Texas Border Business
By Amanda Sotelo
Since beginning of his tenure as the South Texas College President nearly five years ago, Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D., has established himself as an innovator with bold solutions in the arena of academics, workforce development and advanced technologies and for that he was recently honored with the 2026 Futuro RGV Community Leader Award.
“It is an honor to receive this award from a distinguished organization, like Futuro RGV, that is setting the pace for crucial advocacy in key areas that are vital to the Rio Grande Valley and its success for its residents. Futuro RGV continues to strengthen the foundation of our region and expand possibilities for the communities we serve,” said Solis. “I’m humbled to be recognized, and I accept this recognition on behalf of our students, faculty, staff, Board of Trustees and our many community partners. We share this visionary work.”
Futuro RGV’s mission is to empower and enhance the quality of life in the Rio Grande Valley and members are committed to advocating for sustainable economic development, educational opportunities, healthy living, safe communities, environmental stewardship and cultural enrichment.
Annually, the bipartisan organization presents the Futuro RGV Community Leader Award to recognize individuals who have significantly improved the RGV through their dedication to economic development, healthcare, public safety and advocacy.
Futuro RGV President Mark Murray said the award presented to Solis is in recognition of his leadership, ongoing commitment and partnership with Futuro RGV in enhancing the educational landscape and workforce opportunities in the region.
“Before transitioning into higher education, Dr. Solis spent more than 20 years working in global economic and workforce development across both public and private sectors,” said Murray. “His extensive industry experience has shaped his approach to community college leadership, where he has consistently held influential roles and advanced workforce-focused initiatives. Under Dr. Solis’ leadership, STC has become one of Futuro RGV’s most significant partners, hosting multiple Futuro RGV forums, providing both facilities and technical support. In recognition of his ongoing support and leadership, we proudly present Dr. Solis with this award.”
Since Solis arrived at STC, the college has become the No. 1 Hispanic-Serving Institution in the nation, is known as one of the largest producers of graduate nurses among colleges and universities of comparable size and was the first community college in the nation to announce the first nursing apprenticeship registered by the Department of Labor.
Additionally, under his leadership, STC has continued to earn the Seal of Excelencia, a prestigious, data-driven national certification awarded to colleges and universities that go above and beyond enrolling, intentionally serving and awarding certificates or degrees to Latino, and all students. New workforce development initiatives and short-term programming, technological initiatives such as an artificial intelligence (AI) task force and new in-demand programs have been introduced, creating a college-going culture and expanding educational opportunities across the RGV.
Murray said Futuro RGV strives to be a catalyst for positive change, fostering a region characterized by quality economic growth, educational excellence, healthy families, safe neighborhoods, accessible green spaces and a thriving cultural and art scene.
“We are proud to continue working with the visionary leaders who earn this award,” said Murray. “These individuals, like Dr. Solis, show commitment to supporting the mission of Futuro RGV.”
Information source: STC
