President's Messages
Message from the President and Interim Provost: Campus Climate - July 19, 2021
A few months ago, we reached out to every student and full-time employee in hopes of learning more about how to improve the UTRGV experience. And after everything that has happened over the past year — the challenges and sacrifices, fear and uncertainty — there are only two words that begin to acknowledge what you’ve done for our institution: Thank you.
UTRGV renews support for DACA students and employees - July 19, 2021
A federal judge in Texas on Friday ruled that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is illegal and ordered the Biden administration to stop granting new applications. The order will not affect current DACA recipients who have the two-year renewable work permits. The federal court ruling affects new applicants only.
UTRGV SOM Granted Provisional Accreditation - June 21, 2021
I am pleased to share with you great news regarding our School of Medicine’s continued efforts toward obtaining full accreditation.
Message from the President and Interim Provost - June 17, 2021
Since last March, you and your colleagues have worked tirelessly to promote UTRGV’s safety and success. Not only have your efforts ensured that we would get through this pandemic, but it is now evident that your determination is the reason why we are emerging from it stronger than ever.
UTRGV Receives Historic $40 Million Gift! - June 15, 2021
Today is a momentous day in the history of UTRGV. We are happy to announce that we have received a transformative $40 million gift from philanthropists MacKenzie Scott and Dan Jewett to enhance our mission of student success and expanded educational opportunities.
New School of Medicine Dean - May 14, 2021
I am pleased to announce that we have named Dr. Michael B. Hocker as the new dean of the UTRGV School of Medicine. He starts his new role June 28.
ALL UTRGV community members are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines on March 29 - March 25, 2021
We are pleased to announce that, earlier this week, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) stated that all people aged 16 and older are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine starting Monday, March 29.
Message from the Office of Institutional Equity & Diversity - March 19, 2021
The recent surge in violence against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders is the latest tragedy in our collective battle against racism and hate. On behalf of our entire university leadership, we want to reassure all members of our campus community who feel frightened or marginalized that we see you and we hear you. Together, we can ensure that the University remains a safe and inclusive place for all people to learn and work for years to come.
Message from the President - February 19, 2021
This past week has been anything but normal for us here in South Texas. The unprecedented winter storm across our state has uniquely disrupted our lives even further and left leaders at every level wondering what went wrong. But, while most of us have had our electricity and internet restored, many of our community members continue to lack food, shelter, water, and/or warmth.
UTRGV Transforming Our World Campus Climate Survey - February 2, 2021
Much can change in a year. And though we are still fighting through the ongoing pandemic, I want to remind you of how important our campus climate and culture continue to be. The pandemic has undoubtedly changed our relationship to campus, which makes assessing where we are now even more critical. One of the simplest and most effective ways to influence UTRGV’s future is to participate in this year’s Campus Climate Survey.
Message from the President: President Biden's Executive Orders - January 27, 2021
During his first days in office, President Biden signed a number of executive actions. While these orders, memorandums, and proclamations will resonate across the country in various ways, some of them will undoubtedly have a more significant impact on our campus community here in the Rio Grande Valley.
Message from the President: WAC Expansion - January 14, 2021
As always, I hope you and your loved ones are staying safe and healthy in 2021. Additionally, I wish everyone a safe and successful Spring Semester. I am writing you today to make you aware that the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), of which UTRGV (and legacy institution UTPA) has been a member since 2013, has just announced a significant expansion to its current membership.