cristina Acosta Powell Maithland Hinson

Master of Science

Raul Eduardo Aguirre Emerson Roland Armendariz Jesus Castro Perez Victor Chavira Jr. Angel De Jesus Colorado Velazquez Luisana Corral Ruben Del Rio Jr Gabriela Jean Estrada Jonathan Fierro Liliana Fierro Melissa Gallegos Lopez Salinas Roberto Garcia Jr. Laura Roxanna Garza Daniel Gauna Jesus Aristeo Gonzalez Romero Luis Raul Granillo Jason Hill Rodrigo Julian Ibanez-Alcala Edgar Lopez Rocio Jazminne Lopez-Terrazas Maria Fernanda Mandujano Jose Antonio Marquez Marisol Melonie McNeil Heather Lynne Miklos Sadeer Mohammed Mustafa Oghenetega Odeghe Crystal Orozco Sofia Veronica Ortega Haro Yon Fredy Palomino Jacob Thomas Pellicotte Tahsin Rahman Rosa Olivia Ramos Andres Rios Casey Christopher Rogers Jose Julian Romero Emiliano Ruiz Roberto Samaniego Adalberto Sanchez Jr

Master of Science in Data & Information Sciences Ricardo Alejandro Contreras

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

Class of 2021

Master of Fine Arts

Sunny Garcia Emily Jordan Parsley Laura Andrea Vazquez Lopez

Master of Music

Adam Ernesto Castaneda Zendel Yamel Hernandez Alvaro Alonso Larios Caleb Ryan Tullius Dominique Nicole Velez

Master of Science William Ricardo Upton

College of Science Doctor of Philosophy Joshua Irving Brown Parth Chaturvedi Vanessa Enriquez Olivia Fernandez Delgado David Lewis Guenaga Jiye Guo Rogelio Long Jesse Murillo Tara Allison Tyler Nitka Md Fashiar Rahman Kristina E. Young

Master of Science

Godwill Asare Mensah Amankwa Karsten Dieter Amezcua Winter Kristen Herlinda Arce Amanda Maria Bataycan Paul M. Djangang Patricia Daniela Dobos Nikki T. Donegan Babatunde Olukunle Falola Marissa Helen Kaminski Chitra Bahadur Karki Mr John Koomson Hector Cein Mandujano William Marfo Robert Donavin McCreary Stephen Michael Molina Ebenezer Nkum Kelvin Ofori-Minta Adrian Silerio John Byron Snell Augustine Twumasi Peter Obinna Ufondu Carmen Paige Webster

College of Education

Doctor of Education Master of Science in Acevedo Environmental Engineering Joshua Gustavo Monzon Ivan Mauricio Ramirez

College of Liberal Arts Doctor of Philosophy Brenda Rosario Gallardo Rubi Guadalupe Gonzales

Master of Arts

Alondra Avila Sarah Brown Zachary Ross Hartzell Hector Alejandro Hernandez Stephanie Alexandra Morales Matthew James Rethorn Melynda Ann Venegas Erika Villegas Rui Yamawaki Sandra Regina Zavala Rivas

Master of Defense & Strategic Studies Maria Del Carmen Cervantez Carla A. De La Paz Cameron Alexander Garcia Madison Diane Hooten Carlos Leonardo Lopez Lucas Makens Shelby Mullins Jorge Alberto Nunez Natalia Pomales-Rivera Santos Joel Rivera Steven J. Sico Edward Alan Snyder Jeffrey A. Steele Patrick S. Trinidad John Francis Yanikov

Sandra Rocha Rachel Serrano

Doctor of Philosophy Ross Clinton Teller

Master of Arts

Heriberto Jose Garcia Jr

Master of Education Francisco Aguilar Taylor Lorainne Alaniz Cynthia Marie Alarcon Grace Alvarado Maria E. Becerra Diana Perez Canal Alexandra Castillo Paulina Duron Laura Lozano Fonte Jessica J. Garcia Veronica Guadalupe Garcia Cynthia Gomez Barron Valeria Gonzalez Diana D. Hernandez Kaitlin A. Hernandez Bailey Ann Hollis Catherine Huynh Jorge Levario Jr Rocio Lopez Ramirez Candace Nicole Manzueta Gabriela Marchan Elda Martinez Muller Christopher John Navariz Sierra Rae Oaxaca Abril America Overgaard Deida Darlene Sanchez Laquitta Estella Staton

Cheyenne Y. Tame Milagros Vazquez Melissa Nicole Wilson

Master of Science

Veronica Guerrero Cabada Carrigen Noelle Cain Mariana Camacho Hilda Gandara Alyssa Renee Garcia Patricia Gomez Karina Hernandez Cassandra Holguin Daniel David Kelch Jr. Rebeca Martinez Cervantes Mayra Alexandra Ortega Adalberto Sanchez Medina Michael John Taylor Ashley Nicole Triana Sarai Banuelos Williams

College of Business Administration Doctor of Philosophy Yang Zhang

Master of Accountancy Austin Ray Justine Michelle Lopez Alondra Murillo Christian Daniel Rivera

Master of Business Administration

Jasmine Guadalupe Alcantara Jorge Luis Alvarado Gonzalez Karen R. Benavides Rafael Carrasco Jr Edgar Castillo Iyari Sinahi Fierro Selena Hernandez Connor A. Hjalmquist Sai N. Kolli Diego X. Lopez Sandra Najera Wesley Andrew Ontiveros Gustavo Adolfo Pina Jr.

Master of Science Andrew Ryle Jakia Sultana Andrew T. Yurachek

College of Health Sciences Doctor of Philosophy Amy R. Nava

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Catherine Rebecca McCall

Master of Public Health Perla Michelle Martinez Alexa Karina Mendoza Shawna Leigh Payan Christine Anne-Marie Peet Isaac Abraham Rodriguez Edith Sandoval

Master of Rehabilitation Counseling Diana Angelica Villegas

Master of Science

Joshua Gilbert Del Rio Francesca Julia Hernandez Ileana Abril Jarquin

School of Nursing Doctor of Nursing Practice Angelica del Toro

Master of Science in Nursing Rafael Ivan Amezaga Danielle Lorraine Crim Victoria Frescas

Sonia Garcia Jackie Marie Gardiner Lacie McDuffie Goolsby Tracey Hall Daniel Mutinda Kasivuku Alexis Alonso Lopez Jessica Francis Mireles Andrew Montanez Susan Perez Valerie A. Perez Carmelita Rivers Tezak Melanie Tiara Thomas Amy Tschirhart Mayra Watts Danielle Renee Webster Joslyn Jeanelle Zavala

School of Pharmacy Doctor of Pharmacy Isaiah Michael De Santiago Ivanka Liliuokalani Jaquez

Engineering Science/ Interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy Estrella De Jesus Herrera Chengyang Hu A H M Golam Hyder Nakul Nitin Karle

SUMMER 2021 Undergraduate

College of Engineering Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Aolani Arce Maria Dolores Benitez Luisa Andrea Castrejon Varela Getsemani Molinar Noemy Celeste Morales Alfredo Vazquez Jr.

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Jarrah Ahmad Alenezi Luis Alberto Hernandez Jesus A. Jurado Eduardo Lopez Jose Armando Luevanos Jr. Sergio Madrid

Bachelor of Science in Engineering Leadership Noel Ruiz Lopez Evelyn Torres

Bachelor of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering Javier Acosta Valeria Alaniz Khaled Alazemi Abdullah Musaed Aldaas Barjas M. Alkaamar Eisa S M S D Alsaidi Abdulaziz B Y M Alshaban Mobarak J. Alshammari Maribel Alva Ibraheem Aradah Retaj Jassim Bourabaa Miguel Angel Castano Humberto Hernandez Rios Julio Cesar Mora Cazares Ana Yajaira Ruiz

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Alejandro H. Aguilar Oscar Castro Luis Lenin Medina Carlos Alan Montgomery Kimberly Morales Jonah Alexander Pierce Emilio Joe Ramirez Melina Idali Salazar Perez Alejandro Arturo Sanchez Jose Eduardo Soto Miguel Angel Zamudio Arias

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Alejandro Acosta Favela Fahad Alenezi Salman Khaled Alobaidli Axel Ivan Arias Dominic Helmut Emil Austen Victor Hugo Balcorta Munoz Jorge A. Chavez Kevin Irving Chavez Luis Adrian Chavira Alexa Ofelia Cortes David Cortes Chavez Colin M. Deane Jamaul A. Drew Dustin W. La Fleur Ricardo Lopez III Arturo Isreal Morales Guillen Kevin Raul Nieto David Ogaz Abraham Pardo Jr. Manuel A. Resendez Adam A. Salazar Hector Rene Soroa Rogelio Adrian Valverde Roberto Villalobos Jr.

Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical & Materials Engineering Zayra Naomi Dorado Jae Seok Eo Beomjin Kim Carla Michelle Villalobos

College of Liberal Arts Bachelor of Arts

Russell Michael Aboud Erika Acosta Corina Aguilar Norma Karina Alcocer Megan Michelle Allen Kevin Anthony Andrade Diego Alejandro Araiza Laura Elena Arredondo Isaac Avila Hugo Alejandro Baca Justin Michael Barnes Cesar Beltran Zachary Seth Beltran Jazmine Z. Blazquez Valerie Burgos Thomas Martin Bynum Jr. Brandie Calderon Eduardo Calzada Hannah Kaitlin Camacho-Pate Jacklyn A. Caraveo Marcos Cardenas Steven Alexander Cardona Eduardo Carreon Ivan A. Casas Karla A. Castaneda Raul Javier Castro Julian Corral Lucero Corral-Arreola Kenia Gabriela Cortez Rebecca Cortez Eric Ismael Cruz Emmanuel De La Riva Kyle Andrew Dickey Cole Allen-Lloyd Donielson Melody Joy Favela Alexis Felix Rangel Belinda Fernandez Allaison Katty Rose Flores Alberto Emmanuel Garcia Emily Ann Gomez Joshua Q. Gomez Rebecca V. Gomez Jaqueline Gonzalez Saul Gonzalez Linda Guereque Fernando Cuauh Gutierrez Irene Gutierrez Noah Anthony Gutierrez Ruth Gutierrez Sandra Gutierrez Alana M. Heck Ivan M. Hernandez Laura Michel Hernandez Edgar Gilberto Herrera Clemente Higareda Odete Higareda Julia Holguin Dominique Isabela Huerta Jaime Cesar Huerta Alyssa A. Inguanzo Anthony Bevard Jacobs Jessica Jauregui Katherine Saint John Maria Fernanda Jurado Cervantes Nancy Leanos Adrienne Nicole Levario Norman Leyba

Alfredo E. Lezama Alfredo Lopez Jr. Evelyn Justine Lopez Nicole Irene Lopez Alejandra Virginia Lucero Zamyra Aline Lugo-Principe Elva Anahi Martinez Valerie Ann Medina Guadalupe Lizeth Mendoza Juan Alejandro Mercado Julissa Bernal Mitchell Jesse Mauro Monroy Alfredo Morales Jr. Celso Ivan Moreno-Marquez Frida Adelina Murga Belen Murillo Alexia Xiomara Nava Carmona Ricardo Nevarez Jr. Sydney Linna Nixon Jessica Marie Olague Marcelino E. Orozco Joshua N. Ortega Ulises Abel Ortega Issac I. Ozaeta Rebeca Pacheco Estrada Maria Angelica Padilla Marcos C. Paez Daniella Pagan Itzel Pedregon Renee Pedroza Imani Deaynice Pepen Evan Paul Perez Rachel Perez Eric C. Pineda Ashley Nicole Pop Ana Teresa Porras Shannon Lee Quartermane Jorge Quinones Crystal Lynn Quiroz Briana Noelle Ramirez Isaiah Ray Ramirez Sharon M. Ramirez Maria Guadalupe Ramos-Pacheco Ana Luisa Rayos Lezama Beatriz Victorina Reyes Selena L. Rivera Cosette I. Rodriguez Kaitlyn Nicole Rodriguez Karen Jazmin Rodriguez Renee R. Rodriguez Rick David Rodriguez Rolando Rodriguez Dominique Marcello Romero Isaac Gabriel Romero Pilar Ruiz Zaira Ruiz Astrid Janet Salazar Rebecca Alexa Salazar Sahar O. Salcido Carlos Sanchez Leslie Sanchez Ashley Anne Schmudlach Abigail Serna Osvaldo I. Soto Diana M. Tejada Ana Paulina Terrazas Norma Ivanna Tinoco Marianne Christine Vacio Laura Ann Valdez Jasmine Marie Varela Nahomi Itzel Velasco Javier A. Velazquez Carmen Lorraine Villalobos-Perez Ashley Villegas Markus Anthony Voit Levi Matthew White Octavio Yanez Jr.

Bachelor of Fine Arts

Gabriela Alvarado Marquez Jennifer Jade Chaides Melinda Ann Hernandez Camila Grisel Hernandez Hernandez Larissa Reyes Arzate

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

Class of 2021

Bachelor of College of Science Multidisciplinary Studies David Arciva Bachelor of Science Bryan Adrian Armendariz Ramon Gabriel Armendariz Michael Baacke Tia Kay Bradshaw Ethan Frederick Briggs Valerie Elizabeth Broadie Tony Isaiah Brooks Jr. Jessica Ashley Caldera Sergio Camacho Jr. Ana Lidia Cantu Kristen Ruth Carsten Jasmine Davis Victoria E. Estrada Joshua Stevenson Fields Mark A. Garibay Jr. Richard Genera Amanda Marina Gomez Jessica R. Gonzalez Alex Hernandez Michelle R. Jimenez Brittany Naomi Johnson Christopher Lannutti Mr Kelly Marie Lapham Stephen Mitchell Lassiter Andra Joanne Litton David Michael Lopez Timothy Lopez Michael A. Lozano Paul Anthony Lyons Sofia Marcela Maciel Rosa E. Montes Ms Andres Obrien Victoria E. Olivo Lisa M. Pena Carrie A. Pinson Melissa Pol Michelle Janae Pruitt Jeffery Paul Ramos Monica L. Reyes Victoria Ashley Reyes Dejanae Lanelle Roebuck Noelle C. Sammons Jaime Enrique Sandoval Jacqueline Solis Michael Robert Tipton Ivette Torres Jeazel Jasmin Torres Alejandro Trejo Ana Virginia Valdez Edmundo Vizcaya

Bachelor of Music

Consuelo Estela Gonzales Zoe Katerina Mendez

Bachelor of Science Sabah Muwafaq Aljaafari Sarah M. Cintron Jose Isidro Escobedo Sergio Arturo Gonzalez Adam F. Guillen Karah Lynn Marcell Sebastian R. Moreno Daniel Pavis Jr. Carina Monserrat Ramos Erika Grace Robles Lisa Yesenia Sanchez Mayra Lizet Solis Jenny Marie Unpingco

Jorge Arturo Becerra Andujo Jr. Jessica Arredondo Nathaniel Matthew Arvizu Angel A. Badillo Miguel Elias Balderrama Emilynn Leigh Banks Nohemi Aracely Beltran Korynn Lashae Bolden Denisse Angelica Cadena Medina Ruben C. Campos Zaira J. Carbajal Ricardo D. Carrasco Felicia M. Chavez Sarah A. Chavez Bessie Alicia Christmann Sandra Corona Becerril Cesar Adrian Corral America Delgado Chukwudi David Ezenwa Kevin A. Fierro Andrea Janet Flores Joselyne Fraire Giselle Fuentes Alejandro Gaitán Peraza Gianni B. Gamboa Claudia A. Garcia Marshal Erik Garcia Andres Gomez Christopher David Gomez Raquel Gomez Faith Alexis Granados Kevin Alexis Guerra Alexandra Jewels Hernandez Andrew Taekgu Kim Mallowry Vincent Livingston Ernesto G. Loera Bianca Lopez Yvonne K. Lopez Antonio Lozano II Lorelei I. Lucero Bernice Nikole Luna Lucasantiago Henze Macias Miguel Eduardo Macias Villa Tabitha Ann Maddox Valerie Maldonado Leifitele Viavia Mamea Carolus Ken Martin April Danielle Mata Natalia E. Mauricio Oavie J. Mcdermott Noah Daniel Mora Lourdes Maria Moreu Rachel Munoz Eric Jacob Perez Brandon Charles Hall Raab John Wesley Rewis Alexia Breanna Reyes Ana Ivonne Reyes Paola Leticia Rios Devin Ivan Rivera Steven Robles-Hernandez Jorge Alberto Rodriguez Vivian Georgina Rosas Cruz Christian A. Rubalcaba Joseph D. Rueda Alberto Ruiseco Ricardo Ruiseco Katelyne Alexis Saenz Oscar Sandoval Denisse Tellez Lorena Isabel Trillo Vanessa Vallejo Andres Y. Vasquez

