(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College Agricultural Technology student Kahalid Shakur Johnson watched proudly as his mother, retired U.S. Army Major Noemi Hernandez, spoke to dozens of veterans during TSTC’s annual Veterans Day Celebration.

“It truly is an honor to have my mom as a guest speaker on campus. I’m touched that she was selected,” said Johnson. “This is definitely a memorable experience.”

Johnson said his mother has been one of his greatest inspirations for completing a college degree. Hernandez herself holds associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees and is working to start her doctorate. Johnson said he wants to make his mother proud.

“My mom has definitely set the bar high in terms of what you’re capable of with dedication and persistence,” said Johnson. “I now have an idea what my potential can be if I work hard. I am beyond proud of my mom and proud of everything she does and continues to do.”

Hernandez told the audience that her military career began in 1989 when she enlisted in the Army in the Adjutant General Corps as an administrative specialist. Throughout her career she has been stationed in South Korea, Puerto Rico, Panama and across the United States, but that she is proud to be at TSTC honoring her fellow veterans.

“Being here today is a great honor and privilege. I am truly humbled to stand before you,” said Hernandez.

Her message reflected on the sacrifices and contributions of veterans past, present and future.

“I hope this gives you a thought or two about those that continue to give for our nation’s security, freedoms and our way of life,” said Hernandez. “I was privy to this throughout my military career. To me, every day is Veterans Day.”

TSTC Provost Dr. Stella Garcia quoted an email sent to TSTC faculty and staff from Chancellor Mike Reeser to show how truly appreciative TSTC is of its veterans.

“TSTC is blessed to have many veterans who serve in our ranks. Likewise, we have students who served too. Thanks to their service, we enjoy freedoms that are the envy of the world. We owe all the privileges of American citizenship to your willingness to serve,” she quoted.

Garcia also echoed his thoughts by personally thanking the veterans for their service and sacrifice.

“Thank you, veterans–not just today, but every day,” Garcia said.

During the ceremony, the Harlingen High School Junior ROTC presented the colors and flag folding, Veteran Students Alliance Club (VSAC) President Brian Rodriguez served as master of ceremonies, while VSAC Vice President Nancy Fontana led the Pledge of Allegiance and the American Legion 15^th District Drill Team paid tribute to the Prisoners of War and those missing in action. Many TSTC faculty, staff and students also wore red shirts to commemorate RED (Remember Everyone Deployed) Shirt Friday.

TSTC Veterans Center Director Steve Guevara said the college makes honoring and helping veterans one of its top priorities.

TSTC is recognized to be a military-friendly school that serves more than 1,000 veterans and their dependents statewide. In Harlingen alone the college serves nearly 300.

“I hope TSTC veterans take away a sense of pride knowing that we (TSTC) truly do appreciate the sacrifices they have given during their service in the United States Armed Forces,” said Guevara. “It’s important for everyone to observe and honor the men and women who have served our military and fought for the liberties and rights we enjoy today.”

The TSTC Veterans Center serves as a centralized, one-stop shop for prospective and current veterans and their dependents. The center assists with admission, financial aid, GI Bill and Hazlewood applications. There is also a variety of services, such as internal and external referrals, that veteran students can benefit from.

In addition to the Veterans Center, TSTC also offers competency-based learning, targeting veterans who have gained skills through their service in the military.

For more information on the Veterans Center, call 956-364-4387 or visit tstc.edu/veterans.

(HARLINGEN) – Daisy Lizette Bujanos, 21, is currently studying Biology at Texas State Technical College and proudly boasts a 3.0 grade-point average.  Not only is the Brownsville native focused on her studies, but she also works as a TSTC game room attendant, which allows her to interact and socialize with her peers.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan on heading to Texas A&M in Corpus Christi to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training, or Del Mar College to pursue an associate degree in physical therapy. We’ll see what works out.

What’s your dream job?

