Spring 2005

The Magazine of A&M International University

Prism Magazine: Dr. Ray M. Keck. III, President TABLE OF CONTENTS

Candy Hein, Publisher PRESIDENT’S THOUGHTS ...... 4 Editor: Steve Harmon (‘91)

Art Director: Ana P. Clamont (‘00) Contributing Photographers: WHERE IN THE U? ...... 5 Ana Clamont, Eduardo X. García (‘02), Steve Harmon, Jessica W. Ratliff, Guillermo Sosa, Rodolfo Zúñiga (student intern) CONSTRUCTING THE FUTURE ...... 6 Contributing Writers: Melissa Barrientos-Whitfield, Steve Harmon, Dr. Pornsit Jiraporn, Dr. Ray Keck III, Jessica W. Ratliff, Rodolfo Zúñiga LIFE IN WARTIME: A JOURNEY BEGINS ...... 7

CHANGE OF ADDRESS ONLY: Please send to Office for Institutional Advancement IN THEIR OWN WORDS ...... 9 5201 University Boulevard Laredo, Texas 78041-1900 Telephone: 956.326.2175 Facsimile: 956.326.2174 E-mail: [email protected] LIFE OF PURPOSE AND MEANING ...... 10 If you receive duplicate copies, kindly send both mailing labels to the above address.

OTHER MAGAZINE QUERIES: WE SEE STARS: Please send to TAMIU PLANETARIUM BRINGS HEAVEN CLOSER ...... 12 Prism Magazine Office of Public Affairs and Information Services 5201 University Boulevard Laredo, Texas 78041-1900 WE CAN HELP: Telephone: 956.326.2180 CAREER SERVICES FOR STUDENTS AND GRADS ...... 14 Facsimile: 956.326.2179 E-mail: [email protected]

All contents © 2005 Prism Magazine, MOLDING IDENTITIES, except where noted. Opinions JOURNEYS OUTSIDE CAN BRING US INSIDE ...... 16 expressed in Prism are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its editors or policies of Texas A&M International University. POSTMASTER: DREAMS DO COME TRUE: Send address corrections to MSN COMES TO TAMIU ...... 17 5201 University Boulevard Laredo, Texas 78041-1900.

MISSION: Prism is published twice a year for Texas A&M International University ON CAMPUS NEWS ...... 18 friends. By highlighting the University’s life and that of its programs, faculty, students and alumni, Prism reflects the diverse educational excellence of Texas’ fastest growing University. $2.3 MILLION TAMIU REGENTS II INITIATIVE TARGETS IMPROVED TEACHER PERFORMANCE ...... 19 Texas A&M International University is committed to the preparation of students for leadership roles in their chosen profession and in an increasingly complex and culturally diverse state, ANNUAL GIVING 2003-2004 ...... 22 national and global society. p r i s m 3 4 m s i r p

PRESIDENT’S THOUGHTS we might hope to journey in the future. But is the good health of the University assured become reality, wewillsee a significantchangeinthese disappointingnumbers. present at discussion under strategies if that confident am I curricula. our align and response must be a united effort to examine our processes, evaluate our procedures, tests.nation-wide two of The one scoreeither “college-ready”to on able are seniors school two districts. our Measurements and University,show that fewer the than college,10 percent community of our the graduating high between school collaboration Senator JudithZaffirini, suddenlyassumesa new urgency. undergraduate State and their Dewhurst David Governor finish Lieutenant by who sponsored years, four students in studies reward to plan state proposed a Time,” four-year,six-year,not by universities. served “B-On- present,is Texas at that reveal can manage to graduate even 50 percent of its students in four years. Measurements institutions,university, flagship public however,numbers,our no including that show 35 public institutions which award a bachelor’s degree as “four-year” universities. The the need for new modes of thought and action. For example, we in Texas describe the we cancompare ournumberswithallotherstateuniversitiesin Texas. students requiring developmental learning, we know our strategies are sound because entering of needs the to adequate programs graduation,of retention,of improve of rates our to mightily strive we use.While good to investment that put have we that A&M InternationalUniversity. Texascreate to appropriated been has Items Special and buildings in $220,000,000 than moreInitiative, Texas South the of advent the and 1990 since because region know, We this for education higher in reassuring.interest great a extremely Texashas of State be the example,that for can measurements And future. the to form giving and present the objectivity, explaining of aura comfortable the deliberations first assertandthenprovethisassertion—withnumbers! the 18th century, reached a robust maturity at the beginning of in the born Reason,21st. of Measurement.Historians TheAge of will Age the in living were we 2005, in that to numberswillhavebeenborn. college, university,curricula—pre- all in and graduate—ittests will embedding be in because successful another means not of are relating testing learning standardized of advocates the end the in If learning. real isn’t it education, in and important;necessary; isn’t isn’t it it measured, be can’t it If numbers. final the to accordingfailure, a or success a foolish, or wise labeled be will measurement,and under develop must proposal or initiative of interest to the American public must begin with measurements, in truthademandformeasurements. life. public in discussions pervades Accountability, now that word which so often measureseems to dominate our political discourse, to is command the business, a of E R U S A E M R O F E R U S A E M The phenomenal growth of our student body, 235 percent since 1990, suggests 1990, body,since percentstudent 235 our of growth phenomenal The human upon confer publish they numbers the and sure,measurements be To read well might told,one be to begins age this in education of history the When numbers!”Any your us “Show becomes quickly accountable!” be to need “You “ Measurements and their numbers both show us where we have been and where and cooperation of era new a spawned has measurement another Laredo, In to policies,pointing or judgments our in errors disclose also can Measurements f t a’ b maue, t a’ b mngd” e dca ae n modern in have dicta management the Few to managed.”allied first ascendancy.precept be greater A enjoyed can’t times it measured, be can’t it If with it,anew life, anew world. “ to give themanew sensibilityand them anew duringtheirtimewithus, the heartsofourstudents,tomake “ We inthe University are towiden Dr. RayKeckIII if its numbers, its measurements, indicate strength? Is our primary charge, as faculty Where in the ? and administrators, to tend and enhance those measurements? When we speak n a hot day, the campus,” explained of “Alma Mater,” nurturing mother, we Ocool sound of flowing water is Kell, “That major axis invoke a realm resistant to numbering, an heard in the University Green, is anchored on one experience of the heart. the open section of end by the grand Edna St. Vincent Millay describes our campus arch of the Library. most profound charge as an institution: It needed another anchor farther The world stands out on either side, south to tie the no wider than the heart is wide . . . axis of the main buildings to We in the University are to widen the ground the hearts of our students, to make them plane. That anew during their time with us, to give anchor is the them a new sensibility and with it, a new fountain.” life, a new world. Kell explained water is If we aspire to widen hearts, can we psychologically and architecturally ever know if we have succeeded? Can we bordered by meaningful because it is part of human know our hearts as we begin our studies, the Sue and Radcliffe survival, especially in desert climates. and then measure them throughout Killam Library, Bob Bullock Hall, Dr. F. M. “We used water in a minimalist our lives? Are there any measurements Canseco Hall, Anthony J. and fashion. It creates a beautiful and quiet adequate to evaluate this goal? Perhaps. A. Pellegrino Hall and Dr. Billy F. Cowart sound. It’s a peaceful, reflective and A challenge or a triumph or a tragedy Hall. regenerative spot in the middle of the may call forth a discrete moment in John Kell, of Kell Muñoz architects, hubbub of campus,” said Kell. our learning, a class whose meaning designed the native Texas limestone The design recalls early irrigation, we now understand. An idea, a word, a fountain during the first campus said Kell, “We used Texas limestone method, studied absent a vital context, construction. in the fountain to recall the limestone may suddenly take shape in our spirit, “The primary design intent of used to line the water-bearing ditches, guiding our actions. But how can we the first phase of the campus was to called acequias, that transported measure a sudden feeling of illumination, set the campus on the architectural water around South Texas ranches and of understanding? path to a major university. To do that towns.” It is the great end of education to we combined several buildings into Now, the stone brings peace to the make us new men and new women. But a major building, the Killam Library, TAMIU campus. what becomes the acceptable measure and established a major axis for the Jessica Ratliff of a new life? Perhaps our most cherished goal, a new spirit, is better described than measured. Anthony Dronman, former dean of Yale Law School, has written that education should be the “expansion of a student’s powers of sympathetic imagination.” Could we ever measure, could we ever evaluate, the sympathetic m Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra at TAMIU imaginations of our students? Sunday, April 17, 4 p.m. Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Recital Hall

