Press Release from Southwest Texas College                                                                                                                                                       

06-15-26

  (Uvalde, Texas) Southwest Texas College (SWTX) has announced its President’s and Dean’s Lists for the Spring 2026 semester, recognizing students for outstanding academic achievement across the college’s service area.

A total of 272 students were named to the President’s List and 245 to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2026 semester, representing 517 students recognized for academic achievement.

  Students named to the President’s List achieved the highest level of academic excellence by earning a grade point average of 4.0 while completing a minimum required course load during the semester. Students on the Dean’s List also demonstrated strong academic performance by meeting high GPA standards.

  Honorees represent communities throughout the region, including Uvalde, Del Rio, Eagle Pass, Crystal City, Carrizo Springs and surrounding areas, highlighting the college’s broad impact across Southwest Texas.

  “We are proud to recognize the dedication and hard work of our students who have earned a place on the President’s and Dean’s Lists,” said Dr. Hector Gonzales, president of Southwest Texas College. “Their commitment to academic success reflects the values of excellence and perseverance that define our institution.”

  The recognition underscores SWTX’s mission to support student achievement and provide quality educational opportunities throughout the region.

  A complete list of students named to the Spring 2026 President’s and Dean’s Lists is available online at:

Dean’s List

President’s List

  For more information about Southwest Texas College programs and student success initiatives, visit www.swtxc.edu.

About Southwest Texas College 

  Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The college’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

 To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

Press release from Southwest Texas College

05/29/26

  (Uvalde, Texas) Southwest Texas College confirms that an incident occurred on the Uvalde campus at approximately 2:21 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, involving two students in the Powerline Technology program and a bucket truck. The incident resulted in the death of one student and injuries to another.

  Emergency responders arrived promptly, and the injured students were transported for medical care. College personnel responded immediately and are providing support to the students’ families.

  Out of respect for the students and their families, the college will not release additional details or identify those involved at this time. College officials are reviewing the incident and cooperating with appropriate internal and external partners as needed.

  The safety and well-being of students, employees, and visitors remain a top priority. Southwest Texas College extends its condolences to the family and friends of the student who passed away and asks the community to keep both students and their families in their prayers.

  Additional information will be shared as appropriate and consistent with privacy protections and legal guidance.

  About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The college’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

 

To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

PHOTO ID (left – right): SWTX President Dr. Hector Gonzales, SWTX Board Member Victor Lopez, Dimmit County Judge Martha Ponce, SWTX Board of Trustees President Dr. Harry Watkins, La Salle County Judge Leodoro Martinez III, SWTX Board Member Maria Elena Lara, SWTX Board of Trustees Secretary, Tony Moreno, SWTX Board Member Anita Shackelford

Press release from Southwest Texas College

05-26-26

  (Uvalde, Texas) Southwest Texas College’s Board of Trustees took a historic step this week by accepting the institution’s first-ever annexation petitions from both La Salle and Dimmit Counties, making it the first time two counties have simultaneously sought to join the college district.

  “This proposal is about people, neighbors, and shared opportunity. Dimmit and La Salle counties are strong, hardworking communities with deep roots and a clear vision for their future,” said SWTX President Hector Gonzales. “At Southwest Texas College, we believe every resident—whether a recent high school graduate, a working adult, or someone seeking a fresh start—deserves access to affordable, high-quality education close to home.”

Strong Community Support

  Both counties surpassed the rigorous requirement of obtaining signatures from at least five percent of registered voters. La Salle County Judge Leodoro Martinez III led the petition effort for La Salle County, which has a population of 6,664 and is headquartered in Cotulla. Dimmit County, with approximately 8,615 residents and its county seat in Carrizo Springs, also demonstrated strong support for joining the SWTX district, with support from county judge Martha Ponce, Carrizo Springs ISD Superintendent Rose Pearson and the city of Carrizo Springs.

  “By coming together as one district, we can expand opportunities in high-demand fields that directly support our local workforce — programs like welding, construction science, HVAC, commercial truck driving, and powerline technology,” said SWTX President Hector Gonzales. “These are careers that keep our infrastructure running, support local industry, and provide families with good-paying, sustainable livelihoods.”

Hearings and Election

  Following the board’s unanimous approval to accept both petitions, public hearings have been scheduled under Section 130.065 of the Texas Education Code. La Salle County residents will have their hearing on July 7 at 6 p.m. at the La Salle County Courthouse in Cotulla, while Dimmit County’s hearing is set for July 9 at 6 p.m. at the Dimmit County Courthouse. Following the hearings and publication of formal annexation plans, the matter is expected to go before voters in the November general election.

