Staff

Get to Know Us

Ron Garza: Sr. Associate Vice President Office of Workforce & Economic Development; (956) 665-0000; ron.garza@utrgv.edu; Mr. Ron Garza is the Senior Associate Vice President for Workforce & Economic Development and oversees UTRGV’s Office of Workforce & Economic Development, which is a comprehensive portfolio of programs dedicated to advancing regional economic, workforce, and business development across the Rio Grande Valley. CLICK TO READ MORE

Ron Garza

Ron Garza
Sr. Associate Vice President Office of Workforce & Economic Development
Email: ron.garza@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 665-0000

Mr. Ron Garza is the Senior Associate Vice President for Workforce & Economic Development and oversees UTRGV’s Office of Workforce & Economic Development, which is a comprehensive portfolio of programs dedicated to advancing regional economic, workforce, and business development across the Rio Grande Valley. In this role, he works closely with government officials, regional stakeholders, and economic development organizations to further strengthen the region’s economic ecosystem.

As of September 1^st, 2025, Mr. Garza is also directly supervising UTRGV’s Career Center to support the department’s mission of advancing student success in exploring, preparing, and achieving career success. Ron’s professional experience includes key leadership roles in government, community, and economic development, including being City Manager of Edinburg, Texas, Executive Director of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council, Human Services Administrator for the City of San Antonio, and over 17 years with the State of Texas workforce agency for vocational rehabilitation.

Ronnie Garcia

Associate Director for Employer Relations

(956) 665-2243

ronnie.garcia@utrgv.edu

Ronnie is the Associate Director for Employer Relations and has been with UTRGV and its legacy institution for 17 years. Before working at UTRGV, he worked at Travis County Elections in Austin, TX, and South Texas College of Law – Houston. CLICK TO READ MORE

Ronnie Garcia

Ronnie Garcia
Associate Director for Employer Relations
Email: ronnie.garcia@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 665-2243

Ronnie obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from UTPA and acquired his Master of Arts in Higher Education at UTRGV.

In Ronnie’s spare time, he enjoys running, working out, tackling new projects at home, and relaxing with his Italian Greyhound, Vita.

Jaime M. Villanueva

Assistant Director for Career Outcomes

(956) 882-5627

jaime.villanueva@utrgv.edu

Jaime Villanueva is an accomplished professional with over 14 years of experience in the Career Center at his alma mater, UTRGV. He began his career as a Student Program Coordinator and has since risen to the position of Assistant Director of Career Outcomes. Jaime's unwavering commitment to helping students succeed has made him an invaluable member of the Career Center team. CLICK TO READ MORE

Jaime M. Villanueva

Jaime M. Villanueva
Assistant Director for Career Outcomes
Email: jaime.villanueva@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 882-5627

Jaime's passion for data analysis has been a driving force in his career. He has immersed himself in the world of data and has become an expert in using it to uncover insights and make informed decisions. Jaime firmly believes that "the data never lies and never hides the truth," and he has made this philosophy the cornerstone of his work.

Jaime holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from UTRGV and, thanks to the university's exceptional educational opportunities, he also earned a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Educational Technology. His education has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in his field.

When Jaime isn't at work, he enjoys golfing and listening to music. He believes that it's important to find balance in life and to make time for the things that bring joy and relaxation. Jaime's dedication to his work and his commitment to living a well-rounded life make him an inspiration to those around him.

Tony Leandro

Assistant Director for Career Education

956-665-7107

tony.leandro01@utrgv.edu

Tony Leandro joined the Career Center staff February 2023, focused in working with students from Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship as a career advisor. Tony joins the career center bringing his passion for student development. CLICK TO READ MORE

Tony Leandro

Tony Leandro
Assistant Director for Career Education
Email: tony.leandro01@utrgv.edu
Phone: 956-665-7107

Tony earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and is currently pursuing his Master of Education in Student Development and Leadership from Angelo State University.

From meeting his wife while working as resident assistant to being a part of several different organizations on campus. Tony strives to continuously make impacts on campus through different programming and initiatives and looks forward to continuing to grow with UTRGV.