Monica Vazquez Tyre N. Vazquez Lesly Villela Jonathan Shao Yu Fernanda Iarash Zamora Valeria Zubiate Saldivar

College of Education Bachelor of Arts

Christopher Jon Alvarez Rebekah Arvilla Raquel Barcenas Rocio Del Carmen Barragan Daniela Alejandra Casas Bobbie Jo Chavez Cassandra Davila Gabriela Enriquez Eddie A. Gallegos Alma P. Garcia Alejandra Gomez Jessica Gonzalez Norma Flor Gutierrez Melissa Rae Lopez Luis Armando Martinez Jr. Dominic C. Pierce Lita D. Puente De La Vega Marisa Ramirez Perla Gabriela Rodarte Carla V. Taboada Karina Tarango Tiffany Erin Tarin Nichole Ultreras

Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Bernice Isabel Vargas

College of Business Administration Bachelor of Business Administration

Hanady Mohammad Almezini Ilse Adriana Arce Bianka Cristina Bullon Derian Ender Burciaga Carlo Emiliano Cano Oropeza Juan D. Carbajal III Jose A. Chavez Mirka Yadeth Duran Vega Jacqueline Fierro Argelia P. Flores Yaneth Ariana Gamez Georgina Y. Gastelo Stacy Huhn Gerardo Alexis Ibarra Emma C. Lasley Amanda R. Lawrence Brianna Ashley Licerio Janneth Lopez Jose Guadalupe Lopez-Salazar III Lyzbeth Michel Karla Montano John Anthony Montes Maria Fernanda Morales Alejandro Moreno Jr. Astrid Norely Munoz Lozano Michael A. Ordonez Steven Ornelas Oswaldo Perez Manuel Ramirez Jr. Mariana Angelica Ramos Fernanda Reta

UTEP Engineering Class of 2021 Congratulations on your accomplishments and resilience, we wish you the best!

May you always keep the Obligation of the Engineer to serve the public with integrity, fairness, tolerance and respect in your heart.

Good luck on your path to success.

Congratulations Class of 2021!

Congratulations to all of the College of Liberal Arts Graduates From the Liberal Arts Dean’s Office

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS

We are proud of you!

Nicole Rosales Anallely Saenz Almazan Erica Salas Norberto Samayoa John Paul Simons Lluvia N. Todd Andrea Torres Kelsey B. Torres

College of Health Sciences Bachelor of Science

Carolina Nicole Adame Marcos Aguilar Alexis Ashley Alegre Zohra Amber Ali Brianna M. Aliyas Alexa Arellano Celeste Barron Michael Alexander Blanco Natalia Bustillos Jose Cano Abril Alejandra Carrillo Roberto L. Casillas Caleb Alonso Castillo Kayley Nicole Castillo Leah Nicole Cuevas Gloria I. Duarte Martin Escobedo Laurin Michelle Goodwin Paola Grajeda Randy Gutierrez Raquel Andrea Hernandez Dyann E. Herrera Valeria Angelica Holguin Alma R. Juarez Celeste Ileana Lake Averie Nicole Likovic Susan Reeves Magana Vanessa Martinez Justin Jerrod Mckenzie Cesar Alejandro Meraz Chacon Alysa Rae Mier Iris Ariana Moreno Brianna Lee Mundell Jerusalen Murillo Bernardo Norzagaray-Garcia Camila Maria Olmos Valeria Ortiz Claudia S. Pacheco Nicolas Fabian Perez April Ann Pinones Corinna I. Ponce Jimmy Michael Quemado Jr. Ayleen Elizabeth Sanchez Joyleen Sanchez Aaron Colin Smiley Valeria Suarez Jorge A. Torres Melissa Guadalupe Trevizo Genesis Valdez Ariana Jisel Valles Carolina Yapor

Bachelor of Social Work Gabriela Paola Cobos

School of Nursing Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Hunde Aboma Leslie G. Acosta Diaz Ximena Susana Acosta Solis Jiovannii Crystal Acosta-Quintana Nana Yaa Afari Navil Alejandra Aguayo Valeria Aguirre Jazmine Almeraz Sandra Alvarez Jocelyn Alvarez De Toledo Aguilar

Carlos Alberto Arana Franco Itza-Mara Arneros Sara Maria Arteaga Missy Barraza Trahana Wilson Benbow Robin Michelle Bonilla Adilene Bravo Kimberly Marie Brown Alejandro Camarena Ricardo Campos Kristin D. Cardona Carina Andrea Cardoza Mercedes Cassandra Carranza Maria Fernanda Castaneda Yessica L. Cervantes David Julian Chavira Alxxa J. Cordova Jasmin Coronel Angela Denise Crawford Maribel De la Cruz Lawonda Faye Dixon Kurt M. Edusada Briana Esparza Alan Daniel Espinoza Ana I. Espinoza Laquinta Fautner Dominique B. Fernandez Karen Fernandez Valeria Flores Benito Flores Alvarez Francy E. Franco-Holguin Maria Luisa Gabaldon Paulina A. Garcia Alejandro Garcia Serrano Christian Atzel Gomez Danielle Alejandra Gomez Josalin Allieze Gomez Diana Gonzalez Kristian M. Gonzalez Sergio Gonzalez Mariana Grajeda Jenna Marie Grambergs Ayesa Y. Guerrero Garcia Kevin Matthew Hay William John Henry Desiree Renee Hernandez Katarina Grace Hernandez Sarahi Hernandez Cyra Jade Herrera Gabriel Roman Herrera Michael Antonio Herrera Sophia E. Hidalgo Leah Rae Howard John Wayne Hudgens Elise Huston Stephanie A. Jimenez Adrianna Olivia Jimmerson Heebeom Kim Naylea Yackz Ledezma Christina Lobato Michelle Ann Long Antonio Lopez Jr. David Lopez Jr. Hannah Nirel Lopez Valentina Magana Melissa Sofia Manriquez Alejandra Olivia Mejia Samantha M. Mendez Monica A. Mendoza Araceli G. Meza Sofia Susana Montañez Arantxa Munoz Daniela Murillo Duyen Hoang Minh Nguyen Gloria Bernadette Nunez Lucia Vanessa Ochoa Mendoza Cindy Oliveros Brenda Aneth Ortiz Mata Ricardo Oviedo Prabhjit Pabla Astrid Palacio Jendy Maria Parchment Carlos Adrian Pedroza Ramirez

Claudia Angelica Peña Maria Jose Perez Gowen Breona Nicole Pinkney Daniela Adriana Porras Estefania Portillo Jena Gail Miller Procter Katelyn S. Propheter Andee N. Ramirez Mayra Alejandra Ramirez Betsy Reveles Brenda Ivonne Reyes Leasly Anabelle Reyna Claudia Lizbeth Rios Porras Andrea-Marie Lynn Rivera Heather Kayleigh Rivera Angelica Rochin Diego S. Rodriguez Jon Anthony Rodriguez Jr. Patricia Rodriguez Abraham Roman Christina Roman Qorian Romero Shelby Lynn Rosdahl Brianna Rubio Cassandra Ruiz Karla Alejandra Ruiz Sofia Ruvalcaba Daniella D. Salcido Audree Marie Sanchez Priscilla Marie Sanchez Paola Sandoval Kiara A. Savage Alejandra Sosa Ashley Samantha Soto Emma Maria Soto Joann Stiles Elisa Victoria Suliveres Steven Tavera Jonil Grace Estavas Tionko Lauren Danae Truman Jacob J. Tullius Artemisa Urias Alexandrea Toni Uribe Maria Del Rosario Valenzuela Alcantar Vanely Lizbeth Vargas Florencia Villa-Ortiz Maria Wiist Stephanie Serena Zamarripa Aileen Zarazua Alfred G. Zertuche

FALL 2021 Graduate

College of Engineering Doctor of Philosophy

Angel Fernando Garcia Contreras Christopher Alexander Mendoza Ali Morovatdar Khandoker Abdul Rahad

Master of Engineering in Civil & Environmental Engineering Aaron Aceves Karen Paola Saenz Munoz Erik Eduardo Vargas Rodriguez

Master of Science

Maher Aldeghlawi Ricardo Alvarez Lopez Elizabeth I. Artalejo Chantal Atienzo Omar Gabriel Barcenas Juan Antonio Barraza Hector Abraham Barraza Lomely Adrian Jerry Belmontes Oscar Beltran Oscar Luis Berjes Torres Laura Adriana Berrout Ramos Fernie Briones Eduardo A. Camacho Aylin Alejandra Camacho Soto Eduardo A. Campos Delgado Juan Manuel Canales Jr. Francisco Javier Candelario Burgoa Sarah Ann Cardona Alejandra Casas Atzimba Casas Aaron I. Castro Marysol Aimee Chavira James Matthew Cleary Jessica Dean Coria Dalton J. Deboer Lauren Rebecca Eagan Prajina Edayath Amanda Estrada Jimmy Wade Faulkenberry Stephanie Figueroa Ariel Alejandro Gamon Ramon Alejandro Garcia Rodrigo Garcia Daryl Gilbert Adrian Alberto Gonzalez Ariana Guerrero Azeneth Guerrero Alan Arturo Guillen Jaramillo Andres Eduardo Gutierrez Hernandez Guillermo Nicolas Gutierrez Serrano MD Sahid Hassan Jose Luis Hernandez Andres Geronimo Hernandez Garcia Quinatzin Hidalgo Timothy Hoover Munshi Zakir Hossain Andrea Irigoyen Velazco Zahraa Mohanad Issa Jason William Jabalie Samarah Renay Jorgensen-Perry Nathaniel Ian Jurado Nicolas M. Kling Kevin Langley Alba Jazmin Leyva Marquez Manuel Salvador Lizarraga Vicente F. Lombrana Jesus Lopez Alonzo Ximena Lopez Melendez Guillermo Lopez Moreno Alejandro Magana Guillen Cory Marquez Luis N. Medina Raul Antonio Mena Jr. Erick David Mendez Silva Daniela Luisa Mendoza Eyan Michael Meraz Jorge Isaac Merino Gomez Blake Alston Merriman Aimee Montalvo Miriam Montana Yazmin Montoya Edgar Antonio Morales Alireza Pasha Nouri Eduardo Daniel Nunez Moron

Ivan Ocon Delgado Jose Rogelio Olivares Leonardo Orea-Amador Guadalupe Ortega Kristal Pardo Jose Emmanuel Quintero-Garcia Sergio Adrian Ramirez Martinez Jaime Eduardo Regis Ignacio Humberto Reyes Jr Manuel Reza Jr John Rinacke Diego Armando Rivera Eduardo Robles Christian Lee Rodriguez Yaneli Rubio Aldo Rubio Hidalgo Erika Rebeca Ruiz Kevin Adrian Ruiz Andres Sagredo Monserrat Carolina Salas Nava Antonio X. Salomon Miguel Fernando Sama Aguirre Paola Michelle Santillano Herman Serrato Namrata Sharma Eduardo Andres Sierra Nancy Marina Silguero Donald Allen Smuck Jr. Victor Manuel Solis Martinez Pamela Soto Nicholas George Testa Angelica A. Torres Saucedo Mariano Dagoberto Urbina Felipe Daniel Urzua-Alvarado Kevin Jesus Valdez Christian Valdiviezo Alex Vasquez Jr. Kelby Abel Vazquez Steven Victor Velazquez Dylan M. Veliz Norma Leticia Veloz Kurtis Isami Watanabe Manuelisaiah Emilio Zavala

Master of Arts

Master of Science in Data & Information Sciences

Master of Fine Arts

Akorede Racheal Ajibade Maria Teresa Armendariz Marco Andres Aveledo Quijada Mitzel Aveytia Tatyana Battle Eric Antonio Beltran Romonte Centrallas Croom Daniela De Anda Henry Bo Burr Etheridge Adam Ariel Guajardo Nathaly Carolina Hernandez Garcia Adam Felipe Lopez Georgina Alicia Lopez Cabral Melanie Ann Madrid Haydee Berenice Martinez Robert Donavin McCreary Jacob Montilijo Monty Maria D. Ortega Victor Manuel Portillo Ochoa Isaiah Thomas Rhyanes Samuel Ballard Richardson Jenaro Rios Nallely Santiesteban Garcia Benjamin Olson Shultz Kolton Chas Smith Anapaula Themann Justin Philip Thorp Brianna Dawn Newton Trejo Ma. Elena Villar Elizabeth Ann Villarreal-Arbogast

Master of Defense & Strategic Studies Joseph Nathan Burmeister Lance Jackson Cowart Kennedy Garcia Jorge Grajeda Michelle Marie Schuster Kurt W. Trammell Allison Voll Sydney Rose Wolking

Valeria Guadalupe Gonzalez Munoz Jerry Glenn Sweeney Jr

Robi Mahan Diego Adrian Rico Carlos Rodriguez Tania Maria Romero

of Music College of Liberal Arts Master Chi Yvonne Trumbo Doctor of Philosophy Ashok Bhusal Dessaray Cisneros Gorbett Nadia Hamilton Morales Daniel Castro Romero Jr Laura Margarita Uribarri Jennifer Wilhite Alison Wells Zepeda

Master in Public Administration

Yusuf Olorunwa Adenusi Javier Antonio Aguilar Cristian Alejandro Botello Quintin Lee Kinnard Christian Alejandro Lopez Argelio J. Navarro Jr Rocio Ivette Nevarez Ethel Lisbeth Tellez

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

Master of Science

Hilda Nohemi Arellano Nicole Cebak Temiloluwa Deborah Fakoya Roxana Muniz Marco Schinella Timothy Paul Wilkerson

College of Science Doctor of Philosophy Sharmin Abdullah Myriah Lorraine Acuna Md Ariful Ahsan Lisett Contreras Priyanka Rajendra Gade David Felipe Lankford-Bravo Lei Ma Richard Joaquin Ortiz Felipe Rodriguez Laura Isabel Saucedo Bofei Wang

Class of 2021

HAPPY GRADUATION DAY

CONGRATS!

“Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

The Physics Department congratulates all students graduating this year.

We look forward to hearing about your success.

Go Miners!

PHYSICS DEPARTMENT

FROM THE OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS AND STUDY ABROAD !

The College joins you and your families in celebrating this great professional and academic milestone.

Go Miners!

- Ralph Waldo Emerson OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS AND STUDY ABROAD

The College of Health Sciences is so proud of your achievements!

We can't wait to see your next steps, and we want you to stay connected to us!

Thank you for helping us to build our future together!

COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

Master of Arts in Teaching

Class of 2021

Candelario Castaneda Castaneda

Master of Science

Tolulope Samuel Adeyina Tolulope Ayodeji Ale Andrews Tawiah Anum Eduardo Jose Castillo Fatule Aaron Todd Conley Marisol Dominguez Aimee Viviana Garcia Harisha Kaartick Michel Eduardo Luna Lucero Sergio Gerardo Macias Raisa Ntemenyi Nkweteyim Maria Aleida Ramirez Vega Alejandro Rios Yifan Wang Andrew William Zitnik

College of Education Doctor of Education Keri Lynn Moe

Doctor of Philosophy Flor del Rocio Acevedo Yi-Yu Liao

Master of Arts

Andrea Chavez Iliana Cruz Amanda Louise Johnson Bruno Maccario Kissack Amanda R. Murillo Adam Jacob Tirres

Master of Education

Christina Marie Alvarez-Funkhouser Christopher Rene Ambriz Diana Ayala Villalobos Miriam Bencomo Gabriela Brito Antonio Cerecerez Hector Manuel Chavira Rubio Victoria Estela Contreras Elizabeth Corral Khairunisha Devani Courtney Alexis Doeden Nicole Dominguez Alejandra Flores Christina Garcia Ana Laura Gonzalez Evelin Adriana Gonzalez Alicia Gonzalez-Akens Jessica Groves Alejandra Gutierrez Eduardo Hernandez Karina Victoria Herrera-Lara Hilda Mireya Huizar Amelia C. Irvin Ryan Edmund Jackson Lizette Jauregui Sabina Armida Lazos Crystal Dawn Leggett Lucia Lopez Cassandra Lucey Karina Macias Jessica Manjarrez Michael Joshua Martin Carolina Martinez Velma Morales Diane Fabela Moreno Vianney Olivas Alicia Perez-Briones Daniel Cristino Quinonez Miguel A. Quintana Cassandra Estelle Ramirez Nicole M. Rede Jacqueline Renteria

Marilia Reyes Alma Zuiema Rivera Leanna L. Rivera Oscar Robles Blanca E. Rodriguez Perla Flor Ruiz Kimberly Ann Santellano Christopher R. Sigala Samantha Soltero Ruben Soria Jr Siera Reiko Tanabe Cynthia L. Tovar Aracely Vasquez Sergio Macias Velazquez Sunny Melissa Williams Victoria Rangel Woodard

College of Business Administration

Juruby Flores Rocio Granados Rachel Grantz Francisco Herrera Paul James Hinojos George B. Iskander Gembo Lhamo Elizabeth Licerio Michael Ryan Meador Carlos Mesta Wesley Mildenhall Victoria Miranda Kenneth Daniel Miyagishima Cesar Alejandro Monsivais Maria Guadalupe Morales Iris Giovanna Moreira Jesus Manuel Olivas Jr Joe Pabon Eduardo Elias Pereyra Liz A. Reyes Alma Nidia Rodarte Eduardo Daniel Rosas-Blum Michelle Torres Salas Brenton Frisco Smith Annik Sobing Isidro Torres Jr. Isidoro Trueba Jr Elizabeth Vega Andrea Rubi Zamora Kerr Nazanin Setareh Zarei-Chalshotory

Doctor of Philosophy

Master of Science

Master of Science

Karime Odette Aziz Michelle Campos Marcos Cardona Cynthia Ivonne Girard Syndia Iveth Huizar Carolyn Lopez Garcia Yolanda Rotzinger Ballesteros Jessica Villegas-Porras

Yicheng Zhu

Master of Accountancy Leonardo Ivan Alcala Patrick Michael Almodovar Miguel Angel Anaya Dulce Joanna Antillon Brandon C. Arellano Melissa Ann Avelar Marielena Banuelos Chakehria R. Brown Orlando Bustillos Kayla Nykole Carrasco Yadira E. Castellanos Christian Castro Byeong Jun Choe Raymundo Issac Cuevas Karla V. DeLaO Jennifer Marie Delgadillo Elizabeth Alejandra Dupont Thomas James Escarcega Angelica Eunice Garcia Evelyn M. Gomez Jesse Ryan Leal Destiny Licon Sara Maria Lopez Saray Miramontes Bianca Perusquia Alfredo Rodriguez Silvia Guadalupe Rodriguez Adriana Toccoli Estefania Vazquez

Master of Business Administration

Daniel Alvillar Garcia Glenny Apodaca Ruby Sosa Baca Paul Eduardo Balderrama Miramontes Melissa Barraza Lerma Leticia Bueno Luis Alberto Cueto Makayla Elaine Dawson Jose Antonio Flores

Julian Cardona Cecilio Huitron Jr. Ana Karen Jimenez Enciso Karla Janeth Lujan Villa Ivan Mejorado Alejandro Ortiz Rebecca Temidayo Oshinbanjo Eric Michael Reyes Peters Sinai Ramos Jacob Dylan Clinton Smart

College of Health Sciences Doctor of Philosophy Patrick Anthony Cereceres

Master of Occupational Therapy Katherine Elizabeth Adams Tyler James Caldwell Ngoc-Diane Luong Chau Angelica Maria Dominguez Kathleen Elaine Dominguez Ramon Gil Flores Brittany Sarah Gamez Gloria Paola Garcia Rebecca E. Garza Clarissa Astrid Gomez Isabelle Matthews Gorman Ariana Bianca Gutierrez Macy Morrison Stephanie Nevarez Thalia Rae Reyes Morgan Paige Sosa Kendall Elizabeth Thornberg

Master of Public Health Celeste Anahi Alvidrez Abdulahi Aremu Ayanwale Alyssa Andrea Martinez Nqobile Nzama

CONGRATULATIONS MINERS! WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENT! WE WISH YOU ALL THE BEST!

Beniam Asterawoke Betsiha Matthew Graham-Melville Ylusion Hernandez Morales

Master of Science Alondra Rodriguez Solmaz Sigaroodi

Master of Social Work Dayanira Rodriguez Carrillo Jimena Jacqueline Maciel

School of Nursing Master of Science in Nursing

Karla P. Acevedo Stephane Achille Alicia Gabrielle Alexander Debra Joanne Barnes Alejandra Barraza Timothy Sandlin Boice Eileen Brenda Boureslan Amy Brown Patricia Cardenas Monica Denisse Cepeda Andrea Patreece Cook Gerald E. Critchfield April Crothers Jody Crouch Ashley Marie De Anda Izamar de la Garza Gabriel Espinoza Victoria Farmer Martha Marie Flores Joshua Deen Frossard Judith Anne Garcia Luz Rocio Garcia Ruby Bejarano Garcia Rachel Mariann George Sarah Kraft Guevara Luis David Hernandez Jr Mary L. Hernandez Amy Hix Christopher Daniel Holden Heather Kathleen Lewis Erika Leyva Ramon Pina Lujan Jr Paola Luna Paul Christian Macias Veronica Macias Shawnceah Monae Matthews-Bellow Emilie Anh Truong Maxie Gabriel Mendoza Marquez Rosa Meraz Jessica Renee Morales Melissa Morales Jocelyn Nicole Neal Karista Lyne Nichilo Kimberly Nieto Annette Yvonne Ochoa Janel Outlaw Lisa Ann Ramirez Michael James Revels Luz Angelica Rocha Diana Laura Rubio Luis Rogelio Sanchez Lindsey Seipel Roma Himanshu Shah Christian Shane Sifuentes Audrey Anna Smith

Engineering Science/ Interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy Wissam Ali Y Atwah Chaoyi Deng Hangyu Dong Yongteng Dong Gabriela Henriquez Rodriguez Jose Trinidad Reyes Portillo

FALL 2021

UNDERGRADUATE

College of Engineering Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Jonathan L. Acosta Nasser Jamal Alfalah Soud Abdulaziz Alshaiji Landy Estefania Araiza Mendoza Itzel Alejandra Banuelos Lauren Elaine Brown Pablo Javier Carlin Laura Biadina Chairez Parra Alexis Fernando Chavez Huerta Luis Fernando Cordoba Adolfo Cordova Ruiz Jr. Boubacar Coulibaly Sarah De La O Paola Elizabeth Delgado Manuel Gallo III Justin Tyler Johnson Edith Mariel Leon Kevin Licon Alejandro Emmanuel Loya Valtierra Xavier Alejandro Lujan David Macias Jr. Timothy John Martin Mauricio Mora Jennifer Areli Moreno Escamilla Abdullah Ahmad Mubarak Pedro Cesar Murillo Miguel Ramon Palacios Christopher Reuben Pena Vanessa Alondra Pena Valeria Ramos Ricardo Alfredo Rivera Christian Rodriguez Jose S. Rodriguez Jr. Joselyn Vanessa Roman Enrique Antonio Saenz Carrillo Abraham Isaac Segovia Ana Sofia Simental Unzueta Aldobelli Torresdey Roberto Villalobos Evan Walter Williams

Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering & Management Priscilla Clarke Said De Jesus Mercado Antonio Veliz

GRADUATES

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR GRADUATES. WE ARE VERY PROUD OF YOU!

DEAN OF STUDENTS

Master of Rehabilitation Counseling

Rebecca Montemayor Stubblefield Stephanie Marie Sugg Gina Torre Hector E. Trillo April Rose Valverde Amber Lynn Wagner Candace Jo Wilson Dustie Lynn Wiser

DEPARTMENT OF ENGLISH

YOU DID IT, MINERS! CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS! UNIVERSITY MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

Abigail Bueno Daniel Corona Joshua Alexander Delira Eduardo Alan Diaz Rogelio Diaz Irvin Alain Diaz Sandoval Carlos M. Flores Karina R. Gasca Ismael Holguin Kevin Xavier Jauregui Candy Azucena Leyva Rigoberto Lugo Carlos Giovanni Martan Jordan Eugene Martinez Erandi Xanat Martinez Hernandez Jesus Mertig Alfonso Morales Jordan T. Morales Kevin Salem Narvaez Yeverino Luis A. Orozco Holguin Jasmine Aaliyah Pedroza Diego Omar Ramirez Angel D. Rojas Rebeca Lydia Salcido Devonte Mikal Sherman Salvador Valenzuela Lindsay Anne Voglewede

Bachelor of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering

Stibaly Araly Aguirre Faleh Alazemi Mohammad Alenezi Omar Abdulhameed Alhashmi Mohammed Aqeel Alkhuzaei Khaled Nasa Almutairi Othman A Th A Alozainah Ali Kh A H R Alrshed Andrew Alexander Aristizabal Ana Victoria Chavez Banuelas I Karla V. Estrada Sabastian Wolf Flores Jaqueline Garcia Eric Avelino Gonzalez Ballesteros Mariana Hermosillo Hidalgo Jose Miguel Hernandez Falah M I A Mandekar Priscilla Elizabeth Mata Abraham Montes Hernandez Nour Moraveg Zoe Ivie Ojo Andres Palacios Jr. Armando Antonio Pena David A. Pina Ruben Alberto Ramirez Michelle Andrea Rascon Giordano Jose Reyes Euceda Arath Humberto Sotelo Esparza

Bachelor of Science Jose Alberto Flores Gomez Evelyn Alejandra Martinez Luisafernanda Perea Jesse Alexander Trujillo

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Bryan Acosta Kevin Alvarez Escalante Ken Marcos Amamori David A. Amparan Oscar Ayala Ethan J. Benckwitz Dafne Tais Bencomo Patrick Josep Brannan Emmanuel Briones Casey Adam Caiza

Congratulations Graduates.

Thank you for living on campus with us.

We wish you all the best of luck in the future.

Fabian Alejandro Cano-Romero Denise Gabriela Castro Briana Rae Cervantes Samuel Andres Chong William Daniel Croslen David Armando Davis John Michael Delgado Fernando Desantiago Saul Duran Jorge A. Favela Jr. Michael Joseph Fernandez Jr. Daniela Flores Seth Abel Flores Michael Elija Fuentes Manuel Galaviz Adelyn Maria Galvan Stephanie Galvan Judith Lizeth Garcia Juan Angel Garcia Reyes Jesus Gutierrez Jesus Maximino Hernandez Nancy Hernandez Anthony Alexis Herrera Isaiah Joshua Landin Felipe Rafael Leal r.

Alan Eduardo Licerio Mata Jacob Ryan Loosa Adrian Jose Lopez Gabriel Manzano Jr. Federico De Jesus Marin Ana Luisa Mata Sanchez Timothy P. Mccrary Michelle Miawa McMasters Cristobal Medina Erika Mendoza Bryan Alejandro Molina Ervey G. Montes David Morales Alan Motta-Allen Esteban Munoz Jon M. Munoz Ericka Jacqueline Najera Osvaldo A. Nevarez Jehu Alejandro Nunez Rigoberto Marquez Quiroz Jorge Alberto Ramirez Kevin Anthony Ramirez Joshua Arturo Ramos Esteban Retana Hector Alejandro Reyes Jose Manuel Rodriguez Ortega Lewis J. Roe Elias Roybal Elizabeth Cristina Rubio Justin Drake Ruiloba Noah Manuel Saenz Ricardo Ryo Sillas Jose Heriberto Smith Jr. Andrea F. Torres Jose Ricardo Torres Mendez Zabdi Jazer Valenciana Ismael Villalobos Joseph Santos Warren Evan Marcus White Wenbo Xie

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Julio Cesar Aguilar II David Alejandro Aguilar Garcia Fahad A. Alenezi Cesar Alejandro Alfaro Henry Geovanny Alfaro Adrian Jesus Barbee Daniel Ivan Barragan

Fernando Elias Barragan Daniel Belio Sofia Lauren Beltran Aadel A. Ben Omairah Javier Ricardo Berumen Josue Bitar Martin Blancas Zarate Jacob Thomas Bryant Paola Campos Jose Manuel Castaneda Marcos S. Castanon Jose Alfredo Chavez Arredondo Alfredo Clarke Jr. Esteban Alfonso Cook Jesus Ricardo Cruz Xavier Alexandro Cruz Delgado Joshua Zahn Renaldo Dantzler Alex De La Cruz Ernesto De La Cruz Natalie Nicole Del Valle Andrew N. Diaz Diego Fogle Carlos A. Fuentes Armando Jesus Garcia Dajalma Garcia Jesus Eduardo Garcia Jorge Luis Garcia Bustillos Fernando Garcia Castillo Steven Garibay Cecilia Gonzalez Miguel Alberto Gonzalez de la Cruz Andy Guajardo Isaac Hernandez Manuel Hernandez Valenzuela Jr. Wali M. Hossain Cruz Markham Jacobo Desirae Danielle Jonas Grecia S. Lechuga Jorge Levario III III Diana Hazel Leyva Marquez Diego Alejandro Limon Santiago Llamas Alan Omar Loera Nathan Andrew Lyon Jose Manuel Marquez Luis Alejandro Marquez Papadakis Esteban J. Martinez Brandon Joe Mendoza Andre Molina Juan Molinar Jr. Rudolf Celestino Montiel Jr. Maria Isabel Morales Dana Cecilia Moya Christian Adam Muñoz Hector E. Navarrete Posada Emmanuel Negron-Ortiz Benjamin Ontiveros Zachary Oropeza Zazini Emmanuel Oyerinde Natalia Pedroza Mario Alberto Perez Jr. Lino Porras Jr. Emmanuel Ramirez Carlos Enrique Ramirez Araiza Manuel Otoniel Ramos Blanca Arisbeth Rangel Rodriguez Erik T. Reyes Jose Felipe Reza Holguin Joshua I. Rivas Aaron Arturo Rodriguez Christian Alexander Ruiz Francisco Sanchez Ruiz Michael Aaron Schmalfeldt Alexander M. Shields Kathia Giovanna Silva-Rivas Gala Cassiel Solis

Samuel Isaiah Stooksbury Jesus Manuel Taboada Alfredo Torres Jr. Yulianna Torres Ernesto Trejo Javier Eduardo Valles Rowan Christina Vega Marai Consuelo Williams Christopher Yanez Jr. Rafael Adrian Zaragoza

Bachelor of Science in Metallurgical & Materials Engineering Edgar Omar Alvarez Robles Maya Mc Carthy Cartagena Eduardo De Avila Rangel Mariel Garcia Andres Juan Maldonado Kimberly Rivera Brenda Judith Sida Gina Zavala Alvarado

College of Liberal Arts Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science Josh S. Vedamanikam

Bachelor of Arts

Francisco Aguilera II David Aguirre Jr. Jordan M. Aguirre Alexandra Monaisa Ahmed Yasmin Alison Alber Daniella Alvarado Carlos Alvarez Diana Guadalupe Alvarez Edgar Alvarez Sarah Alvidrez Jennifer Lyn Amen Pamela Amezaga Andrew Joseph Andrade Evelyn Andrade Victor Hugo Antillon Genia Nahara Arellano-Caldera Karina Arguelles Rafael Inez Armijo Claudia Ivonne Avila Aaron Avitia Torres Sarah J. Azzam Emily Victoria Baeza Alexander J. Bailey Elbert William Baird III Nathan R. Ballard Jesus Alejandro Baltazar Brittany M. Barajas Biannie Gisel Barbour Gabrielle Victorina Barrientos Zaida Barron Miriam M. Baylon Espinoza JoEnni Elise Becerra Cailee Rae Beltran Andrew Benitez Bradley Lee Benton Ana Flor Bernal Ana Laura Bernal Leslie Fernanda Bernal Jasmine Betancourt Tanner James Bray Ashley Desiree Briones Jessica Marie Briones Andrew Briseno Brooke Avery Bryan

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

Class of 2021 THE OSCCR WISHES ALL 2021 GRADUATES THE BEST ON THEIR FUTURE ENDEAVORS.

