SPRING 2019
theIslander
GRAND OPENING TAMU-CC raises its profile across town with the public dedication of new Islanders Pavilion and Courts
NEW CAMPUS LEADERSHIP ATHLETICS TESTING DRONES WITH NASA Collaborative effort brings bold See 20 years of growth for TAMU-CC is one of two test sites selected to visions to life Islanders Athletics test drones in urban areas PAGE 19: Islanders break in the new pavilion at The Water's Edge park in downtown Corpus Christi.
PRESIDENT'S LETTER The year following my inauguration flew by quickly; I built my leadership team and we began shaping our plans for Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. In this issue of The Islander magazine, we provide a glimpse of those plans along with a look back at our proud history. We welcomed our first freshman class 25 years ago and Islanders Athletics is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The Carnegie Commission for Higher Education recently named us an R2 Doctoral-High Research Activity campus for the first time, which demonstrates that our efforts are being recognized. These achievements and initiatives increase our impact in the community as well as in the lives of our students. I am so proud of this University and everyone here who strives for excellence every day, including our students, faculty, and staff. We also highlight the successes of some of our alumni in this issue along with amazing work being done by students and faculty. I hope you enjoy catching up on our news, and I look forward to sharing more achievements with you soon. We would love to have you come back to campus to Justin Bustos, 2018 Student visit with us in person! Government Association President, Sincerely, with Dr. Kelly M. Quintanilla.
Kelly M. Quintanilla
2 Table of CONTENTS
PG. 04 GROWTH PG. 30 ALUMNI FEATURE PG. 34 TRADITION NEW LEADERSHIP ISLANDER ACCLAIM HOMECOMING New leaders on campus focus on Two former students make a name Islanders past and present celebrate 2019 innovation and collaboration. for themselves nationwide. Homecoming with a "Shakas Up!"
PG. 11 RESEARCH OYSTER CONSERVATION Dr. Joe Fox is working to start a revolution in the oyster industry.
PG. 13 RESEARCH DRONE TESTING A&M-Corpus Christi looks to the future with new heights in sight.
PG. 14 TRADITION RING RECIPIENTS Legacy Rings given to six exemplary students.
PG. 18 FEATURE ISLANDER PRIDE Island University teams up with City of Corpus Christi to spread Islander spirit.
PG. 22 FEATURE I-CREATE MakerSpace opens for students and community to use for creativity.
PG. 24 ATHLETICS 20 YEARS IN THE MAKING Islanders Athletics looks to keep the momentum going.
PAGE 6: The new Tidal Hall Life Science Research building in the midst of the two-year construction.
3 Texas A&M-Corpus Christi NEW LEADERSHIP Nestled on Ward Island, the institution Recent distinctions include research and innovative academic programs, that was originally a Baptist school has partnerships with NASA and the Federal increased internships, and enhanced evolved into a thriving public university Aviation Administration and being research opportunities, all leading to with approximately 12,000 students and named among the Top 10 universities ever-increasing student success and more than 51,000 alumni. Its milestones nationwide offering a degree in regional economic development,” include expanding to 88 academic Unmanned Aerial Systems. Programs Quintanilla said. programs, the addition of a beautiful in nursing, kinesiology, business, To help achieve this bold vision, Performing Arts Center, and becoming elementary teacher preparation, cyber President Quintanilla has welcomed in an NCAA Division I competitor. defense, and counseling also have new division leaders with a focus on The development and growth of received national distinction. innovation and collaboration, including: several research centers added to its Quintanilla’s vision for Texas A&M • Mrs. Jaime Nodarse Barrera, most recent milestone: the Carnegie University-Corpus Christi includes Acting Vice President for Institutional Commission of Higher Education an unparalleled commitment to every Advancement categorized it as an R2 Doctoral student’s success, closing the gaps in • Mrs. Cheryl Cain, Vice President for University with high research activity for achievement, advancing discoveries Marketing and Communications the first time in University history. that benefit the region and nation, and • Dr. Ahmed Mahdy, Vice President for In earlier years, the institution billed revitalizing Corpus Christi and South Research and Innovation itself as “The Wave of the Future.” Texas. It is a bold vision that requires • Mrs. Jaclyn Mahlmann, Acting Under the leadership of Dr. Kelly M. collaboration across the University and Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration Quintanilla, who became its first female throughout the community and region. • Mr. Jon Palumbo, Athletic Director president in 2017, the “Next Wave” for “I am a staunch believer in • Dr. Clarenda Phillips, Provost and the Island campus is underway. partnerships that encourage new Vice President for Academic Affairs
4 To further assist student success, work and play in the Gulf of Mexico. University College was created in It includes cutting-edge technology in summer 2018. This unique college unmanned aircraft systems, autonomous centralizes a full range of support systems, cybersecurity, nursing care and services to facilitate student success innovative aging. Our research improves CONTRIBUTORS LIST from entry into the University through K-12 education, mental health shortages, graduation. It includes orientation, and provides business and policy advising, the first-year experience, solutions for environmental, national UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT and career preparation, among other and cultural borders.” support programs. The Viking-Islander As part of the initiative to partner Dr. Kelly M. Quintanilla Program (VIP) was developed to allow with and impact our community, an EDITOR students to begin their college career External Relations Task Force was at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi created to address questions and Cheryl Cain Vice President for Marketing and while also taking some courses at Texas provide recommendations on how to Communications A&M-Corpus Christi to gain familiarity best improve and maximize University with the four-year campus. relationships with the local and ASSOCIATE EDITORS In other changes, the Division of broader community. Research, Commercialization and “Together, we will continue building Luisa Buttler Interim Director of Communications Outreach became the Division of on the success of the past knowing that, Research and Innovation to place because of our efforts, the best is yet to Ashley Larrabee emphasis on efforts to innovate come,” Quintanilla said. “Students and Director of Marketing across campus and throughout the graduates are more than just our legacy; community. With research expenditures they are the future leaders who will WRITERS exceeding $28 million in the last year, chart a direction for dynamic growth for Richard Guerrero the University’s efforts to expand its generations to come.” ◆ Michelle Villarreal Leschper research are proving successful and providing valuable experience to student DESIGN researchers as well as important impacts Taylor Bodeker in our community. “Our research provides solutions for PHOTOGRAPHY regional problems with national and Edgar De La Garza international significance,” Quintanilla said. “Our research serves all who live,
Drs. Ahmed Mahdy (left) and Don Albrecht, along with President Kelly Quintanilla, volunteer to serve lunch to students at the Welcome Back Splash and Picnic in fall 2018.