Educational Impact

  Southwest Texas College currently serves students across 11 counties in Southwest Texas through campuses in Uvalde, Del Rio, Eagle Pass, Crystal City, Hondo and Pearsall. The potential addition of La Salle and Dimmit Counties would expand access to technical, workforce training, degree opportunities and educational resources for thousands of additional residents in neighboring communities.

  “Our goal is to listen, partner, and invest in Dimmit and La Salle counties so that education becomes a true engine of growth, workforce development, and community pride — helping ensure that local talent can learn, work, and succeed right here at home,” Gonzales said.

About Southwest Texas College
  Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The college’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

  To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

Press Release by Southwest Texas College

  PHOTO ID: Mia Castro of Uvalde at one of the five ceremonies, which were held at the Uvalde County Fairplex Arena on May 8 and 9.

05-20-26                                                                                                                                                             5/20/26

(Uvalde, Texas) Southwest Texas College (SWTX) marked its 79th commencement with ceremonies in Uvalde on May 8 and 9, celebrating graduates from dual credit, liberal arts, and applied sciences programs. According to SWTX Registrar Steve Martinez, 1,126 of the 1,363 graduates took part in the spring 2026 ceremonies, joined by family, faculty, and staff in recognition of the achievement. LIST OF GRADUATES

  Ceremony highlights

  The ceremonies featured remarks centered on perseverance, preparation and opportunity, with Vice President of Academic Affairs April Ruhmann telling graduates their success was “the beginning” of new accomplishments. Families, faculty, staff and school district partners were thanked for helping students reach graduation day. PHOTOS

  Academic honors

  The ceremonies recognized graduates earning honors such as summa cum laude, magna cum laude and Phi Theta Kappa distinction. College leaders also noted the role of dual credit and early college partnerships in helping students earn college credit while still in high school.

 Program details

  The commencement schedule included two dual credit early college high school ceremonies, a liberal arts ceremony and two applied sciences ceremonies. Officials from Southwest Texas College, including board members and administrators, participated in the ceremonies and conferred degrees and diplomas. The ceremonies were streamed on the college’s official YouTube channel.

  Graduates can purchase their photos by using the link below.

GRADUATION PHOTOS

About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The college’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

   To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

SWTX honors service, excellence at Dean’s Breakfast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                                                                        5/5/26

UVALDE, TEXAS

Southwest Texas College held its annual Dean’s Breakfast on Friday, May 1, honoring faculty and staff for service, retirements and outstanding contributions across its Uvalde, Del Rio and Eagle Pass, Crystal City, Hondo and Pearsall campuses. PHOTOS

President Hector Gonzales recognized 12 retirees for nine to 27 years of service. Honorees: Kirk Palermo, nine years; Alfredo Hernandez, 10 years; Josephine Mendez, 10 years; Dale Gear, 11 years; Yolanda Yvette Mirelez, 13 years; Cynthia Martinez, 17 years; Teresa H. Zamarrippa, 17 years; Rosa M. Rodriguez, 17 years; Richard Davis Jr., 20 years; Hector Rivera, 22 years; Juanita Reed, 26 years; and Dr. Mark Underwood, 27 years.

Outstanding awards

Outstanding Faculty Member: Albert Ybarra, presented by Frank Luna and Isabel Alvarez.

Faculty Association Teaching Excellence Award: Lorie Compton-Betty, presented by Veronica Williams.

Outstanding Staff — Professional: Amanda Santos, presented by Dr. Randa Schell.

Outstanding Staff — Paraprofessional: Aracely Ruiz, 34 years of service, presented by April Ruhmann.

NISOD Excellence Awards: Dr. Onesimo Martinez II, associate psychology professor, and Lucas Limbrick, diesel technology instructor. Both will receive medals May 24 at the national conference in Austin.

Service pins

More than 40 employees received service pins for five to 45 years.

45 years

Amanda Hadley

30 years

Connie Buchanan

Aracely Ruiz

25 years

Jo Ann Sanchez

Margot Mata

20 years

Victor Lopez

Derek Veazey

Concepcion Silva

Subburaj Kannan

15 years

Vanessa Uriegas

Xaviera Haynes

Gabriela Davis

10 years

Alyssa Gonzales

Frankie Pannell

Armando Mondragon

Janna E. Calk

Jose Zavala

Martin R. Garcia

Marisa Hinojosa

Maria E. Martinez

Rebekah Garza

5 years

Dana Garza

Leopoldo Aviles IV

Daniel Dickson

Michelle Martinez Vera

David Alonso Sanchez

Gerardo Luna

Ricardo Perez

Antonio Flores Jr.

