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Project South Texas - UTPA & UTB Celebrate Birth of a New University
Governor Rick Perry joined The University of Texas System Board of Regents Chairman Gene Powell, Chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, Texas House Speaker Joe Straus, several key Texas legislators and more than a thousand students, parents, educators and community leaders from across South Texas today to celebrate landmark legislation that authorizes the creation of a new UT university, which will include a medical school, in the Rio Grande Valley.
The ambitious initiative -- approved by the Board of Regents in December, supported by Governor Perry in his state of the state address and made possible by a bill that garnered overwhelming support from the Texas Legislature this spring -- promises to transform South Texas by providing limitless opportunities in education and economic growth and improving healthcare for millions of Texans. The goal is for the university -- with a focus on biliteracy, bilingualism and biculturalism -- to build a world-class reputation and pursue global excellence in teaching, research and healthcare.
"This new university and medical school will forever transform the lives of our children and grandchildren," Chairman Powell said in his comments to crowds in Edinburg and Brownsville. "And in large measure fulfill the dreams of those who have come before us and wanted the best for this part of Texas."
Governor Perry and UT leaders visited the campuses of UT Pan American in Edinburg and UT Brownsville where the governor ceremonially signed copies of Senate Bill 24, the legislation that authorizes the creation of the new university. The university will combine the resources and assets of UT Pan American and UT Brownsville and the future South Texas School of Medicine into a single institution that spans the entire Rio Grande Valley. The UT Board of Regents has approved spending $100 million over the next decade to accelerate the pace of establishing the school of medicine.
The new university will also have access to the Permanent University Fund (PUF), a public endowment established in 1876 by the Texas Constitution, bringing that important resource to South Texas for the first time. The PUF receives revenues from land in West Texas and earnings on investments to support institutions in the UT and Texas A&M systems. UT Brownsville and UT Pan American are the only UT System institutions that, by law, have not had access to PUF revenue.
"This historic new university is a game-changer for South Texas, a cutting-edge, high-tech institution that will improve the quality of jobs, and quality of lives, for everyone in the Rio Grande Valley," Governor Perry said. "It will mean new doctors to treat South Texas patients, new startups utilizing discoveries made in the Valley and new opportunities for Texans all across our state. This is one of my proudest moments as Governor of Texas."
Chancellor Cigarroa provided information on next steps for the new university in his remarks at both campuses. A UT System transition team that includes UT Brownsville President Juliet Garcia and UT Pan American President Robert Nelsen will immediately begin planning and development for the new university. The Board of Regents will soon launch a national search for a president, with the goal of selecting a president in early 2014.
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Project South Texas - UTPA & UTB Celebrate Birth of a New University
Governor Rick Perry joined The University of Texas System Board of Regents Chairman Gene Powell, Chancellor Francisco Cigarroa, Texas House Speaker Joe Straus, several key Texas legislators and more than a thousand students, parents, educators and community leaders from across South Texas today to celebrate landmark legislation that authorizes the creation of a new UT university, which will include a medical school, in the Rio Grande Valley. The ambitious initiative -- approved by the Board of Regents in December, supported by Governor Perry in his state of the state address and made possible by a bill that garnered overwhelming support from the Texas Legislature this spring -- promises to transform South Texas by providing limitless opportunities in education and economic growth and improving healthcare for millions of Texans. The goal is for the university -- with a focus on biliteracy, bilingualism and biculturalism -- to build a world-class reputation and pursue global excellence in teaching, research and healthcare. "This new university and medical school will forever transform the lives of our children and grandchildren," Chairman Powell said in his comments to crowds in Edinburg and Brownsville. "And in large measure fulfill the dreams of those who have come before us and wanted the best for this part of Texas." Governor Perry and UT leaders visited the campuses of UT Pan American in Edinburg and UT Brownsville where the governor ceremonially signed copies of Senate Bill 24, the legislation that authorizes the creation of the new university. The university will combine the resources and assets of UT Pan American and UT Brownsville and the future South Texas School of Medicine into a single institution that spans the entire Rio Grande Valley. The UT Board of Regents has approved spending $100 million over the next decade to accelerate the pace of establishing the school of medicine. The new university will also have access to the Permanent University Fund (PUF), a public endowment established in 1876 by the Texas Constitution, bringing that important resource to South Texas for the first time. The PUF receives revenues from land in West Texas and earnings on investments to support institutions in the UT and Texas A&M systems. UT Brownsville and UT Pan American are the only UT System institutions that, by law, have not had access to PUF revenue. "This historic new university is a game-changer for South Texas, a cutting-edge, high-tech institution that will improve the quality of jobs, and quality of lives, for everyone in the Rio Grande Valley," Governor Perry said. "It will mean new doctors to treat South Texas patients, new startups utilizing discoveries made in the Valley and new opportunities for Texans all across our state. This is one of my proudest moments as Governor of Texas." Chancellor Cigarroa provided information on next steps for the new university in his remarks at both campuses. A UT System transition team that includes UT Brownsville President Juliet Garcia and UT Pan American President Robert Nelsen will immediately begin planning and development for the new university. The Board of Regents will soon launch a national search for a president, with the goal of selecting a president in early 2014.
