By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – When South Texas College Professor Emeritus Margarita Vanguelova first arrived in the Rio Grande Valley nearly two decades ago, she brought a global perspective shaped by engineering projects across three continents.
Entering STC in 2007 with international experience in structural engineering and drafting working in locations like Bulgaria, South Africa and then New York when she arrived to the United States, Vanguelova said it was STC that offered her the opportunity to help shape the future of education in the region.
Today, nearly two decades since starting at STC, Vanguelova is recognized as among the college’s most distinguished faculty members.
Upon retiring in May 2023, Vanguelova was soon given the recognition as Professor Emeritus, joining a group of 10 STC faculty who have earned an honor reserved for educators who have demonstrated exceptional service, leadership and dedication throughout their careers with the college.
“Being named Professor Emeritus is a great honor, not only as a recognition of my service and teaching at the College, but also as a privilege to be a member of the STC family,” Vanguelova said. “That title allows me to continue to be involved with the AEDT and Architecture programs and to stay in touch with the STC community. To be part of the college after retirement and contribute even a little to its mission is very gratifying.”
Originally from Bulgaria, Vanguelova moved to the Valley after her husband joined a local medical practice. With professional experience as a structural engineer and drafter, she said she initially searched for opportunities within the industry before being encouraged to apply at STC.
Joining what was then known as STC’s Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) program, Vanguelova said she was among those faculty who wanted to transition the program into one that communicated the scope of career opportunities available in the industry. This marked the start of what is now known as STC’s Architecture Engineering Design Technology (AEDT) program.
Over the years that followed, Vanguelova said she was at the forefront of architecture-focused courses which were gradually added to the AEDT program, many of which required persistence and advocacy to gain approval.
“The name was difficult to come up with, but we thought it reflected more of what we were teaching,” she said, about the AEDT program at the time. “We started revamping the degree plans, developing new classes and introducing courses that reflected what the industry needed.”
Vanguelova said the other key element she developed was a teaching philosophy centered on inspiration as much as instruction.
Drawing from her experience working on projects around the world, she said she often incorporated real-world examples into the classroom, showing students how architects, engineers and construction professionals collaborate on large-scale projects.
Leadership at STC said Vanguelova has left a legacy of inspiration for generations of students in the AEDT program.
“For almost two decades, Professor Margarita Vanguelova has exemplified the highest ideals expressed in our Essential Qualifies of Faculty: teaching, service, and professional excellence. Her passion for architecture and engineering, dedication to innovation, and unwavering support of students left a lasting mark on South Texas College and thousands of students,” said Anahid Petrosian, Ph.D., STC vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management and provost. “The title of Professor Emeritus honors not only her remarkable achievements, but also the legacy of inspiration and opportunity she has created for generations of students in both Design Technology and Architecture.”
Vanguelova said one of her proudest moments was seeing the program evolving while maintaining strong ties to local industry needs.
Over the years, she said employers frequently praised the quality of STC graduates, reinforcing the impact the program has had on the region’s workforce.
Now looking back, Vanguelova said she hopes both faculty and students continue embracing the same growth, innovation and passion she helped bring to the program.
“We were always proud to constantly stay in touch with architects, engineers and construction companies,” she said. “We listened to what they needed and we adjusted our program to prepare students for those careers. This is proof that if you love what you are doing, you will continue to learn, grow and succeed.”
Information source: STC