GO MINERS!

CONGRATULATIONS !

THE DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING IS EXCITED TO CELEBRATE THIS MOMENTOUS ACHIEVEMENT WITH ALL UTEP GRADUATES. WE WISH YOU THE VERY BEST.

PICKS UP!

Class of 2021 HOUSING AND RESIDENCE LIFE

OFFICE OF STUDENT CONDUCT AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Valeria A. Buenrostro Maria De La Luz Burciaga-Maldonado Albert Bustamante III Melissa Ann Bustillos Ana Paulina Caballero Cortes Daissy Campa Lilia Campos Natalie Sarah Cano Fabiola Sofia Carbajal Alexis C. Cardiel Camille Isabela Carlos Natalie Itzel Carranza Alberto Manuel Carrasco Maria Carreon Dolores Florencia Carrillo Mario Manuel Carrillo Seiry Carrillo Victoria Marie Carrillo Daniela Casiano Nataly Guadalupe Castaneda Anthony Castanon Michaela Dakota Castor Jessica Ceniceros Victoria Cervantes Victoria Nichole Chacon Alejandra Chavez Kevin A. Chavez Ingrid Alondra Chavez Chavira Jason William Chipp Alberto Cigarroa III Miguel Cintron Jacob Claeps Christina N. Colmenero Alexis Marie Cordero Dezirae Cordova Sarah Channel Coria Alondra Elizabeth Corral Desiree Raeanne Cruz Karen Y. Cruz Steve Cullen Sarah Elisabeth Curtis Mara Vianey De Lara Chavez Justin Tyler Dees Justin Aaron Del Valle Diana Delgadillo Fatima L. Delgadillo Kimberly Diaz Daisy Dominguez Patrisha Vian Downey David Duran Lyndon Gerard Echels Joseph Ellington Rosa Maria Escalera Jasmine Escobedo Natalia Escobedo Amanda B. Esparza Cristian Esparza Joe M. Espinoza Michael Charles Estes Cesar Estrada Kathia F. Estrada Valerie Michelle Ferman Pedro David Fernandez Jr. Sabrina Ashly Fierro Antonio Flores Diana Aida Flores Jr. Geovanna I. Flores Luis Jason Flores Adrian Abraham Fonseca Lorraine Franco Myriam Julietta Fuentes Marcela Fuentes Anaya Samuel Gabaldon Sabrina Galaviz Amilynn Ezri Gallegos David Gallegos Jr. Vanessa Diane Galvez April Nicole Gamero Araceli Garcia Karina Alejandra Garcia Simon Peter Garcia Valeria Elizabeth Garcia Vivian Alexis Garcia

KEEP ON LOOKING TO THE FUTURE AND MINING FOR KNOWLEDGE. WE ARE PROUD OF YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING ABOUT THE SUCCESSES YOU WILL CONTINUE TO HAVE THROUGHOUT LIFE.

EARTH, ENVIRONMENTAL AND RESOURCE SCIENCES

Lizbeth G. Garcia Gonzalez Brooke Anne Gerdes Annebel Gil Marissa Skyy Gillette Alma Gomez Cressa Ruth Gonzales Noema Ysidra Gonzales Ariadna Gonzalez Clarissa Gonzalez Jonavie Joe Gonzalez Noelia Esther Gonzalez Veronica Gonzalez Irais Griffin Charlie Guerra David Guerra Ana P. Guerrero Valeria F. Guerrero Jessica Gutierrez Jesus Roberto Gutierrez Ysabel Vianey Gutierrez Tony Len Hall II Jacquelyn Michelle Harper Alec Christine Harrison-Little Karla Idaly Heredia Emily Rose Hernandez Jesus E. Hernandez Jorge Alberto Hernandez Jr. Matthew Alexander Hernandez Miguel A. Hernandez Sophia Hernandez Viviana Camila Hernandez Manuel A. Hernandez Roman Julian Andres Herrera Andrea Cecilia Herrera Aguirre Aldo Damian Holguin Jessica Lyzette Hoover Angel Alejandro Huerta Marlen Irigoyen Calvin Farold Jackson Mark Stephon Jackson Jose Manuel Jasso Chan Bee Kang Yu Oscar King Mayra Daniela Landeros Yvonne Lara Sam R. Lauckner Ana Cecilia Lerma Brandee Lerma Brittany C. Leyva Ivan Lom Alyssa Raquel Lomeli Adolfo Lopez Aimme Lopez Germain Lopez Maria Isabel Lopez Gabriel Loya Luis C. Loya Esteban Loza Andrea Nyree Lucero Michael Lucero Cecia A. Luis Bianca Luna Elizabeth Macias Magdalena Madera Zavala Jesse Natan Maese Cinthya Yolanda Magallanes Rebecca Moreno Magana Orlando Maldonado Valerie Mandujano Alexis Marez Michelle Marin Alexis Marquez Amanda N. Marquez Angel Marquez Anthony Joseph Marquez Brianna Marquez Carlos Alberto Marquez Maritza Marquez Mathew S. Marquez Aaren Jakob Marroquin Ivana M. Marrufo Alan David Martinez Alejandra Guadalupe Martinez

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

Class of 2021

Alexis Alberto Martinez Consuelo V. Martinez Erik Javier Martinez Juan Josue Martinez Luis M. Martinez Luz Estela Martinez Miguel Angel Martinez Miriam K. Martinez Perla Guadalupe Martinez Yasmin Martinez Perla Joana Martinez Valenciana Bahjat Jihad Masoud Nicole Olivia Matos Forest Whitmer Mckee Maria Isabel McKnight Brianna Charlene Medrano Cristian T. Melendez Bryan Phillip Mena Venus Jennifer Mendez Isela A. Mendoza Benjamin Stuart Milam Danielle Miller Julissa Miranda Kamille Alysse Montoya Vincent Gilbert Montoya Ana K. Morales Daniela Morales Diego Nicolas Morales Eric Daniel Morales Fernanda Morales Jenny Rocio Morales Patricia Estefania Morales Mitre Jennifer Marie Morgan-Baldi Bethanie Gadney Moss Andrew Munoz Maricarmen Murguia Vivian Paris Myers David M. Narro Jonathan Navar Oscar Humberto Navarro Ruth Evelyn Neder Acuna Annette Nicholls-Sanders Viridiana Nunez Nicoll J. Obando-Saavedra Jordan Taylor Ocampo Madison Lynae Ochoa Samantha M. Offutt Cesar I. Olivas Adrian Ontiveros Nataly Ontiveros Andrea Ornelas-Bejarano Adriana Orozco Nathan Michael Ortiz Eduardo Ovalle Juan M. Paiz Hannah Grace Palafox Berenice Palma Josefina Elizabeth Pena Angelica Perez Corina Bianca Perez Joel D. Perez Yahir Athel Perez Azalia Perez Gonzalez Eric Pichardo Jr. Anthony Henry Pina Ryan Pitts Catherine Porras Humberto Porras Paulina A. Porras Brandon Prendiz Oscar A. Puente Alicia A. Pulido Victoria Antonieta Pulido Aritza Jacqu Quintana Carlos Quiroz Lesley Gisse Quiz Crystal Marie Rahn

Lizbeth Maria Ramirez Raul Alexis Ramirez Selena Marie Ramirez Kimberly Renee Ramos Jr. Gabrielle Michelle Regalado Elmer L. Richards Brianna Caprice Richter Stephany Rios Victoria Rivas Kimberly Rivera Morgan Jude Robledo Alma Alejandra Rodriguez Evelyn Rodriguez Janet Rodriguez Stephen Mathew Rodriguez Vianey Rodriguez Jacob Roen Vianey Astrid Roman Araceli Rosas Alan Francrisco Rubalcava Claudia Yvette Rubio Elizabeth Cristina Rubio Jocelyn J. Ruiz- Rangel Juakheem T. Rumph Claudia Saenz Daniella Saenz Jennifer Samantha Saenz Aurora Salazar Valeria Salazar Muniz Jacqueline Lizbeth Salinas Judith Samaniego Alyssa Sierra Sanchez Elsa Y. Sanchez Korina A. Sanchez Nitzia J. Sanchez Sofia Marie Sanchez Yesenia G. Sanchez Kevin Sandoval Medina Julian Santana Ricardo Santos Jr. Jr. Lynnsey Renee Sasser Oscar Saucedo Alejandra M. Seade Monica Clarisa Sepulveda Jessica Christine Serna Israel Andres Serrano Monserratt Serrato Paulina Yvonne Seyffert Samantha Ashley Sianez Debbie Sifuentes Michelle Sifuentes Marlene A. Silva Myrna Isela Silva Cardiel Evan Mateo Solis Brittany Soria Holly Ann Soria Julio Raphael Soria Stephanie Ruby Soto Syljai Silvana Soto Rodriguez Mary Katherine Springer Kellie Ann Starr-Price Tiffiny Drew Stevens Porter R. Stubbs Lebaron Folasade Adedoyin Talabi Danielle Renee Tapia Catherine Ruth Taylor Dana C. Terrazas Maribel A. Terrones James A. Thomas Jr. Andi Tiscareno Briana Mariko Torres Cassandra M. Torres Theo Ashley Trujillo Emily Jane Tyree Kimberly Michelle Ulloa Pedroza Jason Urrutia Nigel Norman Usher

Jocelyn Valerio William Anthony Valle Denisse Vasquez Melissa Vazquez Felipe Velasquez Leslie Melissa Velasquez Fernanda Velazquez Edith Veloz Gregorio Jose Vera Jr. Eva Viera Jandrick Vigil Adrienne M. Villa April Villa Natassia Renee Villagrana Nicholas Eric Villarreal Kaelin Li Yu Yang Walker Matthew Steven Ward Gabriela Werthmann Marcellus D’Angelo Westbrook Peyton Reece Williamson Kayla Lynn Younger Gustavo Zamora Jr. Stephanie Zamora Bruno Aldair Zapata Emilia Vanessa Zubia

Bachelor of Fine Arts Viviana Arellanes Allison Frances Bristol Brian C. Ceely Sabrina Fernandez Jill Meghan Font Juan Manuel Galindo Jr. Cynthia Annette Garcia Daisy Alexa Garcia Linda Jazmin Garcia Olivia Steele Heitz Julianna Nicole Hernandez Martin Rodolfo Hernandez Jr. Kaitlin Serenity Herrick Melanie P. Montes Kristin Diane Morales Ruth Evelyn Neder Acuna Melissa H. Reyna Chantel Renee Rodriguez Eduardo Rosales Alba Mercedes Saenz Eber Sanchez Sarah A. Varela Gabriela Alejandra Velasquez Jocelyne Verdugo Kaelin Li Yu Yang Walker Barron Micheal Wortham

Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies Janeth Leticia Acevedo Lilian Acosta Carlos Adrian Alonso Dolores Maria Anguiano Krisell Armendariz Miles Christopher Banks Nadia Dominique Bernal Tania Michelle Bolly Candelaria Souleymane Boum Jr. Olivia Elizabeth Camacho Cristina Camarillo Natalie G. Carrasco Milca R. Chavez Andrea Chavira Jacqueline A. Cornejo Zachary Franklin Ramon Dantzler Jessica Y. Fang Evelyn C. Favela Bertha Alejandra Feldbusch Laura Lea Foxworth

Monica Laura Gardea Joel Gaytan Angelica Marie Gonzales Abigail Gonzalez Judy Fay Hayes Adrian M. Hernandez Christina Hernandez Irene Hernandez Kelsey Alexandra Hernandez Rebecca Ann Hurtado Dyvonne Juwan Inyang Dominic Juarez Sandra M. Lafon Olga Carolina Lara Lauren Casey Lazo Hyoki Lee Claudia Quintero Madrid Rylee Evelyn Maldonado Amanda Kathryn Marksmeier Christopher Martinez Flor Caribe Martinez Robert Mervin Ryan Allen Michaud Joel Muniz Rose Ann Munoz Jacob Aisac Ortiz Claudia Y. Perez Leslie Marina Perez Diaz Kristen Elizabeth Prevosto Alyssa Ann Prieto Natalia Ramirez Sarah Morley Raschbaum Brenda M. Robbins Joel Rodriguez Ruben Salmeron Christopher Clay Short Jesus Daniel Siller Fernandez Jr. James Edmund Springer Sah-Jay Avanay Stevens Jonathan Joseph Sullivan Cynthia Ivonne Trancoso Juan Trevizo Jr. Denise Vasquez Sara Marilia Villa Joan Vizcaino Marina A. Whitnah

Bachelor of Music

Nicolas Acedo Aguilar Shelby Nicole Estala Octavio Garavito Jason Javier Lespron Marc Anthoni Mancera Jonathan Sergio Oyervides Lilianna Raquel Perez Joseph Ismael Salgado Jr. Gabrielle T. Torres-Gonzalez

Bachelor of Science

Blanca Cecilia Alvidrez Jorge Avila Jr. Izabella Angelique Belmontes Janeth Briceno Diana Burciaga Victoria Angelica Cardoso Sydney Beth Contreras Vanessa Jeraldin Espinoza Jessica Lee Fraga Esperanza Garcia Mirat Hassanin Angela Christine Henderson Mayra Daniela Landeros Lesley America Lauriano Vivian Manon Natalie Nicole Martinez Jacqueline Andre Mendoza Miriam I. Olmos Pablo D. Ortega Elisa Pandeli Charline Prestor Belen I. Renteria Steven Francis Renteria Crystal Iris Rios

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FALL 2021 GRADS

KIMBERLY ROSE SANCHEZ KAELIN LI WALKER MARCOS E. MENDEZ

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!

AUSTIN GARIBAY RECREATIONAL SPORTS DEPARTMENT

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

UNION SERVICES

WISHING ALL THE GRADUATES THE BEST ON THEIR FUTURE ENDEAVORS!

