David Barker. Image: Linguisticgeek, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Texas Border Business
U.S. Department of Education
The U.S. Department of Education celebrated President Trump’s nomination of David Barker to be Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education. As Assistant Secretary, Dr. Barker will work to improve outcomes and accountability in postsecondary education, including by helping to lead reforms to accreditation, improving federal student aid programs, and ensuring its grant programs are invested in agency priorities.
David Barker – Office of Postsecondary Education
David Barker is a sixth-generation Iowan with deep experience in higher education policy and governance. He holds a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Chicago and has taught economics at both the University of Chicago and the University of Iowa. For the past six years, he has served on the Iowa Board of Regents, which oversees the state’s public universities. During his tenure, he has played a key role in advancing cost control measures, promoting academic freedom, and ending discriminatory DEI programs.
“Sixth generation Iowan David Barker has a proven 40-year track record as a successful entrepreneur and led the fight on the Iowa Board of Regents to undo restrictive COVID-19 mandates on students. He is a great pick by President Trump to serve as Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education.” – Joni Ernst, U.S. Senator for Iowa
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) hosted the inaugural National Top Trooper Competition at the DPS Tactical Training Facility in Florence. Photo: Texas DPS
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) hosted the inaugural National Top Trooper Competition at the DPS Tactical Training Facility in Florence. Designed to showcase the highest levels of law enforcement excellence, the event brought together Top Troopers from across the country for a week of collaboration, competition and training. Male Trooper Michael Brown from Oklahoma Highway Patrol and female Lindsey Rumenapp from New York State Police earned the title of 2025 National Top Troopers, receiving a custom-made belt buckle from Andrews, Texas, and bragging rights for the next year.
The National Top Trooper saw competitors from 15 states, including: Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Louisiana, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Maryland and Tennessee. Corporal Kip Staton of Tyler, who won the Texas Top Trooper competition last month, and Trooper Aundrea Powell of Port Lavaca, who was the female alternate in the Texas Top Trooper competition, represented the Lone Star State.
“It was our privilege to host law enforcement agencies from across the nation and showcase the exceptional talent within our profession,” said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “Events like this help strengthen the relationship and communication between agencies, which is critical when we’re called to respond together during natural disasters or large-scale emergencies. The partnerships built here one day could save lives.”
The National Top Trooper Competition is a rigorous three-day event designed to test the full scope of a Trooper’s operational readiness. Participants compete in nine events that evaluate physical fitness, mental resilience, tactical proficiency and overall job knowledge. In addition to the competitive challenges, Troopers must appear before an interview board, where they are assessed on professionalism, communication skills and critical thinking. Core components of the competition include advanced driving scenarios, physical fitness and marksmanship with all department-issued weapon systems, ensuring each competitor demonstrates mastery in essential law enforcement skills.
As a symbol of strength, resilience and warrior spirit, each participant in this year’s National Top Trooper Competition received a Spartan Sword, reflecting the event’s chosen theme. The sword reflects more than just victory— it embodies the discipline, honor and unwavering commitment required of those who wear the badge.
“This year’s theme serves as a powerful reminder that every Trooper, like a Spartan, must be ready to stand strong in defense of others,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “Being out here alongside these Troopers, watching them push their limits and represent law enforcement across the country—it’s a powerful reminder of the grit, heart and professionalism that defines this job.”
In addition to the competition, Troopers also received Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC)training from Texas DPS instructors. This internationally recognized program equips law enforcement personnel with the tools to identify indicators that a child is a victim or at risk of becoming a victim—including children who are missing, exploited at-risk or endangered. Providing this training during the competition highlights its importance and ensures more law enforcement agencies across the country are better prepared to remove children from dangerous situations.
Photos of the inaugural National Top Trooper Competition including winner photos are available here.
Dean Senator Judith Zaffirini prepares to present legislation in the Senate chamber during the 89thRegular Session of the Texas Legislature. Photo Credit: Texas Senate Media Services
Texas Border Business
Austin, TX – With less than a month remaining in Texas’ 89th Legislative Session, Dean Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, is successfully advancing dozens of Senate and House bills through the legislative process. As of Friday (May 9) the Senate had passed 62 of her bills, 8 of which also were passed by the House of Representatives and sent to Gov. Greg Abbott for his consideration.
