UTRGV’s Feria, Qubbaj receive prestigious Presidential Mentoring Award

Professors recognized for guiding students to STEM success at UTRGV

By Amanda A. Taylor-Uchoa

Dr. Teresa “Paty” Feria Arroyo and Dr. Ala Qubbaj never set out to win a national award; they simply wanted to help more students discover opportunities in the fields of science and engineering.

Their dedication has earned each of them the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM), one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for STEM mentors.

Since 1995, PAESMEM has honored individuals and organizations that excel in building a diverse STEM workforce. Awardees receive a certificate signed by the president, a $10,000 grant from the National Science Foundation and an invitation to Washington, D.C., for recognition events later this year.

AN UNEXPECTED SURPRISE

When Feria, a biology professor and associate dean in the College of Sciences, opened her inbox to discover the congratulatory email, she had to reread it to be sure.

“I almost fainted,” she said. “Then, I thought of that 8-year-old me in Mexico who could never have imagined this moment. I started crying, hoping my story could inspire others to keep pursuing their dreams.”

Feria’s approach to mentoring is, in her words, holistic and empowering. She has guided more than 100 students through research experiences, conference presentations and community engagement. Many have graduated, found jobs in STEM or continued on to graduate school.

“Mentoring is critical because it boosts students’ self-esteem and sense of belonging,” she said. “It’s about providing opportunities, so they realize what’s possible.”

Qubbaj, dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science and professor of mechanical engineering, shared a similar shock upon learning he had won the award.

“I thought it was one of our faculty members getting recognized, not me,” he said. “I had to read the email twice to make sure. I’m where I am today because of the mentors who supported me, so this is a way to give back.”

A DEDICATION TO EDUCATION

There are always new endeavors and projects to complete, as both professors say their work is fueled by the desire to see others thrive.

Feria established “¡Juntos al Éxito!” and a writing-mentoring program to connect faculty and students across disciplines.

Qubbaj is serving as principal investigator on The Center for Broadening Participation project, which will offer professional development programs to help students gain skills and confidence. The project is in the second phase of funding.

For Feria, a first-generation college graduate herself, the award affirms her belief in the transformative power of mentorship. For Qubbaj, it confirms that caring leadership can help people overcome challenges they never thought possible.