For Kayla Muzquiz, education has always been about more than earning a degree, it’s been about building a foundation for meaningful change. A former foster youth who moved often throughout San Antonio, Kayla found consistency in an unexpected place: the Alamo Colleges. “No matter where I ended up, there was always an Alamo College nearby,” she said. So when it came time to start her college journey, Palo Alto College on the Southside felt like a natural fit and ultimately, began to feel like home. After earning her Associate of Arts in Psychology from PAC, Kayla briefly enrolled in a university to continue her studies. However, she soon felt a longing for the sense of community and warmth she had come to appreciate at PAC. That’s when she discovered the college’s newest offering: the Bachelor of Applied Technology in Operations Management (B.A.T.). “I knew I wanted to start a nonprofit that connects people in need with the resources to meet those needs,” Kayla explained. “But to do that, I needed to understand the business side of things.” The B.A.T. program provided exactly that. Designed to prepare students for leadership roles across industries, the program blends business fundamentals with real-world applications in operations management. For Kayla, the program's hybrid format with flexible options for online and in-person courses was a perfect match. As an expectant mother with a busy schedule, having the ability to customize her course load was essential. “It’s rigorous. You have to be engaged and manage your time well. But the professors are so supportive, and they truly want to see you succeed.” Her coursework has already covered everything from human resources and accounting to project management and all skills she’s applying as she develops the business plan for her nonprofit. As a former work-study in the B.A.T. Department, Kayla had the unique opportunity to engage even more deeply with her professors and peers. “Working with the department gave me a chance to provide feedback, understand more about the resources available, and build connections that have helped me,” she said. She points to 24-hour online tutoring and the encouragement to build relationships with faculty as major assets to student success. What stands out most about the B.A.T. program, Kayla says, is the diversity of its students and the real-world experience they bring to the table. “Some of my classmates are returning to school after years away. Others are switching careers or trying to move up in their current jobs. The different perspectives make discussions richer and more insightful.” Now on track to graduate in Fall 2026, Kayla is well on her way to making her vision a reality. Her advice for future B.A.T. students? Don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and stay organized. “If you can, try at least one in-person class. It’s a different experience, and it really helps you feel part of the community.” Looking ahead, Kayla sees limitless potential in operations management. “It’s a field with so many applications. No matter what your goals are, whether you want to run a business, lead a nonprofit, or become a leader in any field, you’ll use these skills.” Her journey is a testament to the power of opportunity, resilience, and community. Through the B.A.T. program at Palo Alto College, she’s proving that students can build a future that’s not only successful, but deeply rooted in purpose. To learn more about the B.A.T. program at Palo Alto College, visit alamo.edu/pac/ops-mgmt.  

To help students improve their reading skills, Steven Maison of Wanke Elementary’s Learning Tree after-school care program has partnered with Northwest Vista College (NVC) to bring fun to reading. For a service-learning project, NVC Plus+STEM students designed the “Egg-O-Matic Chicken Coop," a prize dispenser with a farm and chicken coop theme, working under the direction of NVC faculty members Mark Jurena and Thomas Pressly. The Wanke Elementary students can then use the prize dispenser to earn small rewards in the form of prize eggs for their reading (for example, receiving a book after reading a book). Maison recently visited the NVC Makerspace to receive training on the prize dispenser, speak with NVC students, and take the device back to surprise students at Wanke Elementary, which is part of the Northside Independent School District. The Makerspace is a collaborative space where students explore and design innovative projects, particularly those that bridge STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) with the arts. The Egg-O-Matic Chicken Coop was born in the summer of 2024. NVC student teams met with Maison and designed several small-scale options. The students used AutoCAD once Maison greenlit a specific design to create a 3D model assembly. They then created a lightweight frame, applying engineering principles of truss design, and added fascia as needed to support the electrical and mechanical systems. The students then designed the robotic mechanisms used in the dispenser (adapted to dispense plastic prize eggs, using ideas from a small candy dispenser). An Arduino controller, along with high-torque servos, was used. The students initially 3D printed the dispenser part to use rapid prototyping in their development of a final design. Then, they used a CNC mill to cut the final part out of plywood for the combination of heat resistance, strength, and durability with the plywood (over that of the printed plastic). This past spring semester, students completed and protected the wiring and programmed the controller. Additionally, a speaker was added to play farm-themed music during the power-up and dispensing functions. In the final stages of the project, students completed all final priming, painting, and applied a UV-protectant clear coat, ensuring that the aesthetic matched the farm theme. They also carefully tested the performance and worked to identify faults and errors, and made numerous minor adjustments to ensure the Egg-O-Matic Chicken Coop could withstand the use of elementary schoolchildren. All of the work was completed in the NVC Makerspace and would not have been possible without the tools, equipment, and assistance and expertise of the Makerspace staff. Items and materials were purchased with the support of the Department of Education Title III NVC Plus+STEM grant. The students and faculty were also supported through the Plus+STEM grant. The faculty, student team, and Maison express their gratitude to the Makerspace staff, Richard Crabb, James Sosso, and Marco Konradi, as well as to the NVC Plus+STEM Team, Prakash Nair, Claudia Chagoya Verdin, Thomas Pressly, Roxanne Penaloza, and Crystal Zapata. The following NVC students participated in this project: Summer 2024: Kevin Frias Fabian Hernandez Fall 2024: Tristan Cortez Brandon Diaz Lauren Fowlks Sophia Granados Anthony Morales Abraham Murillo Spring 2025: Diego Chavana Rayna Gomez Joanna Carla Purugganan Tomas Rodelo