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Public Lecture on Tsunami at UTPA: Dr. Harry Yeh
Tsunamis have caused some of the most devastating natural disaster damage ever documented. What causes a tsunami, can it be predicted or prevented, what are its physical, social, economic and political consequences, and can its potential for destruction be limited? And, what is the likelihood of a tsunami impacting the Gulf of Mexico and our Texas coast? You don't have to be a scientist or a scholar to want to learn the answers to these questions and more about these monster waves of destruction that have affected countries and people around the world. The University community and the general public are invited to a free public lecture on tsunamis from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, May 23 at The University of Texas-Pan American Library Auditorium. The University will have on hand world renowned tsunami expert and scientist Dr. Harry Yeh from Oregon State University who will talk about the 2011 Tohoku tsunami in Fukushima, Japan that killed more than 18,000 people and caused the nuclear meltdown that has permanently displaced tens of thousands. Yeh, who is a familiar face on national media when this type of disaster strikes, was part of a team that became the first to investigate the scale of damage from the Tohoku tsunami. Yeh is a professor of Civil and Construction Engineering with expertise in the field of hydrodynamics associated with natural hazards, especially those in tsunamis. He has had extensive experience of field studies, including the 1992 Nicaragua and Flores tsunamis, the 1993 Okushiri tsunami, the 1996 Peru tsunami, the 1998 Papua New Guinea tsunami, and the 2004 Great Indian Ocean tsunami. The second speaker will be The University of Texas-Pan American Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Havidán Rodríguez, a social scientist and former director of the University of Delaware's Disaster Research Center, the oldest and one of the leading social science disaster research centers in the world. Rodríguez, who is co-author of the "Handbook of Disaster Research" (Springer, 2007), will present on the social, economic and political consequences of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami regarded as the deadliest tsunami in recorded history. Having the energy of 23,000 Hiroshima-type bombs, that tsunami resulted in more than 230,000 people killed in 14 countries, massive destruction and enormous economic, environmental, and social impacts as well as new examinations of disaster consequences and emergency preparedness and management. The lecture is part of a National Science Foundation/Conference Board of the Mathematical Sciences Regional Conference titled "Solitons in Two-Dimensional Water Waves and Applications to Tsunami," hosted this year by UT Pan American. See the conference website for a complete schedule. For special accommodations or more information, contact Dr. Kenichi Maruno at kmaruno@utpa.edu or Dr. Virgil Pierce at piercevu@utpa.edu.
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The Pan American - 13th Floor Haunted House RGV
Take a look inside the newest haunted house to hit the Rio Grande Valley. The !3th Floor Haunted House RGV. For more information about 13th Floor Haunted House RGV: http://www.13thfloorrgv.com/
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The Pan American - 2013 Border Con
Reporter George Terrazas investigates the venue side of the 2013 Border Con.
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The Pan American - 2013 Bronc Athletics Hall of Fame Luncheon
The end of UTPA's Homecoming Week came with a celebration of Hall of Fame members and inductees. To read more about Luke Jackson's accomplishments, visit: panamericanonline.com/category/sports
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The Pan American - 2013 Bronc Homecoming Basketball Game
As a part of homecoming week UTPA's men's basketball team takes on the Houston Baptist University Huskies. Olympic gold medalist and UTPA Hall of Fame member Luke Jackson's jersey is retired.
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The Pan American - 2013 Homecoming Coronation Ball
The Office of Student Involvement hosted the 2013 Homecoming Coronation Ball, February 15 in the Student Union.
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The Pan American - 2013 Never Say Never Music Festival
Highlights of the 5th annual Never Say Never music Festival held in Mission, Texas at Las Palmas Race Track.
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The Pan American - 2013 Tennis Tryouts
The UTPA Men's Tennis Team hosted a two day tennis tryout at the Orville Cox Tennis Center August 30 and 31. Four contenders showed up for tryouts, but only one can only get a spot on the team. Reported by Michael Aguilar.
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The Pan American - 2nd annual Pasta, Poetry, and Vino
Reporter Michael Aguilar takes a look at the 2nd annual Pasta, Poetry, and Vino event that brings art, music, and poetry together.
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The Pan American - 3rd annual MLK walk at Cine el Rey
The Historic Cine El Rey Theater hosts its 3rd annual MLK walk on January 21 to honor the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
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The Pan American - 50 Shades of Red Lipstick
In preparation for Valentines Day, Reporter Daniella Diaz talks with a red lipstick expert about the perfect crimson pout.
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The Pan American - ACM Fight Club
Reporter George Terrazas takes a look at the Association for Computer Machinery's 3rd annual ACM: Fight Club. The event informed people about ACM and they competed in video games such as Super Smash Brothers, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom and Super Street Fighter 4. For more information, visit acmutpa.org
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The Pan American - Alpha Fit
Alpha Fit is a friendly gym that helps its members achieve their fitness goals by couching them physically and mentally. Reporter Joe De La Garza.
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The Pan American - Anti-Valentines Day
February 14 is a day of love but there are some who think differently of Valentines Day. Reporter George Terrazas finds out how people will celebrate Anti-Valentine's Day.
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The Pan American - Apple Appreciation
The Community Rehabilitation Placement Program hosted Apple Appreciation, Thursday April 11 at the Student Union. This event was in appreciation of Sodexo, the company that runs the food locations on campus which supports diversity in the workplace by hiring individuals with disabilities. Reporter Victoria Villela finds out more.
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The Pan American - April Fools' Pranks
Reporter George Terrazas finds out what pranks UTPA students have done and are planning.
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The Pan American - A Visit with Veronica Gonzales
Pan American reporter Michael Aguilar interviewed Veronica Gonzales on what she has done with The University of Texas-Pan American since her arrival July 2012.
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The Pan American - Behind the sneeze
Reporter Victoria Villela talks to Student Health Services Director Rick Gray about influenza and how to prevent catching the flu.
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The Pan American - Brahms Piano Quartet in G Minor Op. 25
UTPA professors performed the Brahms Piano Quartet in G Minor Op. 25 at the Library Auditorium, February 1st. Reporter Anthony Michael finds out what the performance meant to the musicians.
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University Faculty Excellence Award for Research: Dr. Zhijun Qiao
Qiao, who was a research fellow at the Los Alamos National Laboratory before he came to UTPA in 2004, is a world leader in an important area of mathematical physics called integrable systems and has a number of mathematical models named after him, i.e. the "Qiao equation." His accomplishments in research, which has applications in fields as diverse as telecommunications and turbulence, include two monographs and 112 articles published in prestigious international journals. Qiao has also given more than 70 research talks at International and national conferences on behalf of UTPA. In addition, Qiao has supported more than 20 undergraduate and graduate students through his external research and educational grants regarding radar image reconstruction on which he serves as principal investigator. "He asks his students to work hard, to lead seminars, to produce things," said Guillermo Garza, math department lecturer, referring to Qiao's teaching contributions. Qiao said he appreciates the recognition. "It stimulates faculty to do research, and even deeper research," he said.
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University Faculty Excellence Award for Teaching: Dr. Constantine Tarawneh
At UTPA since 2003, Tarawneh has taught 17 different graduate and undergraduate courses, and developed four new graduate courses and two new technical electives. He has also advised and mentored more than 2,100 students through various campus activities, programs and research opportunities, including his significant work with the railroad industry. Consistently rated highly by his students, Tarawneh is a tireless recruiter and advisor to students in helping them to obtain internships and jobs. Since he became the Mechanical Engineering Graduate Program director in 2006, the number of students has increased significantly. "He (Tarawneh) really strives to get his students to perform to the utmost of their potential," said his department chair Dr. Robert Freeman. His mechanical engineering colleague Dr. Stephen Crown describes him as having "a "contagious passion for doing whatever is possible to help students learn and succeed." "You have to be able to have your teaching styles have a good balance between stuff that can be written on the board, stuff online and stuff that is engaging to students like practical hands-on discussions so you can reach out to all of the students in the class because not everyone learns the same," said Tarawneh, who has won an Outstanding Faculty Award in his college six times and one of the inaugural Outstanding Teaching Awards from The University of Texas System Board of Regents in 2009.
