SBDC Team
Program Management
Maria D. Juarez-Serna, Director
Maria D. Juarez-Serna has served as the UTRGV SBDC Director since 2005, where she oversees the program and staff in delivering quality advisement and training to the business community. Through strategic planning and key stakeholder relationships, Ms. Juarez-Serna guides the UTRGV SBDC team to meet and exceed goals in the areas of business development to impact the economic climate of the Rio Grande Valley positively. Ms. Juarez-Serna holds a Master of Arts in English Literature, a Master of Business Administration, and a Bachelor of Science from The University of Texas-Pan American.
Business Development Specialists
Arturo Gonzalez, Senior Business & Trade Advisor
Arturo Gonzalez joined the UTRGV SBDC in 1997, where he provides business advisement, business plan assistance, and training to startup and existing business owners. Mr. Gonzalez is credited with developing and creating the original, business "Start-up Guide" for the UTRGV SBDC and is charged with maintaining partner relationships for the center with the Cities of Brownsville, San Benito, and South Padre Island, as well as with partners in Matamoros, Mexico. Mr. Gonzalez holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with a specialization in Finance from The University of Texas at Brownsville.
Marcela Arredondo, Senior Business & Trade Advisor
Marcela Arredondo joined the UTRGV SBDC in 2008, where she provides one-to-one business advisement, business planning assistance, and training to existing business owners. Her expertise includes purchasing and supply chain management in the Maquiladora industry. She is also a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP). Ms. Arredondo holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business Management and a Master of Business Administration from The University of Texas-Pan American.
Business Training & Stakeholder Relations
Esperanza P. Delgado, Business Training Coordinator
Esperanza P. Delgado joined the UTRGV SBDC in 2002, leading regional business training initiatives through strategic partnerships. She directs curriculum development for entrepreneurial education, ensuring programs reflect current trends and practical applications. She also manages promotion of training services across digital and traditional platforms, oversees marketing collateral, and coordinates impactful events. Ms. Delgado holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business Management from The University of Texas-Pan American.
Administration & Client Services
- Eva Martinez, Office Supervisor
- Martha Castorena, Office Assistant