John “Jack” Kaufold

Program Manager

(956) 665-2243

jack.kaufold@utrgv.edu

Jack serves as the Internship Program Manager and has served with UTRGV and its legacy institution for 11+ years. Before working full-time with the Career Center, he began his role as a graphic design intern for the Office of Career Services in 2009 and continued his student employment until graduation in 2011. He continued to pursue his creative efforts with a design position at Gateway printing before returning to the Career Center in 2013. CLICK TO READ MORE

John “Jack” Kaufold

John “Jack” Kaufold
Program Manager
Email: jack.kaufold@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 665-2243

Jack serves as Program Manager and has served with UTRGV and its legacy institution for 12+ years. Before working full-time with the Career Center, he began his role as a graphic design intern for the Office of Career Services in 2009 and continued his student employment until graduation in 2011. He continued to pursue his creative efforts with a design position at Gateway printing before returning to the Career Center in 2013.

Jack obtained his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from UTPA and acquired his Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration at UTRGV. His educational efforts will allow him to further develop skills in leadership, communication, and critical thinking that will serve him well throughout his career.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, pursuing creative projects including design and photography, and keeping an active lifestyle through outdoor activities and fitness.

Bertha Lance

Employer Engagement Coordinator

956-882-6519

bertha.lance01@utrgv.edu

Bertha joined the Career Center February 2024 as the Employer Relations Coordinator. Already part of UTRGV since 2018, she started her journey in the UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center as a work study student working her way up to Program Specialist. CLICK TO READ MORE

Bertha Lance

Bertha Lance
Employer Engagement Coordinator
Email: bertha.lance01@utrgv.edu
Phone: 956-882-6519

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a Minor in History from UTRGV.

Her passion for helping others and love for her community are reflected in her involvement with the Society for Human Resource Management Lower Valley Chapter and Guadalupe Regional Middle School where she serves on both boards. She is a proactive member in her community, always supporting new local businesses and new events the community has to offer.

In her spare time, Bertha enjoys reading a good book, trying new foods, and making memories with her loved ones and her two dogs.

Alejandra Martinez

Program Specialist - Career Engagement

956-665-7916

careercenter@utrgv.edu

Stepping into her role as Program Specialist at the Career Center, Alejandra brings a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to guiding individuals toward their professional aspirations. CLICK TO READ MORE

Alejandra Martinez

Alejandra Martinez
Program Specialist - Career Engagement
Email: careercenter@utrgv.edu
Phone: 956-665-7916

Stepping into her role as Program Specialist at the Career Center, Alejandra brings a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to guiding individuals toward their professional aspirations.

Before joining UTRGV, Alejandra gained valuable experience in roles as an E3 Coach for Workforce Solutions and an Admissions Representative for South Texas Vocational Technical Institute.

A proud alumna of UTRGV, Alejandra received a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications with a focus in Public Relations and Advertising. She uses her educational background skillfully to communicate with both the community and students.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Alejandra enjoys running marathons, barbeques, and spending time with her family.

Suzanne Gonzalez

Career Advisor

956-882-5627

Suzanne.gonzalez@utrgv.edu

Suzanne joined the Career Center in June of 2022, serving as a Career Advisor. Suzanne empowers students to find their voice and advocate for the future they deserve. CLICK TO READ MORE

Suzanne Gonzalez

Suzanne Gonzalez
Career Advisor
Email: Suzanne.gonzalez@utrgv.edu
Phone: 956-882-5627

Suzanne joined the Career Center in June of 2022, serving as a Career Advisor. Suzanne empowers students to find their voice and advocate for the future they deserve.

Suzanne earned a Master of Science in Counseling & Guidance and Bachelor of Science in Criminology, both from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. She is also currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Education, Leadership, and Organization from Texas Woman’s University.

Suzanne is an advocate for wellness and self-care and enjoys weightlifting during her free time.

Selena Pequeno

Career Advisor

selena.pequeno01@utrgv.edu

Selena joined the Career Center February 2024 serving as a Career Advisor.

With previous experience in Career Advising and Recruiting, Selena brings valuable knowledge and insight to her role from different perspectives. Holding a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus in Marketing from UTRGV, Selena is dedicated to inspiring and supporting students in her community as they navigate their career paths and professional growth. CLICK TO READ MORE

Selena Pequeno

Selena Pequeno
Career Advisor
Email: selena.pequeno01@utrgv.edu

Selena joined the Career Center February 2024 serving as a Career Advisor.