I want to eventually work at a rehab center for children, but while working and focusing on my career I would also love to be a choreographer. I grew up dancing and I love it. I am hoping my passion for dance will help me work better with children.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

Passing my classes in general has been a great accomplishment because they can definitely be tough. I always strive to go above and beyond to make sure I’m doing the best that I can.  I want to prove to myself that I can do everything I set my mind to, and it’s also very important to me that I make my parents proud.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

Don’t ever give up. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a student.  No matter how hard things may get just push through the tough times because it’s all going to be worth it when you’re holding your degree.

Name a TSTC person who most influenced your success.

My boyfriend Roel Gonzalez, who works as an Orientation Leader, has made things easier for me. When I’m having a tough time, he’s the person that I feel I can talk to about anything and he always manages to remind me why I need to keep doing the best that I can through every semester.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

When things get hard, remember why you’re here. Success takes time, and we all need to work hard for it. Study as much as you can and don’t ever let anybody bring you down. You’re never alone here at TSTC, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s always people in every corner to assist you. Just keep going!

(HARLINGEN) – What started as a hobby for Monique Cavazos, has turned into a possible career, thanks in part to a 2016 Coca Cola Leaders of Promise Scholarship.

The Raymondville native and mother of four is currently enrolled as a Building Construction Technology student at Texas State Technical College and is expected to graduate with an associate degree in Spring 2017.

As a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, an elite fraternity that honors scholars who achieve a 3.5 or higher grade point average, Cavazos recently applied for and received a $1,000 scholarship to use toward her tuition and other college expenses.

“Financially, this journey has not been easy,” said Cavazos. “There have been times just getting to school is a challenge because we have no money for gas, and this scholarship is going to ensure that doesn’t happen again.”

The Leaders of Promise Scholarship is sponsored by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation. Of the more than 1,100 applicants, only 200 students are selected.. Cavazos said she gets goosebumps just thinking how she is to be one of the scholarship recipients

“I can’t believe I’ve been given this opportunity,” said Cavazos. “I’m doing all of this for my daughters; to show them that everything is possible when you try and never give up. I want to be a good example for them.”

In a letter written to TSTC Provost Dr. Stella Garcia, Christin Grissom, director of scholarship operations for Phi Theta Kappa, said Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise Scholars are selected based on outstanding academic achievement and demonstrated leadership potential.

“I want to congratulate your student’s outstanding academic achievements and leadership potential that have earned them this prestigious award,” said Grissom. “This scholarship is more relevant than ever as our organization, colleges and communities are actively encouraging completion of a college credential, an associate degree or certificate, among college students.”

The 32-year-old never expected to be where she is today. Building and construction were only hobbies to her growing up, she never imagined she would be pursuing this as a career track..

“When I was small, my grandfather, who was also my babysitter, would only allow me to work with the old, crooked nails. That’s how I got my start,” Cavazos recalls. “But to now be pursuing a career in a non-traditional program, being inducted in an honor society and receiving this scholarship makes everything feel so surreal.”

Cavazos has now been promoted to new, straight nails, but her passion for creating and building things has not changed. Upon graduating from TSTC, she hopes to begin flipping houses to give old homes purpose once again, and to build affordable housing for those in need.

“I want to make a difference in the community while doing what I love,” said Cavazos. “People deserve to have a place they can call home. And this scholarship is going to help me do that. To those who selected me, thank you, and know that this money will be put to good use.”

For more information on Building Construction Technology call 956-364-4770.

Early registration for Spring 20147 begins October 17 for returning students in good standing, registration for new students begins November 14. To register or apply anytime visit tstc.edu.

(HARLINGEN) – Seniors from South Texas Independent School District’s South Texas Academy for Medical Professionals who are interested in becoming Emergency Medical Technicians can now earn this Basic level certification in high school from Texas State Technical College.

“We’ve created this pathway to be innovative and provide their students opportunities and credentials they can use to find a good-paying job,” said Cledia Hernandez, associate vice president for TSTC Continuing Education. “This also helps them kick-start their studies in the medical profession.”

