Texas Border Business
By Amanda Sotelo
McALLEN, Texas – The South Texas College JagReconnect Program, through the Office of Student Reengagement is celebrating its first-year successes, and the more than 450 students the program has helped return to college since its inception.
JagReconnect, also known as STC’s Adult Promise Program, is a last-dollar match program that helps qualified students who paused their education and are now returning, cover tuition, pay off outstanding STC debt and receive personalized guidance from college navigators.
“Over the past year, JagReconnect has achieved significant success, earning strong support across the STC community, while attracting attention from organizations and foundations beyond our region,” said Luisa Ramirez, director of Student Engagement and Completion Services. “Through this program, hundreds of students have returned to continue and complete their educational goals and more than 65% of students in JagReconnect have persisted in their studies successfully completing their credential.”
Ramirez describes this success as a reflection of the impact the program’s personalized outreach, coaching, mentoring and support has on students. It also is a testament to the dedication and support from college administrators, trustees, donors and community partners who are deeply invested in student success.
“I have always had faith that this program would be successful for our students,” she said. “What I did not anticipate was how quickly we would begin hearing life-changing stories of those we serve. Together, our collaborative efforts help students overcome obstacles, remain engaged in their educational journey and achieve their goal of earning a credential.”
One of those students, who said his experience with the JagReconnect program has been transformative, is also an STC faculty member – Cosmetology Lecturer Juan Gallardo.
Gallardo first enrolled at STC during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and since then had been taking one class at a time. However, when he began working with the Cosmetology program, he met JagReconnect staff during their beauty service appointments at the Cosmetology program’s training salon, who inspired him to finish his degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.
“The staff at JagReconnect really showed me the way. Now I’m set to graduate in May, and I have my sights set on a new goal – a bachelor’s degree from STC,” he said. “Without the support of JagReconnect, I don’t think I would be where I am today. In addition to financial assistance, their wraparound support has given me the confidence I need to continue, especially as an older student.”
The 47-year-old recalls his first day of class and being the only one with a pencil and a notebook, while everyone else had laptop computers. He said he remembers feeling out of place, even realizing he was older than the instructor, but JagReconnect took those fears away.
“I want to say thank you to JagReconnect,” he said. “They made returning manageable and made me feel like family. They’ve allowed me to become an example for my students. If I can do it, so can they. I understand their challenges, and I want them to know I’m always here for them, just like JagReconnect has been there for me.”
Student successes like this are being made possible by grants targeting adult learners and have caught the attention of foundations such as the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board which has donated more than $400,000, the Trellis Foundation that has donated $200,000 and the Rio-South Texas Education and Community Development Foundation that has given more than $100,000 for scholarships.
According to Ramirez, there are more than 30,000 students like Gallardo in the Rio Grande Valley who have earned some college credit, but have not completed a credential. Many have left college due to financial, personal, family or work-related challenges, yet remain close to achieving a degree or certificate that can significantly improve their careers and quality of life.
“Our students are truly resilient. Choosing to return to school after being away for several years requires tremendous courage and determination,” said Ramirez. “As the program has grown, one of the clearest signs of its success has been the number of students who refer friends, family and colleagues to our office. Seeing our own students advocate for JagReconnect means they have trust in the program and and it’s a reflection of the positive impact it has had on their educational journey.”
Most recently, Ramirez and the JagReconnect team have hosted Jaguar Junction events on campus to help students connect, enjoy some lunch and snacks and prepare for life after graduation with resumés and headshots.
“The impact of JagReconnect extends far beyond the classroom and graduation,” she said. “We meet students where they are and address their unique needs that help create pathways to completion, career advancement and long-term success. We increase workforce readiness, strengthen earning potential and create pathways for upward economic mobility. These outcomes not only benefit our students and their families, but it also contributes to the continued growth and prosperity of our region.”
Information source: STC
