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LEADING Hispanics

Current Students

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Texas A&M University - Kingsville

    • Abigail Nichols
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Abigail Nichols was born and raised in Beeville, Texas. From a young age, she developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors as her family frequently took camping trips and hikes all across Texas and other states. Abigail's passion for the outdoors led her to pursue a degree in Range and Wildlife Management with the dream of becoming a state or national Park Ranger.
    • Angela Ramirez
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Angela Ramirez grew up in Laredo, Tx. Angela raised sheep and goats for 4-H since she was 8 years old. She raised animals up until she graduated from United South High school. She is now majoring in Animal science at Texas A&M -Kingsville in hopes of working with the USDA.
    • Eduardo Lopez
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Eduardo Lopez was born in Mexico, and raised in Brownsville, Texas. At a very young age, he decided to be a veterinarian. Eduardo graduated from Jubilee Brownsville in 2021. As a current student at Texas A&M University - Kingsville, he started to be around livestock animals, influencing him to work with livestock throughout his life.
    • Jacqueline McClendon
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Jacqueline McClendon is from Corpus Christi, TX and a senior at Texas A&M University - Kingsville, majoring in Business Marketing. She currently serves as the Student Body President of the university and was the 2022 Miss Texas A&M University - Kingsville. She is passionate about service, the promotion of agriculture, and the advocacy of the students at her university.
    • Javier Robledo Jr
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Javier Robledo Jr grew up in Robstown, Texas. He enjoys fishing with friends and family, playing with his pets, and playing trombone. Javier was part of his high school marching band and was section leader for 2 years. He loves animals, especially birds and reptiles. He owns a bearded dragon and chickens, but he never forgets about his German Shepard. Javier aspires to be a Wildlife Conservationist with the help of his mentor Dr. Foley.
    • Kassandra A. Rodriguez
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Kassandra A. Rodriguez is a graduate of John B. Alexander High School in Laredo Tx where she was a part of FFA for four years. She earned the opportunity to participate in the Land Stewardship Ambassadors Program and was a recipient of the following scholarships: L.I.F.E. Ambassadors, Texas A&M Kingsville Academic Excellence, and Webb County Soil and Conservation. She is an active recipient of the Be It Foundation, which focuses on the importance of mental health.
    • Leah Ramos
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Leah Ramos grew up in Brownsville, Texas and is the middle child to two siblings. She enjoys gardening and she owes her profound love of plants to her grandmother Adoracion. She has two dogs, a german shorthaired pointer named Beens and a boxer named Shinko. Leah plans to pursue a D.V.M and become a veterinarian to one day have the ability to give back to animals in the ways that they have given to her.
    • Lidio Guel
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Lidio Guel grew up in Elsa, TX, where he raised Simmental on a small beef cattle operation, participated in FFA, and got his bachelor's in finance from the University of Texas of Rio Grande Valley in 2021. Once he completed his bachelor's, he changed his passion to strive to get a 2nd degree as a pre-vet major from Texas A&M University Kingsville.
    • Maeli Caudillo
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Maeli Caudillo grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas. She is the youngest of three siblings. Maeli is the first in her family to attend college. Maeli is pursuing her education at Texas A&M- Kingsville, where she is majoring in animal science and minoring in range and wildlife management. One of Maeli’s goals is to become a wildlife biologist. Some of her hobbies include hiking, listening to music, and spending time with her family and friends.
    • Roberto Hernandez
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • Roberto Hernandez grew up in Laredo, Texas, a small border town that is surrounded by agriculture. He was interested at such a young age when he went to his first county fair and ever since then he fell in love with the hard work that was put in to each project. He strived to become the best in anything he put his mind to so he could make his family proud. Overall, it paid off and landed him in the position he is in today.
    • Taylor Williams
      Texas A&M University-Kingsville
    • My name is Taylor Williams and I am originally from Houston, Texas. I graduated this past summer and went straight into my first semester of graduate school. I am currently one of Dr. Mast’s graduate students, and at the moment I am taking over someone else’s past project and attempting to finish it.