m TAMIU Seventh Annual Fiesta de Mariachi Gala Concert Saturday, April 23, 8 p.m. Dr. Ray M. Keck III, Center for the Fine and Performing Arts Recital Hall President m TAMIU Spring 2005 Commencement Saturday, May 14, 8 p.m. University Green

These are only some of the events that are part of our spring calendar. For more information or to find out about other events, go to http://www.tamiu.edu/calendar

p r i s m 5 CONSTRUCTING THE FUTURE: TAMIU Students Building with Humanity

s if going to class, home and other Habitat houses, creating ‘sweat equity,’” A-studying, writing explained Dr. Parish. . . . Although I papers and developing their He said the Club really got under way when the Laredo minds weren’t enough, Habitat for Humanity affiliate began five new homes in Rio “am one person, a dedicated group of Bravo during Collegiate Challenge last spring. students is working on the “Collegiate Challenge takes place during Spring and my skills are weekends so area families Break, when college students travel to help build Habitat can realize the dream of houses across the United States as well as overseas. Last somewhat limited, homeownership. March over 200 students from six universities around the Habitat for Humanity country came to work on five new houses in Rio Bravo. there is still much I International, parent Some lived in Salvador García Middle School in Rio Bravo, organization to the where several TAMIU students joined them, and others can contribute. Texas A&M International stayed in local churches,” Parish said. University Habitat for He said the Campus Chapter’s most recent project I CAN help make Humanity Club, seeks to was a tamalada fund-raiser, where TAMIU students made eliminate poverty housing and sold hundreds of dozens of tamales to raise money a difference, throughout the world. The for the next Collegiate Challenge. Marisa Lacey TAMIU Club is currently He feels volunteer work is valuable to students, giving ” working with Habitat for them experiences and skills they will use throughout their Humanity of Laredo on the lives. Mario Martínez, Club president, said remaining four houses in “They learn to plan and organize activities — hands- he feels honored to share the skills he’s their “Building Dreams in Rio on learning, but also through Habitat for Humanity training. learned in life with the homeowners Bravo” project and will also For example, seven students attended workshops at working on their houses. assist on the development the annual Habitat for Humanity Middle States Regional “I find that this partnership, between of a new subdivision in the Conference in Hot Springs, , in October, where the homeowner and us, instills a certain Highway 359 area. they learned a variety of management skills,” said Parish, amount of pride in the homeowner, as Dr. Randall Parish, “They get to meet and work with students from around the they partake in the construction of their assistant professor at country who come here to build in ‘Collegiate Challenge,’ homes and at the same time learn new TAMIU and one of the as well as traveling themselves to build in other areas. useful skills that they too can later put to faculty sponsors for the Finally, Habitat for Humanity is a Christian organization good use,” said Martínez. Club, explained this is one of that provides students with a way to serve the Lord by Marisa Lacey, a Club member, said the most ambitious Habitat helping their neighbors.” she had been looking for a volunteer projects in the country, and Dr. Jackie Jeffrey, assistant professor, is also a faculty opportunity where she could participate a great increase for the sponsor and she thinks the experience is good, allowing in a truly “hands on” way. local Habitat for Humanity students to stretch more than their minds. “The most significant thing I’ve affiliate. “Given the opportunity, they relish the chance to learned through my work with Habitat He explained Habitat get out of their own heads and do something for others, for Humanity is that although I am one for Humanity builds houses especially something that is physical, hands-on, and person, and my skills are somewhat with donated money, where the results are immediately apparent,” Dr. Jeffrey limited, there is still much I can contribute. materials and labor, such as said. I CAN help make a difference,” said the TAMIU Club’s efforts. Lacey. “The other key aspect is Martínez said he would like to see the help of the homeowner more students involved in the Club. families. The houses we “We need volunteers. If your spirit is build are sold at no profit, calling for an adventure or a challenge of with no-interest loans. The a different kind, if you want to contribute homeowner families are to society or create social change, then required to donate their your place is with us. Give of yourselves own labor, building their own so that others may live a more fruitful life,” explained Martínez. To volunteer or for more information, please contact Dr. Randall Parish at 956.326.2528, visit offices in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 434A or e- mail [email protected]. Jessica Ratliff

6 p r i s m Life in Wartime: A Journey Begins LifeLifeLife in inin Wartime: Wartime:Wartime: A AA Journey JourneyJourney Begins BeginsBegins The plaza in front of the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library is usually a crossroads of class changes and on- the-run conversations between college students. On Sunday, Feb. 20, it marked the beginning of a journey for 50-plus members of the 3rd Battalion 141st Infantry of the Texas Army National Guard who were deploying to Afghanistan. Twelve of those deploying on the Operation Enduring Freedom mission are TAMIU students. The mood was somber with families and friends gathering to wish their sons Godspeed. For many in the audience, the event became a personalized revelation of a life now lived in wartime. Some recalled the wars and sacrifices of the past, when the nation’s sons and daughters also marched off in uncertainty. All were clearly moved by the sight of the 50-plus soldiers standing erect in the center of the plaza, their camouflage uniforms offering the only color on an otherwise overcast day. A panel of guest speakers wished the Battalion members well, including Congressman Henry Cuellar, State Representative Richard Raymond, County Judge Louis Bruni, Laredo Mayor Betty Flores, TAMIU president Dr. Ray Keck, and vice president for finance and administration Joe García. All moved through the assembled troops, wishing each Batallion member well. “I will never forget the sight of you standing here on this campus, a campus which is itself a symbol of the importance of the freedoms you represent so admirably,” Dr. Keck noted, “…and all of us will be here awaiting your safe return.” At the south end of the plaza, two young boys played near the fountain as history played out before them.