“We’ve made great progress, but our work is far from over,” Dean Senator Zaffirini said. “With the session’s final weeks ahead, I remain focused on delivering results for the families of Senate District 21 and all Texans.”
She has passed 1,388 bills, more than any legislator in the history of the State of Texas, and holds a state and national record of having cast more than 74,000 consecutive votes. This session Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick appointed her to the Senate Committees on Business and Commerce; Finance; State Affairs; and Natural Resources, of which she is Vice Chair.
She also is Lt. Gov. Patrick’s appointee to the Texas Judicial Council and the Texas Access to Justice Commission.
Of those, the following were passed by both chambers:
SB 65 would allow counties with populations of more than 265,000 to adopt uniform work hours for county employees.
SB 72 would give rental car customers the option to purchase a single damage waiver for up to 180 days, aligning rental contract terms across Texas law.
SB 703 would strengthen licensure restrictions for massage therapists by making indecent assault an automatic disqualification.
SB 1532 would streamline state water finance reporting by eliminating outdated online posting requirements for the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas program.
SB 1568 would promote spay and neuter programs by creating a redesigned license plate with the message “Spay. Neuter. Adopt.” to increase public awareness and participation.
SB 1619 would expand access to life-saving allergy medication by letting schools stock nasal sprays and other new delivery devices, not only EpiPens.
SB 1697 would improve transparency for home rooftop solar energy devices by requiring electric providers to share a standardized customer guide.
SB 2077 would make it easier to appoint qualified persons to the Texas Mutual Insurance Board by updating outdated conflict-of-interest rules.
What’s more, the following House Bills (HBs) and House Concurrent Resolutions (HCRs) sponsored by Dean Senator Zaffirini were passed by the Senate and House of Representatives:
HB 2763 would rename the Texas Department of Transportation building in Starr County to the Eduardo “Eddie” Gracia, Jr., P.E., Area Engineer and Maintenance Facility.
HB 3135 would allow the issuance of specialty license plates for retired firefighters.
HCR 29 would designate April as Counseling Awareness Month for 10 years.
HCR 70 would redesignate Jim Hogg County as the official Vaquero Capital of Texas for 10 years.
HCR 71 would designate La Salle County as the official Wild Hog Capital of Texas for 10 years.
Dean Senator Zaffirini made history as the first woman Dean of the Senate on Dec. 31, 2023. She succeeds 24 men who held the title since 1909, when it was first assigned to the longest-serving senator. The seventh of only 25 women who have served with 954 male senators in 89 Texas Legislatures, she and Eddie Bernice Johnson joined Cyndi Krier in 1987, marking the first time more than one woman served in the 31-member body. Today there are eight women senators.
Dean Senator Zaffirini also is the namesake of Webb County’s Justice Center, the first state courthouse named for a woman; the student success center at Texas A&M International University; a UISD elementary school; a library at Laredo College; a City of Laredo park; a state park road and soccer mini-pitch in Laredo; a patient suite at the UT Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin; four endowed scholarships; and two grant programs, including the Access to Justice Initiative at the UT Law School.
The Monitor’s current headquarters at 1400 East Nolana Loop in McAllen is a prominent commercial property in one of the city’s fastest-growing corridors. Image courtesy The Monitor
Texas Border Business
AIM Media Texas, the parent company of The Monitor, has announced its intention to sell its real estate property at 1400 East Nolana Loop in McAllen, Texas, to The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). The property is in one of the most economically dynamic cities in the Rio Grande Valley.
The University of Texas System Board of Regents formally authorized UTRGV to pursue the purchase during its meeting on May 8, 2025. However, the transaction remains contingent upon the completion of feasibility studies and the execution of a final sale contract between both parties.
Stephan Wingert, Regional Vice President and Publisher at AIM Media Texas, stated that the company’s operational needs have evolved since moving into the current location in January 2004. “Changes in technology allow us to work differently than in the past; we simply don’t need as much space,” Wingert said.