VICE PRESIDENT FOR BUSINESS AFFAIRS

Lizette Rivera Ernest Bernard Sexton Roberto Solis Rayos Lina Saray Trejo Vanessa Georgina Valencia Lesly Maylee Vargas Mariano Velez Liana Victoria Villar

College of Science Bachelor of Arts Alfredo Gomez Jr. Jamie Reese Guerra Alejandro Heredia Caleb Taylo Shaw

Bachelor of Science

Elsa Sophia Aguilar Angela Leila Al-Hanna Rasheed M. Alnajjar Karelly Alvarado Alejandro A. Alvarado Robles Sylvia Elena Andrade Hector Apodaca Matilde Araiza Elizabeth Arenivas Itzia Deni Arrieta-Sosa Araceli Arroniz-Osoria Andrea Desiree Avalos Hailey M. Baker Thalia Alaniz Balcazar Jessica Nicole Barnes Paola S. Barragan Alan Raul Barraza Vazquez Stefany Monique Barron William Walter Beamon Keyla Bernal Irene Berumen Leal Mitali Vinod Bhakta Dawn Star Blazer Joanna Bosquez Julian Deshaun Brown Leslie Nicole Buraczyk Korina Edith Bustamante Adrian Cabrera Fabian Alexander Calderon Tiffany Jade Candelaria Fernando Cardenas Vinicio Carrera Edward Joseph Carrillo III Miguel Angel Carrillo Alvarado Cecy Case Bryanna Marie Castaneda Jimmy Ronal Cativo Jr. Emanuel Dimarco Chavez Brittney Nicole Collins Kara Chris Compton Briana V. Contreras Rivas Sarah Yvane Cordero Jazmin G. Corral Yazmine Vianey Curtis Nicholas Taylor Dano Ashley A. Davila Yahir A. Davila Jessica Alejandra De La Fuente Valerie De Lucio Arieana Dominguez Allen Haffid Enriquez Amber Marie Enriquez Danielle Enriquez Evelyn Melissa Esparza Julien Edward Esquivel Karina Estrada Sabrina Angela Flores Zenaida Fuentes Karla Jossely Galvan Yahir Efren Garay Aileen Nicole Garcia Celia Fernanda Garcia Mario Alberto Garcia

Triniti Gaxiola Jose Eduardo Giner-Grajeda Brianna Michelle Gonzales Samantha Gonzalez Sophia C. Gonzalez Timothy Blue Grado Cameron N. Granados Bronte Marie Guinn - De La Rosa Alejandro Gutierrez Hugo Alejandro Gutierrez Jr. Roger Tare Gutierrez Kamrin A. Guzman Giovanna Gabriela Hernandez Naomi L. Hernandez Alexandra Hilding Jacob Colton Hooper Rodrigo Alfredo Jimenez Hope Nedceline Johnson Madeline Eddiesenior Jones Iliana Nicol Lara Brandon Jerry Lee Mathew Daniel Livingston III Bryanna Lopez Christopher Lopez Jesus Edgar Alejandro Lopez Leena Lopez Yesenia Lopez Judith Loya Dante Lozano Nahizla Shant Lujan Bianca Enedina Luna Priscilla Machuca Virginia Gloria Macias Alexander Joseph Madej Mayra Victoria Madrid Yezleen Maldonado April Evelyn Marentes Carlos Marin Borges Maria Alejandra Marquez Nicole F. Marrero Jitsell Martinez Guillen Indiana A. Martinez Segura Sabrina A. Mata Robert Mark Mendez Joe R. Mexicano Desiree Savannah Miller Heather M. Minjares Mariel Montellano Kimberly Lizbeth Montelongo Meza Valeria Esmeralda Montero Alexa Celeste Montes Elizabeth Diane Montoya Brittney Morales Salma Nevarez Jesus E. Nieto Muriel Mariah Norman Alexa Leonor Ochoa Melody Kassandra Ojeda Erica I. Olague Abraham Olivas Karla A. Olivas Guillermo Ornelas Jr. Ashley D. Ortega Jesus Roberto Ortiz Michelle Azul Padilla Diamond Itzel Pardo Lawrence Ryan Parra Carlos A. Pena Infiniti S. Peoples Jesus Andres Perez Garcia Esmeralda Alyssa Ponce Manuel Portillo Carlos Damian Preciado Alyssa A. Prieto Alejandra I. Quatrini

Safia Raja Jose Antonio Ramirez Israel Osvaldo Ramirez Mendoza Brianna M. Red Briana Dionne Reed Alyssa Kaitlyn Renteria Fidel M. Renteria III Ian Isaac Reyes Saidy Victoria Rilat Karen Paola Robleto Alec R. Rodela Alandra Marie Rodriguez Evanie Danyel Rodriguez Lilliana Rodriguez Antonio Ruiz Beatriz Alejandra Ruiz Adrian Matthew Ruybe Dakota Jordan Saavedra Alexis Analise Salcido Isaac Salcido Sarah Paloma-Mia Sanca Cynthia Sanchez Karla Michelle Sanchez Nickolas Omar Sanchez Sebastian Van Sanchez Timothy Adam Schmidt Yeshey Seldon Briana Janae Serna Patricia Soto Alexa Jo Tellez Edna Daniela Tepezano Omar Vincent Torres Jessica L. Valadez Julianna Brian Valdes Laura Cristina Valdez Briana Alexis Vasquez Katryna T. Vasquez Cristina A. Villa Kryssia Villarreal Rodriguez Zyna Villescas Hailey Gene Vizcarra Kaylee Andree Wersant Andrea S. Yanez Martha Gabriela Yoshida Field Jocelyn Mary Zachariah Victoria Zapata

College of Education Bachelor of Arts

Elizabeth Andrea Alvarado Casandra Anchondo Carina Alexis Arredondo Victoria Antonella Avila Araceli Cadena Mariana Camarena Christian Carbajal Karla Chacon Jennifer Christine Cuellar Mary Grace Sarmiento Eroy Jacqueline Escobedo Rebecca Fernandez Veronica Flores Alexandra L. Gaona Ashley Ann Gomez-Ornelas Daniela Gonzalez Klaryssa Victoria Krop Danielle Andrea Lara Daisie Lira Valeria Lopez Anjelica Marie Manjarrez Marysol M. Marquez Emily Christine Martinez Stephanie N. Morales Jazmine Muniz

Esmeralda Munoz Ivan Munoz Fernanda Berenice Ontiveros Aniela Orozco Chavarria Jennie Ortega Jessica Ortiz Sarahi Payan Alexandria Renee Pina Karen Pahola Porras Natalie Quintero Brian Ramirez Kristin Nicole Ramirez Michael A. Rangel Alejandra Reynoso Charlene Sukie Rodriguez Benicia J. Salas - Nevarez Rebeca Sarabia Brian Antho Schwantner Sarah E. Segura Amanda Irene Silvas Cynthia M. Solis Elva Estela Soltero Liana A. Tavizon Valeria Nathalie Torres Rosa H. Tovar Luz Aimee Valenzuela Corina Yvonne Villa Paris Alexandria Ware

Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Christopher Albert Acevedo Anndree Mari Curtis Monyca Adriana Martinez Kaleb Andrew Slape

Bachelor of Science Marcella Lynne Deluca

College of Business Administration Bachelor of Arts Esteban Loza

Bachelor of Business Administration

Luis E. Abrego Fernanda Acosta Antonio Humbe Aguero Jr. Isaac Joel Aguirre Ana Laura Alarcon Gallegos Angel Alba Arturo Aleman III Nathaniel E. Alvarado Adrian Alvarez Anthony Kyle Villanueva Antonio Alondra Danielle Arango Angelina Argumedo Michael Armendariz Noemi Diana Armendariz Alicia Maria Aviles Martin Alexis Aviles Angie Azpeitia Karen Baca Desarey Lynn Balcazar Dakota David Bazar Zoe Miche Beltran Joseph Bencomo Wesley Cole Berry Eric Xavier Berumen Jennifer Arlene Betancourt Espinoza

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

Class of 2021

Herica Bonilla Celeste Borunda Jr. Leonardo Daniel Bretado Aguirre Alex Tomas Bueno Diana Esmeralda Bueno Olague Jennifer Pilar Burt Jorge Luis Bustillos Rendon Julia Marie Caballero Sofia Caballero Leonel Cadet Eduardo Calderon Maria E. Calderon Emmanuel Cristobal Calvo Ivan Camarena Jennifer Olimpia Cantu Sebastian Carbonell Carolina Cardenas Brandon Cartwright-Li Ericka Y. Casiano Hernan Troy Castillo Leobardo Alonso Castillo Monica Castillo Adriana Castro Javier Alexis Castro Ricardo Cavazos Jr. Ivonne Alejandra Cazares Luz Elena Cervantes Ramos Jesus Leonardo Chaidez Chiara Arianne Delgado Chanoi Vicente German Chao Jr. Vianney Chaparro Valenzuela Andres Chavez Fabian Chavez Jorge Chavez Patricia Chavez Samuel Isaac Chavez Eduardo Chavez Delgado Berenice Chavira Zhefen Chen Reynaud Brandon Chesser Edna Paulina Contreras Lhaisha Fernanda Contreras Priscila Contreras Santiago Rocket Contreras Victoria Isabe Cordero Alba M. Corona Paola Irene Corral Jennifer Corral Diaz Ramon Cortez Jr. Caleb James Cossio Aaron A. Cota Diego A. Cruz Jesus Antonio Cruz Sergio Ruben Cuevas Jr. Luis Antonio Davila Daniel De La Cruz Robert Deharo III Tony Del Buono Glenn J. Del Castillo Damon Jodeci Delgado Michael N. Delpino Fernanda Diaz Gabriel Enrique Diaz Richard Patrick Diaz Javier A. Dieguez Sebastian Dominguez

Maria Fernanda Dominguez Cisneros

Paige Schroer Dorsey Kevin Allen Edwards Subomi Elegbeleye Itzel J. Elizalde Monica Enriquez Numa Hector Escobar Yazir Escobedo David Espino Arlene Edith Estrada Luis Fernando Estrada Jr. Felix Ryan Fajardo Erika I. Favela Diana Alejandra Fernandez Vanessa Michelle Fernandez Danielle Flores

CONG RATU LATI ONS , CLA S S OF 2 0 2 1

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR WELL-DESERVED SUCCESS!

CONGRATULATIONS ON REACHING THIS IMPORTANT MILESTONE.

PICKS UP, MINERS! -RECREATIONAL SPORTS DEPARTMENT

GO MINERS! OFFICE OF THE PROVOST AND VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

UNIVERSITY CAREER CENTER

YOU WORKED HARD, YOU PERS EVERED T O ACHI EVE YOUR GOALS , AND NOW WE CELEBRAT E YOUR S UCCES S AND YOUR PROMI S I NG FUT URE! PRESIDENT HEATHER WILSON

Jordy I. Flores Yorlin Vianey Flores Crisel Flores Ramirez Michelle Fontes Amanda Rae Frausto Ana Cristina Frias Mariane Sofia Fuentes Macias Juan Manuel Gama Jr. Alan Garcia Efren Garcia Jr. Gabriel Eduardo Garcia Jr. Norma Garcia Juan Alejandro Godinez III Ashley Aley Gomez Claudia Maribel Gomez Allen Isaah Gonzales Adrian Gonzalez Debora Gonzalez Diana Gonzalez Luis Angel Gonzalez Nicholas J. Gonzalez Mariana Gonzalez Castaneda Carlos Mario Gonzalez Martinez JR. Emma Patricia Gonzalez Velazquez Devante C. Granberry Jazmin Grau Jessica Green Otoniel Guerrero Marco A. Guzman-Lopez Karen Alondra Hawk Alexa J. Haynes Aaron Hernandez Agustin Hernandez Alexandria Danielle Hernandez Claire Marcelina Hernandez Claudia N. Hernandez Emerald R. Hernandez Gloria Erika Hernandez Jake Harley Hernandez Jonathan I. Hernandez Liz Marie Hernandez Rivera Alexa Herrera Esmeralda Herrera Selma Victoria Holguin Cesar Huerta Daniela M. Huerta Gonzalez Jasmine Ivan Huff Daniel Ibarra Eric Ibarra Jayleen Camila Ibarra Sophia Grace Ibarra Axel Isais Alfred A. Iturralde Ana Sofia Izquierdo Elizabeth Jimenez Yadira Ivon Juarez Luis Enrique Jurado Leal Kyan Daniel Kamali-Nejad Pablo Arturo Labrado Jorge A. Lara Anai Leyva Luis Fernando Leyva Bo Lian Saira V. Liano Keith E. Loera Christian Isaac Lopez Claudiagabriela Lopez Elisa Marie Lopez Feve Elizabeth Lopez Filiberto Lopez Jr. Jorge A. Lopez Mariana Lopez Roberto Ivan Lozano Janice Ava Lucero Daniel Anthony Maes Ashley Areli Maese Marisol Magallanes Hannah Marie Mahan Vanae Lorraine Maldonado Michael Marin Camila Marquez Adrian Gilbe Martinez Claudia F. Martinez Juan Carlos Martinez Jr. Miriam A. Martinez Rodrigo Martinez Valeria Mateos Joel Jared Medina Christian D. Mendoza Liliana Meraz Hans Bryan Meyers Jr. Victor Hugo Miranda II Andres Nicolas Montelongo Gerardo Montes America Montes Flores Alicia Montoya Victor U. Montoya Fernando A. Monzon Antonio Morales II Yesenia Morales Mireya Moran Caraveo Cristian Moreno Elvia Alondra Moreno Mariana L. Mota Jenica N. Moya Deborah Munoz Esmeralda Marie Murillo Madison Faith Murray

Diana Lizeth Nunez Grizel Dafne Nunez Raul Nunez Johnathan Arturo Nunez-Finley Ricardo A. Ojeda Amsi Abigail Olivas Espino Adriana Olivas Ureno

Jeancarlos Bradiel Olivencia Santiago

Aaron R. Olmos Erick Esteban Olmos Daniel Olvera Jr. Brenden Smith Ontiveros Rene Ornelas Leonardo Ornelas Ferreyra Cesar Ortega Edith Michelle Ortiz Verania Ortiz Giana Palacios Kevin E. Parra Viktoria Pelko Brianna Annet Perez Jr. Nubia Valeria Perez Roberto Perez Rocio V. Perez Jesseenia Jaime Plaza Lizbeth Ponce Jessica Ponce De Leon Joseph David Raigosa Javier Ramirez Johanna Ramirez Ruben Ramirez Vivian D. Ramirez Austin R. Ramos Dante Ramos Sarai Rangel Laura Isabel Raygoza Priscilla Jannel Renteria Itzel Reyes Ruben Jr. Reyes Jr. Kevin Michael Rios Melissa Rios Astorga Claudia Veronica Rivera Paul Rene Rivera Sofia Daniela Robles Roland Andre Rodriguez Samarie Rodriguez Victoria Rodriguez Andy Rodriguez Andres Gabriela Rodriguez Sosa Monserrat Romana Calderon Jonus A. Ronquillo Carlos G. Rubio Natalia Ruiz Rodriguez Maria C. Salazar Adam Ruben Salgado Maria F. Salinas Garza Andres A. Sanchez Cristian Van Sanchez Luisa Fernanda Sanchez Ruiz Natalia Sanchez-Fuentes Aysha Sandoval Samantha Sandoval Lesley Michelle Silva Italia Sofia Solis Gabriela Soroa Jazmine Sosa Maria Luisa Sosa Salgado Connor David Stone Jeniffer Alejandra Tarin Yanira Evelin Taylor Aylen Terrazas Sarah Thompson Oscar Tobanche Julia A. Torres Sebastian Valencia Denisse A. Valles Ashley Vianney Vargas Deyanira Vega Stephanie Annette White Armando Rafael Wilson Fernando Zaldivar

College of Health Sciences Bachelor of Science Crystal Aguilera Andres D. Almodovar Daniel Anaya Adam T. Apodaca Daisy M. Avila Jessica M. Avila Natalia Gabriela Aviles Abril Barraza Kristopher Anthony Barraza Sonja Ashley Bernal Michael James Bolaski Johnivan Marquez Burton