Steve Harmon p r i s m 7 TAMIU Alum’s Teaching Excellence Earns MILKEN TEACHER AWARD Teacher ” Melissa Barrientos-Whitfield “I started teaching 16 years ago in Eagle businessman Lowell Milken, “Even now, months later, it feels like it really it like feels it later, months now, “Even She and the other recipients will travel to Moreno, who received her masters in María Moreno years. She’s no years. though. novice, explainedPass,” Moreno. chairman and co-founder of the Milken Family Foundation, created the award some to celebrate of teachers, the principals and nation’s education. specialists most in K-12 outstanding didn’t happen. It hasn’t clicked yet. I guess it’ll finally hit me when I finally receive the money. It’s unreal. Maybe once I see it in thenit’lldifferent be mywe’llso findfeel outhowI hands, in May when I get added it,” Moreno. Washington, to D.C. collect their reward in an all-expenses-paid professional conference. development educational administration, a now literacy works coach at asSchool Santa María after Elementary teaching third grade for three hen Texas A&M InternationalUniversityA&M Texas hen alumna María Moreno (‘04) was called , the, Milken National EducatorAwards I started teaching 16 years ago in Eagle Pass, “It was all a surprise — big time. The only Theaward Moreno referred to is the Milken Called the “Oscars of Teaching” by W “ Magazine have awarded more than $50 million since the program’s inception in 1985. ones who knew aboutsuperintendent, the principal award and were recalled the vice-principal,” Moreno, “I had award. I thought somebody else never won, but when heard of I heard Imy couldn’t name, walk. It was the unreal.” National EducatorAward. It is awarded annually to 100 educators nationally and carries with it a $25,000 cash prize which can be used any way the recipient desires. in for a special presentation in October at Santa María Elementary School along of withthe teachers, the staff rest and students, she expect to leave didn’t$25,000 richer. , , Dance abriela Mendoza- abriela adjunct García, r. Michael Patrick, Michael Patrick, r. professor TAMIU

Water for Texas for Water

her third article her third in the national magazine Teacher. G of dance, professor published recently of economics and of economics and Texas of the director Center for Border D NOTEWORTHY Michael Landeck r. the 2005 received

omen and Gender Studies grant a received TAMIU at D Outstanding Educator Academy of of the Award International Business - U.S. Southwest Chapter.

Jessica Ratliff Jessica University and State of Texas. University and State of faculty members to receive receive faculty members to which recognizes this honor, exemplary contributions to the Development, was named a Development, Texas The by Regents Professor of Board A&M University System TAMUS He is one of 12 Regents. Economics and Enterprise Economics and Enterprise associate professor and he research of Dr. Ned Kock, Ned Kock, of Dr. he research Momen and Phoebe Godfrey are are Momen and Phoebe Godfrey the principles for this event. Salvadoran peasant activist Rufina Salvadoran poet Argentinean Amaya and Mehnaaz Drs. Alfonsina Storni. production based on the lives women: American Latin of three Mexican painter Frida Kahlo, W to bring Texas from Humanities a theatrical Vidas,” “Tres TAMIU to

associate professor of biology, associate professor of biology, r. Sushma Krishnamurthy, Sushma Krishnamurthy, r.

focusing on academic plagiarism. Systems and Decision Science, Systems and Decision Science, in a recent was featured Chronicle of Higher Education T interim chair of the Department of Management Information

p r i s m Studies at Texas A&M University. Texas Studies at Kingsville Regents Professor, and Dr. and Dr. Kingsville Regents Professor, dean of Graduate Giardinao, John R. include Dr. Jim Norwine, Texas A&M- Texas Jim Norwine, include Dr. a collection of papers on water Her co-editors issues. resource recently co-edited recently D 8 omething quite unusualwords occurred in Laredo this past SChristmas. It snowed! It was the first white Christmas in Laredo in 30-odd years. Visiting my parents in my home country of Thailand, I was relieved to learn that I was able to As the rescue operations unfolded in several countries, it escape the unusually harsh weather in Laredo. Comfortably turned out that the casualties in Thailand were relatively low. basking in the tropical sunlight in Bangkok, I seemed to Indonesia and Sri Lanka suffered substantially more casualties. think that I had managed to stay one step ahead of Mother Several wealthy countries pledged to contribute financially. Nature. Little did I realize that I was just about to witness the Japan made the largest donations as it considered Asia its devastating consequences of her powerful forces. A View from Home sphere of influence. Several European nations offered financial In the morning of December 26, 2004, the day after aid as well, for many of their citizens were victims of the Christmas, two tectonic plates under the Indian Ocean Tsunami:Tsunami. The U.S. not only pledged humanitarian assistance, around Sumatra Island, Indonesia, pushed against each other, but also sent Collin Powell and Paul Wolfowitz to inspect the creating a gigantic undersea earthquake measuring 8.9 on affected areas. Finally, efforts are being made to install an the Richter scale. Although it was well-known that Indonesia early warning system in the Indian Ocean for tsunamis. Such was vulnerable to earthquakes, a seismic movement of a system has existed for many years in Hawaii (which was this magnitude had occurred only infrequently. The vertical struck by a tsunamis earlier in the century). movement of the tectonic plates produced enormous So, for those of you who thought you suffered harsh upward pressure — nearly invisible on the surface in deep weather in Laredo over the Christmas holidays, bear in mind sea but rising sharply in shallow water as it approached that, around the same time, halfway around the world, Mother coastal areas, forming giant tidal waves — The Tsunami. Nature unleashed much more of her power in the Indian One hour after the earthquake took place, several Ocean. In retrospect, what we had in Laredo appears to have provinces in the south of Thailand were hit by the tsunami. been merely a trivial display of power by Mother Nature. I hope In fact, the entire coastline of South Asia had been affected. the tragic tsunami disaster helps us realize how fortunate we Initially, it was not clear what the casualties were. The early are to live where natural disasters rarely strike. In spite of any figures were just a couple of hundreds. Then, as time went shortcomings, Laredo is not particularly prone to any type by, more dead bodies were discovered — 5,000 in Thailand of natural disaster — a comforting fact that we should take alone and over 130,000 for the entire region. In Thailand, solace in. For me, I will never forget, even in old age, where I approximately half of the casualties were foreign tourists was on the morning of December 26, 2004. celebrating Christmas in a tropical paradise just a day earlier. Christmas 2004 would go down in history as the deadliest (Pornsit Jiraporn is assistant professor in the College Christmas ever. of Business Administration’s department of Accounting, Needless to say, the atmosphere in Thailand was Economics and Finance. He joined the TAMIU faculty in melancholic, almost all New Year celebrations cancelled. 2002) For me, a distant acquaintance of mine was killed while taking a vacation in the South. Search and rescue operations continued for several days after the disaster. Those who were fortunate enough to survive the Tsunami had to live knowing that their loved ones had perished, their properties completely destroyed. Donations poured in from all over the country. Volunteers traveled to the South to offer assistance any way they could. Since a large number of the injured were foreigners, interpreters were needed who knew English, French, German etc. I would have gone down to help, but a sufficient number of volunteers who spoke English had already shown up. Although I did not experience the disaster first-hand, we had an active discussion in our family (my dad happens Receding waters from tsunami, Kalutara Beach, Sri Lanka. to be a professor of oceanography and was familiar with Satelite photo collected December 26, 2004 by Digitalglobe. tsunamis). My family decided that the best way to contribute was to make financial donations. In a matter of days, millions of baht had been collected and sent to the South for the I will never forget, even in old relief efforts. Our best qualities tend to show up in the worst “ circumstances. I suppose this is one of those situations. The age, where I was on the morning ownGovernment of Thailand andwords the Army moved swiftly and of December . . 26,. 2004. deployed hundreds of rescue workers to the affected areas- a prompt response praised by both local and international Pornsit” Jiraporn, Ph.D. observers. p r i s m 9 in their own words .... in their own words wordsin their own words ...... in their own words International Diversity Grows with Student-Athletes

