- Spotlight Series: Tafesse BorenaDr. 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.
- NVC Retrospective : Laying Foundations and Discovering the Wildcat SpiritGrowth & 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, totalling $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
- NVC Instructor and Student Show Why Mentorship MattersNational 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
- Honors Student Earns Prestigious Scholarship to Mount Holyoke CollegeShaelyn Garcia, a standout honors student at San Antonio College (SAC), is preparing to embark on a life-changing journey this fall as she transfers to Mount Holyoke College, one of the prestigious Seven Sisters schools that were originally founded to provide women with an education equivalent to that offered by the Ivy League. A recipient of the competitive Frances Perkins Scholarship – awarded to only 25 students nationwide each year – Shaelyn will attend Mount Holyoke with full tuition covered as she pursues a biology degree and ultimately, a future in medicine. At 27, Shaelyn identifies as a non-traditional student. She began her academic career at SAC at age 25 after leaving behind a five-year career in graphic design, a field she entered straight out of high school. “When the pandemic hit, I realized I wanted to do more. I wanted to help people,” she said. That desire led her to SAC, where she quickly excelled – earning a 4.0 GPA, winning the Outstanding Honors Graduate award, and discovering her true calling in medicine. Her academic success didn’t happen in a vacuum. Shaelyn credits the strong support systems at SAC for helping her reach this milestone. Through the college’s Advocacy Center, she accessed free therapy, which she says made a significant difference in her ability to push through her studies. “Having someone to help me build emotional tools and stay refreshed was huge,” she said. In addition to mental health support, Shaelyn gained hands-on experience through a paid hospital internship funded by Alamo On The Job. The position not only provided financial stability but also opened doors for networking and shadowing opportunities, including a chance to meet a resident pathologist – an experience that reinforced her dream of specializing in pathology. “These are the kinds of experiences most people don’t even get in med school,” she said. Her decision to attend Mount Holyoke was intentional and values-driven, as she was drawn primarily to institutions that prioritize equity and inclusion. “Mount Holyoke didn’t just have strong academics – it had values that aligned with mine,” she said. “It stands for something, and it works to serve those who have been historically underserved.” Shaelyn discovered the Honors Academy at SAC through a campus flyer and encouragement from a professor. That moment led to a transformative academic experience that culminated in national recognition and a promising path forward. She plans to visit the Mount Holyoke campus this summer for the first time before moving in this August, where she’ll live among fellow Frances Perkins scholars – students like her, returning to college after time away. As for what she’s most excited about? “Honestly, the library,” she laughed. “It’s almost 200 years old, and it’s just gorgeous. I can’t wait to sit there and study surrounded by that history.” To students following in her footsteps, Shaelyn offers this advice: “Talk to everyone. Ask for help. SAC has so many resources, and even if they don’t have what you need, they’ll help you find it. Don’t be afraid to speak up – there’s a whole community ready to help you succeed.” Shaelyn’s journey is far from over, but her time at San Antonio College has built a strong foundation for what’s to come. As she packs her bags for Massachusetts, she carries with her not just a stellar transcript and a prestigious scholarship—but the unwavering belief that she belongs wherever her ambition takes her.
- NVC Helped 1998 Graduate Find Her CallingClass of 1998: Grad Story: Carmen Lott 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
- A Student Athlete’s Journey to a Stronger FutureNathaniel Wilbank was raised in San Antonio, TX and attended high school at Antonian College Preparatory. During his time in high school, he was a dedicated and talented student athlete who played football, basketball, and baseball. After graduation, Nathaniel’s decision of where to attend college was easy thanks to his family legacy at the Alamo Colleges District (ACD) where his parents and grandfather attended San Antonio College. He was also excited to learn that he qualified for AlamoPROMISE, a last dollar scholarship that helps remove financial barriers by covering 100% of tuition and fees for eligible students. Inspired by his family’s experience and thankful for the opportunity to attend college tuition-free, Nathaniel enrolled at Palo Alto College (PAC). “If I didn’t have AlamoPROMISE, I’m not sure where I’d be right now,” said Nathaniel. At PAC, Nathaniel maintains an impressive 4.0 GPA and is part of the Welding Technology program with the goal of earning an Associate of Applied Science. He has also continued his path as a student athlete by joining the club basketball team, where has found a strong sense of support, purpose, and community. Nathaniel attributes his academic success to the PAC leadership and athletic staff who have kept him motivated and focused on his coursework. Although he remains busy with his studies and sports, he has also found time to give back to his community and has earned 25 hours of volunteer service this academic year. “I want to thank members of our athletics department staff…for pushing me to be strong academically with the required tutoring hours, biweekly grade checks, and volunteer service hours which have helped me to be a successful athlete and also a greater person,” said Nathaniel. At the ACD May 2025 Board of Trustees Meeting, Nathaniel was recognized as the AlamoPROMISE Student of the Month. During his acceptance speech, he thanked his parents for keeping him grounded and focused and acknowledged the opportunities given to him as an AlamoPROMISE Scholar. “PAC has given me the opportunity to pursue a degree and career path that I’m passionate about,” said Nathaniel. After graduation, Nathaniel plans to begin a career in welding to provide for his future family. His journey reflects the impact that access, support, and determination can have on a student’s path.