University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez

    • Gretchen Fazakerly
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Gretchen Fazakerly was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico and raised in Houston, Texas. She has always loved being around animals, especially cats and horses. Gretchen is a student at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez studying Animal Science with a concentration in Pre-Vet to become a veterinarian. When she needs a quick break from studying, she enjoys playing video games and reading.
    • Natalia Nieves Vélez
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Natalia Nieves Vélez is a passionate animal science and pre-veterinary fifth-year student from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus. She grew up in Manatí Puerto Rico, where her father taught her the importance of agriculture and animals; this inspired her to study veterinary medicine. Natalia is a very dedicated student who wants to pursue a career in exotics and wildlife veterinary medicine, taking proper care of animals is what she is most passionate about.
    • Eduardo A. Bonilla Berríos
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Eduardo A. Bonilla Berrios was born in Ponce and currently lives in Juana Díaz Puerto Rico. There are four of them in his house, his mother and his two little brothers. He is currently 18 years old and studies at the University of Puerto Rico Mayagüez Campus. He is involved in research from a USDA program of great interest. The title of the research is “The effect of USDA direct payment programs on agribusiness creation.

      He works on this topic with his mentor, Dr. Julio César Hernández. The objective of this research is to contribute greatly to this topic by making it known and exposing it to places where this is not talked about and where action can be taken about it. This is a very important issue for that community. Eduardo is currently starting his degree in Agricultural Economics and his ultimate goal is to achieve a doctorate in this. Having achieved that doctorate, he aspires to a great position at the USDA as an Agricultural Economist.
    • Coraly Remigio
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Coraly Remigio grew up in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. Her research proyect fouces in the presence of heavy metals in amended soils with chicken manure along side her mentor Dr. Daniel Bair. She enjoys drinking coffee, reading and going to the beach. She has a dachshund mix called Calix. Her goals include finishing her undergraduate degree and continue her studies in graduate school.
    • Alondra Irizarry Cruz
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • The town of Aguadilla is home to Alondra Irizarry, a fourth-year animal science student continuing her education at the University of Puerto Rico Recinto Mayagüez. Studying genetics under mentor Melvin Pagan, Alondra is excited to explore the USDA's role and employment options for a deeper understanding of animal and agricultural genetics.Excited to establishing connections with seasoned researchers, positioning her as a potential asset to the evolving fields of genetics.
    • Karina I. Carrero Rosario
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Karina I. Carrero Rosario was born February 4, 2003 and grew up in Manati, Puerto Rico. In 3rd grade she attended Piaget Bilingual Academy, where she graduated from. In 2021, she started college in University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez, studying Animal Science with hopes of becoming a Veterinarian. Now, she is currently in her 3rd year and is a volunteer in an outgoing investigation regarding calf growth hormone suplemention. Karina is a very creative person, who loves to express herself through paintings and drawings.
    • Jonathan González Flores
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Jonathan González Flores was born in Caguas, Puerto Rico and is 23 years old. He is an agronomist and master's student in Horticulture at the RUM. The professional objectives are to put skills and knowledge into practice for a company, industry, or agricultural farm. I would like to work with NRCS or FSA agency to closely attend farmers with needs in their operations. Agriculture is essential day after day “Without agriculture there is no food.”
    • Angélica B. García Ramos
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Angélica B. García Ramos was born in Puerto Rico and she found her love for animals while growing up surrounded by the island's nature. She is a dedicated Animal Sciences student with a Pre-Veterinary focus. Mentored by Professor Héctor Sánchez, Angélica is conducting a research centered in the reproductive cycles of Holstein cows where she aspires to make a meaningful contribution to animal healthcare. Besides her academic commitment, she loves playing pickleball, visiting the gym and spending time with her friends and family to maintain a balanced lifestyle. She actively participates in the Pre-Vet Circle, her church's Christian Youth Group, and works as a sales associate on the weekends. Angelica's interests and extracurriclar activities encompass her journey as a devoted student with aims of becoming a veterinarian.