Dr. Tafesse Borena’s journey to Palo Alto College began in 2022 when he joined as a part-time instructor in the Industrial Technology Department. A lifelong passion for manufacturing engineering and a deep belief in the power of hands-on learning brought Dr. Borena to PAC, and in 2024, he became a full-time member of the PAC Familia to assist the college in launching its experiential learning partnership with TX FAME. Originally from Ethiopia, Dr. Borena developed an interest in manufacturing early on. Fresh out of high school, he entered the trades before deciding to earn a degree in mechanical engineering and later a Ph.D. in computer-integrated engineering. Once he began teaching, Dr. Borena quickly realized his true calling was in practical, hands-on instruction that brings technical concepts to life for his students. In the Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) program, Dr. Borena teaches students in a model he fully believes in: “learn by doing.” Thanks to the college’s partnership with TX FAME and Toyota, students split their time between classroom instruction and hands-on work experience at the Toyota manufacturing plant just down the road. This balance between theory and practice is central to Dr. Borena’s teaching philosophy and a cornerstone of the AMT program. “What sets our program apart,” Dr. Borena explains, “is our focus on innovation and forward-looking industry trends. Our students aren’t just learning how things work today; they’re preparing for what’s coming next.” The AMT curriculum is shaped by industry feedback and emerging technologies, ensuring students gain real-world exposure to robotics, AI, and the evolving tools of modern manufacturing. Beyond technical instruction, Dr. Borena takes pride in forming strong connections with his students. He believes that understanding a student’s strengths and weaknesses allows him to better guide their growth, not only academically, but personally. “I want my students to feel confident, even in areas where they struggle,” he says. “They should never be afraid of trying something new or embracing change. That’s how lifelong learners are made.” That love for innovation is also why Dr. Borena advocates for diversity in manufacturing. He proudly notes the growing presence of women in his classes, which are now nearly 50% female. He has seen how this shift has positively impacted classroom dynamics, encouraging creativity and collaboration. “This is one of the most important fields in our country right now,” Dr. Borena shares with students who are considering a future in AMT.  “The demand is high, the wages are strong even at the entry level, and the skills you gain here build a foundation for everything from logistics to engineering.” Dr. Borena is quick to challenge outdated assumptions about manufacturing work that might discourage any incoming students. “People think these are heavy labor jobs,” he says, “but today’s manufacturing relies on technology, innovation, and problem-solving. We don’t just need laborers; we need creative, adaptable thinkers who can lead.” Since joining Palo Alto College, Dr. Borena has made sure the Advanced Manufacturing Technology program produces students who exemplify just that. His commitment to hands-on, industry-driven education has strengthened the college’s efforts to prepare a highly skilled, innovation-ready workforce. Through his leadership, the AMT program continues to evolve with the needs of the industry, opening doors for students and advancing the college’s mission to empower every learner for success.    

Class of 1999: Grad Story: Ruben Castillo Do you have a 30 Year story to share? Please send a short summary of your story idea to NVC-News@alamo.edu. We will contact you for more information. VISIT NVC'S 30 YEAR CELEBRATION WEBPAGE

