Meet Noel Rangel, a UTRGV Unsung Hero
Text by Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa
Noel Rangel, outreach representative for UTRGV Undergraduate Recruitment on the Brownsville campus, has spent nearly four years helping students across Cameron County realize that college isn’t just a dream, it’s possible. From answering parent phone calls to coordinating visits with local high schools, Rangel serves as a reassuring guide for families navigating the path to higher education.
Born and raised in Brownsville, Rangel finds deep personal meaning in serving the community that shaped him. “Connecting with parents reminds me of my own,” he said. “That connection brings me joy.” Now stepping into a new role as a student development specialist with CAMP Brownsville, he’s eager to continue inspiring and supporting the next generation of Vaqueros.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
I am the undergraduate recruitment outreach representative for entering freshmen at the Brownsville campus. I focus on recruiting students from high schools across Cameron County.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
Three years and 11 months.
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY:
I start my day by checking emails for student inquiries and counselor requests. I return any missed phone calls from parents and follow up with my high school counselors via email to schedule upcoming visits.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
Reassuring Brownsville students that college is within their reach and introducing them to the amazing opportunities UTRGV offers. I especially enjoy connecting with parents—it reminds me of my own, and that connection brings me joy. This is something I look forward to continuing in my new role as a student development specialist with CAMP Brownsville.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY OR STORY ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
One of my most memorable moments was serving on a college readiness panel at one of my assigned high schools, alongside other university outreach representatives. After the session, a parent approached me and said, “You, sir, are a guardian angel. I felt the human in you when you spoke about your UTRGV journey.” She felt she had found someone who could truly help her grandson’s journey, and that moment deeply moved me.
TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU:
I’m actually ordained and had the honor of officiating the wedding of one of my closest friends.
WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
As someone born and raised in Brownsville, UTRGV Brownsville holds a very special place in my heart. The students, the staff, and the campus have opened countless doors for me. From being a student worker to traveling and building lasting connections, I’ve grown tremendously—both professionally and personally—and I credit much of that growth to UTRGV and the amazing people I've met here.
