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Million Dollar Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund Grant Awarded to LTD Material

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Million Dollar Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund Grant Awarded to LTD Material
The project is expected to create 40 jobs and represents more than $25 million in capital investment. Image for illustration purposes
The project is expected to create 40 jobs and represents more than $25 million in capital investment. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott announced that a Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) grant of more than $1,000,000 has been extended to LTD Material LLC for the construction of a new 88,000-square-foot manufacturing and research facility in Austin that will expand production capacity for high-purity quartz parts essential to wafer fabrication and semiconductor manufacturing. The project is expected to create 40 jobs and represents more than $25 million in capital investment.

“Texas leads America’s resurgence in semiconductor manufacturing,” said Governor Abbott. “With this $25 million capital investment, LTD Material is helping to expand an already robust supply chain that is essential to the growing semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem in Texas. In partnership with industry leaders, Texas will accelerate domestic semiconductor manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains to meet our nation’s technology demands of tomorrow.”

LTD Material’s precision-engineered products are essential to the wafer manufacturing process. The expansion project will include the construction of a state-of-the-art manufacturing and R&D facility adjacent to its existing fabrication plant. LTD Material will also offer specialized training for CNC machinists and glass blowers — technical roles that do not require a college degree but provide rewarding career opportunities.

“The TSIF grant allows LTD Material to meet the surging demand from U.S. semiconductor foundries while reducing dependence on foreign quartz suppliers, a key strategy to the government’s focus on strengthening overall national security,” said LTD Material CEO Kevin Nguyen. “Since the beginning, LTD Material chose the state of Texas for its headquarters exactly due to this type of civil leadership in innovation, workforce development, and economic competitiveness.”

“Austin is the beating heart of our state’s semiconductor industry,” said Senator Sarah Eckhardt. “I’m excited for the many good jobs this project will create locally and sustain for years to come. This investment will help us effectively meet the needs of our growing community and bolster our state’s position as a leader on the frontier of America’s technological future.”

View more information about LTD Material.

Governor Abbott signed the Texas CHIPS Act into law in 2023 to establish the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund, a grant program to encourage the continued leadership of Texas in semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing, as well as the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium. These programs, administered by the Texas CHIPS Office, a division within the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office in the Office of the Governor, are designed to leverage Texas’ investments in the semiconductor industry, encourage semiconductor-related companies to expand in the state, further develop the expertise and capacity of Texas institutions of higher education, and maintain the state’s position as the nation’s leader in semiconductor manufacturing.

Housing for Texas Heroes Program Restores Safety and Security for Local Veteran

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Housing for Texas Heroes Program Restores Safety and Security for Local Veteran
Before and after images of Victor Ruiz, an Army Vietnam-era veteran's house that has been restored. Courtesy images
Before and after images of Victor Ruiz, an Army Vietnam-era veteran’s house that has been restored. Courtesy images

Texas Border Business

WESLACO – The Housing for Texas Heroes grant has made a meaningful difference for Victor Ruiz, an Army Vietnam-era veteran, by funding essential home repairs that have improved the safety, health, and comfort of his Weslaco residence.

The Hidalgo County Veteran’s Services Office was awarded a Housing for Texas Heroes Grant, and through these funds is beginning to assist low-income veterans with much-needed home repairs, modifications, and weatherization: work exemplified by the improvements completed at Ruiz’s home.

Mr. Ruiz’s home had significant roof damage that allowed water to leak into the kitchen and a bedroom. The roof was repaired to stop further water intrusion, along with repairs and replacement of damaged soffit and siding to better protect the home from extreme heat and cold.

See the gallery below for more images of the restoration. All courtesy images:

A home inspection also identified the need for safer access. New stairs with handrails were installed to improve mobility and safety, and a severely damaged front door and frame were fully replaced to enhance security and weather protection. Additional weatherization work included caulking, replacing rotten siding, and painting the exterior to help prevent moisture and cold air from entering the home.

