Press Release from Southwest Texas College

Top Photo: Bonnie Clinebell-Esquivel ; received from SWTC

Press Release from SWTC

Press Release by SWTC

10/2/24

UVALDE, TEXAS

  On Friday, Sept. 13, Southwest Texas College (SWTX) welcomed a group of eager second-grade students from Crystal City’s Lorenzo De Zavala Elementary School. The visit was designed to introduce the young learners to the college experience and inspire them to pursue higher education. PHOTOS

  Upon arrival, students were greeted warmly and immediately immersed in various campus activities. They completed a modified college admission application, participated in engaging breakout sessions, and explored different areas of the college.

  The breakout sessions included:

• Hands-on activities with the college’s Anatomage Table.
• Physical education activity in the gym.
• Creative coloring in the library.
• Problem-solving exercises in the Student Success Center.
• Fun games in the Student Lounge.

  SWTX Vice President of Student Services, Cruz Mata, expressed the significance of the visit, stating, “This tour not only made a difference in the lives of those children but also sent a powerful message to our surrounding communities—that we are fully invested in them and in the future success of their students. It showcases the values we uphold as an institution and strengthens our bond with the communities we serve.”

  The visit was a resounding success. It provided the students with a memorable experience and inspired them to dream big about their educational future.

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

Press release by: Southwest Texas College                                                                                                              

   5-30-24 Southwest Texas Junior College (SWTJC) is thrilled to announce the commencement of our transition to Southwest Texas College (SWTX). Since 1946, SWTJC has been a pillar in our community. This significant evolution heralds the dawn of a new chapter in our history, promising growth, innovation, and expanded opportunities for our students and the communities we serve.

 “This rebranding is a testament to our enduring commitment to evolving and growing to continue to serve our communities,” says SWTX President Dr. Gonzales. “We’ve developed a new brand that truly captures our spirit. You’ll witness exciting changes institution-wide throughout the summer, from updated signage to an enhanced online presence.”

 By August 2024, SWTX will be fully unveiled, embracing a new name, a fresh look, and an unwavering commitment to empowering students to achieve their academic dreams. Embodying our belief of “dreams within reach, community at heart.” we are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment where aspirations become a reality.

 About Southwest Texas Junior College
Southwest Texas Junior 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 SWTJC 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 SWTJC, visit swtjc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTJC Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtjc.edu.

Press Release from SWTJC

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                  4/30/24

UVALDE, TEXAS

Librado Rodriguez’s journey from being a student in the Southwest Texas Junior College Diesel Technology program to becoming an instructor is a testament to his dedication and passion for the field.

Born in Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico, Librado’s educational path took him to Eagle Pass, where he attended elementary through junior high. Rodriguez then went on to attend St. Anthony’s Catholic High School in San Antonio, where he graduated as part of the Class of 1998. That same year, he enrolled at SWTJC to begin his general studies.

Despite facing a temporary hiatus to support his family’s business, his determination led him back to SWTJC in 2005. In 2008, he proudly graduated with an associate degree in diesel technology, marking a significant milestone in his educational and professional growth.

Librado excelled in his academic pursuits and actively contributed to the diesel program as a lab assistant from 2006 to 2009, showcasing his commitment to the program’s success. His expertise and dedication to the field led him to a role as a diesel mechanic with the Eagle Pass Independent School District’s Transportation Department in 2009, where he continued to hone his skills and make a meaningful impact.

Librado’s journey reached new heights in 2013 when he seized the opportunity to become the shop supervisor within the school district’s transportation department, demonstrating his leadership and technical proficiency. His invaluable contributions and unwavering dedication caught the attention of SWTJC, which led to a career-defining moment when he was offered the position of instructor in the diesel technology program in the fall of 2023.

Rodriguez continues to inspire and guide the next generation of diesel technicians as an instructor, imparting his knowledge and practical experience to the students. His transition from a student to an instructor within the same program he attended is a testament to his expertise, passion, and the exceptional quality of education provided by SWTJC’s Diesel Technology program.

Librado’s remarkable trajectory exemplifies the program’s ability to shape and elevate careers in the diesel industry. His dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him an exemplary figure within the program and a source of pride for SWTJC.

About Southwest Texas Junior College
Southwest Texas Junior 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 SWTJC 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 SWTJC, visit swtjc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTJC Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtjc.edu.