The partnership between TSTC and the academy was formed three years ago to create an Emergency Medical Technician Basic career pathway. Like any college training course, the students must successfully complete the program by meeting all passing grade requirements and clinical rotation hours. After one school year of training, TSTC recommends that students take the national registry exam to become Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technicians.

“This credential allows these students to go into the emergency medical service industry anywhere in the United States and begin their career right out of high school,” said Hernandez. “In turn, they (students) can always come back to TSTC for our one-year paramedic program.”

Dante Deleon, 17, said the training he is receiving through this program is invaluable. He said the best part is the hands-on training and the experience it’s providing him.

“I’m a hands-on learner. I’m able to learn things faster if I’m doing them,” said Deleon. “It’s great knowing that everything we do can save someone’s life and we’re able to do that because of our training.”

Students like Kassandra Mora, 17, not only take advantage of the program for its training, but also to save money. There is no fee for the students to take the Emergency Medical Technician Basic training course.

“Being given this opportunity in high school helps a lot,” said Mora. “The classes and uniform I know cost a lot. My family wouldn’t be able to afford it. But being in this program helps us save money so we can save lives, and it lets us get ahead in our careers.”

Mora said she hopes to continue on to become a paramedic and work immediately after high school. Her ultimate goal is to become a psychiatrist.

Hernandez said there are a number of job openings for Emergency Medical Technicians and the possibilities seem limitless.

“TSTC’s mission is to place more Texans into good-paying jobs,” said Hernandez. “This is exactly what we’re doing. For many of these students this is their career, while some will continue on to become registered nurses or doctors. So we make sure all of our programs are hands-on and our students leave with the skill sets that make them highly qualified and competitive in the field.”

For more information on continuing education at TSTC and what courses are offered, call 956-364-4567 or visit tstc.edu/continuingeducation.

(HARLINGEN) – Ruthie Ewers, a distinguished businesswoman, and philanthropist in Harlingen, is this year’s honoree for Texas State Technical College’s 12^th Annual Noche de Gala Scholarship Fundraiser.

Ewers was chosen by TSTC’s Foundation to celebrate her efforts and commitment to the college. It is one of her life’s missions to help students fulfill their dreams of a college education.

“If someone gave me a list of boards to join my number one pick would have to do with helping youth,” said Ewers. “I only join a board if I know I’ll be an asset. I worry about the future, about my grandkids and great-grand kids’ futures, and I if I can help youth down here, then I’ve done my part to ensure a good future for them.”

Christened the “Energizer Bunny” by Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell, Ewers has served on more than 20 boards, including TSTC’s Scholarship Steering Committee, working diligently to raise money for the college’s Texas Success Scholarship.

“I’ve been actively involved with TSTC for several years and I’ve seen the type of professionals the college is turning out. I love it,” said Ewers. “I want to be a part of that. This is something good I believe in and I want to help.”

Ewers’ work with TSTC began nearly five years ago as a judge for the Mr. and Ms. TSTC Scholarship Competitions, and continues with her work on the Scholarship Steering Committee and as a mentor during interview practicum, assisting soon-to-be TSTC graduates with their resumes and job interviewing skills.

“There are many aspects of TSTC Ruthie has touched and I can think of no better person to honor this year,” said Amy Lynch, TSTC senior development officer. “She is a donor and has helped us raise funds for scholarships, and even helped students get jobs. She is someone who has made an impact.”

Lynch calls Ewers a dynamic person whose time on many organizations has positively affected social and civil projects, and education.

“This city would not be same without her,” she said.

Ewers credits her work ethic and perseverance to growing up on a farm. Born in 1940 in Oklahoma, she helped her parents raise cattle, grow and harvest wheat, and cook for all of the ranch hands.

“I’ve worked my whole life. I know nothing but,” said Ewers. “I guess you could say I’ve always been an overachiever.”

