Celebrating Local Achievements: Over 4,000 UTRGV Vaqueros Graduate This Spring

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) held its Spring 2024 Commencement ceremonies, awarding diplomas to over 4,000 students. The events started on May 10, 2024, at the UTRGV Brownsville Campus and continued the next day at the Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg, Texas. These ceremonies celebrated the students' hard work and the university community's support.

UTRGV President Guy Bailey spoke to the graduates, offering congratulations and encouragement. He discussed the impact of education, referencing his background as a first-generation college student. Bailey acknowledged the graduates' perseverance and the role of family support, noting the coincidence with Mother’s Day.

Dr. Fred Farias III, Chairman of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, received the President’s Medal of Honor during the ceremonies. This award recognizes significant contributions to the university, with Dr. Farias being its sixth recipient.

Among the graduates, Jessenia Cantu received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Motivated by her family's experiences with healthcare, Cantu plans to work in a local hospital’s ICU. Her story reflects the supportive environment at UTRGV, which fosters student success through various clubs and organizations.

Another graduate, Intisar Qubbaj, earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. Her diploma was presented by her father, Dr. Ala Qubbaj, the dean of the UTRGV College of Engineering and Computer Science. This moment highlighted the close community and personalized attention at UTRGV.

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