“Safe housing is more than a roof, it’s peace of mind,” said Hidalgo County Director of Veterans Services Samuel Perez Jr.  “Ruiz served our country, and through the Housing for Texas Heroes program, we are honored to give back by helping ensure his home is safe, secure, and comfortable.”

These repairs were made possible with the support of the Texas Veterans Commission, and the Housing for Texas Heroes program.

Information Source: Hidalgo County

Cornyn Pushes Water Treaty Dispute With Mexico Into USMCA Review

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Cornyn Pushes Water Treaty Dispute With Mexico Into USMCA Review
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) sent a letter to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer urging him to bring up the ongoing 1944 Water Treaty issue during the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) joint review to require Mexico to comply with its annual water deliveries to the United States. Image for illustration purposes
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) sent a letter to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer urging him to bring up the ongoing 1944 Water Treaty issue during the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) joint review to require Mexico to comply with its annual water deliveries to the United States. Image for illustration purposes

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WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) sent a letter to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer urging him to bring up the ongoing 1944 Water Treaty issue during the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) joint review to require Mexico to comply with its annual water deliveries to the United States. Excerpts of the letter are below, and the full letter can be found here.

The Senator wrote: “As you and the Trump Administration review the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), I ask you to consider raising the 1944 Water Treaty during the 2026 USMCA review. As you know, the 1944 Water Treaty requires Mexico to deliver 350,000 acre-feet of water annually to the United States, in five-year cycles. However, during the past five-year cycle, Mexico continually failed to deliver its obligated water to the United States, hurting many South Texas agriculture producers.”

“Therefore, I respectfully request that you consider raising Mexico’s lack of compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty during the USMCA review process and consider any possible mechanisms to ensure Mexico complies with the obligated annual water deliveries to the United States,” he continued.

“I appreciate your leadership on the USMCA and trade relations with Mexico, and I look forward to working with you and President Trump as you examine the 1944 Water Treaty and its possible inclusion in the USMCA review,” he concluded.

Background: 

Sen. Cornyn has led the charge in Congress to boost South Texas’ water supply and ensure Mexico fulfills its treaty obligations to provide annual deliveries of water to South Texas farmers and ranchers. In addition to securing more than $280 million in emergency assistance for Rio Grande Valley farmers and producers affected by the water shortage, he led a request last year to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio asking for renewed efforts to force Mexico to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty while also securing Secretary Rubio’s commitment to hold Mexico accountable for delays. 

In December, President Trump announced he would impose a tariff on Mexican imports due to Mexico’s failure to comply with the 1944 Water Treaty. On December 12, 2025, the United States and Mexico agreed to address water obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty, and Mexico began to repay its water deficit in Texas that month.

Previously, Sen. Cornyn sent a letter to NADBank urging for the restoration of their Water Infrastructure Fund, raised alarms after a Rio Grande sugarcane mill closed due to acute water shortages, cosponsored a resolution supporting diplomacy, and sent a letter to then-U.S. Secretary of State Blinken urging the Department to engage on Mexico’s violation of the intent of the treaty. Senator Cornyn also led a letter to the Chairmen and Ranking Members of the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on State and Foreign Operations urging them to withhold designated funds from Mexico until they enter into an agreement with the U.S. to balance the deficit of the water deliveries, which the House Appropriations Committee included in their funding bill. The Senator also introduced legislation last year to hold the Mexican government accountable for not meeting its water delivery requirements.

Under the Treaty Relating to the Utilization of Waters of the Colorado and Tijuana Rivers and of the Rio Grande, Mexico is obligated to deliver an average of 350,000 acre-feet of water annually over a five-year cycle as its contribution to the Rio Grande’s water supply. However, Mexico has consistently delayed fulfilling its water obligation until the end of the five-year cycle, which hinders South Texas farmers’ ability to plan for and grow crops as well as ranchers’ ability to provide water to livestock. 

Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, is a member of the Senate Finance, Judiciary, Intelligence, Foreign Relations, and Budget Committees.

information Source: Office of Senator Cornyn

Ribbon Cutting Marks Infrastructure Upgrades for Linn–San Manuel First Responders, Feb. 5th

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Ribbon Cutting Marks Infrastructure Upgrades for Linn–San Manuel First Responders, Feb. 5th
Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4, will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the new canopy and expanded outdoor area at the Linn–San Manuel Fire Station. Courtesy image
Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4, will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the new canopy and expanded outdoor area at the Linn–San Manuel Fire Station. Courtesy image

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Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4, will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the new canopy and expanded outdoor area at the Linn–San Manuel Fire Station. The station serves as the home of the Linn–San Manuel Volunteer Fire Department and the Texas A&M Forest Service.

With the Texas A&M Forest Service now operating from this location, secure and accessible storage for equipment became a high priority. The project delivers critical infrastructure improvements that strengthen emergency response capabilities and support the safety of the surrounding communities.

Courtesy image

Site upgrades include a newly expanded outdoor area designed to accommodate large firefighting and emergency response vehicles, equipment, and trailers. These improvements enhance operational efficiency, allow for faster access to heavy-duty vehicles, and support quicker response times during emergencies such as wildfires, brush fires, and natural disasters.

WHO:
Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4
WHAT:
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Linn-San Manuel Fire Station Enhancements
WHEN:
Thursday, February 5, 2026
10:00 a.m.
WHERE:
Linn–San Manuel Fire Station
21661 TX-186
Edinburg, TX

Chinese National Sentenced to 46 Months for $36.9M Crypto Laundering Scheme

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Chinese National Sentenced to 46 Months for $36.9M Crypto Laundering Scheme

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U.S. Department of Justice

Chinese national Jingliang Su was sentenced today to 46 months in prison for his role in laundering more than $36.9 million from victims in a digital asset investment conspiracy that was carried out from scam centers in Cambodia. The court also ordered Su to pay $26,867,242.44 in restitution. Su pleaded guilty in June 2025 to one count of conspiracy to operate an illegal money transmitting business.

“This defendant and his co-conspirators scammed 174 Americans out of their hard-earned money,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “In the digital age, criminals have found new ways to weaponize the internet for fraud. The Criminal Division and its law enforcement partners have continued to evolve and caught large-scale scammers, who target people through their phones, social media, and fake internet sites, steal from them, and then move their money through cryptocurrency and wire transfers outside of the United States.”

“New investment opportunities may sound intriguing, but they have a dark side: attracting criminals who, in this case, stole then laundered tens of millions of dollars from their victims,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California. “I thank our law enforcement partners for their efforts at bringing this defendant to justice and I encourage the investing public to be cautious. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

According to court documents, Su was part of an international criminal network that induced U.S. victims to transfer funds to accounts controlled by co-conspirators, who then laundered victim money through U.S. shell companies, international bank accounts, and digital asset wallets. The cycle of the scheme began when overseas co-conspirators contacted U.S. victims via unsolicited social media interactions, telephone calls, text messages, and online dating services to gain the victims’ trust. The co-conspirators promoted fraudulent digital asset investments to the victims. The co-conspirators created fake websites that resembled real cryptocurrency trading platforms and convinced victims to send funds through the fake websites for investments. 

The scammers would then tell the victims that their investments were appreciating in value when, in fact, the scammers had stolen the victims’ money. More than $36.9 million in victim funds were transferred from U.S. bank accounts controlled by the co-conspirators to a single account at Deltec Bank in the Bahamas. Su and other co-conspirators directed Deltec Bank to convert victim funds to the stablecoin Tether (USDT) and to transfer the converted funds to a digital asset wallet controlled in Cambodia. From there, co-conspirators in Cambodia transferred the USDT to the leaders of scam centers throughout the region. Ultimately, the government was able to identify 174 U.S. victims.

Eight co-conspirators have pleaded guilty so far, including Jose Somarriba and ShengSheng He. He and Somarriba each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business and were sentenced to 51 months and 36 months in prison, respectively.