Antonio V. Ruiz Jr.

Christina Maldonado Crowley

Alyssa Gomez

Donald McBlain

Jose Luis Ayala

Laura Bustillos

Lizet Medrano

Leaders emphasized SWTX’s family atmosphere and student commitment during graduation reminders.

About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The college’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

 

To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

 Press Release from Southwest Texas College                                                                                                    4/22/26

  (Uvalde, Texas) Southwest Texas College showcased its continued growth, strong finances and student-focused mission during its 2026 Friends and Alumni Network President’s Gala, which raised $27,000 for scholarships and drew about 320 attendees to the Uvalde County Fairplex Event Center on Saturday, April 11.

  The “Rhinestones and Rodeo” gala brought together college supporters for dinner, casino fun, live music and a silent auction, while also highlighting a year of expansion across academics, workforce training and student success. During his remarks, Dr. Gonzales said the college’s financial position remains strong, noting that the fund balance has grown from $23 million to $57 million since 2019 and that the college’s tax rate has decreased from 16 cents to 12 cents over that same period.

  “Last year alone, our fund balance increased by almost $6 million,” Gonzales said, calling the state of the college excellent. He said Southwest Texas College has served the people of Southwest Texas for 80 years and continues to innovate while staying grounded in its mission to serve students.

  Gonzales also thanked the college’s Board of Trustees for its support, as well as faculty, staff and members of the leadership team who help advance the institution’s goals. He said collaboration with community partners makes the college’s work possible and creates opportunities for students across the service area.

  The evening also included a tribute to the late Uvalde County Judge William R. Mitchell, whose service to the community and support for Southwest Texas College were recognized. Gonzales said Mitchell was a steadfast supporter of the college and noted his work as a faculty member, his years of public service and his longtime role as the voice of Uvalde Coyotes Football on Friday nights.

  Gonzales pointed to a series of accomplishments that reflect the college’s recent growth. He said the institution is moving through the accreditation process, with a positive visit last fall and expectations of full reaccreditation after the commission meets in June. He also noted that the EMT-paramedic program has earned full accreditation, while the surgical technology program is still in process. He also pointed to growth in aviation mechanics, professional truck driving, power line, diesel mechanics and behavioral health, along with plans for a physical therapy assistant program.

  He said the aviation mechanics program in Del Rio recently received approval to expand from airframe training into powerplant instruction, a move he described as significant for students and the region. New buildings are also going up in Eagle Pass and Del Rio, with another planned for Crystal City to support expanded training in welding, air conditioning, construction, science and workforce development.

  Gonzales also highlighted potential expansion into La Salle and Dimmit counties, saying he has been meeting with local leaders about bringing technical education closer to those communities. “Both counties are super receptive and excited about that potential,” he said, adding that if plans move forward, an annexation election could be held in November for the counties to potentially join the college district.

Gonzales also noted that the college board has approved a bachelor’s degree in business administration, which is now moving through the state approval process and could launch in spring 2027.

  Rodeo remained a major point of pride during the gala. Gonzales said seven Southwest Texas College athletes competed in the National College Finals Rodeo in Casper, where the women’s team was named national team of the year and Acey Pinkston was crowned national champion barrel racer. Tyler Calhoun was also recognized as national champion calf roper and rookie of the year.

  Gonzales said those accomplishments reflect the college’s broader impact across the region and its role in preparing students to lead in classrooms, job sites, hospitals and communities. He closed by thanking supporters for believing in Southwest Texas College and its students, saying the scholarships raised from the event will help learners across the college’s service area.

  Gonzales closed with a Henry Ford quote: “Coming together was the beginning. Staying together was progress. Working together was success.”

 About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The college’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

   To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

SWTX Radiologic Technology Students Earn Inaugural Ralph Gonzalez Scholarships

Press Release from Southwest Texas College                                                                                                                4/21/26

  Southwest Texas College radiologic technology students Jessica Sandoval of Uvalde and Cheyenne Walling of Del Rio have been named the first recipients of the Ralph Gonzalez Scholarship, a new award created by Radiology Associates of Uvalde to honor longtime imaging leader Ralph “Freddie” Gonzalez.

  The scholarship provides 2,000‑dollar awards to current students in the SWTX Radiologic Technology Program who show strong academic performance and professional promise. Gonzalez, a retired radiology director at Uvalde Memorial Hospital who now serves as the hospital’s radiation safety officer, helped build regional pathways for radiologic technologists and has served on the program’s clinical advisory board since its launch in 2007.