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The Islander is published biannually (fall and spring) by the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Marketing & Communications Division. 6300 Ocean Drive, Unit 5726 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 361.825.2420 Dean Frank Pezold. “Teaching labs were complements and further enhances that New Research Facility doing double duty as research labs, odd mission capability.” closets and loading docks were converted Tidal Hall represents the University’s to research lab space. This was a major largest construction project since the TIDAL problem for us as we began hiring faculty opening of the 18,700-square-foot to support Ph.D. programs—research is Islander Dining Hall in 2014. an integral and defining component for “This state-of-the-art research facility HALL those programs.” will be a great draw for graduate students Within the 111,000 square feet of but will also attract highly motivated Built at the corner of Ocean Drive and panoramic glass windows, Tidal Hall undergraduate students through our Island Boulevard, the newest building houses nine instructional labs, 34 strong undergraduate research program,” on campus, Tidal Hall, is three stories research labs, dedicated workspace for Pezold said. ◆ high with impressive views of the bay, master and doctoral and postdoctoral Naval Air Station-Corpus Christi and the students, and faculty offices. It also Harbor Bridge. includes one of two lactation rooms on In September 2015, the Texas campus for new moms. The Island University celebrated the grand A&M University System Board of With the Island University’s opening of Tidal Hall on April 12. Regents appropriated $60 million for achievement of R2 Doctoral University construction of the building, to support – High Research Activity classification research and life sciences in the College by the Carnegie Commission of of Science and Engineering. Higher Education, the University Tidal Hall opened its doors to students continues its transition to an Emerging this summer and supports many of the Research Institution. fastest growing programs with hands-on “As a leader among doctoral-granting research opportunities in biology, institutions, A&M-Corpus Christi biomedical sciences, fisheries and is committed to preparing graduates mariculture, and marine biology. for lifelong learning and responsible “Existing university facilities were not citizenship by offering excellence in constructed to support research—the teaching, research, creative activity and University was primarily teaching- service across academic disciplines,” said oriented through most of its history,” Associate Vice President of Operations said College of Science and Engineering Dr. John Dawson. “This new facility
6 A forensic anthropologist is a scientist identified the remains of seven The Science of trained in physical or biological victims, actually correcting several anthropology who applies their expertise misidentifications, through the use of in human skeletal anatomy, bone growth modern forensic science tools such as LIFE AND and development, and bony reaction to DNA analysis and computerized facial trauma or pathological conditions to approximations. legal system casework. Sharing her expertise with students at DEATH An Austin native, Derrick earned a the Island University, Derrick is teaching doctoral degree in physical anthropology a section of the Professional Skills course As a forensic anthropologist at the at Texas A&M University in College in the Department of Life Sciences as Harris County Institute of Forensic Station in 2001. In 2006, she accepted well as a course called Special Topics Sciences in Houston from 2006 to 2018, a position as a physical anthropologist in Forensic Anthropology: Exploring Dr. Sharon Derrick often provided with the Harris County Institute of Careers in the Forensic Sciences. In families with an answer to a painful Forensic Sciences, which contains the that course, students hear presentations mystery: the question of fate. Chief Medical Examiner’s Office and from working professionals, including a Derrick joined the Department of a crime lab. After additional training forensic pathologist, an autopsy assistant, Life Sciences in the College of Science under the mentorship of a board- and a mass fatality planning specialist. and Engineering in summer 2018 certified forensic anthropologist, Derrick Derrick said she’s looking forward to to strengthen the Island University’s also achieved board certification. adding new courses in the fall that will forensic science course offerings. To “Forensic anthropologists do a lot of eventually allow students to minor in that end, Derrick will open the new trauma analysis in addition to estimating forensics. Forensic Anthropology Center lab in the age, sex, stature, and ancestry to help “The goal is to generate some Islander University’s newest facility, Tidal Hall, in identify human remains,” she said. forensic scientists out there—maybe fall 2019. Forensic anthropology courses From the time she began work on a forensic chemists, forensic toxicologists, will be added in subsequent semesters. Houston mass murder case, Derrick forensic anthropologists, and especially medical examiners, who are in high demand,” she said. “We’ve got what it "The goal is to generate some Islander forensic scientists takes here; we just need to grow our out there–maybe forensic chemists, forensic toxicologists, program to fully support students who forensic anthropologists, and especially medical examiners, want a career in the forensic sciences.” ◆ who are in high demand..."
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PLEASE SEND US AN EMAIL AT [email protected]. The extension of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s BBA degree to the RELLIS campus allows students in the Brazos Valley to also benefit from the program offered in Corpus Christi.