    • Keishla González
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Keishla González Vélez, from Lares, Puerto Rico, is a graduate student in Agricultural Economics at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus. She holds a Bachelor's in Agribusiness and is a licensed agronomist. Keishla has gained professional experience as a USDA Census intern, a farm management lab instructor, and a research assistant. Her thesis investigation is focused on enhancing avocado shelf life, exploring consumer preferences, and understanding farmers' perspectives. She enjoys nature, reading and cooking.
    • Carlos Gonzalez Segarra
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Carlos J. Gonzalez Segarra, a dedicated 23-year-old pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of Puerto Rico, combines Animal Science studies with research in beef cattle genetics. Simultaneously serving over six years in the United States Army, Carlos aspires to work for institutions like the ARS or APHIS within the USDA. Beyond academia and military commitments, Carlos finds solace in literature, values family time, explores nature, and embraces diverse experiences through travel.
    • Andrea I Munoz Ramirez
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Andrea I Munoz Ramirez is currently pursuing a master's degree in Crop Protection at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez. As a thesis topic, she has chosen to work with "Field performance of seed yam (Dioscorea rotundata cv. Guinea Negro) produced from Tissue Culture in Temporary Immersion Bioreactors and seed scale-up using Temporary Immersion Bioreactors”. What motivates her is the need to contribute to agricultural development and education in Puerto Rico.
    • Isak Lebrón Garay
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Isak was raised in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico. When he was little, he discovered a love and interest in animals that continues to this day. He is passionate about fine arts and his culture and is currently a college athlete in the UPRM Dance Team. His dream is to be a veterinarian to work for the well-being of animals around the world.
    • Nicole Rivera
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • I’m Nicole Rivera, a sixth year undergraduate student from Animal Science at the University of Puerto Rico in Mayaguez. I first started a bachelor’s in Biology but I’ve always exposed myself to any type of experience involved in animal medicine and welfare. I strive to successfully finish my bachelors while exploring different areas and species before applying to Veterinary School.
    • Camila Esther Muñiz Ferrer
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • She is Camila E. Muñiz Ferrer, a Junior Student at the animal science undergraduate program, with a certification in Pre-Vet and a minor in Project Management at the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez Campus. Currently, part of the FFA Organization-Alumni Chapter at the University. Her role in this organization are as the sentinel, here she is in charge of the places where the activities or meetings take place and also, in charge of keeping the activities in order. Furthermore, some hobbies are going to the gym, play basketball, watch series and go on trips. Finally, as an animal science student she works at a Diary in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico. ​ Following, working on the Diary help she put in practice what learned on classes. Here in the diary, is in charge of the calf health and with the calf feeding system. In addition, recently the Lely Astronaut, milking robots has been installed which is a new system that will be working with. While in the investigation she would be working with Dr. Guillermo Ortiz; she will be working with a calf supplement of 5-HtP.
    • Nicolle Torrens
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Nicolle Torrens is a 5th year animal science and prevent student at the university of Mayaguez. She also participates in the swimming team of the university and out of the university she is part of the artistic swimming Puerto Rico National Team having gone to two swimming World Aquatics championships and one Central American and Caribbean games 2023 in which she won a bronze medal. Nicolle really enjoy going out with her friends to the beach and adventures in which nature is involved. In the long run she wants to achieve a doctorate’s degree in veterinary medicine of wild animals and hopefully be able to work in South Africa and make an impact with the conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife.
    • Daniela Rivera-Cintrón
      University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez
    • Daniela Rivera-Cintrón is a graduate student at the University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez pursuing a degree in Agricultural Economics. She is conducting research on government programs and their impact on agricultural production with her faculty mentor, Dr. Julio C. Hernandez. Upon graduation, she hopes to pursue a PhD in Agricultural Economics or Agriculture and Food Policy. During her free time, she enjoys volunteering at a community garden, cooking, and hiking.