o matter the country or the traditions, one thing every student at Texas Arias, but the majority like the academic NA&M International University faces is a distinctive Laredo culture. and cultural experience they have received International students from all over the world find opportunities at TAMIU that at TAMIU and Laredo. combine an academic study abroad experience and a regimented athletic Kyle Edwards, men’s basketball program offering a unique cultural immersion. center and Grand Freeport, Bahamas Thousands of miles away from home, international student-athletes at TAMIU native, transferred from Texas A&M must learn to adjust in order to succeed. University-Corpus Christi. He said it has Since launching athletics in 2002, TAMIU has grown to sponsor nine been somewhat challenging to get used athletic teams. Sponsored sports for the 2004-2005 academic year are men’s to the culture. and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s cross country, volleyball, men’s and “Just not being from Laredo or women’s basketball and men’s and women’s golf. belonging to a particular race is a bit For its 2004-2005 athletic season, TAMIU has signed international athletes difficult at times, but I have run into some from countries including England, Ireland and Kenya. nice people,” Edwards testified. International athletes use different methods to establish contact with Dan Lathey, associate director of TAMIU. athletics, said as international students Philip Liversedge, men’s soccer defensive midfield and a native of Darlington, deal with change the University is bettered England, arrived at TAMIU through a scholarship agency. Adapting to Laredo’s heat by their presence. has been his greatest challenge, but his experience has been solid nonetheless. He noted that as it is not possible “TAMIU’s Office of Admissions, my coaches and team members have been for coaches to travel overseas to recruit really good to me. I’d like for there to be a bit more international students. Although players, the Internet and word of mouth it is sometimes good being in the minority,” Liversedge stated. have proven to be most beneficial for Claudio Arias, men’s soccer coach, said it is important to TAMIU’s athletic program. have international student-athletes because they “It’s not easy to get international represent the principles for which the students to come to Laredo. The bottom University stands. line is to get players that want to come “I think there’s here and contribute to the team,” Lathey always announced. He said these players not only bring discipline skills, but add diversity and personality to TAMIU. Both American and international student-athletes learn about “I’d like teamwork, respect and understanding of other cultures. for there to be “Having international athletes gives a bit more international us a greater view of the world. Sports give students an idea that the world goes students. Although it is sometimes beyond the court or the field,” Lathey good being in the minority.” explained. Philip Liversedge For more information on TAMIU Athletics, please contact Daniel Lathey at something beautiful in diversity, and in sports it brings a different point of view of the 326.2892, e-mail [email protected], or game and also an academic different point of view in learning. It brings out ideas a visit offices in the Kinesiology-Convocation little different than the ones we are accustomed to. There is richness in diversity and Building, room 107. an opportunity to understand a little bit of the world and different cultures,” Arias Rodolfo Zúñiga, said. Student Intern Currently six percent of 131 student-athletes are international at TAMIU. Arias said he is working with the athletic program to improve this proportion in order to better represent the University and its international nature. “I would like to see more diversity by bringing more students from Mexico, South America, and Europe, but at the same time not lose that Laredo flavor of students that “Just not being develops here,” Arias added. from Laredo or Arias also mentioned he would like to see belonging to a particular the program help enhance TAMIU’s reputation of bringing and challenging students from all over the race is a bit difficult at world academically. times, but I have Most international athletes have not had much contact with the American way of living, so once they run into some make the big move they have a lot to get used to, said nice people,”

1 0 p r i s m Kyle Edwards LIFE ON PLANET TAMIU p until last August, Texas A&M International University students didn’t have access to University-run on-campus Uhousing. But now the University’s Residential Learning Community (RLC) offers students the chance not only to sleep on one of the 424 beds, but also gives them access to a whole new experience and outlook on college life not available to previous students. David Crawford, a confident-looking sophomore communications major, was among the first group of people to move into the RLC. “I’m from Converse, which is northeast of , and I learned about TAMIU from student council conventions. I got a job as an RA [residential assistant] and I’ve been here since August. I love it. I’m independent and I get to meet a lot of people,” explained Crawford. For local students yearning for independence, the RLC provides an alternative to living at home. b u y i n g “I chose to live there because I needed to see what furniture it was like to live on my own,” said freshman computer or appliances, information systems major Freddy González. paying utilities, González, who lived with his grandmother and or any of the later his aunt, had the option to stay with his aunt. other responsibilities But when the opportunity to live in the RLC came associated with leasing an up, he knew without a doubt that he would apartment or house. The RLC live there. features furnished living rooms, “I didn’t really think about individual leases and a micro-fridge. it. I knew I would become Bedrooms are furnished with a twin bed, a better person. I study desk and chair, closet, high-speed thought I would Internet and cable, and are individually keyed grow up faster for added privacy. than other kids If that’s not enough to entice, beyond the smell of my age,” added fresh paint lie other amenities. Community features González. include a plasma TV with cable in the social lounge, “I have 24-hour laundry room with new washers and driers, friends who computer center with high-speed Internet access, graduated in study rooms on each floor, and a TV lounge, study my class at rooms and community kitchen on each floor. There’s Martin High also a classroom on site. School and they For those who like to spend time outside, but tell me about are cautious of the 100+ weather, there is a lighted all the stuff they basketball court and two lighted sand volleyball buy, like cars. But courts. Other outdoor features include a swimming they can afford it pool with sun deck, barbeque grills, and card-controlled because they live at access to buildings. home. Yeah, it would be In addition to the amenities, younger students get a nice to have all those luxuries chance to be surrounded by a group of people who are going and I think, ‘Why am I sacrificing?’ through the same issues and experiences. They have someone they But I have to live on my own, grow up and can identify with. become an adult,” admitted González. “I think I’ve grown a bit. You gain a lot of experience in a residence hall. At home, “Some of the students get homesick. you can’t grow. Here you get to meet people from all over. Plus, it’s a new building,” Some are expecting higher grades and recalled Crawford. others are experiencing growing pains. “To anyone thinking about moving in the RLC, I’d tell them that they should. It’s a But you have everything you need here. good experience. It’s possible to be all alone and lonely, but you have to go out there You have the lounge areas; you can work and get involved with the people around. People might have stereotypes, but those out; there’s cable and a pool; plus the are dismissed when you meet all the different people,” advised González. electricity and water are paid. You also “I could live at home rent-free and buy whatever I wanted, but I wouldn’t be have RAs who can answer the students’ happy. I’d feel like a burden. I want to be on my own and explore by myself,” he questions or find someone who can. These smiled. are things you don’t have access to if you For more information about on-campus housing, call 956.326.1300 or visit live off campus,” Crawford explained. http://housing.tamiu.edu/ One thing traditionally cash-strapped Melissa Barrientos-Whitfield students don’t need to worry about is p r i s m 1 1 university campus might be perceived as primarily do something! So, I took them to a physics laboratory Abenefiting students, but Texas A&M International and brought out some of the more spectacular pieces University’s impact on Laredo and South Texas has been profound. of demonstration equipment, passing things around Since groundbreaking in 1995, the continual expansion of the 300- for students to manipulate. Teachers were taking turns acre campus has brought unique experiences to anyone willing to translating like mad. Time flew by. When they were travel the short distance down Loop 20. leaving, the teachers thanked me, not for the filling of The Lamar Bruni Vergara Science Center, scheduled to open in time, but for the fact that these students lit up, and the April 2005, continues this tradition, particularly with the construction prognosis was that ‘some who had never been taught of the 81-seat Planetarium. The Center will provide more than they could do science might now pursue a science space to pursue required classes, or offices for professors. career.’ That is one of the greatest powers of a Science Dr. John Winfrey, the recently hired Planetarium director, Learning Center.” explained the facility can ignite passion for science in children, In the future, Winfrey hopes to expand the objectives rekindle the love of teaching in teachers, and answer questions of the Planetarium to include entertainment. for the general public, in addition to helping TAMIU students and “Two additional types of programs that provide professors. release from the everyday stresses of life are laser Dr. Winfrey described how the science learning center and shows and music shows. At Clark Planetarium, a major planetarium at his previous position energized visitors. producer of planetarium software, the evening shows “I was amazed at the constant stream of public school are in a sequence of music themes,” said Winfrey, “The students through the Planetarium. Students came out bubbling audience comes to hear music from their chosen theme, with enthusiasm,” said Winfrey, “My own borderline students were such as rock or classical, provided by a DJ, and there is a sent to the Center and had to write one page about the feature synchronized light show. Remember, this projector is 3-D, that impressed them the most. Again, students came back glowing, and some amazing visual effects can be achieved!” renewed, and invigorated.” Winfrey hopes all of the community will come to His objectives for the TAMIU Planetarium are outreach, appreciate the Science Center and the Planetarium enrichment, recruitment, and education, and he sees three distinct as a rare gem of knowledge and excitement community audiences: the general public, public school children in the area. and University students, each with different needs. For more information, please “The general public has, I claim, a need to know where we came contact the College of Arts and from, why we are here, and where we are going. The two places Sciences at 326.2460, or visit offices in one looks for these answers are religion and science. My intent is the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, to have time to answer such questions available at every show,” room 429. said Winfrey, “For public school students, there is currently, and Jessica Ratliff projected to become increasingly worse, a shortage of Americans going into science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Researchers found a major cause is a lack of initial and sustained excitement in these areas during preparatory schooling. An early exposure to such a science learning center excitement would be the goal of public school shows, as well as meeting benchmarks in their current level of science training.” For TAMIU students, the opportunities available through an on-campus planetarium are quite staggering, said Winfrey. “There is nothing like direct exposure to the materials being taught to make mind-pictures upon which to hang information. The great, great advantage of the facility at TAMIU is that one can leave Earth and virtually travel throughout the mapped universe.” That said, Winfrey stressed TAMIU’s Planetarium will not just be for astronomy. “This Planetarium is for education and enjoyment in a broad range of media and of venues. In the opening month, the public will be shown a sampler from a variety of formats so that they can choose their favorites in the future,” explained Winfrey. While discussing the possibilities of the Planetarium, Winfrey relates a story demonstrating his belief in the importance and value of a science learning center such as the Lamar Bruni Vergara Science Center. “One time, I was leaving campus for the day. There were two busloads of six year-old Hispanic children sitting on the curb and two very frazzled teachers. When I enquired, the teachers said that both the Planetarium and the buses were broken, and they were stuck for several hours,” relates Winfrey, “Somebody had to