College of Business Expands through NEW RELLIS CAMPUS From the Coastal Bend to Bryan, John Gamble, College of Business and professors. I am so excited to finally Texas, the College of Business educates Dean at A&M-Corpus Christi. have found my niche.” 1,255 undergraduate and 890 graduate “The college’s focus is centered on All features of the business program students, with 81 of those attending the student opportunities.” in Corpus Christi also are available new RELLIS campus in Bryan. The Texas A&M University RELLIS to the RELLIS campus and include A&M-Corpus Christi’s College of campus, located at the former Bryan internships with employers throughout Business has several professors based at Air Force Base, was built to integrate Texas; study abroad programs in Europe, the campus teaching accounting, finance, research and implementation in an array Latin America and Asia; and student management, and marketing courses— of industries. Ten of the universities in organization engagement. allowing students to earn a Bachelor of the A&M System will offer coursework The College of Business at Business Administration (BBA) degree. at the campus in subjects including A&M-Corpus Christi is accredited business, nursing, criminal justice, by the Association to Advance communications and chemistry. Collegiate Schools of Business "RELLIS is small and personal, Raven Tilman is working toward a (AACSB) International in both so you get one-on-one business degree at RELLIS and hopes accounting and business, a distinction interaction from other students, to start an event-planning business held by only 1 percent of business after graduation. schools worldwide.◆ advisors, and professors." “I am loving the experience so far,” “The launch of the RELLIS academic she said. “Most universities are so large alliance allows A&M-Corpus Christi and overwhelming. RELLIS is small to extend our degree programs and personal, so you get one-on-one to the Brazos Valley,” said Dr. interaction from other students, advisors,
9 Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, West Oso ISD PARTNERSHIP AWARDED $220,000 TEA grant funds path to full-time teaching roles for 10 prospective teachers
Texas A&M University-Corpus Island University’s School and University The 10 graduates will then sign a Christi’s focus on preparing teachers for Partnerships Field Experiences Director memorandum of understanding to work Texas public schools recently earned a and Principal Investigator (PI) of the at West Oso ISD for at least three years. $220,000 grant from the Texas Education Grow Your Own Grant. She is also a “It’s hard to put a value on the grant, Agency. The Grow Your Own Grant graduate of West Oso High School and because the opportunities it provides supports 10 prospective teachers at the two-time A&M-Corpus Christi alumna. are endless,” Tejeda-Delgado said. “This Island University to specifically work for Co-PIs on the grant include Dr. Faye grant strengthens the pipeline from our West Oso Independent School District Bruun and Dr. Robin Johnson. University to districts like West Oso and upon graduation and certification. “I had exceptional teachers at West encourages our students to work with “This partnership enriches and Oso who I can still name to this day,” diverse populations and create culturally encourages an incredibly supportive Tejeda-Delgado said. “They truly helped responsive strategies and techniques that community, recruits and retains amazing inspire me to be the educator I am today.” will only make them better teachers.” and gifted teachers, and most of all, Grow Your Own provides a $15,000 West Oso ISD was chosen based educates our exceptional students,” grant for 10 Island University teacher on its need in critical areas including Conrado Garcia, Superintendent of West candidates, along with funding to pay math, science, Spanish, and bilingual Oso ISD, said. for certification testing, West Oso ISD education. Half of the A&M-Corpus Dr. Carmen Tejeda-Delgado is the on-campus training, and textbooks. Christi participants are either Hispanic or African American to better reflect the diversity of West Oso’s student body. "Through dedication, generosity, and vision for our “We thank Dr. Tejeda-Delgado and her team for being pioneers in creating a new community, the Island University is supporting our academic tradition and helping us build students’ dreams." Conrado Garcia, West Oso ISD Superintendent a foundation on which the future of West Oso ISD will be built,” Garcia said. The Grow Your Own Grant is endorsed by We Teach Texas, a Texas A&M University System-wide focus on recruiting and training the next generation of Texas classroom teachers. The 11 universities of the A&M System produce more fully-certified teachers than any other university system in Texas and have the highest number of teachers remaining in the profession for the first five years of their career. “The Grow Your Own Grant is a seed—a seed we’ve planted that will continue to grow our wonderful partnership with West Oso ISD,” Tejeda- Delgado said. “We hope to continue providing West Oso, and all surrounding districts, with our cream of the crop teachers prepared here at our own Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.” ◆
10 TURNING THE TIDE on Oyster Mariculture in Texas
Oysters can seem endless in their quantity. shores of Nueces Bay, but production has been sliding Restaurants serve plate after plate of them on the half and it’s volatile,” said Fox, Harte Research Institute shell, and in marinas they cluster on bulkheads and for Gulf of Mexico Studies (HRI) Chair for Marine moorings like an afterthought. Despite the appearance Resources Development and Professor of Mariculture, of abundance, this beloved Texas fishery is in a Environmental Science, Coastal & Marine historic decline. System Science. Dr. Joe Fox, a 40-year veteran of mariculture, thinks Destructive fishing practices and a string of natural the state is overdue for an oyster revolution. disasters have led to a steep decline in oyster production “We used to have hundreds of miles of shell roads in Texas, with the annual harvest plummeting by 41 and piles of oyster shells three stories high on the percent since 2010. (Continue to next page.)
