News

Nov ‘14
13
Dr. Javier Kypuros jump-starts students’ learning through interactive, tech-savvy initiatives
Dr. Javier Kypuros’ enthusiasm for hot rods boosted his interest in becoming a mechanical engineer but it was an educator who inspired him to turn his passion into teaching.

Nov ‘14
10
UTRGV: A Message from the President
Dear Friend, I am sure most of you have heard the news that The University of Texas Board of Regents unanimously approved my recommendation last week to name the Vaqueros as the athletic nickname for UTRGV and to maintain the colors of UT Brownsville and UT Pan American – blue, green and orange – to represent our new university.

Nov ‘14
07
UTPA recognized nationally for having a top online MBA program
The University of Texas-Pan American's online MBA program ranks among the top in the nation according to an analysis published Nov. 6 by the Affordable Colleges Foundation. UTPA's program is sixth on the 2014-15 list among programs reviewed of more than 500 accredited four-year schools nationwide.

Nov ‘14
06
University Theatre Productions presents "The Mystery of the Shady Palms RV Park"
The community is invited to enjoy The University of Texas-Pan American's upcoming University Theatre production of "The Mystery of the Shady Palms RV Park." The play was written by Eric Wiley, professor in the communication department and author of the popular Winter Texan comedy "Late Bloomers," which was also set in a recreational vehicle (RV) park.

Nov ‘14
06
UTPA honors top educators at Teacher of the Year banquet
The University of Texas-Pan American College of Education (COE) honored E.A. Tanner, a retired McAllen ISD choir director, at its 10th annual Teacher of the Year banquet Wednesday, Nov. 5 at its Community Engagement and Student Success Building.The college also honored 58 teachers of the year from elementary and secondary schools from 29 districts throughout the Texas Education Agency's Region One service area, which includes the Rio Grande Valley.

Nov ‘14
06
UT System Board of Regents approves “Vaqueros” as athletic nickname for new university
UTRGV colors will be blue, green and orange A vaquero is depicted as part of the Tejano Monument at the Texas Capitol in Austin. Photo by Ralph Barrera/Austin American-Statesman A vaquero is depicted as part of the Tejano Monument at the Texas Capitol in Austin. Photo by Ralph Barrera/Austin American-Statesman EL PASO – The University of Texas System Board of Regents officially and unanimously approved “Vaqueros” as the athletic nickname for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley at its meeting Thursday. The board also gave the nod to using blue, green and orange as the colors for the new university, set to open in fall 2015.

Nov ‘14
06
Dr. Alexander Stehn: A dedicated teacher of philosophy inspires students to find personal meaning in education
Stehn believes teaching stems from a deep responsibility to embolden others. “Day in and day out, I work to instill a sense that ideas matter, that they play a crucial role in how we live,” said Stehn.

Nov ‘14
03
United Launch Alliance continues support for College of Engineering and Computer Science
For five years, United Launch Alliance (ULA), the nation’s most experienced and reliable space launch service providers, has partnered with The University of Texas-Pan American to support student organizations and programs in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (CoECS).

Nov ‘14
03
UTPA , Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas host 4th Annual Border Economic, Development and Entrepreneurship Symposium Nov. 14
The public is invited to join experts who will focus on the latest economic issues and trends that will impact the Rio Grande Valley during the Fourth Annual Border Economic, Development and Entrepreneurship Symposium (BEDES) Nov. 14.

Oct ‘14
31
Decision on UTRGV colors and team nickname to happen next week
After months of anticipation, future students of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley will soon finally know who they’re rooting for. UTRGV President Guy Bailey, Ph.D., plans to make a recommendation to the UT System Board of Regents next week on athletics colors, nickname and mascot. The regents must approve the recommendation to make it official.

Oct ‘14
23
UTPA ranks high nationwide in awarding bachelor's, graduate degrees to Hispanics
For the second year in a row, The University of Texas-Pan American ranks No. 4 in the number of bachelor's degrees awarded to Hispanics nationwide according to an annual report published in October by Diverse Issues in Higher Education. UTPA also ranked No. 6 in the number of graduate degrees across all disciplines awarded Hispanics.

Oct ‘14
21
Social Work, Occupational Therapy programs get new home
On Oct. 16 The University of Texas-Pan American had a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the new College of Health Sciences and Human Services Social Work and Occupational Therapy (SWOT) Building. UTPA renovated the former bookstore building on the corner of University Drive and Miguel A. Nevárez Drive (N. Fourth Avenue) to accommodate those programs.

Oct ‘14
16
Readers Theatre production of "Locked" will be held Oct. 23-26 at UTPA
University Theatre Productions at The University of Texas-Pan American will hold Readers Theatre for the production of the original play "Locked."

