Meet Matthew Moncus, a UTRGV Unsung Hero
Text by Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa
For nearly four years, Matthew Moncus has played a critical role in keeping the UTRGV community safe, leading efforts that protect students, faculty and staff across all campuses. As director of Environmental Health, Safety & Risk Management, Moncus oversees a wide range of safety operations — from environmental and laboratory safety to fire, life and occupational risk — ensuring the university remains a secure environment for learning, research and innovation.
Based primarily on the Edinburg campus, Moncus works across all UTRGV locations, collaborating with teams and departments to address safety concerns, review protocols and support major campus initiatives. Known for his hands-on leadership and commitment to problem-solving, he brings both technical expertise and a proactive approach to safeguarding the university community.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT UTRGV?
I lead the EHSRM team to make sure the campus is a safe place for students, faculty and staff. I specialize in environmental safety, but am well rounded in fire, life, laboratory and occupational safety.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED HERE?
It will be four years in May. I started as the Environmental Program Manager.
DESCRIBE YOUR AVERAGE DAY:
I begin my day by organizing my inbox and addressing any issues that may have been reported overnight, then checking in with my team to see how I can support them. I spend much of my time reviewing research protocols, construction plans, and answering questions regarding campus safety. I also make a point to walk around the Edinburg campus daily, and visit Harlingen and Brownsville once a week. Recently, I’ve been spending more time in our healthcare facilities, like the new Cancer and Surgery Center and our clinics.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR JOB?
I enjoy the variety because every day presents a new problem to solve. I also get to meet so many interesting people who work across all areas of the university.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY OR STORY ABOUT YOUR TIME HERE?
One of my favorite memories is watching the first touchdown the football team scored in Vackar Stadium from the Command Post. It was a great feeling to see the culmination of years of preparation lead up to that moment.
TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU:
I do competitive arm wrestling, and I’m planning to start a student club on campus. If you’re a student and interested in joining, let me know.
WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UTRGV COMMUNITY?
I’m a staff member and also a doctoral student, so I have a wide-ranging relationship with the campus. I participate in event planning, construction, healthcare, athletics and education.