U.S. Secret Service’s Global Investigative Operations Center is investigating the case. Homeland Security Investigations’ El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center, U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Dominican National Police, and U.S. Marshals Service provided valuable assistance.

Trial Attorney Stefanie Schwartz of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS), Trial Attorney Tamara Livshiz of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maxwell Coll, Alexander Gorin, and Nisha Chandran for the Central District of California prosecuted the case.

The sentencing is the latest outcome of the Criminal Division’s continuing work to investigate, disrupt, and bring to justice individuals facilitating scam center operations worldwide, in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country. In combating scam centers, the Criminal Division draws on its expertise in countering cybercrime, cryptocurrency fraud, money laundering, human trafficking, and transnational organized crime. By seizing and forfeiting crime-linked cryptocurrency, dismantling digital infrastructure used by the scammers to target U.S. citizens, and disrupting domestic and international money laundering networks, the Criminal Division and its partners will cut off access to victim proceeds and tools that enable the fraud. As international relationships are critical to address this growing threat, the Criminal Division will draw on its network of International Computer Hacking and Intellectual Property prosecutors (ICHIPs) who are strategically posted throughout the world to coordinate with foreign law enforcement partners.

CCIPS investigates and prosecutes cybercrime in coordination with domestic and international law enforcement agencies, often with assistance from the private sector. Since 2020, CCIPS has secured the conviction of over 180 cybercriminals and court orders for the return of over $350 million in victim funds.

If you or someone you know is a victim of a digital asset investment fraud, report it to IC3.gov. 

Updated January 27, 2026

Felon Caught with Multiple Weapons After Fleeing Police Receives 120-Month Sentence

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Felon Caught with Multiple Weapons After Fleeing Police Receives 120-Month Sentence
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Guerrero to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. Image for illustration purposes
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Guerrero to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 38-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been ordered to federal prison for possession of a firearm.

Ramsey Guerrero pleaded guilty Oct. 23, 2025.

U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Guerrero to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard about Guerrero’s flight from law enforcement during a traffic stop and his resistance to arrest on a separate occasion while facing active warrants. In handing down the sentence, Judge Ramos cited Ramos’ lengthy criminal history, including three prior state convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

On June 10, 2025, authorities conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle Guerrero was driving. They noticed the odor of marijuana and requested to search the car. Guerrero refused, fled the scene and eventually crashed his vehicle into a field near the highway before escaping on foot. Inside the car, authorities found two pistols, a rifle and a shotgun, as well as nearly 300 rounds of ammunition, a full set of body armor, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Law enforcement eventually located Guerrero as the passenger in a parked car and attempted to arrest him based on his active warrants. When officers approached, he resisted, and authorities discovered Guerrero had another loaded firearm located directly beneath his seat.

As a convicted felon, Guerrero is prohibited from possessing firearms per federal law.

He has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of U.S. Marshals Service and Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Martin prosecuted the case.

Updated January 27, 2026

Edinburg Police Investigate Injury to One‑Year‑Old at Local Daycare

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Edinburg Police Investigate Injury to One‑Year‑Old at Local Daycare
Brenda Rae Perez was arrested and charged with Injury to a Child, a third-degree felony. Bond was set at $50,000. Image courtesy of the City of Edinburg

Texas Border Business

On January 23, 2026, the Edinburg Police Department received a complaint alleging injury to a one-year-old child. The child was dropped off on January 20, 2026, at a daycare located in the 5500 block of S. Sugar Road.  After picking up her son, the mother reportedly noticed visible injuries on the child’s body, including the backs of his legs and under his chin. 

Detectives later identified the child’s caretaker as 45-year-old Brenda Rae Perez of Edinburg, Texas. Surveillance video from January 20, 2026, showed Perez acting aggressively toward the child and striking him in the face at least once. 

Perez was arrested and charged with Injury to a Child, a third-degree felony. Bond was set at $50,000. 