1 2 p r i s m There is nothing like direct exposure to the materials being taught to make mind-pictures upon which to hang information. The great, great advantage of the facility at TAMIU is that one can leave Earth and virtually travel throughout the mapped universe. Dr. John Winfrey ”

Photo by Guillermo Sosa p r i s m 1 3 Career Services We can help: for Students and Grads

eel concerned about your future or even unsure about how to start “We have a nice resource library. Fa career? We have information for those Cassandra Wheeler, director of Texas A&M International University’s students interested in attending Office of Career Services, said she and the office staff are readily available graduate school, law school, with information for students and alumni to help make intelligent, informed medical school, plus more. We have decisions when searching for a job or internship, choosing a major or career, information on different industries in continuing education and much more. the area, catalogues on undergraduate Some of those services include cover letter and résumé critique, mock and graduate programs. And we have interviews, and one-on-one career counseling, to name only a few. applications and brochure materials Wheeler said online skills inventory assessment tools, such as the from different companies,” added Myers-Briggs and Self-Directed Search (SDS) tests, are also available to help Wheeler. gain insight into what one might be passionate about occupationally. Some important skill sets “These tests can help identify and clarify areas of interest and relate Wheeler wants to work with students them to potential majors and careers,” said Wheeler. in the future include writing, public Students can also take advantage of an online resume referral system speaking and working in teams. called College Central. Wheeler suggested it is similar to www.monster.com, She also wants to bring students a comprehensive Internet job search engine, where students can submit and industries together by inviting their application and look at employers and their job openings (part-time, maquiladoras to a special job fair full-time, seasonal, or internships). This system allows employers to look at and developing workshops and students’ résumés by major or other criteria as well. presentations to ensure students get Wheeler noted while University departments ensure students are those skills they need to be better ready academically, Career Services makes sure students are ready in other prepared for the job market. areas. Wheeler said she is always “We make sure their skills match what the industry wants. Not only looking at different ways of improving students who are looking for jobs off campus, but also students who are services for students. She says work-study and work on campus. We make sure that they have developed student and alumni feedback is skills that they can transfer to the job market,” indicated Wheeler. very important as it lets them know TAMIU students do in fact have a distinct advantage in the market. whether they are providing all with “For instance, General Electric in Monterrey approached TAMIU. Their the proper services. premise was they wanted TAMIU students because most want to stay in “I’m always interested in the area. The jobs listed will not be in any newspapers or online. They were feedback, not only from students specifically for TAMIU students,” explained Wheeler. and alumni, but from the University According to Wheeler, most students view Career Services as a place to community as well of how we can go when they need a job and do not see the other services that are offered. work together closely with other She said Career Services helps students develop a strategic job search departments and what we can do with reference materials and contact information, allowing for strategic to better serve our students,” said targeting. Wheeler. Career Services hosted its Spring 2005 Career Expo on Thursday, March 31 in the Student Center Ballroom. This event was an opportunity for students, alumni and/or Laredo community members to explore career options related to their academic studies. For more information on Career Services, please contact 326.2260, visit offices in the Student Center, room 114, or visit Career Services’ home page at http://www.tamiu.edu/ affairs/career Rodolfo Zúñiga, Student Intern

1 4 p r i s m er face graces the big maroon and silver TAMIU Hbus that zips around north Laredo. With a smile that radiates confidence, this TAMIU alum is really going places.

So who is that girl?

Name: Claudia Flores-Aguirre

Degree: BBA, Marketing (2000)

Working: She’s an International Business Development Manager for Menlo World Wide Forwarding, a UPS Company.

Big News: She’s been married to Ricardo for six months and they’ve just moved into their new house.

Fun times: One of the University’s first Twisters, she still enjoys dancing (when she can find time) and both enjoy traveling.

How Does She Feel About Being on the Bus?: “I’m really proud to represent the University. It changed my life and I’m glad to encourage others to do the same.”