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University Faculty Excellence Award in Service: Dr. Lokenath Debnath
Debnath served as chair of the Mathematics Department from the year he arrived at UTPA in 2001 until 2011. Under his leadership, a program was established to enhance passing rates of introductory math courses, a Ph.D. program in mathematics was submitted and approved by The University of Texas System Board of Regents, and a mathematics faculty mentor program and external review process for faculty evaluation were developed and implemented, among many other achievements to enhance mathematics education. "He constructed this department from basically a service department into one of the best mathematical departments in the state," said Dr. John Trant, dean of the College of Science and Mathematics. Debnath extended his service beyond the department, college and University to a national scale by serving as the founding managing editor of the International Journal of the Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences. His many undergraduate and graduate level text books and research monographs are relied upon worldwide. Debnath has been called "driven" in his mission to make a difference. "I am a professor. I teach and I also write books and papers to expand knowledge, to create knowledge so others get benefit from that," Debnath said. "Students are our assets for our future generations. We inspire them, we stimulate them, we try to impart knowledge and educate them so they can become successful in their lives."
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UTPA Athletics announces Head Women's Basketball Coach, Larry Tidwell
UTPA Athletics announces Head Women's Basketball Coach, Larry Tidwell
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UTPA Athletics - B.A.I.T. Fishing Tournament 2013
The UTPA Athletics B.A.I.T. Fishing Tournament was held April 13, 2013 at Louie's Backyard on South Padre Island. B.A.I.T. or Broncs Athletic International Tournament is an annual fundraising event to support Athletic Scholarships at UTPA. Learn more about B.A.I.T. at www.utpabroncs.com or on Facebook at B.A.I.T fishing tournament.
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UTPA Athletics - Men's and Women's Soccer Press Conference
EDINBURG -- The University of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced in a press conference on Wednesday that an emerging Broncs women's soccer team begins play in 2014, while the men's soccer team returns after an 18-year hiatus in 2015. In an effort to provide scholarship assistance to Rio Grande Valley students and the soccer programs, Val LaMantia Peisen has made a $275,000 leadership gift to establish the William D. Peisen Endowed Scholarship for Intercollegiate Soccer. In 2012, 204 institutions competed in NCAA Division I men's soccer. Only two men's soccer programs, SMU and Houston Baptist, are in Texas. Incarnate Word, which sponsors men's soccer, begins the transition to Division I in 2013.
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UTPA Athletics Welcome Dan Hipsher as the new UTPA Men's Basketball Coach
UTPA Athletics Welcome Dan Hipsher as the new UTPA Men's Basketball Coach
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UTPA Broncs at Work 2013
The University of Texas - Pan American started Broncs at Work to recognize the accomplishments of UTPA graduates and students in the workforce and celebrate the businesses that hire them.
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UTPA Homecoming 2013 Promo
UTPA's Homecoming is very special this year. Come out and enjoy events for the whole family. And show your Bronc Pride! February 15 - 17, 2013 at the University of Texas - Pan American.
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UTPA News - L&F Distributors Hires UTPA Student
Twenty-two year old Natalie Garza considers herself fortunate to have found work nearly a year ago right out of college. As part of the BRONCS AT WORK program, this story focuses on the success stories of UTPA graduates in the workforce.
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UTPA News - Robot Zoo at UTPA
The Robot Zoo, a 2,500-square foot exhibit, reveals the magic of nature as a master engineer. Three robot animals and seven hands-on activities illustrate fascinating real-life characteristics, such as how a chameleon changes colors and how a fly walks on the ceiling. The larger-than-life-size animated robots include a chameleon and a platypus. Also featured is a house fly with a 3-foot wingspread. Machinery in the robot animals stimulates the body parts of their real-life counterparts. In the robot animals, muscles become pistons, intestines become filtering pipes and brains become computers. The exhibit is based on the book The Robot Zoo that was conceived, edited and designed by Marshall Editions of London, England. Location: Visitors Center lobby Time: Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Event Dates: Available from October 7, 2013 - January 3, 2014 All tours are available free to the public. To schedule a tour, please submit your request using the tour request form, you can also give us a call at (956) 665-7338. We look forward to seeing you on campus!
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UTPA News - Valente Rodriguez Remembers UTPA Fine Arts Auditorium
UTPA alum and professional actor Valente Rodriguez visited the Fine Arts Auditorium one last time before it was torn down. Rodriguez recounts his experiences on the stage in the auditorium and how the UTPA Theatre program prepared him for his career in show business.
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UTPA Pillar of Success 2013 - Dr. Robert Feldtman (BS '68)
The University of Texas-Pan American honored its Pillars of Success during its Homecoming 2013 activities Feb. 15. Pillars of Success are distinguished alumni who are chosen among their peers for their personal and career successes and serve as role models for current and future Broncs. Pictured with UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen (far left) are Ramon Garcia (BA '70), Hidalgo County Judge; Norma V. Cantu (BA '73), civil rights activist and professor of law and education at UT Austin; Rene Wallace (AA '51), business trailblazer and community champion; Lydia Rendon (BS '60), retired educator; and Dr. Robert Feldtman (BS '68), thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon.