New Mexico State University

    • Samantha Aguilar
      New Mexico State University
    • Samantha Aguilar grew up in Gatesville, Texas where she was introduced to the wildlife field through the 4-H Plant ID team. She got her bachelor's degree in Wildlife, Sustainability, and Ecosystem Sciences from Tarleton State University. During undergrad she worked as a technician on multiple projects and completed research on House sparrow incubation. Samantha is now a master's student at New Mexico State University studying post-fledging ecology.
    • Mariah Humphrey
      New Mexico State University
    • Mariah Humphrey grew up in Silver City, New Mexico, where she developed a passion for health, science, and animals. She graduated with a B.S. in Animal Science with minors in Chemistry and Horse Management in spring of 2023, while competing as a student athlete on the track and field team and working as a veterinary assistant. She is continuing her education to achieve a M.S. in Animal Science(Ruminant Nutrition).
    • Laura Munoz
      New Mexico State University
    • Laura Munoz grew up in El Paso, Texas. She attended El Paso Community College, graduating with an Associate of Science in Biological Sciences in 2019. Laura then continued at New Mexico State University, graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology in 2023. She is now pursuing her Master of Science in Food Science and Technology, where she plans to focus on food safety.
    • Mickie Barraza
      New Mexico State University
    • Mickie Barraza grew up in La Mesa, New Mexico in the agricultural world. SShe grew up with her family raising animals and working outside. Since she was young she enjoyed being outside and was very curious about the relationship between plants and animals and, this led to her majoring in Range Science and Wildlife Management and becoming a part of the plant ID team at New Mexico State University.
    • Doris Alexa Arnedo
      New Mexico State University
    • Doris Alexa Arnedo was born in El Paso, Texas, and raised in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua. Alexa earned her BS in Agriculture Biology from New Mexico State University in spring 2023. Alexa was an undergraduate researcher studying chile and uncommon vegetables with Dr. Stephanie Walker. Following her passion for agriculture and pathology, she is pursuing her MS in molecular biology under Dr. Jennifer Randall researching abiotic and biotic stresses in pecan.
    • LeeAnne Padilla
      New Mexico State University
    • LeeAnne Padilla is from the small town of Mountainair, New Mexico. She is majoring in Animal Science with hopes to attend veterinary school after graduating and becoming a veterinarian. Her family always had various kinds of animals around which led to her love and passion for animals. Aside from this she loves to spend quality time with her friends and family.
    • Jorge Preciado
      New Mexico State University
    • Jorge Preciado was born in Los Angeles, CA, and grew up in Jalisco, Mexico. He studied for his bachelor's in architecture and a master's in water and energy engineering at “Universidad de Guadalajara.” He is a Doctoral student at New Mexico State University in the Water Science and Management program. His research focused on water recharge estimates from pecan fields.

Texas State University

    • Allison Serda
      Texas State University
    • Allison Serda grew up in Edinburg, Texas. She attended Texas State University, where she obtained a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Agriculture. A year after graduating, she decided to go back to school to finish her second major, Animal Science. She loves learning new things as much as she loves sharing her knowledge with others. When she isn’t at school, she’s spending time with her loved ones (dogs included), working on herself at the gym, or teaching and learning from her elementary students as a substitute teacher.
    • Alyssa Lopez
      Texas State University
    • Alyssa Lopez is an undergraduate student majoring in Animal Science with a pre-veterinary concentration at Texas State University. Growing up, she spent her early years in El Paso, Texas and later moved with her family to Austin, Texas. In her leisure time she enjoys going on long walks, trying new things and spending time with her friends and family.
    • Delila Dominguez
      Texas State University
    • Delila Dominguez was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, and is currently an undergraduate student at Texas State University. She’s a senior majoring in Animal Science with a Pre-Vet concentration and will soon graduate in May 2024. Delila loves watching movies, reading books, and listening to music. Recently, she conducted an in situ research assessing different types of edible insects as a potential feed for cattle.
    • Donald Shoemaker
      Texas State University
    • Donald Shoemaker is attending Texas State University to gain a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. During his time at Texas State, he became interested in soil and plant science, specifically regenerative agricultural studies. His newfound interest is guiding him towards a future, working in the regenerative agricultural sector. He desires to help people understand the way we perceive the world of soil should be through improvement in biology.
    • Jimena Farfan
      Texas State University
    • Jimena Farfan grew up in the city of Celaya, Guanajuato located in the center of Mexico. She moved to San Antonio, Texas at the start of third grade. She is currently a senior at Texas State University studying Agriculture with an Animal science minor. On the weekends, she joins her sisters of Sigma Lambda Gamma in various community service projects. Resilient, compassionate, and determined are three words her peers describe her as.
    • Natalie Reyes
      Texas State University
    • Natalie Reyes was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. She now attending Texas State University to pursue a degree in Animal Science, with a minor in Agricultural Mechanics. Her research interest is Cattle Reproduction. She is a full time cat mom to a cat named Lily, her hobbies consisted of reading and watching anime on her free time.
    • Nicolas Lopez
      Texas State University
    • Nicolas Lopez was born in Puerto La Cruz, Venezuela, and was raised in Calgary, Canada as well as Houston, Texas. Nicolas has always had a love for business and wants to pursue a career in Finance and Economics working in the Agricultural field.