Interesting Tidbit: Claudia was a student worker in the University’s Office of Public Affairs and Information Services.

p r i s m 1 5 “Sometimes we must travel outside of the cultural community that we grew up in to understand who we are and how our culture has an impact on who we become,” smiles Dr. Christy Teranishi, TAMIU assistant professor of Psychology. Her office walls are thickly covered with photos of her students doing just that in cities such as Guanajuato, Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende. Dr. Teranishi leads a popular TAMIU study program which offers a four- week immersion experience focused on understanding Latino identity development. “I grew up in a Latino community where my family owned a Mexican restaurant and many of my friends are Latino so people often ask me, ’What are you?’ Although I am fourth-generation Japanese American, I sometimes feel that my cultural identity is more Latino. I use the term ’Latisian’ to describe my ethnic identity. This stimulated my interest in conducting my dissertation research on ethnic identity and I developed a course entitled ‘Latino Identity Development’ at the University of California, Santa Cruz. “Through my research, I’ve found that identity development is predictably tied to self- awareness and understanding of how our identities develop over time and across contexts. We weave our identities through the shared sense of goals, values and expectations across the contexts of our families, friends, school, work and neighborhoods,” she explained. It was this passion for research and teaching of Latino identity that brought her to TAMIU from California, particularly the fact that TAMIU’s Office of International Programs encouraged her to teach her Latino Identity Development course abroad in Mexico. Dr. Teranishi’s program takes students, most of whom are Latino, to Mexico to study at the university there and to immerse themselves in the food, language and culture while living with Mexican families. “It’s quite amazing. Within the four-week study abroad program students develop a greater awareness, improve their communication skills and begin to reflect on how their own ethnic and cultural identities develop over time and change across contexts,” she observed. “Most TAMIU students come from homogeneous communities like Laredo with little to make them feel out of their familiar element. One of the students who completed the program told me, ‘Now I’m like the fish that just realized I am a fish – I never realized what being Mexican meant to me until I looked outside the 1 6 p r i s m bowl,’ ” she recalled. E MSN U R T Comes E M O C O to D TAMIU S M A E R D

fter years of hard work, the reduce client waiting times and Adream of a Masters of Science increase accessibility to health in Nursing was finally realized at Texas care,” explained Walker. Although I am A&M International University this past She said offering a Masters July. in nursing was the next logical fourth-generation“ After getting final approval from step for the University, based on the State Board of Nurse Examiners, the consistent growth of interest Japanese American, I Dr. Susan Walker, director of the Dr. F.M. in the discipline. Canseco School of Nursing, has seen “The Canseco School of sometimes I feel that the Family Nurse Practitioner program Nursing celebrated its 10th flourish. anniversary in January my cultural identity is “At present, we 2005. We’ve grown have 19 students from 32 RN/BSN more Latino. enrolled, and we to 253 basic, plan to admit RN and MSN ”Dr. Christy Teranishi 15 to 20 each students. The Fall Semester. region, and We focus our the nation recruitment as a whole, efforts locally, needs these admitting graduates local and rural to offset the minority and continuing underserved nursing shortage,” students whenever said Walker. possible,” said Dr. She said the Walker. Masters degree program She explained would not have been the curriculum at possible without TAMIU is designed “We’ve had tremendous and to prepare terrific support from ongoing community highly qualified the University family, support. nurses for the and from the Laredo “We’ve had community, community.” terrific support from the University family, working with the -- Dr. Susan distinctive aspects and from the Laredo Walker of border life. community. We energetically “Because of our pursue Federal and foundation unique location and in keeping funding to realize the goals of the with the international character of the School,” said Walker. University, the curriculum emphasizes She explained sixty percent the diverse beliefs people have about of the approximately $1 million health and illness and how to work program, or $600,000, was with those beliefs to support people’s funded through a grant from health and health care decisions,” said the Federal Department of Teranishi Walker. Health and Human Services said that today the need to belong is She said the program prepares Health Resources and Services often challenged by a society that daily nurses to practice collaboratively with Administration. The remainder fragments identity through acculturation physicians, and work with people’s will be funded by the State of and assimilation. beliefs and preferences. Texas (30 percent or $300,000) “It’s so easy to lose our sense of self, “Wherever possible, a dialogue is and other local funds (10 percent our history, our shared legacies. For us to encouraged that attempts to bridge or $100,000). understand where we can go, we need to For more information, please understand who we are, where we came the gap that may arise between contact the Canseco School of from, and what opportunities lie ahead. the values of the client and the It’s important to explore various pathways provider. By training the nurses to Nursing at 326.2450 or click on to identity development,” she concluded. work collaboratively, we address the http://www.tamiu.edu/cost/son/ For information on Dr. Teranishi’s need for primary care practitioners, Latino Identity Development course Jessica Ratliff being offered this summer, e-mail her at [email protected]. p r i s m 1 7 on campusnews 8 1

m s i r p on campus news

on campus news on campus news on campusnews on campus news on campus news Lamar Bruni the Vergara from giftTrust. generous a More than by 400 attended. part in possible made was them make help informed to choices knowledgeabout their with health. women empowerThe event to designed Jan. 28. brought its popular University,Women’s International Health Conference A&M Texas to Laredo with partnership in TAMIU at Spotlight in Health employees contributing. campaign generated $109,899, with more than 1,127 state donationof more than $38,500. Overall, the Laredo SECC Laredo, the surrounding area and the State. annual State Employee Charitable Campaign (SECC). their community through their record contributions to the Giving Employee State Local TAMIULeads in response.” done we’ve what like apparently they and students our from cameinformation to access onlinegreater for year,” lastsaidUniversity registrar time OscarReyna, this“This request over increase 503% a seen has program, as LASSO. known system, registration online an to University converted the Semester, Spring past This registration. you waited in line. Nowadays, there’s no lines, just online TAMIU at Lines More No lgty vr 8 ilo fr hrtbe rgas and programs charitable for support. million $8 over slightly that it’s here… simple!” give We here. live “We commitment: University’sthe administrationuppresident forsummed Organizers are hoping to make the event annual. LaredoConferenceWomen’swasHealthKLRN The station,Antonio’stime,PBSSanKLRN, first the For TAMIU led the 30 state agenciesstateparticipating30TAMIU the led a with The SECC benefits various charitable organizations in in giving of tradition a continue employees TAMIU Cutting line is now truly a thing of the past! registration online LASSO, our utilizing“Enrollment TAMIU…at registrationstays your recall might You at er saeie EC apin generated campaigns SECC statewide year, Last vice associate TAMIU and co-chair Campaign S W E N on campusnews s u p m a c n o vice president ofstudentaffairs. Elizondo, director offinancialaidandDr.Thomas Corti, vice president forinstitutionaladvancement; Laura management; Congressman Cuellar; CandyHein, Minita Ramírez, executive director ofenrollment vice president forfinanceandadministration; education needsare, lefttoright, JoeGarcía, Joining Congressman Cuellartodiscusshigher Touting Higher Ed. participate in higher education,” to Dr. able are Keck said. who students of number the reduce also area. reductionscouldundermine educational growththein education cuts to local higher education Spring to discuss the impact of proposed federal higher 28th District. the representing Cuellar, Henry Congressman Backs HigherEducation Alum, Cong.Cuellar he said. aggressivelyto explorefederal granting opportunities,” continue toinstitutions educationhigherencouraging alsoLaredo. I’m to monies federal more bring to and education. higher to committed remains he challenging, but are sharedperspective,his notingthatWashington politics “Ourmessagesimple: is reductions fundingin will proposed said president, TAMIU Keck, Ray Dr. He met with higher education leaders at TAMIU this now is ‘82), (MBA, Cuellar Dr. Henry alum TAMIU I il otne o gt o hge education higher for fight to continue will “I education, higher of proponent a long Cuellar, $2.3 Million TAMIU Regents II Initiative