Though the relocation process is in its early stages, AIM Media Texas has affirmed its continued commitment to its print and digital audience. The company plans to maintain its journalistic operations and advertising services during the transition.
Wingert emphasized the significance of the property’s future use, expressing support for its potential role in furthering higher education in the region. “The Monitor has been a part of this community for well over 100 years and continues to be a strong pillar within the community,” he said. “I can’t think of a better use for the Nolana property than in the support of higher education in the Rio Grande Valley through UTRGV.”
AIM Media Texas, LLC was established in 2012 by Jeremy L. Halbreich and Rick Starks to acquire print and digital publishing assets in the Rio Grande Valley and Odessa from Freedom Communications. Its media portfolio includes The Monitor, Valley Morning Star, The Brownsville Herald, Odessa American, and other publications and websites serving South Texas.
The 1400 East Nolana Loop property is among the most valuable in McAllen, reflecting the area’s continued economic growth. UTRGV’s potential acquisition signals ongoing investment in regional education infrastructure and development.
Growing up in Reynosa as the second of four children, Arriaga, 24, said she embraced her role as a mentor to two younger siblings who saw her become the first woman in her family to graduate high school and who will now witness her walk across the stage to receive a college degree at STC’s commencement ceremonies. STC image
Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas –Britney Arriaga is building a path to fulfill her dreams.
Now that she is set to receive an associate degree in Construction Supervision from South Texas College, Arriaga said she hopes to use her new skills to build her mother the home she always wanted.
Growing up in Reynosa as the second of four children, Arriaga, 24, said she embraced her role as a mentor to two younger siblings who saw her become the first woman in her family to graduate high school and who will now witness her walk across the stage to receive a college degree at STC’s commencement ceremonies
Now Arriaga said the first home she hopes to build after graduation will go to her mother.
“Growing up we moved all over and we never had a place to call home even though my mom worked hard all her life,” Arriaga said. “I know there are a lot of families with single mothers out there who want to provide a house for their kids, but in my case, I want to use what I have learned at STC to provide a home for her because of all she has done for us.”
Arriaga said her inspiration for entering the construction industry came from her stepfather, a construction worker.
Arriaga said she grew up listening to him talk about his experience on various job sites, which piqued her interest in the industry.
“My stepfather worked in concrete so he would talk a lot about foundation and structural issues which got me even more interested in the construction field,” Arriaga said. “After looking into the industry, I then realized that there are women in this field, and more importantly there are many who are in supervisor positions making a difference. It’s beautiful honestly. I began to motivate myself saying ‘Why not me?’ and I just went for it.”
Starting at STC in 2022, Arriaga said it was the faculty at STC that not only encouraged her to stay motivated, but they gave her the proper skills and networking opportunities to succeed in a male-dominated industry.
“The faculty here in the Construction Supervision program, encouraged me to go for it and I never looked back,” Arriaga said. “I realize the industry is male-dominated and my classes were full of guys, so I was intimidated at first, but the program is built to go beyond that. I visited job sites as part of the class, and we all learned what it meant to be a part of the construction process regardless of gender.”
Arriaga will be among the 3,715 students receiving their certificates or degrees during five ceremonies at the Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg.
“I’m excited to enter the field,” Arriaga said. “I want to be out there already and to gain experience. Most importantly I want to let every company I apply to know that this is where I come from, and this is what I can do.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialists assigned to the Paso Del Norte international crossing seized 25 large rolls of prohibited pork bologna, two packages of pork ham, and 16 rolls of pork chorizo on May 8. USCBP image
Texas Border Business
EL PASO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialists assigned to the Paso Del Norte international crossing seized 25 large rolls of prohibited pork bologna, two packages of pork ham, and 16 rolls of pork chorizo on May 8.
The discovery was made just before 8 p.m. when a 61-year-old male driving a 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented himself for inspection via the vehicle lanes at the port. After obtaining a negative declaration for fruits, vegetables, and meat products, a CBP officer at the primary booth spotted multiple rolls of meat under the floor mats.
