Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
For Melissa Renner, South Texas College has become more than a place of employment, it is a second home.
Over the years, her connection with the college has grown deeper, with a story of dedication, achievement and family legacy that spans multiple generations.
Renner’s journey at STC began in 2012, when she earned her associate degree in Social Work. Driven by a passion for education and wanting to make a difference, she pursued a higher education further, completing both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in the same field.
It wasn’t just the quality education that brought Renner to STC, it was the college’s mission, values and community spirit that truly called her.
“Once I started my college journey, I quickly discovered that I genuinely enjoyed being in an academic environment,” Renner said. “I realized early on that higher education was something I truly loved. I knew I wanted to be part of an institution where I could contribute to that same positive experience for others. That’s why working at South Texas College felt like the perfect fit. It combined my personal passion with a professional purpose.”
Shortly after receiving her bachelor’s degree, she got her first job at STC and started as the executive administrative assistant for Information Services, Planning, Performance & Strategic Initiatives (ISPP&SI). From there, she grew in her career and landed in her current role as manager for Academic Affairs and Economic Development.
“Working at STC has shown me that the initiatives we are working on can directly affect our students,” she said. “To me, that’s the goal. When we work on projects or policies, I know we are helping students achieve their goals and that makes everything feel more meaningful.”
Renner’s journey at STC extends far beyond her professional accomplishments. STC is a vital part of the Renner family story. It is part of a deeply-rooted family legacy that continues to evolve.
Her husband is also currently attending the college and is in the Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational Leadership (BASOL), working towards advancing his career.
The family’s connection with the college extends to their children as well.
Her oldest daughter graduated from STC with an associate degree, while her youngest is currently registered and will be attending for the upcoming Fall semester.
Her son, Gabriel Renner, was a member of the STC drumline and his passion for music and discipline in percussion led him to make history in the Rio Grande Valley. He was the first student from the region to be named Percussive Arts Society International Champion (PASIC) in 2023 at just 19-years-old.
As for what keeps Renner and her family so connected to STC: the people.
“Not only are our faculty amazing, the staff is second to none,” she said. “I enjoy coming to work everyday and working towards a common goal with everyone. The sense of community and support is what truly makes STC stand out. I have never worked anywhere better.”