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UTPA Pillar of Success 2013 - Lydia Rendon (BS '60)
The University of Texas-Pan American honored its Pillars of Success during its Homecoming 2013 activities Feb. 15. Pillars of Success are distinguished alumni who are chosen among their peers for their personal and career successes and serve as role models for current and future Broncs. Pictured with UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen (far left) are Ramon Garcia (BA '70), Hidalgo County Judge; Norma V. Cantu (BA '73), civil rights activist and professor of law and education at UT Austin; Rene Wallace (AA '51), business trailblazer and community champion; Lydia Rendon (BS '60), retired educator; and Dr. Robert Feldtman (BS '68), thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon.
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UTPA Pillar of Success 2013 - Norma V. Cantu (BA '73)
The University of Texas-Pan American honored its Pillars of Success during its Homecoming 2013 activities Feb. 15. Pillars of Success are distinguished alumni who are chosen among their peers for their personal and career successes and serve as role models for current and future Broncs. Pictured with UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen (far left) are Ramon Garcia (BA '70), Hidalgo County Judge; Norma V. Cantu (BA '73), civil rights activist and professor of law and education at UT Austin; Rene Wallace (AA '51), business trailblazer and community champion; Lydia Rendon (BS '60), retired educator; and Dr. Robert Feldtman (BS '68), thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon.
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UTPA Pillar of Success 2013 - Ramon Garcia (BA '70)
The University of Texas-Pan American honored its Pillars of Success during its Homecoming 2013 activities Feb. 15. Pillars of Success are distinguished alumni who are chosen among their peers for their personal and career successes and serve as role models for current and future Broncs. Pictured with UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen (far left) are Ramon Garcia (BA '70), Hidalgo County Judge; Norma V. Cantu (BA '73), civil rights activist and professor of law and education at UT Austin; Rene Wallace (AA '51), business trailblazer and community champion; Lydia Rendon (BS '60), retired educator; and Dr. Robert Feldtman (BS '68), thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon.
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UTPA Pillar of Success 2013 - Rene Wallace (AA '51)
The University of Texas-Pan American honored its Pillars of Success during its Homecoming 2013 activities Feb. 15. Pillars of Success are distinguished alumni who are chosen among their peers for their personal and career successes and serve as role models for current and future Broncs. Pictured with UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen (far left) are Ramon Garcia (BA '70), Hidalgo County Judge; Norma V. Cantu (BA '73), civil rights activist and professor of law and education at UT Austin; Rene Wallace (AA '51), business trailblazer and community champion; Lydia Rendon (BS '60), retired educator; and Dr. Robert Feldtman (BS '68), thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon.
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Voces De Braceros Symposium - Day 1
University of Texas-Pan American. College of Education
One outcome of this research project manifested in the form of celebration on April 21, 2012, when some 15 braceros took center stage and gave their testimonios at the “Voces de Braceros Symposium” at the University of Texas-Pan American, in Edinburg, Texas. The day and a half long symposium was envisioned and organized by university professors, students, and community elders to celebrate the efforts of the braceros, give power to their stories, and to educate the community about the impact of the program and those involved in the process.
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Voces De Braceros Symposium - Day 2 - Part 01
University of Texas-Pan American. College of Education
Hosted by Dr. Francisco Guajardo and Dr. Stephanie Alvarez at the University of Texas Pan American.
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Voces De Braceros Symposium - Day 2 - Part 02
University of Texas-Pan American. College of Education
Hosted by Dr. Francisco Guajardo and Dr. Stephanie Alvarez at the University of Texas Pan American.
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Voces De Braceros Symposium - Day 2 - Part 03
University of Texas-Pan American. College of Education
Hosted by Dr. Francisco Guajardo and Dr. Stephanie Alvarez at the University of Texas Pan American.
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2012 ARC: An Evening with Pamela Starr
This is a presentation on U.S.-Mexico relations in 2012 and beyond, given by Dr. Pamela Starr, director of the U.S. Mexico Network at the University of California. This program was recorded April 13, 2012 at The University of Texas-Pan American, as part of the Annual Research Conference presented by the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.
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2012 ARC: Border Walls, Immigration Enforcement, and Media Representations
Featured in this panel discussion are Dr. Juanita Sundberg, Leigh Barrick, Dr. Miguel Diaz-Barriga, and Melissa del Bosque. This program was recorded April 12, 2012 at The University of Texas-Pan American, as part of the Annual Research Conference presented by the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.
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2012 ARC: Cynthia Renteria, J.D.
Immigration Attorney, Cynthia Renteria, J.D., presents "The Impact of Criminal Cases on Immigration Cases." This program was recorded April 12, 2012 at The University of Texas-Pan American, as part of the Annual Research Conference presented by the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.