In her free time, Selena enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, hanging out by the beach, and giving it her all at karaoke night!

Melissa Pedraza: Career Advisor; melissa.pedraza@utrgv.edu; Melissa joined the Career Center team in April 2025 as a Career Advisor. With over nine years of experience in higher education, she brings a passion for helping students navigate their academic journey and reach their career goals. CLICK TO READ MORE.

Melissa Pedraza

Melissa Pedraza
Career Advisor
Email: melissa.pedraza@utrgv.edu

Melissa joined the Career Center team in April 2025 as a Career Advisor. With over nine years of experience in higher education, she brings a passion for helping students navigate their academic journey and reach their career goals.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from UTPA and went on to complete her Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration at UTRGV.

Melissa enjoys building connections with students and being part of their success. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and getting lost in a good book.

Brandon Garcia: Career Advisor; 956-665-2445; brandon.l.garcia01@utrgv.edu; Acquiring his Bachelors in Communication at the University of Texas San Antonio he then pursued his goal of being an Infantry Officer in the United States Army. Once completing his goal he then moved back to the Valley in order to pursue his Masters in Communication. CLICK TO READ MORE

Brandon Garcia

Brandon Garcia
Career Advisor
Email: brandon.l.garcia01@utrgv.edu
Phone: 956-665-2445

Brandon joined the Career Center in 2025 serving as a Career Advisor

Acquiring his Bachelors in Communication at the University of Texas San Antonio he then pursued his goal of being an Infantry Officer in the United States Army. Once completing his goal he then moved back to the Valley in order to pursue his Masters in Communication. During that time Brandon was a member of the UTRGV team as a Speech Coach and Graduate Assistant working under the Communication Department. Brandon has started a new journey as a Career Advisor with aspirations to assist students in achieving their goals. With over 7 years of retail experience, 4+ years of being a commissioned military officer for the United States Army, Brandon has made it his goal to help others achieve their own greatness.

During his free time Brandon enjoys working out, running, playing video games, and spending time with his family.

Jerome Wiggins

Career Advisor - Robert C. Vackar College of Business & Entrepreneurship

956-665-2284

jerome.wiggins01@utrgv.edu

Jerome Wiggins is a career advisor specifically working with the Vackar College of Business. He is a master’s graduate from UTRGV in the study of Economics and Finance. He has worked in higher education for the past 9 years and brings experience in advising and program implementation. Mr. Wiggins enjoys empowering his students to achieve their educational goals and find a career that is fulfilling and rewarding. CLICK TO READ MORE

Jerome Wiggins

Jerome Wiggins
Career Advisor - Robert C. Vackar College of Business & Entrepreneurship
V.O.I.C.E.
Email: jerome.wiggins01@utrgv.edu
Phone: 956-665-2284

Jerome Wiggins is a career advisor specifically working with the Robert C. Vackar College of Business & Entrepreneurship. He is a master’s graduate from UTRGV in the study of Economics and Finance. He has worked in higher education for the past 9 years and brings experience in advising and program implementation. Mr. Wiggins enjoys empowering his students to achieve their educational goals and find a career that is fulfilling and rewarding. He has previously worked at South Texas College in their Continuing Education Department. He transitioned to UTRGV in 2022 to assume the role of academic advisor for business & entrepreneurship. In this role, he realized his passion for helping students succeed in business. He is currently completing his doctorate in Educational Leadership specializing in Higher Education.

He thrives on business and investing, always eager to help students with career exploration. Whether it's watching football, diving into stock trading, or exploring cooking recipes, he approaches each day with enthusiasm and an open mind.

Barbara Castellano

Administrative Assistant

(956) 665-3191

barbara.castellano@utrgv.edu

Barbara joined the Career Center in September of 2020, serving as Administrative Assistant and has worked for the University for 25+ years. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Texas Pan American in 2002.

Barbara Castellano

Barbara Castellano
Administrative Assistant
Career Center
Email: barbara.castellano@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 665-3191

Barbara joined the Career Center in September of 2020, serving as Administrative Assistant and has worked for the University for 25+ years. She earned Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of Texas Pan American in 2002.