n an effort to improve academic performances at area schools, Texas A&M We are interested in helping them IInternational University has announced its Regents II Initiative — a partnership become better teachers,” explained between local and area school districts and TAMIU. Flores. “The Regents I initiative was an internal collaborative effort within and between The second goal seeks to colleges of the University that was geared to produce more and better teachers. With improve student performances in the Regents II Initiative, we will add an external group, the public schools. We will work University service areas. This includes with them to see how we can improve their student scores in the state mandated increasing federal (AYP) and state assessments as well as teacher development,” explained Dr. Humberto González, TAMIU (TAKS) accountability performances in dean of the College of Education. participating schools. The Texas Education Agency is covering the costs of the $2.3 million project. “We already have a lot of information All the universities within the Texas A&M University System have identical projects. in writing from the schools. The first year “We will be working exclusively with the schools that are part of the P-16 Education we will focus on improving math scores Improvement Consortia (PEIC). We have three school facilitators who work as coaches and science the second year,” added and a data specialist. We are currently talking to the principals, assistant principals and Flores. counselors and asking them what their needs are,” said Gloria Flores, director of School/ Other goals include increasing University Partnerships. completion rates in participating high Sixteen schools from Laredo Independent School District, United ISD, Zapata ISD, schools, community colleges and A&M and Mirando CityISD are part of the PEIC project. System universities. PEIC schools were invited to participate based on student academic performance, “This will be the first time the College and identified as high potential schools in math, science and English Language Learners of Education works directly with school (ELL). districts in a concerted effort to improve High potential schools generally have a high percentage of low socio- student academic success in selected economic students or disadvantaged students. schools. The students and the University The first goal of the five-year project aims to improve the will be the ultimate benefactors because quality and effectiveness of the A&M System teacher many of these students will be able to preparation programs. This includes continuing to access a higher education degree if they �������� improve quality and effectiveness of the A&M stay in school and receive a high school System teacher preparation programs diploma,” explained Dr. González. and creating successful novice teacher “We also want to encourage novice experiences within the partnering public teachers to remain in teaching by ��������� schools. making sure that they have the district “We are primarily interested in and University support to make their novice teachers. We will ask them where first three years in teaching successful. �������� and how they received their certificates We will work directly with the teachers and what kind of training they received. and principals to help them develop Some of them might have received their successful programs. The University ����������� certificates through an alternative has many academic resources that certification program or through we can help schools access. regular certification. Working together we can Then we’ll share the make a difference for our information with the public school students,” University. That is he concluded. the connection between the public schools and the Melissa Barrientos-Whitfield University.

p r i s m 1 9 TAMIU UNIVERSITY LIFE

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1. From left, co-editors Dr. Sushma Krishnamurthy, associate professor of biology at Texas A&M International University, and Texas A&M-Kingsville Regents Professor of geography Dr. Jim Norwine, and the book’s foreword author Dr. Leo Sayavedra, Texas A&M University System vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, joined to sign “Water for Texas.” 2. TAMIU faculty members and guests join after a session celebrating Black History Month on campus. In addition to lectures, films and guest panelist, the celebration also included musical performances and special readings. 3. Dr. Rafael Lecuona, TAMIU professor emeritus, autographs a copy of his translation of “Ernesto Lecuona: the Genius and his Music,” which details the life of his famed uncle, one of Cubas’ most revered composers. 4. Over 2000 students visited the TAMIU campus this Spring for the University’s popular Financial Aid Fair. The fair made the most of the campus’ central plaza and perfect weather. 5. Dr. Dan Jones, TAMIU provost and vice president for academic affairs, is joined by Dr. Rafael Maldonado, LCC vice president for instruction and student development, for the signing of an agreement which makes joint admission at LCC and TAMIU possible for qualified students. 6. A new agreement between TAMIU and The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio makes possible facilitated admissions between the two universities. Left to right are Dr. Francisco G. Cigarroa, UTHSCSA president; Dr. Ray Keck, TAMIU president; Dr. Dan Jones, TAMIU provost and vice president for academic affairs; Dr. Dan Mott, TAMIU associate dean, College of Arts and Sciences; Richard García, assistant vice president for South Texas Programs, UTHSCSA, and Dr. David Jones, associate dean for Admissions, School of Medicine, UTHSCSA.

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7. The Valley Alums Carlos J. Villarreal ’80, Bibiana Guerra ’03, and Magda Ramírez ‘01 gathered at Applebee’s, Harlingen, Texas for a reunion. 8. The Laredo Alummi met at Lago del Río on October 6, where the 2005 TAMIU Alumni Scholarship Recipients were introduced. Israel Juárez ’00, President Elect; Deborah A. Garibay, Scholarship Recipient; Adriana Chapa ’04 Senior Class Gift Rep; Imelda Navarro ’81, President; Patty G. Canseco ’01, Director of Alumni Relations; Ritachi W. Nwabueze, Scholarship Recipient; and Mario Mejía ’92, Treasurer. 9. Sam Johnson, third from left, is shown a prototype of a bust that will be part of the Sam Johnson Black Box Theatre dedicated this past Fall. From left are Charles Johnson, Dr. Ray Keck, Johnson, and artist Armando Hinojosa. 10. Dawn Ashworth and Harlan Johnson, Time Warner Cable District Manager (2nd from right) present a $10,000 check for golf scholarships to (l to r) Dr. Tomas Corti, Vice President for Student Affairs; Dr. Ray Keck, III, President; and Dr. Steve Garippa, Athletic Director. 11. Former Laredoan Roberto García, Jr., takes a moment from the opening of his art show FORMS held at the University Art Gallery to pose with local artist Mary Quiroz, his former teacher Connie Kazen and friend Dr. Ray M. Keck, III. 12. Laredo Area Alumni attended a luncheon for Financial and Estate Planners hosted by President Keck in December. Seated (left to right) Lilia Elizondo, Gina Mejia ’87; Sylvia Gutiérrez ’02; Patty Canseco, ’01, Director of Alumni Relations; Minita Ramírez, Executive Director of Enrollment Services; Eliza González; and Guadalupe Brosig ’05. Standing: (left to right) Juan José Garza ’04; Ron Eichorst ’90, ’97, TAMIU Comptroller; Fred Juárez ’92 TAMIU Director of Budgets, Payroll, Grants and Contracts; Juan Manuel Rodríguez ’96; Carlos Brosig ’82; Javier Elizondo ’93; Mike Dickerson ’98, Jorge F. González ’87; Dr. Ray Keck, III. 13. Alumni residing in Dallas met with TAMIU’s Vice President Candy Hein and Sylvia Garza, from the Office of Institutional Advancement for an update on University happenings. Standing: Rolando Gutiérrez ‘76, Valentín Aguilar ‘96, Rene Barrera ‘98; seated: Candy Hein, former Laredoan Irma Armendariz, and Sylvia Garza. 14. Elizabeth Sames (center) welcomes the fourth cohort of Sames Scholars and mentors at a recent orientation meeting at TAMIU. While in high school, these students will meet regularly with their assigned mentor and upon graduation will receive a four-year scholarship to TAMIU. p r i s m 2 1 TAMIU OUR DONORS Annual Giving 2003-2004