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2012 ARC: Dr. Martha Menchaca
Dr. Martha Menchaca speaks on the importance of archival research. This program was recorded April 13, 2012 at The University of Texas-Pan American, as part of the Annual Research Conference presented by the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.
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2012 ARC: Dr. Rocío Magaña "Criminalizing Water"
Dr. Rocío Magaña presents "Criminalizing Water: The Right to Rescue, the Politics of Protection, and Migrant Lives on the American Border Desert." This program was recorded April 12, 2012 at The University of Texas-Pan American, as part of the Annual Research Conference presented by the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences.
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Bike Workshop Part 1-A: Robin Stallings
Robin Stallings, Executive Director of Bike Texas, presents "Quantifying the Economic Benefits of Linear Parks, Trails and Open Space" during a workshop entitled ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT... CREATING A BIKE-FRIENDLY CULTURE. Mr. Stallings demonstrates how a minimal financial commitment to the growing demand for bike-friendly communities, yields even higher financial rewards in surrounding property values, increased tourism, environmental progress and human health lifestyles. The workshop was held April 4, 2012 at the University of Texas - Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and was hosted by the UTPA Office for Sustainability with an introduction by Marianella Quiroga-Quintanilla, Director of Sustainability Programs.
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Bike Workshop Part 1-B: Robin Stallings
Robin Stallings, Executive Director of Bike Texas, presents "Quantifying the Economic Benefits of Linear Parks, Trails and Open Space" during a workshop entitled ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT... CREATING A BIKE-FRIENDLY CULTURE. Mr. Stallings demonstrates how a minimal financial commitment to the growing demand for bike-friendly communities, yields even higher financial rewards in surrounding property values, increased tourism, environmental progress and human health lifestyles. The workshop was held April 4, 2012 at the University of Texas - Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and was hosted by the UTPA Office for Sustainability with an introduction by Marianella Quiroga-Quintanilla, Director of Sustainability Programs.
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Bike Workshop Part 2: Tom Logan
Tom Logan, Director of Valley Metro, presents "Transit's Connection to a Bike-Friendly Culture" during a workshop entitled ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT... CREATING A BIKE-FRIENDLY CULTURE. Mr. Logan explained how combined federal and municipal resources can provide cyclists with growing affordable public transportation, including more metro buses with bike racks and an increased variety of routes that service the Rio Grande Valley of deep South Texas. The workshop was held April 4, 2012 at the University of Texas - Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and was hosted by the UTPA Office for Sustainability, with an introduction by Marianella Quiroga-Quintanilla, Director of Sustainability Programs.
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Bike Workshop Part 3: Mario Delgado
Mario Delgado, Transit Manager for Metro McAllen, presents "Metro: Public Transportation's Contribution to Livability and Sustainability" during a workshop entitled ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT... CREATING A BIKE-FRIENDLY CULTURE. Mr. Delgado explains the commitment made by the City of McAllen to make mass transit even more accessible to all of its citizens and visitors, including cyclists and the handicapped. He also speaks about upgrades made to all McAllen metro buses which include bike racks, as well as McAllen's extensive and popular hike and bike trails and future bike-friendly initiatives. The workshop was held April 4, 2012 at the University of Texas - Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and was hosted by the UTPA Office for Sustainability, with an introduction by Marianella Quiroga-Quintanilla, Director of Sustainability Programs.
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Bike Workshop Part 4: Mark & Michelle Peña & Andrew Canon
Mark and Michelle Peña of Ciclistas Urbanos present "Complete the Streets: An Introduction to Complete Streets" a modified version of a powerpoint presentation created by the National Complete Streets Coalition. They were joined by Andrew Canon, Director of the Hidalgo County Metropolitan Planning Organization (HCMPO). Extensive examples of complete streets are shown as well as a a discussion about how they could be applied to local municipalities. This presentation was part of a workshop entitled ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT... CREATING A BIKE-FRIENDLY CULTURE, held April 4, 2012 at the University of Texas - Pan American in Edinburg, Texas. The workshop was hosted by the UTPA Office for Sustainability, and was introduced by Marianella Quiroga-Quintanilla, Director of Sustainability Programs.
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Bike Workshop Part 5: Raul Reynoso
Raul Reynoso of the Urban Cycling Project gives a demonstration of safe cycling techniques for urban settings at a workshop entitled ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT... CREATING A BIKE-FRIENDLY CULTURE. Mr. Reynoso also shows how some new bikes are designed to be lightweight and collapsable for people on the move with limited space. The workshop was held April 4, 2012 at the University of Texas - Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and was hosted by the UTPA Office for Sustainability, with an introduction by Marianella Quiroga-Quintanilla, Director of Sustainability Programs, and translation assistance by Mario Delgado of McAllen Metro.
