Meet Crystal Reinhart, a UTRGV Unsung Hero
Text by Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa
Crystal W. Reinhart, marketing manager for the UTRGV School of Medicine and UT Health RGV on the Edinburg Campus, leads strategic efforts that connect the Rio Grande Valley to essential healthcare services. Reinhart ensures marketing campaigns are effective, teams collaborate smoothly, and UT Health RGV’s brand remains strong for the community it serves.
Working side by side with colleagues to support the health of the region, Reinhart said, is one of her favorite parts of the job. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to educate the public about the exceptional doctors and specialties UT Health RGV provides,” she said. “Together, we’re building a healthier future for the Rio Grande Valley.”
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
As Marketing Manager for the UTRGV School of Medicine and UT Health RGV, I lead strategic marketing initiatives that advance the university’s mission to improve healthcare access and education in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond. I oversee a broad range of marketing efforts, including digital, social media, content, multimedia, and event marketing, all aimed at enhancing patient engagement and elevating brand visibility.
By collaborating with cross-functional teams, internal departments, and external partners, I develop data-driven marketing strategies for key health campaigns to ensure they align with institutional priorities. I also provide strategic insight and leadership to strengthen UT Health RGV’s brand awareness while optimizing marketing resources to achieve project goals and deliver measurable results.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
I have worked at UTRGV for over six years. I began as a Marketing & Promotions Coordinator in July 2018, progressed to Senior Marketing Coordinator in May 2019, and have served as Marketing Manager since May 2020.
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY:
Every day is different, which is one of the things I enjoy most about my role. A typical day includes meetings to align on priorities, followed by focused time overseeing digital campaigns, reviewing content, and ensuring our messaging is consistent and effective. I regularly check in on key health campaigns and major projects, providing guidance to my team and collaborating on creative solutions to enhance patient engagement and expand UT Health RGV’s visibility. My work is rooted in supporting the institution’s strategic goals and connecting meaningfully with the communities we serve.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
One of my favorite parts of my job is knowing that my work contributes to the health and well-being of the Rio Grande Valley. It’s incredibly fulfilling to educate the public about the exceptional doctors and specialties UT Health RGV offers and to play a role in inspiring future physicians who will serve this region.
As someone connected to this community, it’s exciting to be part of an organization making a tangible difference in people’s lives. I also truly enjoy collaborating with talented colleagues who share a passion for advancing healthcare and education. Seeing the impact of our collective efforts is both inspiring and motivating—it’s what keeps me energized every day.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY OR STORY ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
One of my favorite memories at UTRGV was witnessing the delivery of the first COVID-19 vaccine to the Rio Grande Valley in December 2020. It was an incredibly emotional moment as the UPS truck pulled into the UTRGV School of Medicine parking lot. Watching the vaccine be unloaded, I felt a profound sense of history unfolding, knowing this was a pivotal event that would save countless lives in our community.
Being part of an institution that played such a critical role in the fight against COVID-19 was deeply moving and a powerful reminder of our impact on the health and well-being of the RGV. This memory stands out as a testament to UTRGV’s dedication to serving the community during one of its most challenging times. I am truly honored to be part of a team so dedicated to making a difference when it mattered most.
Read more about this moment:
UTRGV inoculates first person in the Valley with COVID-19 vaccine
TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU:
In my free time, I love racing cars. It’s not just about the thrill of speed; it’s about precision, strategy, and quick decision-making under pressure. Racing has taught me to embrace challenges, remain agile, and continually strive for improvement—principles that fuel my work every day.
WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
I have a strong connection to the UTRGV community, both professionally and personally. I work closely with the community to promote the exceptional healthcare services provided by UT Health RGV. My husband, an endocrine and general surgeon for UT Health RGV, also supports the health of the region through direct patient care. Together, we are proud to contribute to the well-being of the Rio Grande Valley. While he cares for patients directly, I help raise awareness of the amazing doctors and services available. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of an institution committed to improving the health and quality of life in our community.
