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MARCH 2025 EDITION

Javelina Statue Unveiled in Premont

On Mar. 8, university officials and Javelina Alumni gathered at the Premont City Park for the unveiling of a Javelina statue.

“This statue represents this bond that will forever be as members of this South Texas community. I think it also represents that our students here in Premont understand that A&M Kingsville is always here for them,” said Dr. Vela.

Remembering Two Beloved Professors

Javelina Nation mourns the passing of longtime Professor of Civil Engineering, Dr. Pat Leelani. Dr. Leelani joined Texas A&I University in 1979 and taught for 42 years. A geotechnical engineer, Dr. Leelani will be remembered for his dedication to student learning and his humor. A memorial service was held March 29. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to the scholarship fund setup in Dr. Leelani's memory: www.javelinagiving.org/leelani
Javelina Nation mourns the passing of Dr. William Kuvlesky, associate dean and professor. Dr. Kuvlesky began working at the university in 1999 and was a dedicated advocate for students, mentoring generations of graduates. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you send remembrances to the Good Samaritan Rescue Mission in Corpus Christi, the Javelina Rodeo Team, or an animal rescue organization of your choice.
Centennial Events

New Date: Recreate an Historic Photo on Campus!

Due to weather, the photo recreation event has been rescheduled. If you are in the area, meet us at Manning Hall on Thursday, April 3, at 4 PM. Immediately following, head to Spring Fling on University Boulevard for food and activities--all supporting student organizations!

Join us on the dancefloor Saturday, Aug. 23, at J.K. Northway Coliseum to reminisce with tunes from Sandy's Six-Pack! General admission tickets are still available. Tap the button below for more info.

Student Spotlight

Eighth Javelina Earns Award at State Conference

Kristin Grabow ’25, an exercise science/pre-physical therapy major, earned the Undergraduate Scholar Award at the annual meeting of the Texas Regional Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine (Texas ACSM). Seven other Javelinas – more than any other school in the state – have been honored since 2010:

  • Jamie Ambriz ’22
  • Alyssa Fick ’20
  • Dr. Meagan (Cantu) Ortega ’17
  • Dr. Joel Perez ’16
  • Dr. Samantha Cantu ’15
  • Dr. Ricky Balderas ’11
  • Dr. Dyana Bullinger ’10

Designed to Lead

Larizza Guerra ’26, an architectural engineering major, represents her peers in student government, tutors physics, and visits local schools as an ambassador for the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering.

Next year, Guerra plans to study abroad and then pursue a graduate degree in sustainable design. Her ultimate goal is to drive the field of green building forward in the U.S.

2025 Senior Design Conference

Friday, May 2, students of the Frank H. Dotterweich College of Engineering will present comprehensive design projects. The campus community and alumni are invited to attend.

Alumni News

Alumnus Leads with Heart of an Educator

As Livestock and Competitive Events Manager at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show, Mando Correa ’84, ’86 continues to guide new generations of agricultural leaders. Correa dedicated himself to teaching agriculture in the RGV for three decades.

“Really, my passion is this–the livestock end of it, the competitive events. Still working with kids and 4Hs and FFAs,” said Correa. “I know how they think, what they would like to see. It’s a good fit.”

The South Texan Spotlights Salinas Legacy

Orlando Salinas (right) posing for a photo with his son, Volunteer Assistant Coach Orlando Salinas Jr. Photo by Matthew Roberts.

The South Texan, the award-winning student publication of Javelina Nation, spoke with Javelina Softball Head Coach Orlando Salinas ’95 about the continued family tradition of athletic excellence that started with his late father, Hector.

Al Harris Joins Chicago Bears

Al Harris has spent the last 13 NFL seasons as a coach, most recently serving as assistant head coach/defensive backs for the Dallas Cowboys in 2024. Javelina Hall of Famer Harris will serve as defensive backs and passing game coordinator for the Chicago Bears' upcoming season. Congrats Al!

Know a Javelina We Should Spotlight?

Do you know of a Javelina who is making a difference in the world? We want to spotlight what makes our Javelina Family great - personal or professional accomplishments, a unique adventure or just something other Javelina Alumni may find interesting.

PeopleGrove is Now a Community of 1,000+ Javelinas!

We all have something in common: a desire to connect and help each other. Join PeopleGrove, a platform similar to LinkedIn but just for Javelinas, to help students access unique job opportunities, career support and countless resources by signing up as a mentor. Click the button below to get started.

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