Information source: The City of Edinburg

Winter Storm Fern Causes Major Agricultural Damage; TDA Mobilizes Relief Efforts

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Winter Storm Fern Causes Major Agricultural Damage; TDA Mobilizes Relief Efforts
Severe winter conditions across Texas have caused extensive agricultural damage, including barn collapses, fencing failures, feed losses, and other critical infrastructure impacts. Image for illustration purposes
Severe winter conditions across Texas have caused extensive agricultural damage, including barn collapses, fencing failures, feed losses, and other critical infrastructure impacts. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced that the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has activated relief efforts to assist producers, ranchers, and agribusinesses affected by Winter Storm Fern. Miller is also urging Texans and organizations statewide to support recovery efforts through donations to the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund.

Severe winter conditions across Texas have caused extensive agricultural damage, including barn collapses, fencing failures, feed losses, and other critical infrastructure impacts.

“Texas always steps up when neighbors are in need—from hurricanes to wildfires, from floods to winter storms,” said Commissioner Miller. “I’m calling on individuals, businesses, and organizations across the Lone Star State to contribute to the STAR Fund so we can help those who feed, clothe, and sustain our communities.”

In response to the disaster, TDA has activated several key programs to support both producers and rural communities:

AgriStress Helpline

  • The AgriStress Helpline provides 24/7 confidential mental health support from professionals trained to assist those living and working in rural areas.
  • “Mental health is just as important as physical recovery,” Commissioner Miller emphasized. “Producers should not hesitate to reach out if they or a loved one need help.”
  • Call the AgriStress Helpline at 833-897-2474 for immediate assistance.

Hay and Feed Hotline

  • TDA’s Hay Hotline connects ranchers in need with hay and feed providers—including those offering donations during emergencies.
  • This free resource supports livestock producers in securing feed and supplies crucial to their operations.

STAR Fund (State of Texas Agriculture Relief Fund)

  • The STAR Fund, supported entirely by private donations, provides financial assistance for rebuilding and recovery to eligible farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses in counties included in the Governor’s disaster declaration.
  • Donations are tax-deductible and can be made securely through the Texas Department of Agriculture’s website.
  • Full eligibility criteria and application details are available on the TDA STAR Fund website.

How to Help and Apply

  • To apply for assistance or donate to the STAR Fund, visit here.
  • For information on the Hay and Feed Hotline, visit here.
  • For help through the AgriStress Helpline, visit here.

Youth Volunteers Plant 300 Trees toHelp Bring New Life to San Carlos Community Forest

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Youth Volunteers Plant 300 Trees toHelp Bring New Life to San Carlos Community Forest
Hidalgo County Commissioner Ellie Torres plant a tree with a youth volunteer at the San Carlos Community Forest. Courtesy image
Hidalgo County Commissioner Ellie Torres plants a tree with a youth volunteer at the San Carlos Community Forest. Courtesy image

Texas Border Business

EDINBURG, Texas – Hidalgo County Commissioner Ellie Torres and Precinct 4 in partnership with American Forests, successfully hosted a community tree planting event focused on restoring the local environment and promoting long-term sustainability.

The event took place north of the Precinct 4 Endowment Center, with planting efforts carried out at the San Carlos Community Forest, where volunteers worked together to enhance green space and support biodiversity in the area.

Check out the gallery below for more images of the event: All ottos courtesy of Hidalgo County Precinct 4:

The goals of the event were to showcase the shared mission between American Forests and Hidalgo County Precinct 4 to restore the natural environment, highlight the benefits of reforestation in the Rio Grande Valley, and create lasting environmental impact through hands-on community involvement.

During the event, 300 native plants from 14 native thornforest species were planted into pre-augered holes to establish a pollinator garden designed to support local wildlife, improve habitat, and strengthen the region’s ecosystem.

Approximately 30 to 35 young volunteers participated from the Boys & Girls Club of Edinburg demonstrating strong community engagement and collaboration.

“This planting represents an investment in our environment and our future,” said Commissioner Ellie Torres. “By working with American Forests and engaging our community, especially our youth, we are creating sustainable green spaces that will benefit generations to come.”

