Message from the Provost: Appointment of Interim Dean for UTRGV Honors College

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Cristina Villalobos, Myles and Syliva Aaronson Endowed Professor in the Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences as Interim Dean of the Honors College, effective August 1st, 2024. Professor Villalobos' successful leadership of the Center of Excellence in STEM Education, which focuses on outreach to promote and encourage students in the exploration of careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), makes her the ideal person to lead the Honors College while we conduct a search for a permanent appointment. 

During this appointment as Interim Dean, Professor Villalobos will chair, along with myself, a task force to re-imagine the UTRGV Honors College and develop a three-year strategic plan for undergraduate honors education that encompasses the rich variety of interests among students and faculty across our entire campus. This taskforce will also be charged with the development of wide-ranging opportunities to expand research, community outreach, and academic excellence for our students and faculty. Under the experienced leadership of Professor Villalobos, we anticipate a seamless transition for students and faculty alike.
 
I want to take a moment to once again thank Dr. Mark Andersen for his leadership as the founding Dean of the Honors College, since its inception in 2015, and the many students whose lives he touched. 

Thank you for all you do for UTRGV,


Luis H. Zayas, PhD
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs