Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
For South Texas College (STC) Mid-Valley Campus Student Activities Specialist Jose Peña, STC has always been more than a workplace, it’s been a second home.
A first-generation college student and U.S. Army veteran, Peña’s journey with STC began in 1998 at the Starr County Campus shortly after serving six years in the military as an X-Ray Technician.
“I didn’t think there was much opportunity for me education-wise after I graduated high school and felt the military was my only way of succeeding,” he said. “When I got out of the Army, I bought a computer for college and was intimidated. I faced my fear because I had no choice and that led me to falling in love with computers. I wanted to know more.”
Determined to succeed, Peña leaned into the support systems available on campus. Afraid of not passing his classes, he frequently visited the Center for Learning Excellence (CLE), so often that he was eventually offered a work-study position.
Peña earned his associate degree in Computer and Information Technologies from STC before transferring to the University of Texas-Pan American (now the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley,) where he completed a bachelor’s degree in Applied Technology in Computer Information Systems Technology.
“What I learned at STC allowed for a smooth transition into university,” he said. “I felt ready. STC laid the foundation for my success. Being in smaller classes made it more personal and allowed me to learn more. The students who transferred with me from STC were some of the best in the class because of what we were taught.”
Shortly after graduation, Peña was hired at STC as a Student Activities Specialist at the Starr County Campus. This was a full circle beginning for someone who once walked campus as a student unsure of his future.
Over the years, Peña has served in multiple roles across several campuses, including the Technology, Health Science Professions and Pecan, where he was promoted to First Year Experience coordinator. He also served as coordinator for Veteran’s Affairs before leaving the college in 2021 to pursue another career opportunity.
In 2025, Peña returned to STC and is now stationed at the Mid-Valley Campus as a student activities specialist
“I feel like I have the coolest job of all,” he said. “I have the opportunity to work with some of the best students.
In his role, Peña oversees new student orientation, student activities and events, Intramural Sports, the campus food pantry and game room. He also serves as an advisor for the Student Government Association (SGA) and supports the Student Leadership Academy, all initiatives designed to foster connection and belonging at STC
“Ever since I was a student, I always felt like STC was my home away from home,” he said. “If it wasn’t for friendly students, faculty and staff who helped me when I looked lost, I wouldn’t be here. Despite being a college with over six campuses, we make everyone feel like they are part of a community.
Research underscores the importance of the work Peña leads. According to a 2025 study, higher student engagement is directly linked to improved college success rates, with highly engaged students up to 38% more likely to graduate. First-time-in-college students involved in four or more activities can see success rates rise to as high as 92–93%.
“We are always getting feedback from students to make each event better than the last,” he said. “When students feel heard and see themselves reflected in campus activities, they’re more likely to get involved and that involvement can make all the difference in their success.”
For Peña, the driving force behind his work goes far beyond a job title. It is rooted in personal experience. Having once been a student searching for direction and support, he understands firsthand how meaningful connection, encouragement and involvement can shape a student’s confidence and future. That perspective fuels his commitment to creating opportunities where students feel seen, supported and empowered to succeed.
“What motivates me to serve students is that when I see a student, I see myself,” he said. “I want to give back and guide students the way people here at STC once guided me.”
Through his journey from student to veteran to campus leader, Peña embodies the power of opportunity, engagement and community.
Information source: STC