“Projects like this show the power of partnership and community action,” said Jon Dale, American Forests, Senior Director of Texas, Mexico & Pacific Islands.“By restoring native thornforest species and creating pollinator habitats, we are helping strengthen local ecosystems while empowering the next generation to be stewards of the environment.”

The event underscores the continued partnership between American Forests and Hidalgo County Precinct 4 to promote environmental stewardship and build healthier, more resilient communities.

New Leadership Aims to Inspire Future Psychologists at STC

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New Leadership Aims to Inspire Future Psychologists at STC
With more than 15 years of service, dedication and leadership in the classroom, Assistant Professor Paul Gonzalez, Ph.D., will bring his experience and vision to a new role as Chair of South Texas College’s Department of Psychological Science. STC image
With more than 15 years of service, dedication and leadership in the classroom, Assistant Professor Paul Gonzalez, Ph.D., will bring his experience and vision to a new role as Chair of South Texas College’s Department of Psychological Science. STC image

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By Veronica Salinas

With more than 15 years of service, dedication and leadership in the classroom, Assistant Professor Paul Gonzalez, Ph.D., will bring his experience and vision to a new role as Chair of South Texas College’s Department of Psychological Science.

Gonzalez began his career at STC in 2010 as a lecturer and has since become an integral part of the Psychological Science Department, serving twice as assistant chair. 

A native of the Rio Grande Valley, he earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas–Pan American (UTPA) before completing his doctorate in Clinical Psychology at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. His background in clinical psychology has fueled his passion for teaching and mentoring students.

“It’s very rewarding working with students as opposed to doing clinical work because there is a lot more interaction and you can see the effects of your work right away,” he said. “You can also have a bigger impact because when people are younger, they’re still figuring out what to do. I found teaching a lot more rewarding than anything else.”

Throughout his tenure, Gonzalez has played a pivotal role in enhancing student engagement. Alongside faculty members Liza Veliz and Carlo Gonzalez, he cofounded the Psychology Club to give students a platform to connect with their peers and explore the field. He is also actively involved in the Psi Beta National Honor Society for Psychology, serving as Regional Vice President and sitting on the National Council.

Liza Veliz, assistant professor of Psychological Science, expressed her confidence in Gonzalez’s leadership.

“With a deep understanding of the human mind and a passion for teaching, Paul Gonzalez empowers students not only to learn psychology, but to thrive through it—fostering critical thinking, scientific curiosity and a lasting drive for personal and academic success,” she said. “As he transitions into the role of Chair of the Department of Psychological Science, I’m confident he will lead with insight and integrity—fostering a dynamic learning environment where both faculty and students can achieve their highest potential.”

Gonzalez expressed deep gratitude for the trust and confidence his colleagues placed in him when they voted him into the chair position. Their support reinforces his commitment to serving the department with dedication and integrity. 

“It’s always nice when faculty have faith that you will do a good job,” he said. “I see myself as a caretaker of the program, an advocate for the faculty and someone who can address the needs of our students. I want to provide stability and predictability for everyone.”

In addition to his administrative vision, Gonzalez hopes students gain a deeper appreciation for psychology’s broad applications.

“The nice thing about teaching psychology is that even if you don’t acknowledge it, it’s a part of everyone’s life,” he said. “You don’t have to major in Psychology to benefit from it. The field teaches students to think scientifically, analyze critically and question what they know. These skills are valuable in any career.”

Gonzalez credits his passion for teaching and mentorship to the transformative experiences he had as an undergraduate student. He recalls how one professor challenged him to think in new ways and encouraged him to push beyond his perceived limits. 

“One of my professors opened my mind in ways it had never been opened before, and that person immediately became my mentor,” he said. “Mentoring is something we as professors can do to inspire the next generation and open up a world of possibilities they never considered.”

As department chair, Gonzalez remains committed to supporting both faculty and students while continuing to advance the STC Psychological Science program.

For more information on STC’s Psychological Science program, visit: https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/psychology/. 

Information source: STC

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