Oct ‘14
14
UTRGV recruits 22-person research team to establish South Texas Diabetes & Obesity Institute
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and its medical school are poised to become an internationally recognized epicenter for the research and treatment of diabetes and obesity.

Oct ‘14
13
Carnival of the Great Pumpkin 1966-2014: UTPA hosts its last ghoulish gala
The 48th Carnival of the Great Pumpkin will provide young ghosts and goblins a howling good time in its last year hosted by The University of Texas-Pan American.

Oct ‘14
10
Longtime faculty member James Hawley passes away
The University of Texas-Pan American is sorry to hear of the loss of longtime faculty member James Abgriffith Hawley, who helped start Pan American College’s (now UTPA) Theatre program. His obituary and information on services for him are below.

Oct ‘14
10
Roma HS sinks the competition at the U.S. Navy SeaPerch Challenge at HESTEC
With its red watercraft robot, "Gladiator," the Roma High School engineering team left its competitors treading water at the fourth-annual U.S. Navy SeaPerch Challenge Oct . 10 during The University of Texas-Pan American's Hispanic Engineering, Science and Technology (HESTEC) Week on campus.

Oct ‘14
10
Career Expo partners top companies with determined Broncs
By the time The University of Texas-Pan American opened its doors to the Fieldhouse for its annual Career Expo, a line of ambitious students dressed for success and armed with résumés formed a line around the courtyard area.

Oct ‘14
09
Rio Hondo HS defends title at HESTEC Robotics Day
Last year, the Rio Hondo High School robotics team competed for fun. This year, it fought to maintain the championship it had won the previous year.

Oct ‘14
09
HESTEC Latina Day empowers young girls to enter STEM fields
They are smart, they are beautiful and they are highly desired in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields.

Oct ‘14
07
Teens learn their potential at HESTEC Student Leadership Day
About 800 high school sophomores learned what it takes to lead Tuesday during The University of Texas-Pan American's Hispanic Engineering, Science and Technology (HESTEC) weeklong conference on campus.

Oct ‘14
07
Middle school challenge sparks interest in STEM fields through hands-on activities
In an episode from the beloved children’s TV series, “The Magic School Bus,” Ms. Frizzle takes her students on a journey inside the human body. Students participating in the Middle School Challenge got to relive the childhood classic without having to shrink in size as they navigated through the world’s only walk-through body and organ exhibits presented by Doctors Hospital at Renaissance during The University of Texas-Pan American’s 13th annual Hispanic Engineering Science and Technology (HESTEC) Week Tuesday, Oct. 7.

Oct ‘14
06
National leaders discuss STEM needs, opportunities at HESTEC 's Science Literacy Roundtable
The kick off of the 13th year of Hispanic Engineering, Science and Technology Week Oct. 6 at The University of Texas-Pan American was somewhat a nostalgic one for U.S. Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, who founded the annual event in partnership with the University to encourage more interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) studies and careers by Rio Grande Valley students.

Oct ‘14
06
Teachers encouraged to inspire students, tell their stories at HESTEC Educator Day
Dr. Gerardo Lopez-Mena said it wasn't high test scores that got him into medical school. It was the strong desire to be a doctor and the teachers who encouraged him throughout his journey.

Oct ‘14
06
Four RGV teachers win UTPA HESTEC ExxonMobil Educator Day Award
Four Rio Grande Valley high school teachers were in the spotlight Oct. 6 on first day of the 13th annual Hispanic Engineering, Science and Technology (HESTEC) Week at the University of Texas-Pan American.

Oct ‘14
02
New Faculty Support Program welcomes and guides newcomers to UTPA
Dr. Brian Yust, a new assistant professor of physics at The University of Texas-Pan American, said the prospect of growth and opportunities resulting from the creation of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and a medical school was an important factor in his decision to join the UTPA faculty this fall.

Oct ‘14
01
UTRGV Athletics Branding Steering Committee launches new survey
HARLINGEN -The athletics branding steering committee for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is launching an online survey to gather additional input from alumni, students, faculty, staff and community members on the UTRGV athletics team nickname, mascot and colors. The short survey will be posted at UTRGV.edu and is available beginning today through Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Sep ‘14
29
UTPA an early voting site Oct. 20-31 for general election
The University of Texas-Pan American will again host an early voting site to accommodate registered voters in Hidalgo County who want to cast their ballot in the upcoming general election.

Sep ‘14
29
South Texas Literary Journal riverSedge launches new issue in 37-year tradition
The University of Texas-Pan American’s College of Arts and Humanities invites the public and University community to celebrate an evening of local literary accomplishments with the relaunch of the literary journal riverSedge from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2 in the ARHU Art Gallery & Lobby.