11 that ended in May. Fox is hoping to the Texas Oyster Resource and Recovery jump-start the industry and support Center in Palacios. Funded by the Texas oyster producers, fishermen and RESTORE Act and environmental fines restaurants with the launch of a major paid out after the Deepwater Horizon new program at HRI. oil disaster, the center is a partnership It’s not just economic—oysters are with Texas A&M AgriLife Research. traditionally harvested from public Researchers will grow oyster larvae to fishing grounds by dredging, which support reef restoration and train a destroys the sea bottom as it brings up local workforce in oyster cage culture. its catch. Reefs can be lost, and so are Associate Professor of Aquaculture the benefits they provide as habitat for Dr. John Scarpa is a Co-principal popular sportfish, protection for the Investigator on the project. shoreline, and a natural filtration system HRI will also partner with AgriLife for coastal waters. Oyster mariculture to operate a research oyster hatchery in takes fishing pressure off these natural Flour Bluff funded by the Texas A&M reefs with oysters grown in cages University System Chancellor’s Research so that they can be easily removed Initiative, and build a demonstration and harvested. They still provide project of about 180 mariculture cages A large percentage of oysters on local environmental benefits without the that will grow oysters in Matagorda Bay restaurant plates come from outside the economic damage to the habitat. with the help of federal fisheries disaster state—about 90 percent of U.S. seafood Fox secured funding for three new relief money from Hurricane Harvey. is imported. projects: two oyster hatcheries and a “Texas is way behind the curve, Other coastal states have demonstration project. These facilities but we have a chance to provide real supplemented their production with will conduct research and grow oysters, coastal resilience,” Fox said. “This is an oyster mariculture to the tune of $270 but more importantly, they will help economic driver in other coastal states. million annually—Texas just approved support and train a new Texas workforce. There’s also an extremely large benefit to oyster farming in the legislative session The largest of these projects will be bays and estuaries. It’s a no brainer.” ◆
Student achievement starts with support The Achieve Partnership is an annual scholarship program at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi designed to build and sustain relationships between the University and the business and professional community. Through their commitment, Achieve Partners make annual gifts used to support scholarships for Islander students. Make your investment a collaborative effort towards the success of our future and become an Achieve Partner today!
12 achievepartnership.tamucc.edu | 361.825.3465 Drone testing in the urban landscape of Corpus Christi.
TESTING DRONES with NASA As more drones take to the skies— been selected by NASA to work on such whether for business, leisure, emergency critical testing efforts.” communications, GPS navigation, micro response or package delivery—safety and The Lone Star team will start testing weather, tall buildings, and community efficiency are two key priorities. this summer and focus on drone acceptance all present hurdles to To ensure that safety, NASA’s communication, collision avoidance, everyday, safe operation,” said Ronald Unmanned Aircraft Systems Traffic safe landing, services that support UAS Johnson, project manager for Management (UTM) project selected operations, and safety in an urban NASA UTM. the Lone Star UAS Center of Excellence landscape. NASA’s UTM project works & Innovation (LSUASC) at Texas This year marks the fourth and final closely with the Federal Aviation A&M University-Corpus Christi to test chapter in a series of drone technology Administration to conduct field drone traffic management. The Island tests, with each year increasing in demonstrations of small unmanned University is one of only two test sites complexity, according to NASA’s aircraft systems to fully and safely access selected nationwide. Ames Research Center in California’s low-altitude airspace in support of civil “This series of tests is a critical step Silicon Valley. and business opportunities. ◆ in enabling the safe integration of “For the commercial drone industry unmanned aircraft systems within an to really advance, they need to see the For more information about Lone urban environment,” said Mike Sanders, results of this testing to understand the Star UAS Center of Excellence & LSUASC Acting Executive Director. opportunities and challenges posed Innovation at A&M-Corpus Christi, “The Lone Star team is proud to have by flying in an environment where visit lsuasc.tamucc.edu
13 ISLANDER ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Awards Legacy Rings to Six Recipients
An Islander ring symbolizes fortitude profound contributions to the University science fairs, and making Valentine’s Day and overcoming challenges, focus on with complimentary Legacy Rings. cards for senior citizens. academic achievement, and drive for From tour guides and student leaders, Joshua Warner and Jasmine Lopez, a successful future. The ring tells a to athletes and academic achievers, who both committed hours upon hours different story for each scholar. For some, students who earn these rings have an of service to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, it’s trials they have conquered, like being unwavering passion for the campus were also awarded rings. Warner, who the first in their family to graduate from community. This year, six students were recently graduated with a Bachelor of college or overcoming a health crisis. For honored. Business Administration, served as others, it’s a reminder of friendships and “I was incredibly touched to receive president of the Student Economics a cherished campus tradition. this ring from the Island University,” Association for two semesters and is “The Islander ring has proudly said Pilar Harkless, biomedical sciences described by his professors as hard- remained unchanged since 1999,” said major. “The ring is important to me working, respectful, honest, and Russell Wagner, Executive Director of the because it symbolizes my love of this personable. Warner also served his National Islander Alumni Association. University. It represents all the hard work country as a member of the U.S. military. “It connects all Islanders who have I invested during my time here.” “A college ring tells your story before ever placed the ring on their finger and When Harkless first came to you even begin speaking,” said Warner. stepped foot on this campus.” A&M-Corpus Christi, she had just “One of the first questions I was asked at completed a year of cancer treatment that my new job after graduating was ‘what "The ring is important to me stole her health, home, job, and ability school did you attend?’ In that moment, to walk. She battled cancer from the bed I was honored to show my Islander pride because it symbolizes my love of a homeless shelter and fought bravely thanks to the Legacy Ring.” of this University. It represents to learn to walk again. As a student, Lopez, an environmental science all the hard work I invested Harkless utilized all the resources major, is a leader, mentor, and a shining during my time here." available to her including Islander staff, example of an A&M-Corpus Christi advisors, and faculty to turn her dreams Islander. She served the University as Each year, the Texas A&M-Corpus into reality. Harkless is also an avid an Island Ambassador in the Office of Christi National Islander Alumni volunteer who enjoys teaching others Recruitment and Admissions for nearly Association honors students who make to read at the Literacy Council, judging four years, giving weekly campus tours,
14 PILAR HARKLESS SOFIA RODRIGUEZ MATT DAWOD
JOSHUA WARNER JASMINE LOPEZ KAREEM SOUTH
