Amanda Sotelo
In her journey to inspire personal growth among her students, South Texas College Psychological Science faculty member Rita Alvarez recently earned a National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award.
NISOD is a premiere professional development resource that empowers community and technical colleges to achieve educational excellence and create meaningful impact by promoting collaboration, inclusivity and celebrating excellence.
“I was surprised and excited when I learned about this award. It was a proud moment,” said Alvarez. “This is my first time earning anything like this. I don’t do my work for the accolades, but it is nice to know that people have recognized what I do. I feel validated. I love STC and I love my students.”
Annually, STC leadership nominates faculty like Alvarez for their exemplary work in and out of the classroom, that shapes the futures of community college students.
For the last 15 years, Alvarez has aimed to inspire her students to fall in love with learning and with the subject of psychological science.
Alvarez, a licensed professional counselor, holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in School Health and Psychology, respectively from Texas A&M University-Kingsville, and is currently working toward a doctorate degree in Psychology.
“Students come in with a preconceived notion of what psychology is, but my goal is, that by the time they leave, they have a broader perspective of this profession and what it really means,” she said. “Psychology is all around us. We deal with it every day, so if I can use my knowledge to help people, that means I have a greater impact in teaching and I’m able to encourage social change.”
On the daily, Alvarez works with her students not only through theory and lecture, but also through the teaching of self-awareness.
“Self-reflection is vital, no matter what, no matter where,” she said. “My job isn’t only to teach, but to help students identify and recognize their emotions, stress and motivators. This will help them better understand themselves and those around them. It’s a valuable life lesson.”
Although there is anonymity when it comes to NISOD nominators, Alvarez said it’s encouraging to know that her work is being noticed.
“Thank you to those in our department who have acknowledged my work,” said Alvarez. “Being supported by my colleagues motivates me. It’s a nice pat on the back. Here’s to continuing the work that impacts and inspires our students and department.”
STC Assistant Professor Liza Veliz said Alvarez’s work has played an important role in the development of the department’s students and their educational journeys.
“Ms. Rita Alvarez is an outstanding educator who demonstrates innovation and creativity in her teaching,” said Veliz. “She strives for all students to develop a commitment to their success by fostering high-energy, high-impact learning experiences while supporting their social, emotional and academic growth.”
Alvarez said her career has always been inspired by her grandfather and grandmother, who were both educators, and moving forward she will continue to create a safe space for her students, as both a teacher and Psychology Club advisor.
“My goal will always be to provide a place where students can feel comfortable exploring psychology, mental health, social awareness, among other topics of their interest, through workshops and activities that foster learning,” she said.
As she continues her own journey of education and research, her promise is this, “Everything I do will be to support my department and my students. We will create research-minded students, support participation in our annual research symposium and assist students with continuing their education, career readiness and placement.”
For more information on STC’s Psychology programs, visit southtexascollege.edu.
Photo Caption: In her journey to inspire personal growth among her students, South Texas College Psychological Science faculty member Rita Alvarez recently earned a National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence Award.