  During a recent meeting in the college’s radiologic technology lab, Gonzalez thanked college and hospital leaders for their support of the program and encouraged students to see themselves as professionals from the moment they enter the clinic. He urged them to act as ambassadors for the program, saying that every patient encounter is an opportunity to exceed expectations and inspire future imaging professionals.

  Program faculty and hospital representatives also praised the scholarship applicants, noting that many graduates now work in advanced imaging areas across Uvalde Memorial Hospital’s expanded department, which grew from a small diagnostic X‑ray unit to a multimodality service under Gonzalez’s leadership.

  Southwest Texas College’s radiologic technology program has graduated more than 120 radiographers and continues to partner with Uvalde Memorial Hospital to meet regional workforce needs in medical imaging.

About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The college’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

   To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

 PHOTO ID: From left, Judy Gonzales, Southwest Texas College applied sciences division chair; Janna Whyrick, radiology director at Uvalde Memorial Hospital; Bonnie S. Clinebell Esquivel, SWTX coordinator of radiologic technology; Jesica Sandoval, radiologic technology student; Ralph Gonzalez, Uvalde Memorial Hospital radiation safety officer; Cheyenne Walling, radiologic technology student; Denise Vanderlick, SWTX radiologic technology clinical coordinator; and Armando Mondragon, SWTX dean of applied sciences.

Press release from Southwest Texas College

   03-05-26 {Uvalde, Texas) Southwest Texas College (SWTX) has announced the recipients of the 2026 Showmanship Scholarships, recognizing outstanding young livestock exhibitors from across the tri-county district. Each year, the Agricultural Management Department awards a $500 scholarship to the winner of the showmanship award in each of the livestock county classes at the three livestock expositions in the district. To take advantage of this award, recipients must enroll at SWTX.

  This year’s county-level scholarship winners include exhibitors in Uvalde County, Real County and Zavala County across pee wee, junior, intermediate and senior divisions. Showmanship scholarships were awarded in species and classes such as rabbits, goats, lambs, swine, steers, broilers, horses and angora goats, reflecting the depth of student participation in local agricultural programs.

  Uvalde County showmanship scholarship winners were recognized across multiple livestock categories. In Angora Goats, Maura Astling (Senior) and Sadie Ayala (Junior) earned scholarships. Market Broilers winners were Grant Williams (Senior), Ellie Lopez (Intermediate) and William McLaughlin (Junior). Breeding Sheep honorees included Hallie Moore (Senior), Ryanne Brewster (Intermediate) and Jackson Bravo (Junior). Meat Goats scholarships went to Brett Dreyer (Senior), Briggs Davenport (Intermediate) and Kenedy Ramirez (Junior). Commercial Heifer winners were Carley Phillips (Senior), June Driskill (Intermediate) and Harlo Hale (Junior). In Rabbits, London Grace Hobbs (Senior), Morgan Lackey (Intermediate) and Audrina Rodriguez (Junior) were recognized. Farm Projects scholarships were awarded to Ariana Castro (Senior) and Rhett Chambers (Intermediate). Steer division winners included Jazzlean Gomez (Senior) and Easton Parker (Junior). Horses honorees were Carley Phillips (Senior Halter) and Tres Korczynski (Junior Halter). Swine scholarships went to Adan Viramontes (Senior), Kinlei Verstuyft (Intermediate) and Claire Verstuyft (Junior). Lambs winners were Miles Hale (Senior), Briggs Davenport (Intermediate) and Cora Yeaman (Junior).

  In the Real County Showmanship Scholarship program, pee wee winners were Raelynn Keich (Rabbits), Reba Whitlock (Goats), and Caroline Upchurch (Broilers). Junior division honorees were Kylie Haecker (Rabbits), Kinley Chisum (Goats and Lambs), Millie Duke (Swine), Amira Carbajal (Broilers), Sunny Teague (Horses) and Addison Baker (Angoras). Senior division awards went to Jordyn Lindstrom (Rabbits and Horses), Bricen Salazar (Goats), Mason Hamilton (Lambs), Maggie Duke (Swine), Kyle Johnson (Broilers) and Chase Baker (Angoras).

Zavala County’s 2026 Showmanship Scholarship winners included, in the Junior Division, Lucas Hurst (Steers), Justin Graciano (Goats), Brody Zimmerman (Lambs), and Marcus Avila Jr. (Swine). Intermediate Division honorees were McKynze Rangel (Goats), Maylee Zimmerman (Lambs), and Jocelyn Maldonado (Swine). Senior Division scholarships were awarded to Markus Montellano (Steers), Nathan Martinez (Goats), Italia Aviles (Lambs), and Aranda Vasquez (Swine).