Growth & Discovery (1999-2002) Northwest Vista College (NVC) celebrated its grand opening on October 8, 1999, with the completion of the Learning Center and College Commons. The festivities, held near the bridge entrance to the Academic Building, brought together District Board members, employees, and students and featured NVC English faculty member Cluster Byars, who captivated attendees by reading a poem he had authored specifically for the occasion. (See the poem here.) These foundational facilities enabled classrooms, labs, and faculty offices to establish their permanent homes within the Academic Building. Rapid Campus and Program Growth The first floor of the Learning Center became the administrative heart of the college, housing key offices and the Student Success Center. The NVC Learning Resource Center (library) occupied the second floor, quickly gaining recognition for its extensive digital collections – a forward-thinking approach for its time. The College Commons building served as a vibrant hub, accommodating the bookstore, the college’s Kinesiology and Multimedia Technology programs, the Office of Student Engagement, and the college’s main dining hall. Building on its initial momentum, NVC rapidly expanded its academic offerings. In 1999, demonstrating early innovation, NVC launched courses in both Geology and Chemistry in the up-and-coming online format. Soon after, the college program catalog expanded to include new, specialized programs such as Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Teleservice Technology, Health Administrative Services, and Computer Information Systems. Notably, programs like Community Health Worker and Pharmacy Technology, introduced during this period, continue to be offered today, underscoring their enduring relevance. The Wildcat Mascot Emerges As the student body grew, reaching 4,056 by 2000, a unique aspect of the campus’s character began to emerge, leading to the unexpected discovery of what would become the college mascot. During the 2000-2001 academic year, employees observed large paw prints belonging to a mountain lion on campus. The area just outside the Commons Building, where the bridge and stairs now lead to Juniper Hall, was aptly named Wildcat Cove. On Graduation Day, signs proclaiming “Beware of the Wildcat!” added to a touch of campus lore. Initially, it was suggested to trap and relocate the mountain lion, which had taken up residence in the backwoods of the NVC campus, to give birth to a cub. Instead, all students and employees received training on how to react if they encountered a mountain lion, with the directive to “Look Big!” This particular she-cat became a significant part of the college’s early identity and ultimately evolved into the college mascot – The Wildcat. Accreditation and Expanding Impact A pivotal moment in NVC’s early history arrived with the achievement of initial accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges in 2001. This significant milestone demonstrated the college’s adherence to its mission, the quality of its programs and services, and its commitment to integrity. As a direct result, NVC gained the crucial ability to support essential student functions, including access to federal financial aid and grants, and ensured transferability of its credits by other accredited colleges and universities. In that same impactful year, NVC received its first Title V Grant, totaling $1.9 million. Concurrently, the NVC Workforce Education & Training department forged key partnerships with 15 businesses and organizations, successfully training over 2,500 individuals, further solidifying the college’s role in community development. By fall 2002, enrollment had reached 7,099. In a testament to its innovative spirit, NVC became the first community college in San Antonio to offer a CISCO Certified Networking Associate Certification. Also in 2002, NVC earned nationwide recognition as a leader in student growth from Community College Week. This distinction marked the first of many accolades NVC received throughout the years. Beyond academic and enrollment achievements, NVC fostered a deep connection with its natural surroundings, a characteristic that remains a point of enduring pride. NVC received the Texas Master Naturalist Award for preservation from the Texas Master Naturalist program, acknowledging its commitment to environmental stewardship. Thirty years later, the NVC campus continues to be celebrated for its natural beauty, a hallmark of its identity and a testament to its commitment to both education and environmental stewardship. Stay tuned for next month’s Retrospective: 2003 – 2006. Do you have a 30 Year story to share? Please send a short summary of your story idea to NVC-News@alamo.edu. We will contact you for more information. VISIT NVC'S 30 YEAR CELEBRATION WEBPAGE

National Mentoring Month is observed in January, but mentoring students is something Northwest Vista College Business Instructor Dr. Chunnisee Jackson does year-round. Dr. Jackson began teaching at NVC in 2024. She had previously been a teacher at John Marshall High School in San Antonio. That’s where she first met NVC student Ivette Hernandez, who was a freshman in her business class at Marshall. At that time, Hernandez and her classmates were attending Jackson’s class online because of the pandemic. Neither one of them could have predicted that their online introduction would grow into a lasting friendship and blossom to a mentorship beyond high school, and continue at NVC. Jackson was the only business teacher at Marshall and students, such as Hernandez, who chose to earn the business administration endorsement, took her classes from freshman to senior year. “Throughout that time, we built a relationship. I saw Ivette progress through her high school career, and she was very inquisitive,” said Jackson. “We discussed a lot of things in regard to what she was going to do after high school.” Hernandez, who graduated from Marshall in 2024, said Jackson was always there when she needed someone to talk to – both as a teacher and friend. “I find it really like a mother/daughter relationship,” said Hernandez. Jackson, who was working on her Ph.D. in Education back then, still found time to assist Hernandez and her other students with their college applications, sign up for orientations, and more. She also made sure her students knew about the benefits of AlamoPROMISE and encouraged them to enroll in the program. Hernandez took her teacher’s advice and is now an AlamoPROMISE student attending NVC. When Jackson first learned that Hernandez wanted to go to NVC, she showed her how to start the FAFSA application that Hernandez then completed with her parents. “I helped her get through that process and then she found out she was admitted, which was crazy because that’s when I started my interview process with Alamo Colleges,” said Jackson. “As my students were getting accepted into Northwest Vista, I was also going through my interview process and throughout the summer I got hired.” Since becoming an instructor at NVC, Jackson has run into several of the students she taught at Marshall, including Hernandez, who to her surprise, was in her 2025 spring semester business class. Hernandez said just as in high school, now at NVC, Jackson is there for her as a mentor and a friend. She believes it's important to have an older person’s perspective, someone other than a parent who might have a different point of view. “Having Ms. Jackson as my mentor has helped me view college differently because she’s gone through the college experience.” As many students have done over the years, Hernandez chose to give her mentor a small, but meaningful gift to show just how much she values their friendship. During one of the visits to her office, Hernadez brought Jackson three, little rubber ducks to add to her collection. Jackson, who also has a mentor, believes that mentorship and relationship-building are very important. “I always tell students the things that you do now can impact your decisions later. And so, you want to be able to have healthy relationships, you want to be able to communicate in a healthy way,” she said. “You want to value yourself, believe in yourself, and know that you are capable of anything you put your mind to.” For information about NVC’s Faculty-Student Mentoring program, click here: https://www.alamo.edu/nvc/fsm