Sep ‘14
24
University Theatre Productions announces new season
Season subscription sales are in full swing for the upcoming 2014-2015 theatre season at The University of Texas-Pan American.

Sep ‘14
23
UTPA secures Military Friendly status for fourth year in a row
After serving in the military and working several jobs, Juan Esparza, a kinesiology major, decided it was time to continue his education at The University of Texas-Pan American where he had left off back in 2008.

Sep ‘14
19
University initiative to raise awareness on personal safety
The University of Texas-Pan American is going the extra mile to educate students on the importance of personal safety on and off campus.

Sep ‘14
12
Award-winning journalist and co-author Laura Ling is next UTPA Distinguished Speaker
The University of Texas-Pan American will welcome Laura Ling as the first guest of its Distinguished Speakers Series for the 2014-2015 school year.

Sep ‘14
12
UTPA tops Washington Monthly’s list of Best Master’s Universities
Viola Smith, a second grade elementary teacher, wasn’t going to let cancer stand in the way of pursuing her master’s degree in Education in Guidance and Counseling from The University of Texas-Pan American. Smith said it was a combination of the University’s close proximity, low tuition cost and accessible professors that made her pick up her classes where she left off 17 years ago.

Sep ‘14
12
UTPA mourns the passing of Professor Emeritus Carl Seale
The University of Texas-Pan American sadly announces the passing of Professor Emeritus Carl Seale, who served UT Pan American for 30 years as a faculty member in the Department of Music and Dance. Our thoughts go out to Dr. Seale's family.

Sep ‘14
11
Broncs applaud success, embrace change at UTPA's final fall convocation
The upbeat sounds of The University of Texas-Pan American's Jazz Combo ushered in the uplifting message Dr. Havidán Rodríguez, UTPA president ad interim, gave Sept. 10 to faculty, staff and students attending the University's Fall 2014 convocation.

Sep ‘14
11
Fall 2014 enrollment at UTPA is a record-breaking 21,042
Preliminary enrollment figures for Fall 2014 at The University of Texas-Pan American indicate an unprecedented 21,042 students. This figure, calculated on the 12th day of classes and not official until certified by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, marks an increase of 4,000-plus students over the last 10 years.

Sep ‘14
11
MORE Health@UTPA to address health care challenges among immigrants at presentation
The University of Texas-Pan American's College of Health Sciences and Human Services is hosting its Critical Issues in Health Care Event Thursday, Oct. 2 to discuss the health care challenges immigrants and medical providers face.

Sep ‘14
10
New UTRGV med school students receive support from Starr County Memorial Hospital
Recently the Starr County Memorial Hospital (SCMH) generously donated $10,000 to support future students at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) medical school. SCMH is the first hospital to step forward and make a contribution through the UTRGV Medical School Challenge Grant issued earlier this year by the UTPA Foundation, which matched the SCMH donation.

Sep ‘14
05
Taking steps to never forget; 9/11 Run/Walk Remembrance scheduled at UTPA Sept. 11
Cannon fire and a passion to honor those who protect us will kick start the second annual 9/11 Run/Walk Remembrance Sept. 11 at The University of Texas-Pan American.

Aug ‘14
29
UTPA celebrates Food Pantry dedication; doors open Sept. 8 to help hungry students
A new door will open Sept. 8 to help students hungry and in need at The University of Texas-Pan American.

Aug ‘14
26
Construction begins on first new building for UTRGV medical school
Medical, academic and community leaders from throughout South Texas gathered Tuesday morning for a groundbreaking ceremony for the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Medical Academic Building, the first new construction for the UTRGV School of Medicine.

Aug ‘14
22
New UTPA Food Pantry to assist students in need
College students should be hungry for knowledge, but with rising tuition costs and living expenses and some with families to support, many have also become hungry for food. Food insecurity or hunger is an escalating problem on campuses nationwide according to recent surveys, including The University of Texas-Pan American.

Aug ‘14
21
UT Regents Approve Academic Structure of UTRGV
The University of Texas Board of Regents Thursday approved the academic structure of the new UT Rio Grande Valley, taking an essential step forward in making the new university and medical school a reality. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board has also approved the structure.

Aug ‘14
21
McRaven appointed as next chancellor of The University of Texas System
AUSTIN – The University of Texas System Board of Regents unanimously approved the appointment of Admiral William H. McRaven, currently commander of the United States Special Operations Command, as chancellor of The University of Texas System, effective Jan. 5, 2015.