At 21, with two sons, Ewers took a job at $1.15 an hour putting labels on mail for a distribution company, getting her first taste of the business and immediately receiving a promotion as the company’s manager. Fast forward to 1974, Ewers had enough knowledge and business sense to open up a mailing company with her husband and a business partner.

Ewers’ business, LEE Data Mail, later to be called LEE Marketing, focused on door-to-door distribution (hand delivery) and direct mail services. By 1997, it had become a $25 million-a-year company and her team was known as pioneers in the mailing industry.

Although the company was sold to the Omaha World Herald (OWH), a newspaper owned by Warren Buffett’s holding company Berkshire Hathaway Inc., it was recently recognized with a permanent exhibit at the National Postal Museum, established by the United States Postal Service and the Smithsonian Institution.

“Through all of this there were times we had to choose between our home and food,” said Ewers. “We knew difficult times, but were blessed to have been given a chance and luckily we found success, and now it’s my turn to help those who need help.”

Ewers said she feels like a lucky lady and all she wants to do is give the citizens from Harlingen, from youth to elderly, a better life. She is humbled by the honor that TSTC has bestowed on her.

“My motto is everything happens for a reason,” said Ewers. “I feel like I’ve won an academy award. I’ve never considered myself a leader, yet this honor is given to leaders. I’ve just always found it important to serve my community in any way I can.”

Ewers joins a long list of distinguished gala honorees including David Allex; Senator Eddie Lucio; Jo Rae Wagner; Manny Vela; Ruben Hinojosa; Frank Boggus; former Harlingen Mayor Bill Card; Arthur and Leona Everson; Connie de la Garza; and Joe and Teresa Long.

To sponsor a table or purchase tickets to the 2016 Noche de Gala, contact Valeri Smith at valeri.smith@tstc.edu, or for more information contact Lynch at 956-364-4500 or at amy.lynch@tstc.edu, or visit tstc.edu/harlingen/gala.

(HARLINGEN) – Norma Ferrer Avila is a student at Texas State Technical College pursuing an associate degree in Dental Hygiene. The Brownsville native is expected to graduate in Spring 2017 and currently holds a 3.4 grade-point average.

The 26-year-old stays busy with her 3-year-old son and her volunteer work with the Student Government Association and Love Brownsville, a volunteer organization within her church that helps the less fortunate in her community. She also serves as historian in the Student American Dental Hygiene Association and as a Texas Volunteer Deputy Registrar, helping TSTC students register to vote.

What are you plans after graduation?

After I graduate in the spring I plan on moving to the San Antonio area and begin working as a registered dental hygienist.

What’s your dream job?

I dream of traveling the world and educating people about proper oral healthcare. I see myself working with various communities to better people’s oral health and serve as a volunteer for those who may not be able to afford dental care.

What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

My greatest accomplishment has been working with the Office of Student Success as a mentor. I’ve been able to guide and advise other students on their academics and push them to use the resources available to them here at TSTC.

What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

I’ve recently learned that supporting and motivating others is one of my greatest passions. I’ve worked to let others know that it is okay to fall as long as they get back up and accomplish what they intended to do in the first place. I’ve learned to stay strong and positive, and take one day at a time.

Name a TSTC person who has most influenced your success?

Mrs. Gladys Arjona, dental hygiene instructor, has been my biggest influence. She is the most dedicated person I know. I love her passion for everything she does and how she is always prepared for her students.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

I want others to remember one thing: “The only time you should ever look back is to see how far you’ve come.”

(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College in Harlingen has done it yet again.  Student leaders from Student Life and Engagement, with assistance from Student Government Association, recently registered another record number of new voters this election year.

The TSTC voter registration initiative began in March of 2012 and has since helped register over 2,000 voters.  The 2016 movement alone registered 1,043.

