Meet Elizabeth Resendez, a UTRGV Unsung Hero
Text by Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa
Elizabeth Resendez, an Administrative Assistant II in the Department of Health and Biomedical Sciences on the UTRGV Brownsville Campus, has spent the past 17 years supporting students and faculty in the Biomedical Sciences (BMED) program. From coordinating outreach events to offering guidance and resources to help students succeed, she plays a vital role in shaping the academic journeys of future healthcare professionals.
Whether she’s answering student questions or celebrating their acceptance into medical or dental school, Resendez says the most rewarding part of her job is seeing them thrive. “Their success is our success,” she said. “It’s an incredible feeling to know that BMED helped open those doors.”
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
I provide administrative support to the students, faculty, and staff of the Department of Health and Biomedical Sciences, specifically to the Biomedical Sciences (BMED) program. I assist in the coordination and planning of departmental events for outreach, recruitment, and education.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
I’ve worked here for 17 years!
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY:
My daily routine is characterized by engaging discussions with students, faculty, and staff regarding the various needs of the Biomedical Sciences program. I am dedicated to ensuring our students receive comprehensive support and the information and resources they need to thrive throughout the semester. This involves addressing academic concerns and fostering an environment where students feel valued and empowered to succeed. By actively listening to their feedback and collaborating with colleagues, I help enhance the overall educational experience within the program.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
The best part of my job is hearing the success stories of our students who get into medical school, dental school, and other professional programs. I love receiving feedback about their accomplishments and how our BMED program helped pave the way to their future careers.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY OR STORY ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
One of my favorite memories is from 2010, when we were still UTB. We used to host an annual event called “Kids at the Movies” during December. Dr. Eldon Nelson, dean of the School of Health Sciences, would invite BISD students with special needs to enjoy a free movie and meal. Cinemark Theater at Sunrise Mall in Brownsville graciously reserved the entire venue so every student with specific disabilities could participate comfortably. As staff members, we wore reindeer antlers to welcome each child as they arrived. The joy reflected in their smiles that day was truly priceless.
TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU:
I love to bake cakes!
WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
Having spent 17 years at the university, I’ve forged meaningful friendships and developed connections with individuals who feel like family. I take great pleasure in assisting colleagues from various departments in any way I can.
