2026 UTEP Student Leadership Awards
The Computer Science Department is incredibly proud of our student organizations and student leaders, who reached a new milestone at the 2026 UTEP Student Leadership Awards Ceremony. CS students and organizations were recognized with a total of five prestigious awards, continuing a legacy of excellence and community impact.
The UTEP Student Leadership Awards represent the highest form of recognition for individual student leaders and organizations. These awards celebrate those who contribute countless hours to the UTEP campus, the El Paso community, and beyond. This year’s recipients represent the very best of technical skill paired with exceptional leadership.
This year, the Computer Science Department secured three individual leadership awards and two student organizational recognitions:
Individual Leadership Awards
These awards recognize students who have gone above and beyond in their service to the university and their peers.
Pete’s Pick Award: Vianey Martinez
A premier recognition highlighting a student’s unique contributions and spirit within the Miner community.
Leader of Mines: Aleida Holguin
Recognizing a student who exemplifies the strength, resilience, and leadership qualities central to the UTEP identity.
Striking Gold Award: Evelyn Perez Martinez
Recognizes early-career students (first or second-year) who have already begun making noteworthy contributions to the University and the surrounding community.
Student Organization Awards
Our student-led groups continue to redefine the academic and professional landscape for CS majors.
New Student Organization of the Year – CodeCore UTEP
CodeCore has quickly become a vital resource for the department by focusing on the mastery of computer science fundamentals. Through peer-to-peer learning, study jams, and review workshops for CS1, CS2, and CS3, CodeCore helps students build a solid foundation early in their academic careers. By creating a collaborative environment, the club ensures students have the confidence and skills needed to succeed in upper-level courses and beyond.
Student Organization Program/Event of the Year – The Coding Interview Club (CIC)
The Coding Interview Club continues to be a cornerstone for professional development within the department. By providing practical experience through technical workshops, mock interviews, and practice sessions focused on algorithmic problem-solving, CIC bridges the gap between the classroom and the workforce. Their commitment to empowering students to navigate high-pressure technical interviews has fostered a supportive community that directly prepares Miners for careers at top-tier tech companies.
This record-setting performance at the Student Leadership Awards is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and commitment to community that our students demonstrate every day. Their efforts continue to elevate the impact of Computer Science both on campus and in the industry.
Congratulations to all our winners! Go Miners! ⛏️