Aug ‘14
21
UTPA hosts 4th annual Bronc Roundup
The University of Texas-Pan American’s newest students are learning what it means to be a Bronc at the fourth annual Bronc Roundup on campus.

Aug ‘14
19
Curanderismo Collection at UTPA Library Border Studies Archive now accessible worldwide
Scholars, students or any persons worldwide interested in Curanderismo can now access an exciting new collection on this Mexican American tradition of health care at The University of Texas-Pan American's Border Studies Archive.

Aug ‘14
18
Nelsen shares lessons learned from his UTPA familia at commencement
President Robert S. Nelsen bid farewell to 761 graduates and their families at The University of Texas-Pan American’s Commencement ceremonies Aug. 16, but said wherever he and his wife Jody are, UTPA will always be his familia.

Aug ‘14
08
UTPA's TexPREP continues to spur student interest in STEM careers
The Texas Pre-freshman Engineering Program (TexPREP) at The University of Texas-Pan American offered Valley students some exciting hands-on opportunities this summer to learn more about the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

Aug ‘14
08
New funds better equip Bronc Radio and TV
The University of Texas-Pan American's Bronc Radio and TV (BRTV) garnered a little help in preparing future communicators.

Aug ‘14
07
Seven UTPA faculty members win UT System Regents' Outstanding Teaching Award
Seven faculty members at The University of Texas-Pan American were selected by The University of Texas System Board of Regents to receive the prestigious 2014 Regents' Outstanding Teaching Award. It is the largest contingent of winners from UTPA since the award was initiated in 2008.

Jul ‘14
30
The jury is in: UTPA's Law School Preparation Institute is a great success
Going to law school is Stephanie Rodriguez's dream. To help turn her dream into reality, Rodriguez, a senior English major with a double minor in political science and legal studies, turned to the Law School Preparation Institute (LSPI) at The University of Texas-Pan American.

Jul ‘14
30
McRaven named sole finalist for UT System chancellor
AUSTIN - The governing board of The University of Texas System has selected Admiral William H. McRaven, currently commander of the United States Special Operations Command, as the sole finalist for chancellor of The University of Texas System.

Jul ‘14
29
UTPA's Upward Bound celebrates national program's 50th year, 43 years of success at UTPA
April Villarreal said in high school she really wasn't focused on what she needed to do to enroll and be successful in college. However, her lack of direction changed when she entered the Upward Bound Program at The University of Texas-Pan American.

Jul ‘14
29
UTPA mourns passing of Jim and Jerry McKone
The University of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is saddened to announce that former Sports Information Director (SID) Jim McKone, an inaugural member of the UTPA Athletics Hall of Honor, and his wife Geraldine (Jerry), have passed away.

Jul ‘14
24
From physicians to professors: Online certificate program prepares leaders in medical education
After completing the Medical Academic Scholar Certificate Program (MASCP), Dr. Humberto Hidalgo is hoping to see a future for himself in medical academia not far from home.

Jul ‘14
23
UTRGV: A message from the president
Dear UT Brownsville and UT Pan American Communities, As we move forward with plans to open the new UT Rio Grande Valley in one short year, many activities are underway by a number of working groups at UTB, UTPA, and the UT System, and I remain grateful to you for your engagement and support of the process.

Jul ‘14
18
New funds better equip Bronc Radio and TV
The University of Texas-Pan American's Bronc Radio and TV (BRTV) garnered a little help in preparing future communicators.

Jul ‘14
17
Students encouraged to dream big at ExxonMobil camp at UTPA
They may have kept an astronaut alive in a makeshift spacecraft, but for four Rio Grande Valley middle school students, making new friends who share their love of math and science was the most rewarding part of participating in the ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp at The University of Texas-Pan American.

Jul ‘14
15
Students, alumni ideas sought for UTRGV
All alumni and students are encouraged to attend or watch live and tweet (#UTRGV) to join the discussion about the future colors, word mark, and mascot of UTRGV. #UTPA #UTB #Alumni We need your ideas for UTRGV Thursday at 1:30 p.m. at the UTPA Student Union.

Jul ‘14
10
UTRGV News: Regents approve medical degree program for UTRGV
AUSTIN - In another historic step in the march to higher education opportunities for the Rio Grande Valley, The University of Texas System Board of Regents Thursday unanimously approved the establishment of a doctor of medicine degree at UT Rio Grande Valley.

Jul ‘14
10
UTRGV News: Regents approve admissions standards for UTRGV
AUSTIN - The University of Texas System Board of Regents Thursday approved admissions criteria for first-time students, transfer students and graduate students at UT Rio Grande Valley, which is scheduled to open in the fall of 2015.