The South Texas College Board of Trustees voted in a new president at a meeting Tuesday, marking only the second time the institution has named a president since its inception 26 years ago.
In a unanimous vote, the board selected Brownsville native Ricardo Solis as president. Solis said he plans to focus on the enrollment, growth and economic workforce needs of the Rio Grande Valley.
(Read: South Texas College details presidential pick, direction of institution)
On Tuesday, Solis said his vision is to make STC a college that is wired for the future with a value system that is purpose-driven for every student.
“The vision is to become the best global institution that addresses the economic and growth needs of the region along the U.S.-Mexico border,” Solis said.
Solis, who is scheduled to begin his term in mid-July, is the current president of Laredo College in Laredo.
He previously served as executive dean for academic, professional, and technical education at Gateway Community College in Phoenix, Arizona and Maricopa Community College in Tempe, Arizona.
“I’m elated and I’m honored to have been selected to serve in such a critical role in meeting the needs of the students and of course the Rio Grande Valley,” Solis said. “My plan is to serve with a commitment to excellence and innovation for all with transparency and integrity.”
Solis replaces longtime founding president Shirley Reed, who stepped down in January after 26 years serving as head of the college.
“It has been an incredible journey for me, but there is still more work to do, and more families to serve,” Reed wrote in a retirement statement to STC students, faculty and staff. “I leave this exceptional institution in your capable hands to carry South Texas College toward its Mission. Go forward, South Texas College, and make the world a better place.”