Briana A. Bustillos Cynthia Campos-Valadez Emilia Trinidad Canava Isabel Virginia Candelaria Christian Yair Casas Ortiz Jesus Cerpa Jr. Zulema Chavez Lailani Chehedeh Jacqueline Chico Angela Vianey Cordova Rosemarie Corral Sean Justin Cowans Christian A. De La Cruz Javier Adrian Diaz Zoser Emmanuelle Dunston Elijah Orion Duran Nathalia Elise Estrada Martin A. Faivre Jordan Lynn Fierro Linda Ivonne Fierro Elias Domenico Figueroa Cesar Matthew Flores Paola N. Galindo Iris Lynnette Gallardo Brandon Wayne Garcia Cristian Ivan Garcia Divina Mia Garcia Elizabeth G. Garcia Gonzalez Alexa Gonzalez Valerie Gonzalez Karina Gutierrez Oscar Octavio Gutierrez Jr. Nathan P. Hernandez Maria Del C Jimenez Brianna Juarez Raneem Ismail Muhammad Karboji Kayla M. Larry Raquel Licon Wendy Isamar Lozano Ashley Nicole Ludden Alfonso Macias Arlene Nichole Macias Jasmine Marie Marshall Kristen S. Martinez Austyn James-Baldosano Mason Karla Mcdonald Kristina Esperanza Mchone Raquel Andrea Mejia Benjamin Jude Melendez Tyler Nicole Michel Maria Moreno David Andrew Moriel Jr. Nyssa Chanelle Muela Angelica Munoz Christopher A. Myrda Gabriel Fernando Narvaez Melissa Navarro Joshua E. Nieto Alissa Nieves Cassandra Ocampo Brian Anthony Olivares Vicente Olvera Stephanie Yvonne Orrantia Jorge Luis Ortiz Obadiah Malik Ovbieko Karina Gabrielle Pedroza Ariadna E. Perez Sergio C. Porras Villalba Richard L. Powers Carolina Y. Pulido Laura Helen Quevedo Priscilla Nichole Quezada Paola Quiroz Steven Michael Ramirez Alondra Teresa Ramirez Melero Alyssa B. Rivera Lluvia Celeste Rivero David Denzel Roberts Oscar Alan Rodarte Valerie Rossi Kimberly Rose Sanchez Luis Roberto Santelices Jair R. Silvera Karla Ariadne Slack Tyler J. Smith John Louie Soledad Natalie Nicole Sotelo Jacquelyn P. Soto Demetrius Richard Steel Haley Nicol Torres Tristin Antho Tuialuuluu James O. Tupou Jessica Joanna Valencia Pedro Pablo Valverde Gustavo Vasquez Jr. Berenice Vazquez Nayeli Vazquez Joshua R. Velasquez Noemi Villarreal Desiree Azalee Weatherly

Aleksandria M. Wheeler Anthony A. White Rami Taisir Yousuf

School of Nursing Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Dominique Sarinana Acosta Selena Esmeralda Acosta Elias J. Adair Jasmine Jessica Adriano Yazmine A. Aguilar Salma Giselle Aguirre Veronica G. Aguirre Jessica D. Alcala-Pena Lisa Jo Amaya Miguel Angel Apodaca Susannah Estelle Aquilina Lizzette Annette Araiza Genesis Elaine Arana Vianna S. Astorga Alondra Avila Brianna E. Barraza Michelle Benham Steven Lewis Biggs Henry Bravo Jr. Jazmin Cabada Raquel Calderon Jose Alber Casas Cameron D. Castillo Ivan Jesus Cepeda Chasity Nicol Cerros Nichole Maire Charnews Belinda Contreras Ryan Emmanuel Contreras Jude Kyron Vendi Cordero Luis Fernando Corona Quezada Hilda Cortez Jessica Nicole Cox Linda A. Crane Destinee M. Cruz Giovanny De La Rosa Sonia Elsa Diaz Simon Dominic Vela Dy-Prieto Sheena Lynn Dequinia Edquiban Aylin Escarcega Ruby Espino Victoria Rae Espinoza Holly Ann Fernandez Luis Fernandez Delilah Franco Andrew C. Francois Ashley Daniela Garcia Patricia Michelle Garcia Austin F. Garibay Priscilla Gibbs Ebarguen Madison Gabrielle Gibson Roxanne Guerra Natalie Nicole Gutierrez Frank Jacob Hahn-Martinez Jasmine Alexis Haraughty Leticia A. Herrera Andrea Nickole Hijar Raul Huerta Jessica Ibarra Genevieve Monique Juarez Daniel Patrick Kennelly Jasmine Latuff Toni E. Leyba Britney Lopez Jacqueline Lopez Zhane Michelle Lynch

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO

Class of 2021

Clifford Joseph Madden Mercedes A. Magallanez Carmen Patricia Maldonado Rocio Abril Marquez Angela Marie Martinez Christina Skie Martinez Samantha Martinez Marissa Mata Melissa Mata Luz Maria McDowell Krystal Marie Mendoza Andie Marie Menichelli Jazmin Andrea Molina Anahi Morado Ailena Rene Mulkey Priscilla Diane Nash Alan David Nunez Alejandro Nunez Hernandez Laura Ordonez Alexis Marie Oropeza Kassandra Pacheco Carrillo Lyzeth Pena Samantha Pereyra Valeria L. Pereyra Lauren R. Pinon Diego Puch Natalia Alejandra Ramirez Jocelyn Hazel Ramirez Mandujano Cristina Regalado Cynthia D. Remes Paola M. Renteria Jr. Julia Joanne Reyes George Joshua Rodriguez Michelle N. Rodriguez Rocio Susanna Rodriguez Maria D. Rosales Vanessa Lorena Ruiz Alyssa Noelani Saenz Salanieta Lomani Mocevinaka Salacieli Clarissa Salinas-Arrieta Daniela Sanchez Keren Esmirna Sanchez Stephanie Renee Santamaria Sophia Annelise Sepulveda James Maxwell Sering Doris Slay Makayla A. Sloss Lina Alejandra Solis Idahlys A. Soto Lorena Soto Daveonte Alexus Spence Jennifer Marie Stephens Evalinn Tafoya Paulina Trejo Cynthia Elena Trevizo Clarissa R. Trillo Abigail Valdivieso Amanda Victoria Valencia Maria Luisa Vargas Sarys Vasquez Stephanie Michelle Vasquez Alan E. Villarreal Diana Lizbeth Vizcarra Alvarado Kelsey Leigh Wickliffe Karen Ann Williams Hayley Ashly Wilson Valeria Yanez Elizabeth Katherine Young

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021 · PAGE 21

Arts & Culture

Victoria Rivas, editor

Fall commencement returns to Don Haskins ALYSON RODRIGUEZ The Prospector

After a distressing two years filled with uncertainty, UTEP commencements return to their rightful place at the Don Haskins Center, 151 Glory Road. UTEP’s Spring 2021 commencement was held at the Sun Bowl stadium and welcomed graduates from Spring 2020, December 2020 and Spring 2021.

“Graduation is not only an important milestone for the student, but for the whole family as well. Whether it’s graduation for undergrad, masters, or doctorate it’s a great accomplishment for everyone”, said Beto Lopez, vice president of University Relations for UTEP. This year’s fall commencement will be held on the weekend of Dec. 11-12. Doors open one hour before each ceremony. The College of Health Science and the School of Nursing will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, followed by the College of Engineering and Science at 6 p.m. The college of Liberal Arts will walk at 1 p.m. Sunday and the college of Business Administration and Education at 6 p.m.

There are various changes since the last commencement. Graduates are no longer limited to eight guests due to the loosening COVID-19 restrictions. However, guests are still encouraged to wear a mask and practice social distancing, due to a current rise in reported COVID-19 cases. Guest tickets are not required to enter the Don Haskins Center. All seats are on a first-come,

first-served basis. Reserving seats is prohibited. Guests are advised to arrive early due to the considerable number of people attending the ceremony. For loved ones who cannot attend the ceremony, all ceremonies will be live streamed on the UTEP website, utep.edu.

Graduates must check-in at Memorial Gym two hours before commencement starts. For the easiest access, parking in the GR-2 lot is recommended for graduates.

Parking for guests includes the Glory Road parking lots 1, 2, 3, and Sun Bowl parking lots 7 and 8 for free parking. Paid parking for $10 will be at the parking lot across from the UTEP police department and facilities department on Sun Bowl Drive. The celebration plaza for graduates will be at Glory Road parking lot 5. Parking is prohibited at all Randolph parking lots, Sun Bowl parking lot 8, Glory Road 3 and 4 parking lots and Oregon 2 parking lot. ADA parking will be in the Glory Road parking garage.

Guests must abide by the following rules concerning what they are allowed to bring into the Don Haskins. The following items are prohibited and cannot be taken into the venue. These items must be disposed of, or returned to the guest’s car or residence before entering the venue: UTEP also has a clear bag policy that guests should abide by, including bags that are transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC and do not exceed dimension 12 inches in width by 6 inches diameter and 12 inches in

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ/THE PROSPECTOR

Fall commencement will take place at the Don Haskins Center Dec. 11-12.

height. One-gallon clear freezer bags are permitted as well as small clutch bags the size of a hand or smaller. Medical bags that contain necessary health items are accepted after proper search and approval of stadium personnel.

“We are all so proud of the graduates and we know that they’ll all go on and do amazing things and will make us proud.”

Lopez said.

To find out more or to see any updates or changes on the fall commencement visit, www.utep. edu/commencement/.

Alyson Rodriguez is a contributor and can be reached at aerodriguez20@miners.utep.edu; @ alyson_rod1127 on Twitter..

Items that are not allowed inside the building due to the risks they pose or due to space limitations are: • Aerosol cans • Animals (service dogs or service dogs in training permitted) • Artificial noisemakers • Balloons • Bats, poles and sticks • Car seats and baby strollers • Coolers/ice chests • Camera lenses larger than 4”

• E-cigarettes • Firearms • Fireworks • Flags on poles • Glass bottles • Illegal drugs • Laser pointers • Lawn chairs • Missile-like objects or other objects that can be used as projectiles (i.e. balls) • Outside food and beverages including alcohol

• Scooters • Bicycles, roller skates and skateboards • Tobacco products • Tripods, monopods and selfie sticks • Unauthorized video cameras and drones • Weapons • Any other object that may pose a risk to the guest or others.

Items that are allowed include small umbrellas, sealed bottled water (clear plastic bottles only; one per patron), fanny packs, radios with headset only, service animals, blankets, baby food (in plastic containers only).

UTEP SELC celebrates Rainbow Miner Graduation EDUARDO A. FLORES The Prospector

Each spring semester, UTEP’s Student Engagement & Leadership Center (SELC) hosts Rainbow Miner Graduation to acknowledge the accomplishments of LGBTQIA2S+ students and see them onto the following stages of their lives. This year is the first time that SELC has hosted an event for fall graduates.

Rainbow Miner Graduation is an event where LGBTQIA2S+ students share their hopes and dreams while being officially recognized for their leadership and success.

The ceremony was held 6-7 p.m.

Nov. 19 at the UTEP’s Tomas Rivera Conference Center.

Each participant was given two passes to invite their loved ones and watch them receive a special rainbow cord that graduates can wear at the Fall commencement ceremony.

According to SELC officials, students were encouraged to “dress to impress” on the ceremony day.

This event is not in place of tra-

ditional graduation, but instead is meant to augment and enhance the graduation experience.

The Rainbow Miner Graduation included addresses from UTEP faculty, a cording ceremony, and food to share with their friends, family and well-wishers.

“Acknowledging such diversity within the LGBTQ community is as important as recognizing sexual orientation and gender diversity in UTEP,” said Mariana Gonzalez, a biological sciences major at UTEP. SELC also gave graduates a personalized certificate to celebrate their achievements.

In El Paso, resources such as The Purple Pages of El Paso and The Borderland Rainbow Center are available to connect LGBTQ individuals and families across the El Paso del Norte region.

UTEP students can also band together to advance LGBTQ+ equality and pride through campus organizations such as The Queer Student Alliance.

The Queer Student Alliance at

UTEP is a social and educational student organization that provides a safe and supportive environment.

Crystal Vasquez, a criminal justice major at UTEP, also expressed her opinion about the significance of the event.

“Lack of support can discourage anyone from their goals, and I think that this (graduation) is a great way to inspire the LGBTQ community by knowing they have the institutional support,” Vasquez said.

SELC created the Rainbow Miner Initiative in response to the increasing need for LGBTQ+ visibility on campus currently under the Inclusion & Advocacy program to create an environment at UTEP that embraces individual differences, sustains inclusion, and cultivates a campus that is free from bias.

In 2016, the speaker of Rainbow Miner Graduation was UTEP Creative Writing professor Benjamin Alire Sáenz who remarked on embracing inclusion.

“Be yourselves and never underes-

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ/THE PROSPECTOR

A graduating student holds pride flag in Rainbow Miner Graduation ceremony Nov. 19, 2021, at the Tomas Rivera Conference Center.

timate who loves you. Never,” said Saenz. “Remember, you are loved, and you will be loved.”

For information about the firstever Fall Rainbow Miner Graduation, visit minetracker.utep.edu/ event/7330300 or contact Daisy

P. Marquez, leadership, inclusion, and advocacy coordinator of the student engagement and leadership center at dpmarquez@utep.edu.

Eduardo A. Flores is a contributor and may be reached at eaflores17@miners.utep.edu.

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

Page 22 ENTERTAINMENT

Myriad ways to celebrate UTEP graduation ALYSON RODRIGUEZ The Prospector

As another graduation season rolls around and students begin preparing to celebrate with their family and friends, there are many places and activities to do to commemorate this joyous achievement.

Most students choose to eat at a fancy restaurant with their loved ones such as Ruth Chris’s Steak House, Mesa Street Grill, Landry’s Seafood, West Texas Chop House, Crave Kitchen & Bar, Ardovino’s Pizza, Corralito’s Steakhouse, and many other delicious restaurants located around the city.

Graduates also mark the occasion by hosting parties at their house or a party venue. Local party venues include The Barn Venue, 2828 N Lee Trevino Drive, and the El Patio Party Room at 11500 Pelicano Drive. If you want something more historic or antique, Magoffin Hall at 801 Magoffin Ave. has its own beautiful history. For graduates

who enjoy the outdoors, Keystone Heritage Park on the west side offers a unique experience in its botanical gardens. The McKelligon Canyon Pavilion on 1500 McKelligon Canyon Road offers guests the chance to be engulfed in the El Paso wilderness.

One graduate decided he didn’t need a fancy venue to celebrate with his loved ones.

“I just want to eat some good food with my family and friends,” said Ramon Castro, an industrial engineering major graduating from UTEP. “I’m going to have a taco bar at my house with aguas frescas, salsa, guacamole and more great food. I’m so excited to finally be graduating... I have waited many years for this moment and want the day to be special.”

There are many pretty spots around El Paso that graduates can take pictures at to memorialize their special day. These pictureworthy spots include a picture in

front of the iconic Plaza Theatre’s façade. Across the street stands the newly renovated Plaza Hotel and Paso Del Norte Hotel with their new restaurants and rooftop bar.

Anywhere in downtown El Paso is a picture-perfect spot with all of its tall buildings, murals, historic structures, new skyscrapers and hotels. El Paso is filled with all sorts of beauty with awesome mountain backdrops, urban and nature spots.

Tom Lea Park is also a hidden gem nestled in the mountains. Other parks include Album Park, Centennial Park, the Chihuauan Desert Gardens at UTEP, Memorial Park and the Franklin Mountains State Park, to name a few.

End-of-year recitals are also a great way to celebrate a student’s college achievements. Senior Nicolas Acedo Aguilar, who is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in commercial music, said this is the best way to finish his college career.

“My senior recital is the best way

ALBERTO FERNANDEZ SILVA/THE PROSPECTOR

A cap and tassel for the graduating class of 2021.

to finish off my college experience,” said Aguilar. “It’s a great way to thank all of my professors, family and friends who have supported me throughout my time at college. I

couldn’t have asked for a better way to top it all off.”

Alyson Rodriguez is a contributor and may be reached at aerodriguez20@miners.utep.edu; @alyson_rod1127.