USCBP image
The driver was referred for a secondary agriculture inspection. During the secondary exam, CBP Agriculture Specialists located 275 pounds of bologna, 17.6 pounds of pork ham, and seven pounds of pork chorizo hidden in various locations in the vehicle. The prohibited pork products were seized and destroyed by CBP per U.S. Department of Agriculture regulations.
The seizure marks the second time the individual was caught attempting to smuggle pork bologna from Mexico to the U.S. at the El Paso port of entry. The man was previously assessed a $1,000 penalty after CBP agriculture specialists discovered 30 rolls of bologna in the vehicle he was driving.
USCBP image
“It is important that members of the traveling public clearly understand that pork products have the potential to introduce foreign animal diseases to the U.S. The impact to the U.S. economy and to our agriculture industry could be devastating,” said CBP El Paso Director Field Operations Hector A. Mancha. “Travelers should not try to cross pork products from Mexico to the U.S. If they are unsure, it is best for travelers to declare any items acquired abroad to help CBP stop the introduction of potentially harmful products.”
USCBP Image
The smuggling case is being referred to USDA Investigative and Enforcement Services who enforce alleged violations related to animal and plant issues. CBP is also exploring civil penalties which may be applied.
The USDA and the Department of Homeland Security are partners in the effort to protect American agriculture against the introduction of pests and diseases at our nation’s ports of entry. Undeclared prohibited agriculture items will be confiscated and can result in a civil penalty for failure to declare.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Paso Del Norte international crossing in El Paso seized 113 grams of fentanyl May 7. The drugs were hidden in the vagina of a 40-year-old female U.S. citizen pedestrian border crosser. USCBP image
Texas Border Business
EL PASO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Paso Del Norte international crossing in El Paso seized 113 grams of fentanyl May 7. The drugs were hidden in the vagina of a 40-year-old female U.S. citizen pedestrian border crosser.
“This is an exceptionally dangerous practice and could be lethal if the packaging were to fail during transport,” said CBP El Paso Port Director Ray Provencio. “It is best to not engage in smuggling activity, but especially this form. It is risky on many levels.”
The events leading to the PDN seizure began just before a.m. when CBP officers selected the woman for a secondary exam. During the inspection, the woman told CBP officers she had a foreign object concealed in her body.
The woman was transported to a medical facility for an exam which confirmed the presence of an object internally concealed. Medical staff successfully removed the drug-filled package. No additional anomalies were spotted during a subsequent exam.
The woman was returned to the port of entry where she was arrested and turned over to Homeland Security Investigations special agents to face federal charges associated with the failed smuggling attempt.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing patrols statewide as part of its annual All-American enforcement campaign ahead of the Memorial Day Holiday. From May 12 through May 26. Photo: Texas DPS
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is increasing patrols statewide as part of its annual All-American enforcement campaign ahead of the Memorial Day Holiday. From May 12 through May 26, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will focus on enforcing seatbelt laws and promoting safe driving behaviors to reduce crashes and save lives.
“Our top priority is saving lives on Texas roads,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “As Memorial Day approaches, we’re stepping up enforcement to ensure drivers are buckled up, attentive and following the law. These efforts help protect families and prevent tragedy.”
THP will increase enforcement as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort). Last year, during DPS’ 2024 All-American enforcement efforts, there were more than 122,361 citations and warnings issued. This included over 8,462 speeding violations; 601 seat belts; 2,752 violations for driving without insurance; and 579 felony and fugitive arrests.
To comply with Move Over or Slow Down, Texas law states that a driver must either:
Vacate the lane closest to the applicable vehicles stopped on the side of the road (if the road has multiple lanes traveling in the same direction) or
Slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit. (If the speed limit is below 25 mph, the driver must slow down to 5 mph)
Violations of the law result in a misdemeanor that is punishable by a fine of up to $1,250. Subsequent offences can increase fines, and if the offense results in bodily injury, the penalty can be up to a state jail felony.
DPS offers the following safety tips:
Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits using portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road. So far in 2025, there have been more than 4,485 Move Over, Slow Down violations.View Governor Greg Abbott’s Move Over or Slow Down PSA here.
Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you consume alcohol.
Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas
Remember to keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. You can always dial 1-800-525-5555 for any assistance when you’re traveling. That number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License.
On Wednesday, Governor Abbott shared photos on X, formerly known as Twitter, showing Texas National Guard soldiers continuing to install razor wire barriers near Eagle Pass. Photo: Office of The Governor
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Texas National Guard continue to work together with the Trump Administration to secure the border; stop the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into Texas; and prevent, detect, and interdict transnational criminal activity between ports of entry.
Since the launch of Operation Lone Star, the multi-agency effort has led to over 533,100 illegal immigrant apprehensions and more than 53,400 criminal arrests, with more than 45,100 felony charges. In the fight against the fentanyl crisis, Texas law enforcement has seized over 691 million lethal doses of fentanyl—enough to kill every man, woman, and child in the United States, Mexico, and Canada combined during this border mission.
Operation Lone Star continues working to undo the damage done by the Biden Administration. Every individual who is apprehended or arrested and every ounce of drugs seized would have otherwise made their way into communities across Texas and the nation due to open border policies.
On Wednesday, Governor Abbott shared photos on X, formerly known as Twitter, showing Texas National Guard soldiers continuing to install razor wire barriers near Eagle Pass.
Texas remains engaged, working closely with the Trump Administration to stop illegal immigration and keep America safe.
Earlier this week, Governor Abbott took to X to highlight Texas National Guard soldiers successfully turning back an illegal immigrant attempting to cross into Texas.
Since President Donald J. Trump took office, illegal border crossings have decreased by 99.99%. Texas will continue to partner with the federal government to secure the border.
On Monday, Governor Abbott showcased on X the critical work that Texas National Guard soldiers are doing alongside Border Patrol agents to secure the border.
Earlier this year, hundreds of Texas National Guard soldiers were deputized to assist Border Patrol to secure the southern border and stop illegal immigration and human smuggling.
Last week, a smuggler in a black Cadillac CT6 led DPS troopers on a high-speed pursuit on US-83 in Webb County. Attempting to flee the troopers, the smuggler, Angel Munoz, from Laredo, and six illegal immigrants bailed out of the vehicle and began evading on foot. During the foot pursuit, a private citizen assisted one of the DPS troopers in apprehending Munoz.
Munoz was arrested by DPS and charged with six counts of smuggling of persons and evading arrest. Six illegal immigrants, from Mexico, were located and referred to Border Patrol.
DPS Arrests Wanted Human Smuggler, Apprehends Four Illegal Immigrants In Webb County
Photo: Texas DPS
Last month, a smuggler in a Lincoln MKZ led DPS troopers on a high-speed pursuit on IH-35 in Webb County. The smuggler, Jason Espinoza, crashed into a vehicle and absconded by swimming across the Rio Grande River into Mexico. Four illegal immigrants who were inside Espinoza’s vehicle were referred to Border Patrol.
Twelve days later, on April 24, Espinoza was arrested at the Laredo port of entry attempting to cross back into the United States. He had four active warrants for smuggling of persons, evading arrest, reckless driving, and failure to stop and render aid.
Yesterday, DPS conducted a traffic stop on a red Chevrolet pickup in Webb County. With assistance from a Laredo Police Department K-9, a probable cause search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of 15 kilograms of cocaine. The male driver was arrested and charged with delivery or manufacture of a controlled substance. The cocaine has an estimated street value of nearly $400,000.
Texas National Guard Soldiers Train To Improve Tactical Readiness
Photo: Texas Military Department
Last week, more than 100 Texas National Guard soldiers participated in hands-on tactical training at South Texas College Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence.
This training provides soldiers critical experience in both simulation-based scenarios and weapon retention techniques to improve readiness and enhance tactical response capabilities. By reinforcing tactical proficiency, soldiers are better prepared to respond quickly and effectively to emerging homeland and border threats.
Texas National Guard soldiers continue to partner with Border Patrol agents by providing crucial manpower and support to secure the Texas-Mexico border.
