KINGSVILLE (Sept. 09, 2025) — Incoming Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) faculty witnessed firsthand just what the campus means to some of the very students they teach during the launch of the 2025-26 New Faculty Investment Program (NFIP) hosted by the Center for Faculty Excellence this past Friday.
The launch brought new faculty and students together and served as an orientation to campus and an opportunity to foster connections through shared stories and experiences.
“I really wanted today to be about belonging,” said Dr. Jeffery Chernosky, Director of the Center for Faculty Excellence and Assistant Dean. “We talk about that on this campus, but we don’t intentionally experience it. I wanted the NFIP to begin with our focus and that’s our students. So, with them having the faculty having the opportunity to share their story, it becomes our story and it’s a Javelina story.”
Student ambassadors were able to visit with new faculty during a luncheon in the Jernigan Library before leading faculty on tours across campus, sharing their personal reasons for choosing TAMUK and highlighting locations that hold special meaning to them.
For some of the new faculty like Dr. Shaif Chowdhury, an assistant professor in the department Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, the enthusiasm of the tour stood out.
Others felt at home and appreciated the student outlook on the university
"The first session of NFIP made me feel I truly belonged,” said Dr. Oindrila Roy, Assistant Professor of Political Science. “I want to say thank you for creating an environment in which we can develop meaningful relationships with students, other faculty, and the campus community."
“It was great getting to hear from the students and getting their perspective on all things related to campus, since our focus as faculty is on our students,” added Dr. Calvin Clark, Assistant Professor of Education.
Students leading the tour also felt they benefitted from the NFIP kickoff in that they could give faculty an opportunity to meet with them outside of a formal class setting.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with new faculty who are eager to make a meaningful impact at TAMUK,” said Sophia Yzaguirre, a senior marketing major. “The tour provided faculty with insights into various student resources, activities, and campus life as a whole. It also provided students, like me, the opportunity to connect with new faculty in an informal manner.”