Platinum Society - ($1,000,000.00 + ) Army Emergency Relief Mr. and Mrs. Ernest M. Bruni, Jr. Mrs. María E. Calderón Ms. Ana N. Ochoa Lamar Bruni Vergara Trust Astro Vending of Laredo, Inc. C. H. Robinson Mr. and Mrs. Francisco R. Canseco Optimist Club of Laredo BARBCO, Inc. The Chickasaw Nation Ms. Patricia Guajardo Canseco Padre Activity Rentals Silver Society - ($250,000.00 + ) Barnes & Noble College Bookstores, Inc. Christen Middle School Ms. M. Isabel Cantú Padre South Hotel D. D. Hachar Charitable Trust Beringer Blass Wine Estates Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Cahill Carmin’s Flower & Gift Shop Mr. Horacio G. Palacios Cinco de Mayo Coastal Bend Community Foundation Drs. Vernon H. and Mary Grace Carroll Paul Young Auto Mall Bronze Society - ($100,000.00 + ) Coastal Conservation Association Coastal Community and Teachers Ms. Imelda G. Chapa Mr. José E. Ramírez, Jr. H. E. Butt Grocery Co. Laredo Chapter Credit Union Chaparral Country Club Mrs. Roberto A. Ramírez R&P Ramírez, LTD Constructors, Inc. Mr. Sergio Contreras Chase Bank - San Antonio Mr. and Mrs. Jim Richter, Jr. Sánchez Family Foundation County of Webb Copy Connection, Inc. Mr. Alberto Chávez, Jr. Mr. Eloy Rodríguez Delphi Automotive Systems Corpus Christi Independent Chili’s Grill & Bar Mr. and Mrs. José Salvador Rosillo Pewter Society - ($50,000.00 + ) Don Krueger Construction Company School District Cigarroa Toros Booster Club Mr. and Mrs. George Saenz Anonymous Dr. Leo Cigarroa High School Ms. Peggy Dietrick Coca-Cola Bottling Co., Inc. Ms. Carmelita Z. Salinas Mrs. Elizabeth J. Gill Enterprise Rent-A-Car Mr. and Mrs. Félix R. Elizalde Collegiate Funding Services Sallie Mae Hispanic Scholarship Fund Escamilla & Poneck, Inc. Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club Committee to Keep Elma T. Salinas Mrs. Lydia Sames Mr. William N. Mayo Estate of Rudolph Hafernik Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Flores Ender, Judge San Antonio CPA CE Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Hank Sames, III Ford Salute to Education Ms. Maxine E. Flournoy Consejo Consultivo del Inst. de los SBC Championship The E. H. Corrigan Foundation Foundation of the 1st Cavalry Ford Salute to Education, Inc. Region 3 Mexicanos en el Exterior Schlumberger Time Warner Communications Division Association Ms. Minita M. Freeman Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Corti School of Wonder, Inc. Dr. and Mrs. George H. García Harlandale Education Foundation COSTEP - Edinburg Mr. Alan Seeman Copper Society - ($25,000.00 + ) GEO Mortgage Services Harley Davidson Courtyard by Marriott Mr. and Mrs. Edward F. Shaifer The Honorable Carlos Y. Benavides, Jr. Mr. William B. Green Mr. and Mrs. Conrado Hein, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Billy Cowart South Martial Arts and Mrs. Benavides Greenville County Schools Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Herschap Dr. and Mrs. Carlos Cuellar South Texas Distributors, Inc., LTD Meadows Foundation Guerra Communications Hispanic Association of Ms. Santa L. Davila Southern Distributing Company, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. George J. Person Mrs. Annabelle Hall Communications Employees of SBC Delta Alimentos Southwestern Bell Telephone Hispanic College Fund Holy Redeemer Church Dr. Ike’s Mr. and Mrs. John Wayne Stabile President’s Circle - ($10,000.00 + ) Mr. and Mrs. Robert G. Holliday, Jr. The John Newcombe Tennis Ranch Educaid/Wachovia STX Petro Properties City of Laredo \Convention and Holloway’s Bakery Junior Achievement of Laredo El Mercado Restaurant Suarez Brothers Services, Inc. Visitors Bureau\Public Library Dr. and Mrs. J. Charles Jennett Kiwanis Club of Laredo Elysian Social Club Tacolare Daniel B. Hastings, Inc. Dr. and Mrs. David M. Jones Knights of Columbus Council Executive Club Target Greatland Directorate of Social Dr. and Mrs. Ray Keck, III No. 10939 Mr. Ernst D. Feisner Texas Activewear Welfare, Maharashtra Kristi-Lin’s Academy, Inc. Kunafin Trichogramma Mr. Stephen C. Flagor That Added Touch Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Guerra L.I.F.E. Scholarship Fund Laredo Bail Bonds Association Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Flores Mr. J. C. Treviño, Jr. Intercultural Development Laredo Borderplex Area Wide Laredo Builders Association, Inc. Fraternal Order of Eagles Union Pacific Research Association Phone Book Laredo Detachment Marine Freeman & Castillón United High School International Bank of Commerce The Laredo Chamber of Commerce Corps League Mr. and Mrs. José García Ms. Sylvia E. Vargas Lakeside Subdivision, L.L.C. Laredo Community College Laredo Golf Association Ms. García Ms. Ana Vazquez Laredo Daybreak Rotary Club Ms. Karen S. Linstrum Mr. and Mrs. Jaime Garza Ms. Asta Vega Laredo Independent School District Laredo Gateway Rotary Club Mr. and Mrs. Elmo López, Sr. Global PCNet/Yucca Computers Mr. and Mrs. Lakshmana Viswanath Educational Foundation Laurel Insurance Company LULAC National Scholarship Fund Dr. and Mrs. Humberto González Dr. Judith A. Warner Leyendecker Construction, Inc. Leadership Laredo Maemoc Social Club Mr. Paul Green and Washington Mutual Bank Mall Del Norte Lewis Petro Properties, Inc. Marble Slab Mrs. Cathy Obriotti Green Webb County Archeological Society South Texas Higher Lone Star Lease Service Mary T. Simpson Education Fund Dr. Stanley C. Green Webb County Retired Education Foundation Los Cuernos de Tejas McCombs Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Irving Greenblum Teachers Association Mr. and Mrs. Carroll E. Summers, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Mercurio Martínez, Jr. Dr. Amira E. Mejía Mr. and Mrs. Frank A. Guerra Wells Fargo - Houston TAMIU Alumni Association Maverick County Hospital District Navasota Valley Electric Mr. Steve K. Harmon Dr. Edward N. Willman Tejas Foundation Mr. and Mrs. James Elliott Moore Cooperative, Inc. Ms. Cristina Hernández Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan A. Witherspoon Texas Association of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Moreno Northside Independent School Mr. and Mrs. John Hickey Wyndham Dallas North Developing Colleges Ms. Hortense Offerle District PTA Holiday Inn Civic Center The Canseco Foundation Pan American Round Table of Laredo NSG Corporation Mr. and Mrs. Russell Cerda Maroon & Silver Circle - ($1.00 + ) Time Warner Cable Ad Sales Patria Office Supply Mrs. Sylvia M. Ornelas INSCORP Dr. Terutake Abe Pi Sigma Alpha Dr. and Mrs. J. Michael Patrick Mr. Ernesto Jimenez Mr. and Mrs. Mario Abrego Dean’s Circle - ($5,000.00 + ) Mr. and Mrs. Evan J. Quiros Presidential Freedom Scholarships Joe Brand Ms. Lorena P. Acosta 4-G Investments, Ltd. Dr. Lem L. Railsback Princess Pocahantas Council Dr. and Mrs. Dan Jones Ms. Erica J. Adams Anonymous Mr. Arnulfo G. Ramírez Ryan Elementary School Mr. and Mrs. John H. Keck Ret. General and Mrs. Milton Adams Apex Construction Services Renato Zapata & Co., Inc. Society of Martha Washington Dr. and Mrs. Firooz Khosraviyani Mr. Richard Aguilar Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, Inc. Robert Haynes Real Estate Southwest Airlines Ms. Mary Lamar Killam Mr. Venkat P. Akula Commerce Bank Dr. Bonnie A. Rudolph Sun Trust Educational Loans Kleberg Bank Dr. and Mrs. Ramón Alaniz Doctors Hospital Auxiliary Mr. and Mrs. Eduardo Salido Mr. Brendan Townsend La Posada Hotel/Suites Ms. Gabriela Alonzo Falcon International Bank San Isidro Ready Mix Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Treviño Lake Casablanca International Mr. Gerardo Alva Mr. and Mrs. Juvenal J. 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