“These scholarships honor the hard work, dedication and leadership our youth demonstrate in the show ring, and they also create a bridge from the county fairgrounds to college classrooms,” said Dr. Hector Gonzales, SWTX President. “We are excited to welcome these students to Southwest Texas College and support them as they pursue their educational and career goals in agriculture and beyond.”

The Showmanship Scholarship may be applied toward tuition and fees at SWTX by recipients who enroll as college students after high school. For more information about scholarships and financial aid opportunities at Southwest Texas College, visit the college’s scholarships webpage or contact the Financial Aid Office at (830) 591-7318.

About Southwest Texas College
Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The company’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

 

To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

Press release from Southwest Texas College                                                                                                                  2/18/26

  (Uvalde, Texas) Southwest Texas College expresses its gratitude to Methodist Healthcare Ministries for a one-time donation of $60,000 to support the Cowboy Pantry and Student Resource Center.

  For more than 30 years, Methodist Healthcare Ministries has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to its mission of “Serving Humanity to Honor God.” In response to recent and ongoing changes in federal funding, the organization has stepped forward to provide emergency resources to groups addressing urgent community needs.

  The donation will help Southwest Texas College meet essential student needs, ensuring that students and families across the college’s service area continue to receive critical support during times of uncertainty.

​ “We are profoundly grateful to Methodist Healthcare Ministries for their $60,000 donation to the Cowboy Pantry & Student Resource Center,” said Vannesa Gutierrez, DHSI-VIDA project manager. “This generous support reflects their enduring mission of serving humanity and will ensure our students receive vital resources amid uncertain times, truly embodying compassion in action.”

​ Southwest Texas College officials said they are thankful for Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ leadership, compassion and continued investment in the well-being of local communities.

  About Southwest Texas College
  Southwest Texas College is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The company’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities.

   To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.

Press release from Southwest Texas College

2/14/26

(Uvalde, Texas) Southwest Texas College is proud to announce that its Emergency Medical Services Professions – Paramedic education program has been awarded accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This prestigious accreditation underscores SWTX’s commitment to providing high-quality education and training that meets the national quality assurance standards established by CAAHEP.

“Earning CAAHEP accreditation in Emergency Medical Services Professions – Paramedic underscores our institution’s commitment to high-quality health sciences education for the region,” said Dr. Hector Gonzales, President of Southwest Texas College. “These accreditations affirm the outstanding work of our faculty, staff, and clinical partners who support students from classroom to clinical practice.”

  CAAHEP Accreditation Benefits Students, Employers, and the Public

CAAHEP accreditation offers significant advantages for students, graduates, and employers alike. For students, it ensures a high-quality educational experience that equips them with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies essential for success in their chosen health profession. Graduates of CAAHEP-accredited programs are highly sought after by employers, opening doors to enhanced job opportunities and career growth. Additionally, many professional certification bodies require graduation from a CAAHEP-accredited program for eligibility to sit for certification exams—an essential step

toward licensure and professional practice.

Employers can trust that graduates from CAAHEP-accredited programs are well-prepared to meet the ever-evolving demands of the healthcare field. These graduates bring a strong foundation of knowledge and practical experience, enabling them to deliver high-quality care and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Dr. Barry S. Eckert, President of CAAHEP, emphasizes the importance of accreditation: “Choosing a CAAHEP-accredited program is crucial for students seeking a career in allied health. It ensures that they receive an education that is both comprehensive and relevant to current industry needs, ultimately benefiting their future employers and people receiving care.”

A Commitment to Excellence in Allied Health Education

At Southwest Texas College (SWTX), we are committed to fostering excellence in allied health education and preparing the next generation of skilled healthcare professionals. For more information about our accredited Emergency Medical Services Professions – Paramedic program, please visit swtxc.edu or contact Luis Gonzales, Emergency Medical Technician Coordinator, at (830) 758-4137or via email at logonzalez@swtxc.edu.

About Southwest Texas College
SWTX is a regional, “open door” institution serving an 11-county area that stretches from the Texas Hill Country to the US-Mexican border. Since 1946 SWTX has provided accessible, affordable, high-quality education that prepares students to successfully transfer to senior colleges and universities; enter the job market; pursue their professional and personal goals; and contribute to the economic growth of the region. The company’s mission is to enrich lives and advance growth through the education of our diverse communities. To learn more about SWTX, visit swtxc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTX Public Relations/ Social Media Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtxc.edu.