- NVC Offers Industry Certification Assistance Program.Northwest Vista College (NVC) empowers its students to enhance their job qualifications and earning potential through the Carl D. Perkins (Perkins) Certification Voucher Assistance Program for the 2024-2025 academic year. This program supports eligible Career and Technical Education (CTE) students by paying for specific industry-based certification exams. Industry certifications validate a student's skills, offering a significant advantage in the job market. According to Rutgers School of Management and Labor Relations, national data indicates that individuals holding industry certifications often experience higher employment rates and increased earnings. One such certification is the CompTIA Security+, which focuses on a job candidate's knowledge of fundamental security concepts for employment in cybersecurity. As of May 19, 2025, Cyberseek.com data reveals a significant skills gap in the San Antonio-New Braunfels area: 887 job openings sought CompTIA Security+ certification, yet fewer than 10 applicants in the region hold it. And there are nearly 20,000 cybersecurity job openings in Texas with specified certification requirements. Cyberseek provides detailed and actionable data regarding the supply and demand within the cybersecurity job market. The Perkins Certification Voucher Assistance Program at NVC aims to make these valuable credentials more accessible to students. To qualify for this voucher assistance, students must be enrolled in an eligible NVC CTE Associate of Applied Science Degree or Certificate program and meet specific eligibility guidelines aligned with Perkins requirements. These guidelines include Pell Grant eligibility, demonstration of unique or special circumstances such as a disability or single parenthood, unemployment, or other barriers hindering educational achievement, as detailed in the application. NVC is currently accepting applications for these certification vouchers. Funding is limited, and awards will be granted until all available funds are exhausted, with a limit of one voucher per certification. NVC encourages all eligible CTE students to take advantage of this opportunity to invest in their future. Interested students can find detailed requirements and complete the online application. To learn more about NVC CTE programs, visit alamo.edu/nvc/cte.
- PAC Community Garden Named 2025 Community Garden of The YearPalo Alto College proudly announces that the PAC Community Garden has been named Community Garden of the Year In the 2025 Garden Awards. This annual recognition by Gardopia Gardens honors local gardens, businesses, and organizations that are making a meaningful impact by growing food for the people and the planet across the San Antonio region. “First, I’d like to thank Gardopia Gardens for holding this event to recognize community gardens in San Antonio,” said Rocky Rich, Community Garden Lab Tech. “We are honored to be selected as the Community Garden of the Year for 2025.” The Palo Alto College Community Garden was established in the Fall of 2019 to help address food insecurity among students and nearby neighborhoods; many of which are considered food deserts with limited access to affordable, healthy food. Today, the garden is home to more than 40 fruit trees and is in the process of becoming officially certified as an orchard. “It’s been a collective effort and a true team spirit that has made this garden so successful,” Rich shared. “I want to acknowledge the passion, dedication, and hard work of our volunteers, garden members, and the Palo Alto College staff and faculty.” The garden is open to students, employees, and community members, offering a welcoming space to learn how to grow food while gaining knowledge in nutrition and sustainable gardening techniques. Educational programs continue to grow, with hands-on workshops and events designed for all ages. Congratulations to everyone who has helped the Community Garden flourish. This award is a testament to your commitment and impact!
- Congrats Class of 2025![hide]
- Student Highlight: Ariana MartinezPalo Alto College dancer Ariana Martinez is making history as the first PAC graduate to join the Texas A&M University–San Antonio Jaguarettes Dance Team, marking a significant milestone in the program's five-year history. The celebration took place during a signing ceremony on Friday, May 16, where Ariana was surrounded by proud instructors, classmates, and family members to honor her achievement and cheer on her next chapter. Ariana first connected with the Jaguarettes through a recruitment camp hosted at TAMUSA. It was there that she became familiar with the team’s dynamic and built a strong rapport with Head Dance and Cheer Coach Courtney Bobb-Meilinger. That early connection helped pave the way for her recruitment and ultimately influenced her decision to accept and commit to the Jaguarettes. "What's really interesting is that we have never had anyone on our team from Palo Alto College, and we are neighbors,” said Bobb-Meilinger. “So it's very interesting that it never happened, but now it is a great opportunity to unite the schools. We are all on the same path for education and share a passion for dance, and this is going to be a door that opens and allows for more communication and collaboration." The moment was especially meaningful for Ariana’s family. “I am so excited for her, she is first generation, so it means a lot,” her mother shared. “It’s beautiful to see her continue something that she loves to do. She has a passion for dance and is so good at it. She shines, not just because she’s my daughter, but because she’s got something special, and I can’t wait to see it grow.” Ariana’s achievement represents more than a personal milestone; it signals the beginning of a stronger bridge between Palo Alto College and Texas A&M–San Antonio. As she takes the floor with the Jaguarettes, she opens the door for future PAC students to explore similar pathways in dance and higher education, expanding opportunities and strengthening the bond between two neighboring institutions.
Loading