Message from the President
Dear Colleagues,I am sending this message to inform our campus community that Mike James, Vice President of Human Resources and Talent Development, has announced his plans to retire, with his last day at UTRGV set for January 31, 2025.
Mike James joined UTRGV in January 2015 from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center where he had served for more than 20 years. He brought his years of experience at a health institution within the UT System to UTRGV ahead of the university’s official launch. Since then, he has led UTRGV’s efforts to establish the foundational human resources infrastructure that supports our institution today. His leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication have been vital to UTRGV’s achievements throughout its first decade.
Of all that he accomplished during his time at UTRGV, some of the most impactful highlights include:
- Leading the unprecedented transition from the two legacy institutions and the regional academic health center to the new university established by the Texas Legislature. He led the institution’s efforts, working with the President and his leadership team, to ensure UTRGV was fully staffed by its opening date in fall 2015.
- Leading our university through the unique and unexpected challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, swiftly developing guidelines for remote and hybrid work options while ensuring employee engagement and well-being.
- Developing and advocating for pay plan restructuring that places UTRGV in a much more competitive position to recruit and retain employees.
- Collaborating and coordinating the development of a new, Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration degree that has immensely benefited the university in educating and molding new leaders in higher education.
- Creating UTRGV's Organizational Development and Training platform, as well as internal coaching and mentoring to cultivate and improve our employees.
- Overseeing UTRGV’s first-ever successful bid to be recognized as one of the nation's Great Colleges to Work For®, a distinction earned this year during his final semester.
Under Mike’s guidance, the Office of Human Resources and Talent Development has grown to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving institution while fostering a culture of professionalism, inclusivity, and innovation. His strategic advice to UTRGV leadership has been instrumental in shaping policies and driving the university’s growth and impact.
As we reflect on his remarkable tenure, we are profoundly grateful for the legacy he leaves behind. Mike’s expertise, approachability, tireless commitment, and steady leadership have positioned UTRGV for continued success, and his efforts will benefit the university for years to come.
Please join me in thanking Mike James for his service to UTRGV and wishing him the very best in his well-deserved retirement.
Sincerely,
Samantha Allen
Chief of Staff