“We received 1,001 new voters four years ago, so we wanted to surpass that,” said Coordinator of Student Orientation and Activities Larissa Moreno.  “We’re a very competitive group of individuals, so I knew we could do this.”

Voter turnout in South Texas has been very low in previous elections compared to other parts of the state where eight of 10 residents go to the polls.

“Only two out of 10 people in the Rio Grande Valley vote,” said Roel Gonzalez, New Student Orientation Leader.  “We need to be aware of everything that’s going on in the nation.  It’s going to affect all of us.”

To support these efforts, TSTC hosted two debate watch parties in September and October, and also partnered with the Advocacy Alliance Center of Texas (AACT NOW), an organization that focuses on getting people from South Texas to the polls.

“They sent us a 30-second commercial to show on campus, which helped us reach more people, and also helped us a lot with flyers and signage,” said Moreno.

Student organizers reminded students that casting a ballot could make a difference for their community, their home and even their college.

“Just because we’re younger and in college doesn’t mean we’re any less represented in politics.  We need to have our voices heard,” said orientation leader Adriana Gonzalez.

Gonzalez says educating young voters is one of the keys to making sure that they go out and utilize their right to vote.

“We need to be aware about things going on in our society,” said TSTC student Larry Montalvo, who assisted with the initiative.  “We can’t just look the other way.  We need to progressively make the strides to make things happen.”

TSTC will be a precinct for early voting in Cameron County.  Residents can vote in the VIP Room of the Student Center from October 31 through November 4, beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m.

Election Day takes place on November 8.

For more information on New Student Orientation or Student Government Association, visit http://www.tstc.edu/campuses/harlingen.

(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College, the TSTC Staff Senate and the Pizzeria in Harlingen are joining forces to help its low-income students that may face family or financial hardships.

On November 2, TSTC students, faculty and staff; and the Harlingen community are invited to visit the Pizzeria between 4:30 and 8:30 p.m. to purchase a large pepperoni pizza for $10. All proceeds from this event will go to support Charlie’s Pantry, TSTC’s free food pantry for students in housing.

“We have basically run out of food, we rely on donations to supply our pantry,” said Director of Housing Amy Garza. “Charlie’s Pantry is a great way to offer our student residents some food while they get back on their feet.”

Many students depend on financial aid to assist with their tuition, fees and rent. Normally, this means there is no extra money available for food or other necessities. Garza said she typically assists 10-15 residents or families a semester with items from the pantry.

“Many of our residents don’t have parents or family to depend on. Or some have families of their own to support,” said Garza. “No matter the situation many are mostly on their own. This is why we are grateful to TSTC Staff Senate and Pizzeria’s support and help with this cause.”

Sharon Farias, TSTC Provost Office executive assistant and Staff Senate president, said this fundraiser is supplementing their annual canned food drive.

Now in its third year, Staff Senate’s canned food drive runs through December 2. There will be donation boxes campus-wide. Additionally, with the money raised, Staff Senate hopes to not only supply canned food and other non-perishable items, but also microwavable food so students can enjoy hot meals.

“We want our students to have more meal options,” said Farias. “Many students go without eating because they don’t have the funds, but we want to help change that. And depending on the amount raised we also want to help our other campus pantry located in the Student Center.”

For TSTC science instructor and Pizzeria co-owner Dr. Emmanuel Formacio-Serna, joining this cause is also about helping students succeed and get a good paying job so they do not have to face this type of adversity again.

“Being hungry affects everything,” said Formacio. “It affects your health and your ability to concentrate in class. These students are our future and it’s sad to see that many of them go without access to food.”

As an instructor for the past 15 years, Formacio has seen firsthand the effect hunger has on his students. He and his brothers made a pact before opening the Pizzeria that they would give back to their communities the best they could, so when he was approached with this opportunity, he says it was only natural for him to say yes.

“For many of our students living here on campus, this is the first time they have a steady place to live. This is the first time they don’t have to worry about their electricity or water being shut off,” said Formacio. “So I don’t think they should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.”

