Minita Ramirez

Background

About Minita Ramirez

It has been two years since this inspiring journey at Laredo College began and I am proud of the work we have done and what we have been able to accomplish. With the support of our Board of Trustees, and the incredible work of our faculty and staff, Laredo College is proud to announce increases in enrollment, retention and graduation rates. Along with that, our transfer rates are also up and job placement processes becoming more and more seamless. Last year, the board of trustees agreed to financially support our administrative recommendation to do away with all tuition charges to our ISD partners for dual credit courses. The board also approved my recommendation for free meal plans for full-time enrolled students, the Palomino Pledge (free tuition for full-time enrolled students) and the addition of a Student Health and Wellness Center for our students. On the academic and workforce side, once again our Nursing Program has been named #1 in the nation, our E-Sports Team won a national championship, we have added numerous workforce programs and partnerships with four-year universities. Our job posting board has supported our students transition from college to employment and our Community Education programs continue to grow and provide reskilling and retooling opportunities for those wishing to enhance skills. Next year we are looking to add four more workforce programs and two more bachelor's degrees all at affordable tuition. Laredo College is cognizant of the needs of the community's industries. In each of the workforce areas, we added advisory groups made up of industry partners to help our ongoing assessments of the programs and syllabus. This assures students graduate with the appropriate skills and internships to join the workforce after graduation. Lastly and most importantly, for the second year in a row, we at Laredo College have not increased student tuition or fees and dropped the tax rate. The truth is that Laredo College has not increased tuition or fees in about 10 years. Proudly, we still balanced the budget with the help of Federal and State aid based on our enrollment numbers. The proof is in our outcomes and that is what the State of Texas Legislature has proposed to all community colleges through the passage of HB8. Our congratulations to our board president Lupita Zepeda for her work with TACCT's Legislative Committee and to Senator Zaffirini, Representative Raymond and Representative Tracy King for supporting and getting HB8 passed. Come visit our two campuses you too will be impressed!