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO hosting Island Day campus preview for everything I’ve done moved me to it reminds you of all the people that events, and ushering at commencement my core.” came before you and brings you into the ceremonies. Lopez was recently named Another Legacy Ring recipient, Matt tradition of Islander pride and honor,” Orientation Leader of the Year, works Dawod, a pre-professional biomedical said South. “I was hugely surprised when as a Supplemental Instructor for science sciences major, excelled in the classroom I learned I would be receiving a Legacy courses, and mentors with Programs for while also being highly involved Ring. To me, it symbolizes all the positive Academic Student Support (PASS). with several organizations around experiences and lifelong bonds I’ve made Sofia Rodriguez, a Spanish education campus, including the Student Alumni here at the Island University.” major, left her mark on campus through Association, the Pre-Dental Society, and Each of these six exemplary Islanders her involvement with numerous Alpha Epsilon Delta. Both of Dawod’s were chosen through a nomination organizations and committees including parents are Islander alumni, and Dawod’s process and were ultimately awarded the Islander Cultural Alliance, Campus brother, David, was also awarded a Legacy Rings based on a history of Activities Board, PAC Advisory Legacy Ring five years ago. leadership, commitment, and service. Committee, Artistic Advisory Council, Students can also earn a ring for their “The ring recipients are students and Spanish Club. She was the keynote achievements in athletics. Kareem South, who love being Islanders and make an speaker at the 2018 Hispanic Heritage biomedical sciences major and Islanders unbelievable impact, expecting very little Month Kickoff and hosted “Painting Men’s Basketball team captain, made the in return. They are hard workers who with Sofia” events for Sexual Assault and Academic Honor Roll six times in the excel in the classroom, are first to arrive Domestic Violence Awareness Months. past two seasons, and in April 2018 was and the last ones to leave,” said Wagner. “Learning that I would receive a selected for the Southland Conference “The Legacy Ring is a way for the Legacy Ring was such an important All-Academic First Team. Following Alumni Association to say ‘thank you’ moment in my life that I will never graduation, South plans to attend for the selfless work students contribute forget,” said Rodriguez. “I remember physical therapy school and open his to making the Island University an hugging my advisor, Susan LaTorre, own clinic. amazing place.” ◆ and us both sobbing. Being recognized “The Islander Ring is special because
15 CORPUS CHRISTI PORTS® New Era of Collaboration between Conrad Blucher Institute and Port of Corpus Christi
PORTS®, or Physical Oceanographic Pilots Association and general public. launched the Port of Corpus Christi Real-Time System, is a network of Since 2007, CBI has installed five of as a major gateway to international sensors installed in the vicinity of a port the 10 PORTS® along the northern Gulf and domestic maritime commerce,” providing information to assist with the Coast and maintains 90 additional data said Port of Corpus Christi CEO Sean safe navigation of vessels in and out of collection systems along the Gulf Coast. Strawbridge. “But the responsibility of the port. The Conrad Blucher Institute Discussions with the Port of Corpus being a leader in ‘Moving America’s for Surveying and Science (CBI) at Christi Authority and industry leaders Energy’ includes a commitment to one of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi are currently underway to expand the the Port’s core values—safety is and will recently completed the installation of capabilities of Corpus Christi PORTS®. continue to be that core value, and the data collection systems around Corpus As an emerging export leader of PORTS® agreement is another pillar of Christi Bay that make up Corpus Christi liquified natural gas, the fourth-largest that commitment.” PORTS®. Six systems are currently port in the U.S. by total tonnage, and a In addition to supporting maritime operational providing oceanographic, leading exporter of domestic-produced navigation, Corpus Christi PORTS® serve meteorological, and environmental data crude oil, the Port of Corpus Christi is as an important tool in decision making such as water level, water velocity, wind, a key player in moving products around and research activities. Natural disaster temperature, and atmospheric pressure. the nation. preparedness and mitigation, as well as The data, once validated, are made “Our outstanding railroad and studies in the areas of sea level rise, land available to the Aransas-Corpus Christi highway network connectivity has subsidence, and bay circulation are all
16 supported by Corpus Christi PORTS® help ship pilots and barge captains make CORPUS CHRISTI PORTS® STATIONS: stations data collection. informed decisions when navigating • AP BUOY “CBI is also under contract to waterways. • ARANSAS, ARANSAS PASS maintain all NOAA National Water “I see these stations as road signs • OXY OIL AND GAS CM Level Observation Network stations in for pilots navigating the waterways of • PORT ARANSAS Texas as well as Sabine-Neches PORTS®, Corpus Christi Bay. They need to know • PORT ARANSAS, CHANNEL VIEW • USS LEXINGTON Houston-Galveston PORTS®, Corpus the environmental conditions before Christi PORTS®, the Texas Coastal Ocean they reach an area in order to make Observational Network, and many other informed decisions for safe transits. data collection systems along the Texas Prior to PORTS®, transits were made Coast,” said James Rizzo, CBI Assistant based solely on the experience of the Director of Operations. vessel pilots,” Rizzo said. “Given the This wealth of data is also used tremendous growth at the Port of by recreational boaters and anglers, Corpus Christi, the system costs are a commercial fishermen, wind surfers, and relatively small investment to help ensure the sailing community. safe and efficient navigation of our “The data are available to everyone community waterways.” ◆ living, working, or playing along the Texas Coast and support science and research,” said Rizzo. “I’m sure that anybody with regular activities on or around Corpus Christi Bay use data from one or more of the systems we maintain.” JAMES RIZZO: Assistant Director of At its core, Corpus Christi PORTS® Operations at the Conrad Blucher Institute. is a decision-making tool designed to
17 18 PAINTING THE TOWN
The Coastal Bend knows the Island University by many names: A&M-Corpus Christi, A&I, Corpus Christi State, and University of Corpus Christi, which was the original name when it opened its doors in 1947 to 312 students. Regardless of its name, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is a staple in the Coastal Bend and continues to make an impact. Recently installed basketball courts, named Islanders Pavilion, and sand volleyball court, called Islanders Courts, are nestled within The Water's Edge park along the downtown bayfront. “Sand volleyball is a fun spectator sport, so it gives people along the bayfront an opportunity to walk by and watch a match,” said Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Athletic Director Jon Palumbo. “It’s community engagement and it tells our story.” Palumbo, who joined the University last year, is invested in engaging the community through athletics by inviting community members to attend games but also by encouraging student-athletes to volunteer with causes they care about. Last semester, student-athletes volunteered with more than 20 organizations and programs that helped elementary students, animals, the elderly, citizens with disabilities, youth sports, and the homeless. Student-athletes also participated in beach clean-ups, festivals, and building community parks. Peyton Smith, a 19-year-old sophomore and basketball player, is a Corpus (Continue to next page.)