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Bike Workshop Part 6: Robert L. Saenz
Robert L. Saenz of Halff Associates Inc. presents "The Value of Trails: Building Creatively for Real Returns" during a workshop entitled ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT... CREATING A BIKE-FRIENDLY CULTURE. Mr. Saenz provides an overview of creating a hike and bike trail from start to finish, and how it benefits the community. The workshop was held April 4, 2012 at the University of Texas - Pan American in Edinburg, Texas, and was hosted by the UTPA Office for Sustainability, with an introduction by Marianella Quiroga-Quintanilla, Director of Sustainability Programs.
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CODA: The Final Concert at the Fine Arts Auditorium
CODA The Final Concert - UTPA In music and dance, a CODA simply means "the end" or the final part of a musical piece. On June 3rd, UTPA bids farewell to the Fine Arts Complex that has served this community for more than four decades in order to welcome a new Academic and Performing Arts Center. Construction begins summer 2012 and a grand opening is anticipated for 2014. With Special Performances by.... John Raimo, pianist, Faculty Emeritus with Dahlia Guerra, Dean, College of Arts and Humanities Daniel Andai, violin, and Joel Pagan, viola with Brendan Kinsella, piano, UTPA Faculty Valley Symphony Orchestra, Maestro Peter Dabrowski Vocal Duo from "The Atonement" by Carl Seale, Faculty Emeritus Linda Musollari, Soprano, UTPA Alumna, and son Laerta Accompanied by Quartetto Bravura, UTPA Students and Alumni Dr. Marian Monta, Founder, UTPA Theatre UTPA Dance Program presentation UTPA Mariachi Aztlán El Son de la Negra with UTPA Ballet Folklórico AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!
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Edinburg Arbor Day 2012
On April 14, 2012, the University of Texas - Pan American's Office for Sustainability hosted a "Be a Green Hero" workshop at the City of Edinburg Arbor Day Celebration. As part of its public outreach program, UTPA's Office for Sustainability and H.E.B. teamed up to present this educational and entertaining gathering for kids.
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Impact of the 2011-2012 Drought in the RGV
How Climate changes may Affect the RGV and beyond Barry Goldsmith Warning Coordination Meteorologist and National Weather Service, Brownsville, Texas
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Official Ring - The University of Texas-Pan American
Official Ring - The University of Texas-Pan American Students, faculty and staff crowded into the Student Union Friday, Feb. 17 to see the new symbol of Bronc pride and cheered when UTPA President Robert S. Nelsen and members of a committee who planned the ring unveiled it. At the pep rally where the ring was displayed, Nelsen spoke about the importance of having traditions at the University. "When I first got here a couple of years ago, I noticed we didn't have very many traditions," Nelsen said. "We needed to come forward with new traditions and new ideas and have a real sense of what it means to have Bronc Pride." So the University followed suit and began work on researching and developing the ring. A committee composed of students, faculty and staff spent the past year and a half creating the ring. "Our students created this," Nelsen said. "They created it for you, they created it for tradition ... it's been a marvelous experience. Tradition is so important." Students of Donna Mason Sweigart, assistant professor of art, designed the ring and Jostens — a Minneapolis-based company that provides products and services for schools — crafted the jewelry based on their designs, said Letty Benavides, chair of the ring committee and director of auxiliary services at UTPA. The art students developed more than 60 designs for the ring, all based on information they received from their peers who filled out a survey about what they would like to see on the ring. Two of the art students went to Jostens' plant in northern Texas for an internship where they watched employees create the ring. "The best part about the ring is that it was created by UTPA students for UTPA." Benavides said. "Our students by far captured what we wanted. It's much more than just a ring." It tells the story of the University, Benavides said. Included on the ring are the year the institution began -- 1927 -- as well as symbols of the University's commitment to education: a book with rays of light emanating from it, the walkways that lead students through a journey of learning and community, the arches that signify the bridging of different cultures, and the heraldic shield and a star, which, respectively, tell the story of UT Pan American's beginnings as a community college serving Edinburg and the Rio Grande Valley and its merging with The University of Texas System 62 years later. "What better way to represent this kind of Bronc spirit than to create our official university ring," Stephanie Corte, president of the Student Government Association said. "This ring was created to be the perfect visual token of our UTPA history and our future to look forward to." Maggie Joseph-Contreras, a senior majoring in art who worked on the ring, explained the symbolism of each part of the ring to the crowd. She said at first it was a challenge to design the ring because there were so many ideas being shared. But everyone's dedication to the project helped bring them all together and decide on a final design, she said. "We were very inspired and moved by Dr. Nelsen's eagerness to get something out there for students and it meant a lot to us to be a part of it," Contreras said. After the pep rally, students rushed to the table where Jostens representatives had the rings on display. Sylvia Vela, a junior majoring in interdisciplinary studies with a minor in elementary education said she can't wait to purchase her class ring. "It's really beautiful and I love how it symbolizes our traditions," Vela said. Alfie Gracia, a sophomore majoring in English, said she also plans to buy a ring to show her Bronc pride. "I think it's wonderful, I mean, all the other major universities like UT always have these traditions, and I think we need to start making new ones and I think this is a great start," Gracia said. UTPA officials also showed the new ring to alumni during the 2012 Alumni Ball that night and the alumni 50-Plus Luncheon Saturday, Feb. 18. Students and alumni who have older class rings can trade them for new ones for the first year. Students graduating this year will receive a free cap and gown with the purchase of a ring. The rings come in five sizes from petite to extra large. Students and alumni can choose from six types of metal and can add either a small emerald or diamond to their ring, as well as stars to indicate whether they are a first-generation or subsequent-generation UTPA student. The first ring ceremony will be held May 4, 2012.