CAPS helps students cope with stress as semester ends BEATRIZ VELAZQUEZ The Prospector

Graduation and finals are around the corner and students are once again dealing with stress as the semester comes to an end.

Graduation can be very stressful — preparations for the graduation party, inviting family and friends and especially the questions that many future graduates as themselves. What will I do after graduating? Should I continue with my master‘s or doctorate? What would happen if I cannot find a job? All of these are worrying stress factors for students, but keep in mind that you are not alone.

UTEP‘s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) have counselors who can help students manage stress and other personal issues affecting their lives.

“CAPS offers group counsel-

ing, individual counseling, general career counseling, campus presentations, and workshops,“ said Elisa Dobler, a clinical counselor at CAPS. “I recommend people to find coping skills that work for them. It might be exercise; it may be connecting with family and friends or getting outside and being mindful of your surroundings...

Remember to switch up your tasks because our brains get tired of doing the same thing for too long.”

Dobler said it is essential to get advice and discover what activities help students learn how to relax and handle stress appropriately.

“Different coping skills work for different people; I encourage you to find what works for you,” Dobler said. “CAPS also offers mindfulness workshops periodically that students can sign up for on Campus Edge or follow UTEP CAPS on

Instagram/Facebook. We post upcoming events there as well as give weekly tips that can help with stress or anxiety.”

Some students weighed in on how they tend to cope the stress of final exams as the semester comes to an end.

“Now that the semester is over, I feel very stressed with all the projects that I have to do,” said Mariana Mendoza, a senior majoring in digital media production at UTEP. “When I have time to rest, I don‘t do anything productive. People think that you have to do something useful in your free time... like learn to paint, learn another language, or learn a new sport.

But there is nothing wrong with doing nothing other than watching Netflix. It is your resting space; take it as such. You don’t need to do something productive.”

“I feel a bit pressured by the fact that there are final exams and at

the same time there are projects,” said Diego Rivas Delgado, a senior majoring in digital media production at UTEP. “To deal with stress, what I do is manage time, study for an exam for two hours and then take a break to clear my mind of so much information.”

Some students said they use music and outside activities as a main source of relaxation during stressful situations.

“I feel calm even though there are many things to do, and at the same time, I feel out of place,” said Alexis Santos, a junior digital media production major at UTEP. “The semester went fast, but it has left me good experiences. I usually listen to music and go for a walk in the park every night. I also play the piano to relax. I am a person who does not stress too much, and I always try to be as calm as possible.”

The sessions that CAPS offers in group therapy are for five to eight

students and individuals and are free and confidential. CAPS also has groups in Spanish and LGBTQIA+.

“We do have regular groups all semester long,” said Dobler. “The best thing to do is to join a group at the beginning of the semester to have that weekly outlet as far as stress and other concerns go. The groups create a lot of peer support and connection for students who realize that other people feel the same way they do, or they have a counselor in every group, but they also have access to feedback from their peers.”

For more information, CAPS is located at 202 Union West, 500 W University and you can contact them at caps@utep.edu or 915747-5302.

Beatriz Velazquez is a contributor and may be reached at bvelazquez3@miners.utep.edu.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ/THE PROSPECTOR

UTEP students struggle during finals week of their first semester back on campus.

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

ENTERTAINMENT Page 23

Student embraces her Latin roots as a journalist ITZEL GIRON The Prospector

As students prepare to take their final exams, add finishing touches on job applications and prepare for their big projects before graduation, one student finds herself also preparing to leave the borderland for Washington D.C. Patricia Estefania Morales Mitre is a bilingual freelance journalist and UTEP student majoring in multimedia journalism with a minor in marketing, graduating this December. Mitre has been working with National Public Radio (NPR) as production assistant for their social media platforms since September.

“It’s been a whole experience; fortunately, I‘m only taking two classes this semester, so it’s not as stressful as being a full-time student,” said Mitre. “Definitely working from home with NPR has helped me because I can take my computer everywhere and work remotely.”

Working with NPR is only one of many opportunities Mitre has had, as she has already worked with Agence France-Presse, BuzzFeed News, El Diario New York, La Opinión Los Ángeles, NBC News, MSNBC Noticias Telemundo, the STTE Foundation, Culturas.us, the American Society for Magazine Editors and PBS. Even with everything she has accomplished, her mother’s pride is what she strives for most.“My biggest accomplishment is making my mom proud, whether it’s working with NPR or a local station, know-

ing I can make my mom proud and that she can look at my work is amazing,” said Mitre. “Hearing her say, ‘Aye mija, estoy tan orgullosa,’ that’s the most rewarding part of it all.”

Mitre came to the U.S. from Ciudad Juárez for the opportunity to attend college and make her mother and brothers proud, and she continues to do her best at every position offered to her to highlight the talent that can come from El Paso especially being a city filled with Latinx individuals.

“I want to overperform to tell and show them that people from El Paso can get stuff done and how they should look more into journalists in El Paso,” said Mitre.

“The pressure of not wanting them to regret hiring me is immense; I’m only one person from El Paso, and I want to represent our city and our culture well.”

Even with her remarkable success, struggles always arise, which has only made her grow as a journalist.

“Last year, I applied for photo editor at NPR, and well, I didn’t get it, but I kept in touch with one of the editors and when this position opened up, she communicated it with me,” said Mitre. “Even though I didn’t get it, it opened up another door for me.”

Mitre’s journey is only one of a few Latinx journalists in the field, not only as a woman but a person of color and an immigrant. With the reality of being one of only a handful of Latinx journalists, Mitre hopes to not only inspire but also

PHOTO COURTESY OF ESTEFANIA MORALES-MITRE

Estefania Morales-Mitre is a multimedia journalism student who will be graduating this semester.

bring more Latinx people into the journalism field.

“There needs to be more representation with Latinas in journalism, especially Latinas in power in the media field. I want to showcase the diversity in Latinas and Latinx people,” said Mitre. “I’m a Latina immigrant, but there is a Latina who is a child of immigrants somewhere out there trying to stand out and be the next journalist. There are so many Latinx voices out there.”

Along with wanting to bring diverse voices into the journalism field, Mitre encourages everyone to apply to as many internships or as many jobs as possible.

“Everyone has their own talents; you have one thing about you that someone else doesn’t, and that makes you worthy of applying to the internship you have been thinking about all day,” said Mitre. “Just because you think you are unqualified doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ap-

ply. Screw it. We are so empowered to do anything as Latinx people.

So just apply, you never know what can happen.”

Itzel Giron is a staff reporter and may be reached at iagiron@miners.utep.edu; @by.itzel.giron on Instagram; @ itzel_anahi_16 on Twitter.

Student leaves her mark on the field of Ecology LEVI CARLOS The Prospector

Like many in the El Paso area, Laura Valdez is a family-oriented person with grand future ambitions. Valdez has an appreciation for plants and loves to share this sentiment with her grandmother.

Whether it is sharing plants or watching YouTube videos with her grandmother, Valdez has enjoyed bringing her two worlds together.

Laura Valdez is graduating this Fall with a degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, but more than that, she has been a steward of learning on the UTEP campus.

Valdez began studying biology at UTEP with the intention of going into medicine. However, that changed when she discovered the full range of potential in studying Ecology and Evolutionary Biology.

“In this program, I decided or came to the decision that medicine wasn’t something that I wanted to pursue anymore. I was more passionate about ecological studies,” said Valdez.

Valdez was introduced to this field by studying bees native to the El Paso region, which captivated her. She was tasked with cataloging bees native to areas around the borderland and learning about them.

Since arriving at UTEP, she has been both a mentee and a men-

tor. Once in the field of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Valdez was offered an intern position in 2019 and later a mentor position in 2020.

The opportunity to be a mentor is typically only offered to graduate students, but it was offered to Valdez as an undergraduate.

Valdez still considers herself a mentor, and admits she still visits her mentor at the lab for advice and to continue learning.

Along with being a mentor, Valdez has spoken about her research at the LSAMP and Chihuahua Desert conferences.

“Conferences actually have made a lot of impact in the passion that I have to do what I do and to keep doing it in the future,” said Valdez.

Speaking at conferences allows Valdez to share her work and passion with others and is something that she plans to continue doing.

Valdez embraces every opportunity to speak about her work.

She usually encounters two kinds of people when speaking at a conference: those who have a general idea about her study and those who have never heard about it. In either case, the discourse that comes with meeting these people is fulfilling.

“When I present to people who don’t often understand even what ecology is let alone what I’m studying, they’re very often taken aback

CONNOR MARTINEZ/THE PROSPECTOR

Laura Valdez an Ecology and Evolutionary Biology UTEP student is graduating this semester.

by how broad this information is or how important the information that I’m presenting to them is,” said Valdez.

In the future, Valdez would like to take her mentorship a step further

by becoming a teacher and sharing her appreciation for ecology with future biologists.

After she graduates, Valdez plans to attend graduate school to continue following her passion for

research and her long-term goals.

She hopes to one day be a professor at a university.

Levi Carlos is a staff reporter and can be reached at lccarlos@miners.utep.edu.

PAGE 24 · NOVEMBER 30, 2021· THE PROSPECTOR

Sports

Emily Autumn Velasquez, editor

Miner football awaits bowl game

UTEP prepares to wrap up historic season EMILY AUTUMN VELASQUEZ The Prospector

The UTEP Miners had a historic season that consisted of breaking many records and surpassing the expectations of many. They finished their regular season with a record of 7-5 and went 4-4 in Conference USA. UTEP finished .500 or better in their conference for just the fourth time since joining C-USA in 2005.

This is also only the seventh time in 53 years that the Miners have managed to record seven wins in a single season.

The Miners offense played at a high caliber level which helped them attain a winning record.

Sophomore quarterback Gavin Hardison finished the season with 2,965 yards passing. If he throws for at least 35 yards in the bowl game, he will be only the fifth UTEP player to throw for 3,000 yards in a season.

Hardison passed for a career-high of 366 yards against Rice University, the most by a UTEP player in 12 years. He has also thrown for 17 touchdowns this season, the most by a UTEP quarterback since 2010.

Sophomore wide receiver Jacob

ANNABELLA MIRELES / THE PROSPECTOR

Freshman wide receiver Khalil Warfield cheers with fans and players on the sidelines after a touchdown during the football game against Rice University at the Sun Bowl on Nov. 20.

Cowing finished the season with 1,330 yards, putting him into second place on UTEP’s single season receiving list.

Cowing has 2,571 career receiving yards, which puts him fifth on the UTEP list. Cowing also finished the season with eight 100-yard receiving games, which is the most recorded by a Miner since 1965.

Sophomore running back Deion Hankins went over 1,000 yards rushing for his career in the UAB game. Hankins has rushed for

1,058 yards as a Miner and has recorded 15 career rushing touchdowns.

While the Miners were thriving offensively, another big part of their success can be attributed to their defense.

Senior defensive back Dy’vonne Inyang led the team with three interceptions this season, which is the most by a Miner in a single season since 2011.

Junior linebacker Breon Hayward led the team in tackles with a total

of 98, and junior defensive end Jadrian Taylor led the team with a total of 6.5 sacks.

The Miners allowed fewer than 350 yards in five of their eight C-USA games and allowed an average of 350.6 yards to their eight C-USA opponents.

A significant component of special teams is junior kicker Gavin Baechle as he successfully made 17 field goals this season. He is tied for the fourth-most in a season in school history and it is the most by

a Miner in a season since 2008.

One of the most notable games this season was when the UTSA Roadrunners traveled to the Sun Bowl to take on the UTEP Miners. While the Roadrunners ran away with the game, an impressive 31,658 fans attended the game.

This was the second largest crowd UTEP has seen for a C-USA game since 2010.

While the Miners went 2-4 on the road this season, UTEP finished 5-1 at home for only the tenth time in their history. Prior to the UTSA game, UTEP was 4-0 at home for the first time in eleven years and had won six in a row in the Sun Bowl overall.

UTEP had an impressive turnaround this offseason as they went from a 2019 record of 3-5 to an impressive 7-5 this season. The players and coaching staff worked vigorously to play to the best of their capabilities and it is their hard work that led them to bowl eligibility for the first time since 2014.

UTEP awaits its invitation to a bowl game as it prepares to wrap up the season. The Miners are seeking eight wins in a season for only the 11th time in their program’s history.

All stats used provided with the courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

Emily Autumn Velasquez is the sports editor and can be reached at eavelasquez@miners.utep. edu; @emilyautumn20 on Twitter.

TOP LEFT: Wide receiver Tyrin Smith runs the ball during the football game against Rice at the Sun Bowl on Nov. 20.

TOP RIGHT: A fan cheers on the UTEP football team against Old Dominion at the Sun Bowl on Oct. 2 for the homecoming game.

BOTTOM LEFT: The UTEP football team and Spirit Crew run out of the tunnel at the Sun Bowl on Oct. 2 prior to the homecoming game.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Defensive back Darius Baptist cheers in the air with defensive end Quincy Montgomery on Nov.6.

ANNABELLA MIRELES / THE PROSPECTOR

ALBERTO SILVA FERNANDEZ / THE PROSPECTOR

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

SPORTS Page 25

UTEP wide receiver makes history DANNY LOPEZ The Prospector

While on the cusp of an improved season for the UTEP football team, sophomore wide receiver Jacob Cowing has helped guide the Miners to a winning record this season. The 5’11 wide receiver has posted record breaking numbers this season.

Cowing has also been named to a couple of awards as well. He was named preseason All-ConferenceUSA, and the Biletnikoff Award list earlier this year. Cowing was named Pepsi player of the game recently against the University of North Texas.

“I was extremely honored and blessed to get those, the watch list Biletnikoff Award and all-Conference preseason awards,” Cowing said in an interview Nov. 17.

Cowing comes from Maricopa, Arizona, a two-star product from Maricopa high-school with his only offer being from UTEP. During his time in Arizona, he played varsity for three seasons and combined for a total of 89 receptions for 2,065 yards and 21 touchdowns. During Cowing’s senior year, he notched 28 receptions for 872 yards and 10 scores.

In his current season as a sophomore, Cowing has 1,330 yards and seven touchdowns this season. In each game that he plays in, Cowing

is fighting hard for more yardage and looking for the big play each time. In Conference-USA, Cowing is second in receiving yardage with 1,330 yards right behind junior wide receiver Jerreth Sterns from Western Kentucky University.

Cowing would also record his second 100-yard game of the season in an eight-catch, 110-yard performance against Abilene Christian University.

Cowing now has the second most 100-yard games in his career in school history with 13 in total, tied with former UTEP player Chuck Hughes; Hughes set the record of 13 from 1964-1966. Cowing had eight 100-yard games this season, which is right behind Hughes for the most 100-yard games in a single season, a record of nine set in 1965.

Cowing finished the season with 1,330 yards, which is the second most in school history. “I wanted to at least get 1,000 yards for this season, I was blessed enough to actually achieve that, also the last two seasons I only had three touchdowns,” Cowing said in a Nov. 17 interview. “I’ve also wanted to get more in that column, I think just those two things were my main goals.”

His freshman year was nothing to scoff at as Cowing had 550 yards and three touchdowns. He also ranked 37th in the nation and seventh in C-USA in yards per

ANNABELLA MIRELES / THE PROSPECTOR

Sophomore wide receiver Jacob Cowing catches a pass against LA Tech Oct. 16, 2021, at the Sun Bowl against Rice University.

reception.

Cowing also set a UTEP freshman record with 145 receiving yards against the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Cowing led UTEP in receiving yards with 550 yards, receiving touchdowns three yards per game 45.8 and yards per

reception 17.7 as a true freshman.

Cowing led all C-USA freshmen and ranked number 13 nationally among freshmen wide receivers with 550 yards.

His impact on the football field is noticeable due to the fact he is always making big-plays to help the

Miners offense that can struggle at times. But nonetheless, Cowing’s ability to make big plays helps the offense hit get going.

Statistics provided with the help of UTEP Athletics.