19 Christi native and grew up attending A&M-Corpus Christi basketball games with his family. “My whole family went and it’s just something we did together,” he said. “It was a dream of mine to play basketball here and when I had the opportunity, I took it.” When Smith is not attending business classes, studying, or practicing, he proudly volunteers his free time by playing basketball with elementary students. “Not everyone is as blessed as we are to go to school and be an athlete,” he said. “These kids look up to us. It can really ISLANDERS PAVILION: The courts had their grand opening April 24. make their day and week to go hang out with them for a little bit. Whenever I’m with them I want them to have fun and Landon Allemand. “We’re bringing to wear blue on Tuesdays. that’s what it’s all about.” people to Corpus Christi, and by “The underpass project and Palumbo said in his short time as building the University brand, we also proclamation bring pride and awareness athletic director, he’s seen the importance build the prestige in Corpus Christi, to the University and that’s one of of Islander Impact and what it which helps our overall economy.” the most important things for our really means. The Island University recently teamed community,” said Paulette Guajardo, “For our student-athletes, coaches and up with the City of Corpus Christi and At-Large City Council member and staff, the positive impact we can have the Texas Department of Transportation Islander alumna. “There’s a difference on the local community is something to show Islander Pride by painting the when you have that kind of pride because we keep in mind every single day. It’s Ennis Joslin Road underpass columns a it’s the school that had so much to do an opportunity and a responsibility that vibrant and eye-catching blue and green. with who you became as an adult.” we embrace.” The underpass serves as a corridor for Guajardo plans to continue her work Student-athletes aren’t the only students, faculty, staff, residents, and as a councilwoman by improving the city ambassadors of A&M-Corpus Christi. visitors traveling to campus. with more job and housing opportunities According to TAMU-CC Career In January, Islander students and so students who come to A&M-Corpus Services, more than 650 local internships staff kicked off Homecoming through Christi embrace the city’s offerings and have been awarded to Island University a proclamation during a city council choose to raise their families in the students since fall 2017. meeting and encouraged community Coastal Bend. “As our programs continue to grow, participation in various events including “Those are the people who are going more students are attracted to the Bluesday Tuesday, a show of Islander to lead this city and continue our vibrant University,” said Internship Coordinator Pride that invites community members work,” she said. ◆
COMMUNITY PRIDE: Every Tuesday is now Bluesday! Throw on your favorite Islander T-shirt and show your TAMU-CC Pride!
VOLLEYBALL: The Islanders brand can be seen throughout downtown Corpus Christi. New sand volleyball courts have been added to McGee Beach on Shoreline Boulevard.
20 @island_university CONNECT WITH US Join us as we look back at a few of the top stories that connected our TAMU-CC community throughout this past year.
