By Karen Villarreal

Join us as we celebrate UTRGV alumni from the past decade who are making waves in their communities. In this special feature series, we delve into the incredible stories of those who have carried the UTRGV spirit beyond campus walls. Discover how their experiences shaped their paths and what their alma mater means to them as we honor this momentous 10th anniversary.

MEET JOHN BRUSH: Committed to greener communities

Where it All Began: Edinburg, Texas

Scholarly Journey: Bachelor of Science in Biology (2013) and Master of Science in Biology (2016)

Career Calling: Urban Ecologist

Where I Make an Impact: Quinta Mazatlan/Center for Urban Ecology in McAllen, Texas

What is your current role? I'm currently the urban ecologist at Quinta Mazatlan, working for the City of McAllen. I find my role rewarding because I see people and wildlife benefit from Quinta Mazatlan, Tiny Forests and the other projects I help work on. I love sharing my passion for the nature of the Rio Grande Valley with the community, and in return the community sharing their passions for nature with me. We have so much to share and learn together. It's a joy to give back to the community through my profession, to see forests grow and thrive, and to watch the birds, butterflies and people who enjoy and rely on these green spaces in our developing region.

What motivated you to choose UTRGV for your studies? UTRGV made the most sense for me because I love the Rio Grande Valley. I love the nature and ecology of the RGV and had an opportunity to do get my master's degree right here in my hometown. My father was also a professor of biology at UTPA (now UTRGV), so I was very comfortable and familiar with the school. 

How did your experience at the university shape your career path? Looking back, I think it helped most in helping me learn more about being professional and helping make connections with people in the community. I also received education that I still use to this day about biology and history of the RGV.

What are some of your fondest memories from your time at UTRGV? I enjoyed doing my master's thesis, field work, studying birds, hours in the lab analyzing data, writing and the challenging courses that helped me grow intellectually. 

How do you feel the university has evolved over the past 10 years? It definitely feels more woven into the culture of the Rio Grande Valley. There are UTRGV signs across the region, alumni like me who have stayed in the area for our careers, and UTRGV-led collaborations with local organizations that are making a difference for the community.

What advice would you give to current university students based on your experiences? Form connections with people and places. The connections can last for many years and help shape your career path. While learning the coursework is important, learning from other people and their experiences is too. 

What are your hopes for the future of UTRGV as it moves into its next decade? I hope that the university continues to be a leader in the region. I especially hope to see more emphasis on sustainable urban development, water-wise agriculture and continuing collaborative projects with local organizations to better the quality of life for people in the Rio Grande Valley. 

John Brush leads the Tiny Forest initiative in McAllen, transforming empty urban spaces into thriving forests. So far, six have been installed, including at local schools, the library, and the Palm View Community Center. (Courtesy Photo)