Meet Irma Zuniga, a UTRGV Unsung Hero

Text by Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa

Irma Zuniga serves as the administrative coordinator for the College of Liberal Arts on the UTRGV Edinburg Campus. In her role, she provides essential support to college administrators, deans, and staff, ensuring that tasks are completed accurately and efficiently. With five years at UTRGV, including three in her current role, Zuniga finds fulfillment in collaborating with various departments and helping them with their inquiries.

A first-generation college graduate, Zuniga is proud of her journey from being a migrant worker as a child to earning both a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees, one at legacy institution UTPA and one at UTRGV. One of her most cherished memories at UTRGV is seeing her daughter graduate in May 2024, following in her footsteps. Zuniga values the connections she has made within the UTRGV community, which continues to contribute to her professional and personal growth.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
I am currently an administrative coordinator for the College of Liberal Arts, and my role is to provide high-level support to the college administrator, deans and colleagues/staff.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
I have been employed at UTRGV for five years, but I have held my current role/title with the College of Liberal Arts for about three years.

DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY?
I like to start my day by reading an inspirational message and then diving into my daily tasks. Every day is different, so maintaining a positive and productive attitude is important to me and essential for a successful outcome. An average day includes answering emails, processing forms in the HR Portal, reviewing policies and procedures, assisting departments with their inquiries, and ensuring tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
Collaborating with various departments and assisting them with their inquiries is very fulfilling to me.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY OR STORY ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
Working at UTRGV has been very rewarding and beneficial to me and my family. My daughter recently graduated in May 2024 from UTRGV, and she is now entering the workforce and starting her own journey, thanks to UTRGV and the professors who prepared her with the education and skills needed. As a first-generation college graduate, seeing another generation follow in my footsteps is a blessing.

TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Most people do not know that I was a migrant worker as a child and that English was not my first language. Although I don't often share much about my private life, I am proud to reveal how my parents taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. These life lessons fueled my desire to improve myself and inspired me to pursue and earn my bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees, all at UTPA/UTRGV.

WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
UTRGV has provided me with the opportunity to learn and grow professionally. I have met many people along the way and connected with them on both personal and professional levels. These connections continue to help me grow, and I look forward to building more in the future.