Texas Border Business
By Selene Rodriguez
Just over a year after graduating from South Texas College’s Police Academy, Juan Alaniz III is already making a significant impact at the Roma Police Department.
A 22-year-old Starr County native, Alaniz is driven by a deep sense of duty to protect his community, following in the footsteps of his father, a longtime law enforcement officer, and dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of his hometown.
“This is a tough job. You never know what you’re going to encounter, but when you’re heading to that call, facing the unknown, you do it without hesitation because you love the people you’re defending,” he shared. “Roma is a close-knit community where everyone knows each other, and growing up here, it’s easy to spot when something’s out of the ordinary. What I love most about this job is the opportunity to make a real difference in my own community.”
Originally aspiring to become a medical professional, Alaniz’s desire to serve his community traces back to his high school days. In 2020, as a dual credit student, he graduated with an associate degree from STC before receiving his diploma from Roma High School.
He then continued his academic journey at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he earned his bachelor degree in Biology in 2023.
“Growing up, I watched my dad serve with the Roma Police Department, where he has now been for 24 years, and I never imagined this would become my path,” he shared. “But during my time at UTSA, I had the opportunity to intern with the San Antonio Police Department, and it completely changed my perspective. I came to truly understand the purpose of policing and the rewarding feeling of helping someone in need.”
After exploring his options and applying to state and federal agencies, he ultimately chose to return to the Rio Grande Valley and enroll in STC’s Police Academy at the Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence in Pharr in fall 2023.
“I had a wonderful experience at STC, and I knew it would be the best place for me to step into this career. After living away from home for a couple of years, I was eager to come back and STC felt like home,” he said. “More importantly, I knew that when you go to STC, they make sure you succeed, they provide all the support you need.”
As part of STC’s 32nd Police Academy, Alaniz completed a rigorous and intensive 21-week program designed to equip aspiring peace officers with a combination of legal education and hands-on skills, enabling them to earn their state certification and begin their careers immediately.
Just a few months after graduating from the academy in December 2023, Alaniz joined the Roma Police Department, taking the next step in his law enforcement career.
That was the same year STC achieved a 100% job placement rate for all its graduates.
“Alaniz is a cadet I will never forget, because of his curiosity and engagement through thoughtful questions and conversations. I am proud to see that he is doing an amazing job as an officer,” said Jennifer Rosillo, STC faculty member and Alaniz’s former instructor. “I know he wears his uniform with pride and is giving back to his community by protecting and serving just as he said he would when he started the academy. I am so proud of him because his heart truly is in law enforcement.”
After nearly a year of working alongside his father, Alaniz takes immense pride in his role within the community. He doesn’t shy away from the unique challenges of patrolling a border city, challenges that have not only shaped his perspective, but also opened valuable opportunities for collaboration with state and federal agencies.
“When I was a kid, I never fully appreciated the sacrifices my dad made, risking his life for others. Now, I have immense admiration for him and everything he’s done to keep our community safe. Roma and Starr County may be small, but they are full of endless possibilities,” he said. “There’s a clear need for more public safety professionals, but the beauty of our region is how all agencies, whether local, state or federal, work together, united by the same vision of protecting people.”
Looking ahead, he’s eager to continue making a difference, with a strong desire to explore more areas of law enforcement and expand his ability to help others.
“My time at the academy was intense. You’re pushed to your limits mentally, physically and emotionally. It demands passion, dedication and a willingness to face challenges head-on,” he explained. “But it’s just a glimpse of what you face in the field. As an officer, you need to be mentally prepared for the challenges ahead. You need to be ready to take on that responsibility and know exactly what to do. I can say with 100% certainty that STC helped me reach that level.”
STC’s Police Academy is offered in Pharr, Weslaco and now Starr County. For more information on how to apply, visit southtexascollege.edu/academics/law-enforcement/academy.html or call 956-872-4208.