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board reports that food insecurity has become a problem because of rising tuition costs and an increase in the number of college students from low-income families.

According to the College and University Food Bank Alliance, at least 14 colleges in Texas and hundreds across the country have opened food pantries to help support students through college.

For more information on the fundraiser or to donate to the student food pantry call 956-364-4023.

(HARLINGEN) – TSTC student Omar Duran is currently studying Culinary Arts and hopes to bring his talents to a school district after graduation.  The 43-year-old Army veteran boasts a highly impressive 3.7 grade-point average and will be graduating in the Fall of 2018.

What are your plans after graduation?

 I look forward to starting my civilian career.  Ultimately, I would love to work with the La Feria school district because that’s where I’m from.

What’s your dream job?

 I hope to become the supervisor in charge of the food distribution in the district.

 What has been your greatest accomplishment while at TSTC?

 Succeeding at math has been an accomplishment for me.  A lot of people are afraid of it, and in my degree plan you have to take math or biology, so I decided to challenge myself by taking math.  In culinary arts, you deal with a lot of numbers, so I’m really proud of everything I’ve learned.

 What greatest lesson have you learned about yourself or life?

Coming back to school in general has been a lesson for me.  I took different avenues and did 20 years in the military, so being around a bunch of younger people made me contemplate my priorities, but I’m here now, and I love it.

Name a TSTC person who most influenced your success.

 All my fellow veterans in the Veteran’s Center have helped me out so much.  If someone is having problems with an assignment, they help you out.  My confidence is so high right now because of the support that I’m getting from everybody there.

What is your advice for future TSTC students?

 Learn everything that you can while you’re in school and make sure your priorities are always straight.  Getting your education is so important!

(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College and the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Coalition in conjunction with the Southwest ADA Center, recently hosted an ADA Coalition training conference –  the first in South Texas.

The training was targeted to human resource personnel, disability service providers, campus police and behavior intervention teams from colleges and universities across the Rio Grande Valley.  Attendees were provided with technical assistance, facilitated learning and policy guidance relating to the ADA, ADA Amendments Act and Rehabilitation Act.

“Our goal is provide awareness on how to better serve employees and students,” said Corina De la Rosa, coordinator for disability services at TSTC. “The ultimate goal is to learn how to provide equal access and equal opportunity, and how to properly be ADA compliant.”

Nearly 90 people were in attendance and had the opportunity to hear from keynote speaker Diego Demaya from the ADA Resource Center. He is a Human Resources Consultant and ADA Technical Assistance Director who is a nationally known expert in providing policy guidance to healthcare and educational institutions.

“Training is the key,” Demaya told the audience. “It’s important to train supervisors and administrators on how to handle different situations, so it’s always in a professional manner.”

Other topics covered at the training included ADA Leave and the Interactive Process; Students with Psychiatric Disabilities; and Direct Threat and Clear and Present Danger.

The ADA Coalition was formed one year ago as a partnership between TSTC, South Texas College, Texas Southmost College and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. The higher ed alliance is comprised of disability service providers from each campus.

“We always work collaboratively to provide the most consistent services for our students across all campuses,” said De la Rosa. “This is the first time we host a training like this and we’re excited that the Southwest ADA Center was able to provide us with the resources to make this possible.”

TSTC Human Resource Executive Mary Prepejchal said the training was a great reminder about what ADA means and stands for from an employer standpoint.

“ADA makes it unlawful for us to discriminate against a qualified individual with a disability,” said Prepejchal. “As the employer we are obligated to know the ADA language and be able to translate the needs of a person who has a disability and their need for accommodation.”

TSTC’s Disability Services office offers students accommodations on a case-by-case basis. Services such as interpreters and separate testing rooms are available.

“Our goal is to accommodate students who need the assistance so that they can participate in the classroom experience and get the best education possible.”

For more information on disability services call TSTC Support Services at 956-364-4521.