VRP Recruits at UTPA Student Leadership Kick-Off

UTPA Delta Xi Nu Sorority sisters learn about the VRP: Erica Soto, Finance; Carla Reyna, Communication Disorders; Venessa Soto, Criminal Justice & Sociology; and Angela Salazar, Journalism. Photo © 2005, VRP

Edinburg, TX April 19, 2005 - Leadership, Service and Community & School Involvement were some of the topics discussed in UTPA’s First Annual Student Leadership Week Kick-Off event that took place on Tuesday, April 19, 2005.

The Office of Student Development's Student Leadership Program and the Student Leadership Academy organized this first annual event in order to encourage UTPA students to develop leadership skills as well as a sense of involvement both in school and the community.
 
After receiving a warm welcome from Dr. Jerry Price, Dean of Students, students were introduced to Mr. Solomon Torres and Dr. John Edwards, keynote speakers at the event.

Mr. Solomon Torres, on behalf of Congressman Ruben Hinojosa, recited the Proclamation and spoke about personal experiences while in college and the importance of student involvement in different activities. He also mentioned how important public speaking is in daily life.

Dr. John Edwards, Vice-President of Enrollment and Student Services, gave a speech followed by a salute to the five students who won the Student Leaders Award. The five students who received the award for their leadership and service were: Argelia Barrera, Lionel “Javi” Cavazos, Roxanna Perez, Maha Maglinao and Cynthia Anguiano.

After introducing Campus and Community Attendees, Dr. Jerry Price delivered an inspiring reading of a poem about Leadership, closing the event with some encouraging thoughts for students.
 
UTPA's Volunteer Resource Program (VRP) was among the Campus Attendees at the event, and Norma Saenz, VRP's Volunteer Coordinator, spoke with students about the VRP and how to join and learn about volunteer opportunities in their own communities.

The Volunteer Resource Program looks forward to working closely with the Student Leadership Program and the Student Leadership Academy in promoting community service among our student leaders.

For more information on how you or your student organization can volunteer with the VRP, contact Norma Saenz, Volunteer Coordinator, at 956/292-7566 or e-mail at volunteer@utpa.edu.