Danny Lopez is a staff reporter and can be reached at dalopez23@utep.miners.edu.

THE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT & LEADERSHIP CENTER PRESENTS

CANNED FOOD AND BLANKET DRIVE 6PM- 9PM | UNION BLDG. EAST, 2ND FLOOR Bring 4 shelf stable food items or a new blanket for a FREE UTEP t-shirt to tie dye. While supplies last. Scan QR code for list of items.

PAWS FOR LOVE THERAPY DOGS 6PM- 8PM | UNIVERSITY SUITE, 3RD FLOOR

VIDEO GAMES

THURSDAY, DEC. 2

UNION BLDG. EAST | 6 PM - MIDNIGHT

ALL EVENTS ARE FREE

6PM – 9PM | TEMPLETON SUITE, 3RD FLOOR

BOARD GAME ROOM 6PM- 9PM | TOMÁS RIVERA CONFERENCE CENTER, 3RD FLOOR

MOVIE: HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS 6:30PM- 8:15PM | UNION CINEMA, 1ST FLOOR

BREAKFAST SCAN FOR A FULL LIST OF ACTIVITIES

9PM | UNION BLDG. EAST, 2ND FLOOR

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

Page 26 SPORTS

UTEP volleyball conclude historic season

KATRINA VILLARREAL The Prospector

UTEP’s volleyball season is coming to a close after a historic year.

Under second-year Head Coach Ben Wallis, the Miners finished the season 21-7 (.769) overall and 9-4 (.667) in conference play.

The Miners dominated all season long, as they accomplished their first winning season since 2012, making it their best season record since 2005. The Miners were also able to secure its highest seeding since 1984 with a No. 2 spot in the Conference USA after being projected to finish fourth in a preseason C-USA poll.

In the beginning of the season the Miners were 6-0, which included two big wins against two Power Five schools, one against PAC-12 affiliate University of Arizona (3-2) and Big 10 affiliate Northwestern University (3-0). To continue that momentum, the Miners beat I-10 rival NMSU in a five-set match (32), making it the first win against NMSU since 2012.

Nearing the end of the season the Miners showed no signs of stopping heading towards the Conference USA tournament. UTEP only had one loss, which was against UTSA, but came back to sweep North Texas at home. Another historic moment came when the Miners beat I-10 rival NMSU once again at the end of the regular season.

This win marked UTEP’s first 2-0 season sweep against NMSU since 2001 and the first win on NMSU turf since 2004.

“I’m really proud of my group for accomplishing 20 wins,” Wallis said

after the win against NMSU. During the post-season, some Miners accomplished individual honors.

Junior outside hitter/middle blocker Alianza Darley was named to the All-Conference Second Team. Darley led the Miners in blocks (90.0) and was third in kills (206), she registered 254 points while hitting .306. Darley also posted a career-high of seven blocks twice during the season.

Senior outside hitter Serena Patterson was selected for the AllConference First Team. Patterson led the team in kills (305), fifth in assists (21) and service aces (21) and third in digs (184), along with 344 points while hitting .269; she recorded 17 double-digit kills.

Senior outside hitter Paulina Perez Rosas was selected to the Conference USA Volleyball 11-member all-academic team. Perez Rosas ranked second on the team in kills (233) and digs (222) and has a team-best of eight double-doubles on the year.

Freshman outside hitter Ema Uskokovic was voted to the eight-member all-freshman team.

Uskokovic recorded 201 kills along with 238 points with a hitting percentage of .277; she recorded seven double-digit kills.

During the regular season, senior setter Kristen Fritsche wrapped up a solid career for the Miners, leading the team in assists (606) and service aces (30) and was fourth in digs with 155.

Sophomore defensive specialist Alyssa Sianez was named the C-USA defensive player of the

PHOTO COURTESTY OF RUBEN RAMIREZ

UTEP volleyball celebrates after sweeping NMSU on the season for the first time since 2001 on Nov. 10.

week after a back-to-back sweep against North Texas. Sianez led the Miners in digs (427), she was third in service aces (23) and fourth in assists (83).

Wallis added additional talent to the 2022-2023 roster after the regular season. UTEP volleyball welcomed setter Mattie Gantt, outside hitter Katherine Neille, and outside hitter Marian Ovalle.

The postseason for the Miners was one to remember. The Miners made a major comeback on Friday, Nov. 19, against Florida International University in the C-USA quarterfinals. UTEP was down 0-2 but came back in the third match and kept that momentum going to win 3-2. Junior middle blocker Yasso Amin recorded three careerhighs, 19 kills, 24 points, and nine

total blocks, leading the Miners to victory.

After the win against FIU, the Miners met Western Kentucky University on Saturday, Nov. 20 for the C-USA semifinals. UTEP was unable to make a comeback and fell to No. 18 Western Kentucky 0-3. For the offense, junior middle blocker/outside hitter Alianza Darley led the Miners with 11 kills and senior setter Kristen Fritsche had 16 assists. Perez Rosas led the defense with seven digs.

“I’m very proud of what my team put out there this year,” Wallis said in a post-game interview. “I was disappointed we weren’t able to scrap out that third set. We didn’t do enough, efficiency wise. They (WKU) were way better at transition and were very clean. We did,

however, construct a better fall 2021 team to be able to compete with them. Luckily for me, I get to continue to coach this team for a couple more weeks which I’m excited about.”

The volleyball team will participate in the postseason for the first time in the program’s history. The Miners have received an invitation as part of an automatic bid to play in the National Invitational Volleyball Championship.

UTEP will face off against former Conference USA foe Tulsa on Thursday, Dec. 2, at 5 p.m. MT, on the campus of Colorado State in the opening round.

All stats and quotes for UTEP courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

Katrina Villarreal is a contributor and may be reached at kvillarreal1@miners.utep.edu.

Men’s basketball working hard to improve DANNY LOPEZ The Prospector

The UTEP men’s basketball team (4-2,0-0 Conference-USA) is off to a promising start, practicing and playing hard to keep the momentum going through the rest of the season.

So far this season the Miners have performed well against rival teams such as Western New Mexico University and Northern New Mexico College, racking up impressive stats.

Defensively, UTEP is averaging more than 20 turnovers and on offense they are shooting well from beyond the arc.

With recent wins against New Mexico College and the Mustangs, the Miners shot 42% from the 3-point line and forced 26 turnovers on defense. However, against New Mexico State University, the Miners struggled on the offense but worked hard defensively, forcing 16 turnovers. The Miners shot 26% from the 3-point line and had nine turnovers in the recent match up.

How the Miners match up against the rest of the conference is quite interesting. The top teams in this conference on their schedule have done well in recent years, perform consistently well and always present a challenge in the conference.

The Miners’ first conference match will be The University of Bir-

mingham at Alabama (UAB). Last year, the Miners were thoroughly swept against them and struggled to make any baskets against them.

This year, the Blazers are powering through their opponents and seem to have more talent on their backcourt. They are shooting at 35% from the 3-point line but are getting the baskets to fall at a closer range with jumpers and lay-ups that are at 50%.

The Miners might struggle in this match-up since UAB can score from the inside and the big men for the Miners struggle to defend low and rebound.

The Miners’ next conference opponent is Middle Tennessee University. This season, Middle Tennessee is doing well with wins against Bethune Cookman University and Winthrop University. In 2019, the Miners lost to the Blue Raiders with a final score of 48-47.

The Miners’ most challenging opponents this year will be the University of North Texas, Florida Atlantic University and Louisiana Tech University.

The Mean Green look to give the Miners one of the most difficult matches of the season. North Texas has made a lot of noise last year by winning C-USA and winning an NCAA tournament in the round of 64 game to advance to the round

ANNABELLA MIRELES / THE PROSPECTOR

UTEP players cheer on the sideline during the second half of the game against WNMU on Nov. 9.

of 32. North Texas could not be stopped last year on the offense, especially from the 3-point line, while also pressuring the Miners on defense.

Louisiana Tech was a formidable team last year and spilt with the Miners. Tech returns freshman forward Kenneth Lofton Jr., a key player that played a pivotal role in the match-ups against the Miners.

UTEP should do better against the Bulldogs but might struggle to defend the paint against Lofton Jr., the Bulldogs’ top scorer in the inside.

The Owls eliminated the Miners last year in the first round of the Conference-USA tournament.

The Owls’ leading scorer, junior Michael Forest, is someone UTEP must keep their eyes on while on

defense due to the fact he can sink a bucket within the blink of an eye.

Overall, however, the Miners do match up well with the Owls and should not struggle as much against FAU this year.

The Miners match up decently in the tougher parts of ConferenceUSA and are geared up to fight for a couple of big wins this season.

Danny Lopez is a staff reporter and can be reached at dalopez23@utep.miners.edu.

THE PROSPECTOR · NOVEMBER 30, 2021

SPORTS Page 27

UTEP fights to reach C-USA Tournament KATRINA VILLARREAL The Prospector

UTEP women’s basketball started out the season 5-0 under Head Coach Kevin Baker. Unfortunately on Nov. 27 the Miners suffered their first loss against Kansas at the South Point Thanksgiving Shootout.

In its season opener against Incarnate Word, the Miners defense was unstoppable as they forced 25 turnovers and recorded 11 steals; they also tallied 17 assists and only 13 turnovers throughout the game.

The Miners got off to a slow start, but junior guard Destiny Thurman began a 15-0 run for UTEP with a set of free throws. Against Incarnate Word, UTEP shot over 47 percent from the floor and more than 38 percent from downtown. The final score was 81-47, a 34-point win for the Miners, making it the largest season opener under head coach Kevin Baker.

In the win, the Miners had four players reach double digit points. In her UTEP debut graduate student forward Teal Battle scored 16 points and recorded nine rebounds.

Sophomore guard Eliana Cabral recorded 10 points in her Miners debut, while sophomore guard Katia Gallegos added 12 points and a team-high of five assists. Thurman also tallied 16 points and added four assists.

The second win for the Miners was against the University of North Dakota, where the Miners got off to a fast start at the beginning of the game going on an 18-4 run; the momentum continued all the way to the end. UTEP scored 80-plus points in back-to-back games to

ANNABELLA MIRELES / THE PROSPECTOR

Teal Battle along with her teammates scream for joy during the last quarter of the game against St. Mary’s University during their home game on Nov. 7 at the Don Haskins Center.

start the season for the first time since 1994-95. The Miners connected on 50 percent from the floor and forced 21 turnovers which converted into 22 points. The final score was 89-69; it was also the first time in four years with consecutive wins by at least 20 points to tip off the year.

Two Miners recorded career-highs against North Dakota, freshman forward Elina Arike recorded a career-high 19 points and careerbest 15 rebounds, making it her first double-double of her career.

Thurman recorded a career-high 23 points and went 8-14 from the floor, including 3-6 from distance.

Gallegos recorded 13 points and eight assists. Sophomore guard Mahri Petree came off the bench

and reached double figures with 11 points.

The most recent win for the Miners was against I-10 rival New Mexico State University on Nov. 17, where the Miners came out victorious with a score of 76-61. The UTEP defense recorded a seasonhigh of 28 turnovers and blocking four shots. The Miners have won five consecutive games over the Aggies for the first time since the 2012-2013 and 2015-2016 seasons.

UTEP shot over 50 percent from the field and went 19-of-27 from the foul line. Sophomore guard Avery Crouse led the Miners with a season-high of 15 points on 5-of-10 shooting. While Gallegos tallied 14 points and a team-high of four assists.

UTEP’s bench stepped up during the game against NMSU. Freshman forward Brenda Fontana put up a career-high of 8 points along with Tac also putting up a career-high of 8 points.

The bench combined for a total of 29 points as Petree scored 6 points along with a team-high of two blocked shots, sophmore guard Eliana Cabral with two and Erin Wilson added five points.

“One of the things we decided to do in the spring was, we knew we had to go and get better and rebuild our bench,” Baker said in a post-game interview. “It was really telling to see when our bench comes to play like that. Not only did our coaching staff do a good job recruiting, but the players did a

great job playing. We leaned on our bench, we needed our bench, and it couldn’t have happened to a better bunch of young ladies who work hard every day and deserve it.”

As for how the Miners are doing against conference rivals, UTEP is matching well. In scoring offense UTEP is ranked third with 318 points, averaging 79.50 percent, however in scoring defense it is ranked eighth with 239 points, averaging 59.75. In 3-point field goal percentage the Miners are fifth with .329 but are twelfth on defense with .333. The Miners are thirteenth in rebounding offense with an average of 35.50; the defense is number one on rebounding defense, average 28.25. On assists UTEP is first in the conference, average 16.00.

Baker also added three newstudent athletes for the 2022-2023 season that includes incoming freshman Soleil Montrose and transfers Veonce Powell and Adela Valkova.

The next game for the Miners is at 6 p.m. Dec. 1 for an away game against New Mexico State University for the Battle of I-10.

The next game for the Miners is at 1 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Don Haskins Center against Utah State after their original game scheduled for Dec. 1 against NMSU got postponed due to COVID-19 related concerns.

All stats and quotes for UTEP courtesy of UTEP Athletics.

All conference stats courtesy of Conference USA official website conferenceusa.com Katrina Villarreal is a contributor and may be reached at kvillarreal1@miners.utep.edu.

UTEP freshman guard comes a long way LEVI CARLOS The Prospector

Kezza Giffa, freshman guard for the UTEP men’s basketball team, comes a long way from home to play for the Miners. Giffa is from Paris, France and has had a basketball in his hands for most of his life.

Giffa’s father, Sacha Giffa, was also a basketball player and played professionally in the Euro League and served as Kezza’s main inspiration. “It wasn’t until I was 6 or 7 that I started to figure out that my dad was somebody (famous),” said Giffa. “He became somebody I look up to. He’s definitely a role model for me.”

Giffa has had many people that influenced his game, including some with real championship experience.

Due to his father’s prominence, Giffa was able to meet Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs. Giffa has modeled his game on Parker because of their physical similarities.

“He gave me great advice because I’ve always been skinny like him,” said Giffa. “He told me my size is an advantage, and I have to use it.”

One aspect of Giffa’s game in particular has been specifically influenced by Parker.

“His signature move is the floater,

so I used to work on that a lot,” said Giffa.

Being left-handed is an added benefit for Giffa and is something that UTEP men’s basketball head coach Joe Golding values because of its rarity. Coach Golding also admires Giffa’s determination to travel across the globe to play for the Miners.

Coach Golding discovered Giffa through a mutual friend. Golding watched some of Giffa’s reel and liked what he saw.

“I was a top five scorer in the France U21 league,” said Giffa. “I think he saw my highlights and loved the way that I played.”

In the under-21 leagues in France, Giffa was averaging 17.8 points per game and earned a spot on the France national under-19 basketball team. Giffa’s hard work in France is what got him to UTEP but now he is working on honing his skills.

“I’m proud of Kezza,” said Golding. “He got here late (due to Covid protocols). He’s getting tougher and tougher, and I’m proud of where he’s going. He’s coachable.”

Giffa grew an admiration for United States basketball after watching a documentary on the Fab Five of Michigan with his father.

ANNABELLA MIRELES / THE PROSPECTOR

Freshman point guard Kezza Giffa plays defense during the first half of the home game against Western New Mexico on Nov. 9.

“I loved American basketball and I always wanted to be here,” Giffa said. “I’m happy about the opportunity to play here with Coach Golding, who is a great coach.”

With hard work and dedication Giffa taught himself English by listening to music and watching

American Television with French subtitles. He is also a fan of U.S. pop culture which has helped him tremendously.

In the future, Giffa hopes to own a business and be his own boss, therefore he is majoring in general business. For now, he is focusing on

basketball and hopes to play professionally and internationally one day for his country.

The Miners’ next home game is at 6 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Don Haskins Center against New Mexico State University for the Battle of I-10.

Levi Carlos is a staff reporter and can be reached at lccarlos@miners.utep.edu.