Tag: OLLU-RGV

OLLU-RGV, South Texas College strengthen academic collaboration

OLLU-RGV and South Texas College (STC) solidified their commitment to collaborative education with a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the STC Pecan campus in McAllen.

By merging resources and expertise, OLLU-RGV and STC aim to enhance academic offerings, facilitate credit transfer, and streamline pathways for students transitioning between institutions. This collaborative effort serves to empower students by providing a broader spectrum of educational opportunities and ensuring a smoother academic journey.

OLLU-RGV Campus Director Cindy Mata-Vasquez expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “This memorandum represents our shared commitment to student success,” she said, “and underscores the importance of collaboration between our institutions in providing enhanced educational pathways for the benefit of our Rio Grande Valley students.”

First Generation Friendsgiving Fiesta set for Saturday at OLLU-RGV

A First Generation Friendsgiving Fiesta will be held on Saturday from 3:30-5 p.m. at the OLLU-RGV campus and is open to all first=generation RGV students. Come out and enjoy games, sweets and drinks!

For more information, contact Amanda at 956-313-4695.

The Phi Alpha Honor Society is working to present first-generation testimonies of students, professors and alumni at the fiesta. If you have a story to share, or some advice to give to a first-generation student, fill out the form located at the following link:

https://forms.office.com/r/xmPyFzY4Z3

OLLU-RGV’s 2nd Annual ‘Trunk or Treat’ leaves a memorable mark

The vibrant spirit of Halloween came alive on Saturday Oct. 21 in La Feria as OLLU-RGV hosted its 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat event. This family-friendly celebration left an indelible mark on the community, showcasing a delightful blend of creativity, fun, and unity. 

Trunk Decorations That Dazzled: 

Participants spared no effort when it came to decorating their car trunks in imaginative and kid-friendly themes. From movie themes, Western front to classic Halloween scenes, the attention to detail and creativity were truly commendable. 

Candy, Snacks and Treats Galore: 

Safety and enjoyment were at the forefront as participants provided a delightful array of pre-packaged candies and treats for the eager trick-or-treaters. Families strolled from trunk to trunk, indulging in sweet surprises. 

Community Spirit in Full Display: 

The heartwarming sense of community was palpable throughout the event, with laughter, smiles, and shared moments. It was a reminder of the power of togetherness and the joy of celebrating as a community. 

Kid-Friendly Costumes Rule the Day: 

Participants and attendees alike embraced the Halloween spirit by donning kid-friendly costumes, enhancing the atmosphere of warmth and joy. 

OLLU-RGV celebrated 15 years of excellence with ribbon cutting 

OLLU-RGV celebrated its 15th anniversary on Sept. 28 with a ribbon cutting ceremony on its La Feria campus, an event that showcased a decade and a half of academic excellence and community impact. 

Esteemed members of the OLLU-RGV community, local dignitaries and invited guests attended. 

The ribbon cutting celebration reflected OLLU-RGV’s unwavering commitment to providing quality education and making a meaningful difference in the community. Over the past 15 years, the campus has grown into a beacon of academic excellence, nurturing holistic growth in students, and contributing significantly to the Rio Grande Valley’s educational landscape.

OLLU-RGV hosts successful ‘Trunk or Treat’ event 

OLLU-RGV recently held its inaugural Trunk or Treat event at the La Feria campus, and it was a success.

More than 10 vehicles participated on Oct. 15, including the City of La Feria Fire and Police Departments and the Brownsville Police Department. The Chick Fil-A cow made a special appearance.

The Metamorphix Martial Arts Demo Team from Harlingen delivered a Halloween-themed performance. Kids of all ages filled their trick or treat bags with plenty of sweets. With more than 200 attendees, the event will return next October.

Cindy Mata-Vasquez named new director for OLLU-RGV

Cindy Mata-Vasquez, a Rio Grande Valley resident with 15 years of experience in higher education, has been named the new director of the OLLU-RGV campus.

Mata-Vasquez most recently served as Director for Student Activities at the University of Texas-RGV for the past seven years. She begins her new position on July 20.

“I am looking forward to highlighting the programs and services the university and satellite campus have to offer to residents of the Rio Grande Valley,” Mata-Vasquez said. “Having grown up in the area, it excites me to be able to provide additional avenues for folks to have options to continue their education and give back, right here in the region.” 

The oldest of three siblings, Mata-Vasquez moved from Queretaro, Mexico, to the Rio Grande Valley with her family at the age of six. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Texas-Pan American (now UT-RGV) in 2004, a Master of Arts in Advertising from the University of Texas at Austin in 2005 and an MBA from UT-RGV in 2020.  

Prior to working at UT-RGV, Mata-Vasquez served as Director of Special Programs at Texas State Technical College in Harlingen. She is eager to assume her new position.

“One of my first goals is to work closely with the RGV team and find out how my role can help support them and their professional goals,” she said. “I am also looking forward to connecting with local chambers of commerce and city leaders to find out how OLLU can be visible in their communities. Communication and visibility will be key to accomplish these goals as well as creating partnerships with each entity.”