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Project South Texas - Town Hall Meeting - A bold new plan for advancing excellence in education
The University of Texas-Pan American celebrated news of The University of Texas System's historic decision to merge UTPA with The University of Texas at Brownsville (UTB) and bring a medical school to the Rio Grande Valley Friday, Dec. 7 with a town hall meeting and reception. UT Pan American President Robert S. Nelsen was joined by his counterpart, UTB President Juliet V. Garcia, UT System Chancellor Francisco G. Cigarroa and UT Board of Regents Chairman William Eugene (Gene) Powell, as well as state and local dignitaries to address a packed Student Union Theater on The UT System's plans to create one large university that will span the entire region. "Today is not a day to cry, it is a day to celebrate one of the greatest things to happen to the Rio Grande Valley," Nelsen said, referring to his emotional plea for support for the new university a day earlier at the Board of Regents meeting. On Thursday, Dec. 6, The University of Texas System Board of Regents unanimously approved the plan presented by Cigarroa, Powell, Nelsen and Garcia. The project, called "A University for the Americas in the Rio Grande Valley," is expected to have: • A student enrollment of 27,659; • Research expenditures of $11 million; • An endowment of $70.5 million; and • A total operating budget of $419 million. The plan would also include establishing administrative offices in McAllen. Regents also approved spending $100 million over the next 10 years to transform the Regional Academic Health Center in Harlingen to a school of medicine. Once established, the new university could create 7,000 new jobs in the Valley and 3,000 spin-off jobs. It would be one of the two largest Hispanic-serving institutions in the nation, both for total Hispanics enrolled and the number of bachelor's degrees awarded.
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Staff Senate 2011-12
Members of the University of Texas - Pan American's Staff Senate explain their purpose and goals.
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The Pan American - 2012 Warped Tour Highlights
Pan American Videographer, Marcela Pena takes a look inside the 2012 Warped Tour in San Antonio, TX. She captures bands, vendors, fans and more.
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The Pan American - A Bronc in the Windy City
Multimedia reporter Marcela Peña traveled to Chicago, Illinois for the National College Media Convention last weekend. These are highlights of her time in the windy city.
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The Pan American - Academic Services now offers a charging station for devices
IT Support Services now offers a station to charge cell phones, tablets and other devices. This service is free for all UTPA students. Elizabeth Espinosa reports.
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The Pan American - A Dead Day to Study
Reporter Anthony Michael went around campus to find see if students we're going to be studying on these self-proclaimed "Study Days" before exams.
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The Pan American - Alleged Victim of UTPA kidnapping returned home
The victim of the alleged kidnapping, which took place in a UTPA parking lot, has been returned to her family the morning of Sept. 27. Reporter Dimitra Hernandez interviews Sophomore Adriana Cantu to find out how students feel about their safety on campus.
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The Pan American - American Civil War Series
The National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association branches at UTPA currently host readings and discussions about the American Civil War. Every month, discussions about various readings and books are held at the Library Auditorium. The UTPA community and public can attend this free event. For further information, contact Virginia Gause at 665-2303.
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The Pan American - Atheist Student Organization protests Chick-fil-A at UTPA
The Pan American reporter Elizabeth Espinosa takes a look at the protest that was held in the University quad on the first day of the fall semester. This demonstration was hosted by the Atheist Student Organization who stand against Chick-fil-A C.E.O. Dan Cathy's opinions marriage.
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