21 I-Create MakerSpace BRINGS IDEAS TO LIFE
It’s physical technology, natural possibilities to the Coastal Bend. technology, low tech, and high tech—it I-Create visitors can create a sculpture runs the whole gamut. The new I-Create with a 3D printer, sew and embroider MakerSpace gives Islanders and the fabric, cut and engrave material using a community access to limitless potential laser cutter, explore digital worlds with a for innovation and imagination. Located virtual reality headset, and much more. on the second floor of the Mary and The space houses more than $100,000 Jeff Bell Library, I-Create offers a wide in professional-grade machinery variety of machines and technology and devices. in one space to encourage hands-on “This space, and the technology creativity and exploration. within, is available to all students “The I-Create lab lets users play and regardless of what they’re studying. explore and realize some things they This is an interdisciplinary space might not even know are possibilities,” where different majors can bring ideas is sharing his glaze mixing machine with said Dr. Cate Rudowsky, Dean of to life,” said Sylvia Sanchez, I-Create the I-Create lab. “This space gives people Libraries. “It takes people out of their MakerSpace Coordinator. the opportunity to learn how to use some comfort zone, in a good way. For Along with the Corpus Christi of the latest equipment on the market. students, it extends organic academic community, local nonprofits and There’s no telling what people could do learning and provides engagement businesses are also invited to take with the facilities here—it’s unlimited.” extending beyond the traditional advantage of I-Create’s offerings. Visitors Sanchez and Rudowsky are looking classroom setting.” are encouraged to think of the space not forward to expanding the offerings of the Makerspaces are an increasing trend as a quiet place, as libraries are often I-Create MakerSpace, with new pieces across the United States. Based on categorized, but instead use it as a place of equipment already identified for collaborative creation, these spaces to explore ideas and engage with others. purchase. The lab is free to use, though provide access to various tools to pursue “Technology changes so quickly that there is a nominal charge for supplies, any passion or curiosity. The Island unless you’re actively learning new or users are welcome to bring their University’s makerspace, in planning things all the time you fall behind,” said own materials. ◆ stages for over a year, brings those Louis Katz, Professor of Ceramics, who
22 New BSN Program Integrates Art Concepts into ACCELERATED NURSING CURRICULUM
This summer, a cohort of 33 Art & Design faculty, along with the Art knowing reflects the nurse’s perception postbaccalaureate students have begun Museum of South Texas, have created the of the patient’s needs. And so again we’re classes in a new accelerated Bachelor Islander Center for Nursing. looking to enhance skills and sensitivity, of Science in Nursing program that— Art Professor Rich Gere, Chair of empathy, and detailed observation in a first for U.S. nursing schools— the Department of Art and Design through this art class.” integrates the Arts disciplines across the and Co-principal Investigator on the The admissions committee narrowed curriculum. HRSA grant, said this approach to the list of 160 applicants to 33 for the The collaboration between the health care incorporates the arts in inaugural class. To prepare for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences order to improve nursing skills through students, nine interdisciplinary faculty (CONHS) and the Department of Art observation, communication, aesthetic collaboratively built the new 22-course & Design in the College of Liberal knowing, teamwork, empathy, cultural curriculum. Drs. Katelijne Acker and Arts is funded by a $2.5 million Health competencies, active listening, sensory Heather DeGrande led the team in the Resources and Services Administration perception, ethics and process-based curricular design, creating new courses, (HRSA) four-year grant. The new problem-solving. and building iPad knowledge and skills. postbaccalaureate curriculum focuses Like nursing, the creation and “Going paperless represents an on interprofessional community- appreciation of art is an extremely opportunity for students to focus on the based primary care, with an emphasis detailed and subtle process. The project content and not necessarily writing notes on chronic disease prevention and goal is to enhance connectivity between in the classroom or fumbling through management, including behavioral nurses and clients. By helping nursing a textbook,” said Acker. “Together with health, according to CONHS Dean Julie students refine their observation of the art component, this makes for an Hoff. details, they will gain heightened insights innovative program.” ◆ into the individual needs of their patients, according to Gere. "We're not teaching drawing, “Students will take a drawing class, we're teaching observation." but we’re not teaching drawing, we’re teaching observation,” he said. “In visual “We’re all aware as consumers that assessment methods, we have empirical health care delivery models are changing. knowing, which is a factual and aligned Acute care—such as hospitalization, for knowing with quantitative explanations, example—is very expensive, so care is and then we have ethical knowing, which moving to the community with a strong draws on one’s moral values. Aesthetic focus on primary care, which includes health maintenance, health promotion, and disease prevention,” Hoff said. “We need to educate nurses to have primary care competencies so they can participate on teams practicing to the full scope of their nursing license.” The BSN is a four-semester program that includes nine semester hours of graduate course work—dual credit to BSN students—and seeks to be paperless: students are provided an iPad to access texts and apps to complete course assignments. To support the new BSN program, CONHS and Department of
WEIL GALLERY: Professor Rich Gere explores art, technology, and the future of arts in nursing with current students.
23 24 20 YEARS OF ISLANDER PRIDE As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Islanders Athletics, we reflect on the milestones that raised the standard for what the department achieved and its goals for the future. Growth of the department over the last two decades is a point of pride for alumni and students, as well as those in the Corpus Christi community who wear the Blue & Green.