Press release from SWTJC ; Picture from SWTJC

  Southwest Texas Junior College (SWTJC) and Union Pacific Railroad held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the expansion of its diesel program in Eagle Pass. The ceremony took place April 23, at the Jack R. Chittim Technical Campus in Eagle Pass.

  Following the successful partnership announcement back in May 2022, where Union Pacific committed $380,000 to the La Frontera Diesel Program Expansion Project, this ribbon cutting marks a significant milestone in furthering industrial trade careers in the region. Union Pacific’s generous contribution aims to address the growing need for skilled bus and diesel mechanics in the area by expanding student capacity and enhancing hands-on training opportunities.

  The agenda for the ceremony included distinguished guests such as Dr. Mark Underwood, SWTJC Vice President of Academic Affairs, SWTJC Board of Trustees President Dr. Harry Watkins, SWTJC Eagle Pass Campus Vice President Brenda Hoffman, Ramsey E. Cantu Maverick County Judge, City of Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinas, Texas State Representative Eddie Morales, and Raquel Espinoza Senior Director of Public Affairs at Union Pacific. Derek Sandoval, Vice President of Administrative Services at SWTJC, served as the Master of Ceremonies.

  “Today we would like to thank our partner, Union Pacific, for being a core collaborator and significantly contributing to expanding opportunities for Southwest Texas college students in our diesel technology program,” said Hoffman. “Your support will greatly integrate passion in the lives of many. Let’s continue building community together. Let’s continue building America.”

The ceremony culminated with the official ribbon cutting, symbolizing the inauguration of the enhanced training facility. Attendees had the opportunity to take photos with students, faculty and the newly expanded facilities.

SWTJC and Union Pacific remain committed to fostering the next generation of trade professionals and providing them with the skills and opportunities necessary for success in the workforce.

About Southwest Texas Junior College
Southwest Texas Junior 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 SWTJC 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 SWTJC, visit swtjc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTJC Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtjc.edu.

Press Release from SWTJC

  The SWTJC Friends and Alumni Network (FAN) hosted the president’s gala on Saturday, April 13, where $11,000 was raised for scholarships. Two hundred fifty guests attended the event.

  The evening was a celebration of community partnership and a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration.

  The gala brought together partners from various sectors, including representatives from the local government, school districts, financial institutions, health care providers and business community. Dr. Hector Gonzales, President of SWTJC, expressed profound gratitude to all attendees, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in driving success.

  In his poignant address, Dr. Gonzales echoed the sentiments of Helen Keller, underscoring the transformative power of unity. He emphasized, “Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much!” This sentiment resonated throughout the evening, highlighting the significance of partnerships with local school districts, universities and the business community in expanding access to education, fostering workforce development and community growth.

  The gala served as a platform to acknowledge the remarkable achievements of SWTJC amid challenging times, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gonzales commended the institution’s resilience and adaptability, citing innovative, remote learning and community engagement.

  Highlighting the strides made in recent years, President Gonzales shared notable accomplishments, including significant grant awards totaling over $20 million, expansion of technical programs, and a noteworthy increase in SWTJC’s fund balance and tax valuation.

  Moreover, Dr. Gonzales unveiled SWTJC’s transition to Southwest Texas College, marking a pivotal moment in the institution’s evolution. The name change reflects a broader vision, encompassing plans to offer bachelor’s degrees while honoring the institution’s rich legacy of serving Southwest Texas for over 78 years.

  The president’s gala celebrated past achievements and laid the groundwork for future endeavors. Gonzales thanked the board of trustees, faculty, staff, partners, and attendees for their unwavering support and dedication to the institution’s mission.

  In closing, Dr. Gonzales invoked the words of Henry Ford, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration. He thanked attendees for their continued belief in SWTJC’s mission and commitment to student success.

  The funds raised during the gala will support scholarships benefiting students across SWTJC’s service area, furthering the college’s mission of enriching lives and advancing growth through education.

About Southwest Texas Junior College
   Southwest Texas Junior 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 SWTJC 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 SWTJC, visit swtjc.edu. For more information on this story, contact Ismael Martinez, SWTJC Social Media/Public Relations Specialist at 830-591-2942 or imartinez@swtjc.edu.