Working out in Hidalgo County last week, Specialist Joshua Rendon with Task Force East details the coordinated efforts with Border Patrol agents to arrest criminals and stop illegal immigration attempts, from intelligence and information sharing to training and teaming up in the field.
“Being out on the field, sweating and putting in the work, doing what we have to chase people and detain people,” said Spc. Rendon. “I’m very confident in my ability and my training that I’ve received to deal with such situations. We’re out here, protecting the peace, doing what we can and upholding justice. You know what you’re doing out here is a good cause. You know what you’re doing out here is putting away bad people, putting away people who don’t follow the law.”
Jim and Kathy Collins. Photo by Roberto Hugo González
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
May 8, 2025—The 2025 Border Texan of the Year Gala was held on Thursday, May 8, in McAllen, Texas. It served as the official opening event for MXLAN, a festival that celebrates the culture, creativity, and spirit of South Texas. This year’s honorees, Jim and Kathy Collins, were recognized for their decades of leadership, philanthropy, and service across the Rio Grande Valley.
Jim and Kathy Collins are flanked by past Border Texan honorees, from left to right: Dr. Guy Bailey, U.S. District Judge Ricardo Hinojosa, former Senator Eddie Lucio Jr., and John David Franz. Photo by Roberto Hugo González
The event brought together elected officials, civic leaders, and community members to honor the couple and support regional nonprofits. Proceeds from the gala benefited the Performing & Cultural Arts Foundation, Vannie Cook Cancer Foundation, Quinta Mazatlán, South Texas College Foundation, and the UTRGV Foundation. More than $100,000 was raised to support local initiatives.
The evening began with an invocation by Sister Norma Pimentel, followed by a welcome address from McAllen City Manager Isaac Tawil. Tawil described the honorees as “trailblazers” and emphasized their impact on economic development, education, and cultural enrichment in South Texas. He also noted that this year’s gala marked a new chapter by aligning the event with the MXLAN Festival, highlighting the region’s cultural legacy under the theme: “They are the roots, we are the flowers.”
Family and friends gather around Jim and Kathy Collins to celebrate their recognition as 2025 Border Texans of the Year.Photo by Roberto Hugo González
John David Franz, co-chair of the Border Texan Committee and a former honoree himself, shared the historical origins of the Border Texan of the Year recognition, tracing it back to the 1976 Fiesta Fronteriza celebration in Hidalgo, Texas. He honored the late Joe Vera—one of the event’s founders and a longtime public servant—whose vision helped shape both Border Fest and the Border Texan of the Year tradition. A scholarship in Vera’s memory was announced during the evening.
McAllen City Commissioner Victor Haddad presented a formal proclamation declaring May 8, 2025, as “Jim and Kathy Collins Day” in the City of McAllen. The proclamation cited the couple’s contributions to regional institutions and their leadership through the James W. and Kathleen C. Collins Family Foundation.
Additional recognitions included video messages from U.S. Senator John Cornyn and McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos. Both praised the Collinses’ dedication to service, education, and economic advancement in South Texas. Ruben Villarreal, representing Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz, presented a U.S. flag that had been flown over the Capitol in their honor.
Dr. Guy Bailey and Vall LaMantia introduced the honorees. LaMantia reflected on her lifelong friendship with Kathy Collins, describing her as a devoted mother, volunteer, and community leader. Dr. Bailey highlighted Jim Collins’s business leadership and service on numerous boards, noting his involvement in banking, conservation, and higher education.
Both honorees expressed gratitude to their family, professional colleagues, and the community in their remarks. Jim Collins thanked supporters and recognized the late Joe Vera for his contributions. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in building a strong region and praised institutions like UTRGV and South Texas College for their role in shaping the future of the Valley.
Kathy Collins echoed those sentiments, celebrating the spirit of unity and service in the Rio Grande Valley. She thanked family members and mentors and acknowledged the significance of opening MXLAN as part of their recognition.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from John David Franz, who described the celebration as a reflection of the generosity and unity that define South Texas. He thanked attendees for their support and paid final tribute to the honorees and Joe Vera’s memory.