“Athletics is a rallying point for and aired live on ESPN 2 for millions American Bank Center in downtown students,” Island University President to see. His performance earned him the Corpus Christi. Dr. Kelly Quintanilla said. “Athletics is number 5 spot on ESPN’s Top 10 that “It gave the program immediate also a huge component in the outreach evening. The City of Corpus Christi also credibility as having one of the best of an institution, because many people’s recognized April 25 as “Joseph Kilgore home arenas in Texas,” King said. “This first exposure to a university is due to Day,” and he finished the year being gave the team a tremendous amount them seeing or reading about an athletic drafted by the Windy City Bulls in the of pride and perspective that not only event.” 12th pick overall. the University, but the community was The current athletics program started Another Islanders athlete who also giving their support and commitment.” with director Dan Viola, who was hired found himself in the national spotlight in The 2006-07 Islanders men’s basketball in May 1997. Viola rebuilt Islanders 2018 was Aaron Hernandez. Hernandez, team soared to the athletic program’s first Athletics starting with a one-man staff, a sophomore and pitcher for Islanders NCAA Tournament appearance. Under an office and a desk, without a telephone. Baseball, started in 14 games. He also head coach Ronnie Arrow, the Islanders However, he did have a goal: to catapult struck out 102 batters in 83.0 innings, took the Southland Conference with the Islanders to becoming a NCAA becoming only the seventh Islander to a program record 26 wins. The season Division I school. reach 100 strikeouts in a single season. remains the benchmark for wins while Five years later, the Island University In June, his winning performance on also holding another five records to this was accepted for NCAA Division I status the field caught the attention of the Los day and put Islanders Athletics in and currently competes in 16 men’s and Angeles Angels and he was selected to the limelight. women’s intercollegiate sport programs. play Major League Baseball in the third “In the first year, we had no games, Since joining the Southland Conference round of the 2018 draft. we had two players and we went out in 2005, the Islanders have captured Steven King, Director of Broadcasting recruiting,” Arrow said. “We went from 36 regular season and tournament and Development for Islanders Athletics, no program at all to seven years later championships. has been part of the program since its being in the NCAA tournament.” Two of the most memorable athletic resurrection in 1997. He recalled several During the past decade, several moments this past year occured in milestones that are indicative of the athletics buildings were constructed basketball and baseball. department’s growth. that many Islander student-athletes now Most people in the Coastal Bend In 2007, long distance runner call their second homes. These facilities recognize the name Joseph Kilgore Shadrack Songok trained at Cabaniss helped shape the department’s image and because 2018 was a big year for him. Field, located near Corpus Christi’s appeal to future Islanders. They include In March 2018, Kilgore recorded a westside, because the University the Dugan Wellness Center in 2009, perfect score and took home the title didn’t have a track for him to run on, (Continue to next page.) of Slam Dunk Champion at the State King recalled. Farm College Slam Dunk Contest It may have been an inconvenience, Championship, putting the City of but Songok persevered and became a Corpus Christi and the Island University three-time NCAA champion, winning on the national stage. The contest was the 10,000-meter run twice and the part of the NCAA Final Four festivities 5,000 once. Songok was the school’s first NCAA Champion. KAREEM SOUTH: He appeared Another milestone was when the and started in all 29 games of the Islanders moved their basketball games 2017-2018 season. from Memorial Coliseum to the new
25 Thomas J. Henry Tennis Center in 2011, Dr. Jack Dugan and Family Track and ISLANDERS HIGHLIGHTS Soccer Stadium in 2013, and the sand volleyball courts at Momentum Village in 2015. “It was important for me to invest in 1997 our student-athletes and create a space Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi that would assist our coaches and staff in revives its intercollegiate 2001 winning championships,” said Dr. Jack athletics program. Islanders men’s basketball defeats Dugan. “Supporting our home town the Texas Tech Red Raiders in team is something that I feel strongly Lubbock. benefits the Corpus community.” Many individuals, including 2002 administrators, coaches and student- Athletic Department is accepted for 2003 athletes helped lay the foundation for NCAA Division I status. success. Now, 20 years later, current Islanders baseball upsets Texas Director of Athletics Jon Palumbo A&M on the Aggies’ home field. said he is focused on the future and continuing the momentum. 2005 “We have a dedicated staff, Islanders Athletics is invited to 2009 experienced coaches and talented Southland Conference. student-athletes,” Palumbo said. “Our The Dr. Jack and Susie Dugan department is poised to help shape the Wellness Center becomes the trajectory of a university that recently campus home for Islanders 2015-2016 volleyball and select men’s and received a Tier 2 Carnegie classification, women’s basketball games. has seen almost $350 million in Women’s volleyball wins back-to- construction over the past decade, and back Southland championships and boosted undergraduate enrollment 29 appears in two straight NCAA percent since 2012.” tournaments, going undefeated in Palumbo joined the Islanders in Southland play during that span. 2016-2018 Women’s tennis wins three October 2018. The department that once straight Southland Conference housed a one-man staff now has more regular season titles, two than 75 employees and a budget of nearly 2005-2018 Southland Conference tournament $12 million supporting 245 student- championships and has two NCAA athletes from around the world. Men’s tennis wins 10 regular season tournament appearances. A former La Salle University baseball Southland Conference titles and seven Southland Conference tournament player, Palumbo spent the past six years championships. as the Deputy Director of Athletics at Virginia Commonwealth University, 2018 where he was instrumental in developing Jon Palumbo joins and implementing a culture of fostering A&M-Corpus Christi as the and sustaining success, growing a brand new athletic director. and generating revenue—all of which he plans to accomplish at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi as well. His five-year strategic plan focuses on becoming a prominent and successful Division I program and building a strong relationship with the community to further enhance Islander engagement. “With the support of University leadership and the student body, the hard work and dedication of our coaches and student-athletes, and the investment of our alumni and local community, the sky is the limit for Islanders Athletics,” Palumbo said. ◆
26 President’s Circle at Te as A M Universit -C rpus Christi is ur m st presti i us private ivin s ciet directl supp rtin the t p pri rities and visi n Dr. Kell M. uintanilla and the acult and sta . With the c ntri uti ns made mem ers President’s Circle the Universit is a le t uph ld its unparalleled c mmitment t ever student’s success pr vidin undin r the initiatives that have een identi ied as crucial t the success Islander students. Fundin is additi nall used r numer us annual activities and pr rammin implemented thr u h ut the ear the President’s O ice urther uildin up n c mmunit en a ement.
MEMBER BENEFITS Mem ership in the President’s Circle places u am n individuals h c ntinuall cus their e rts n the vitalit Te as A M-C rpus Christi. Y u are th an advis r and a riend t the Universit . Thr u h ut the ear e have man events and activities e clusivel r President’s Circle mem ers. We reatl appreciate the supp rt this dev ted r up. presidentscircle.tamucc.edu
MEMBER LEVELS o d Circ e i er Circ e ron e Circ e Endowed Scholarship Council Creating a scholarship endowment is one way to ensure your contribution will remain in perpetuity to support higher education and to help the University remain competitive in attracting the brightest students. In recognition of donors making significant contributions or endowed scholarships, the University established the ndowed Scholarship Council.