Synergetic Activities and Relationship to the Mission of TAMIU
As a Minority-Serving Institution, Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) serves a diverse student body, with 89.3% identifying as Hispanic, 76% coming from low-income backgrounds, and over 51% being first-generation college students. Through instruction, research, and public service, TAMIU's mission to improve the quality of life for citizens in the border region, the State of Texas, and national and international communities resonates deeply with my professional values. I joined TAMIU because of the strong alignment between my mission as a professor and the university's mission and strategic plan, which emphasizes visionary academic programs and faculty, empowered student success, and advancing research excellence. My research, teaching, and service activities all focus on empowering students to become agents of positive change.
My contributions to TAMIU's mission are multifaceted. A significant achievement has been my involvement in establishing the new Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering, which has seen a remarkable growth of 165% since its launch in the 2020-2021 academic year. This program addresses the need for skilled engineers in our region and beyond. Furthermore, I have mentored over twenty-five undergraduate research projects, providing invaluable research experience to diverse students, including many Hispanic scholars, and preparing them for future success in graduate school or the workforce. My commitment to research excellence is also evident in my efforts to expand collaborative and interdisciplinary research opportunities, collaborating with scholars from TAMIU, R1 research universities, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and international partners. These collaborations advance knowledge in my field and provide enriching opportunities for our students.
These synergistic activities demonstrate my dedication to TAMIU's mission. I am committed to continuing my work at TAMIU, which has become a second home, and further contributing to the success of our students and the communities we serve. My portfolio reflects my commitment to TAMIU and its mission, and I welcome any questions or requests for further information. I am grateful for the support of the TAMIU family and look forward to serving our students and the university for many years to come.