MinerAlert
MinerAlert
Laura Gump: A Trailblazer in the Grocery Industry
UTEP alumna Laura Gump ’89 has built her career on service, people, and purpose. She served as Vice President of Operations at H-E-B and later led Kroger’s Houston/Louisiana Division — standing among the top women executives in the grocery industry. Read more here
Building a Data-Driven Career Inspired by UTEP: Dr. Kevin Jolly
When Dr. Kevin Jolly ’08, ’10 left New Jersey for graduate school, he never imagined that UTEP would shape the rest of his life. Drawn to UTEP’s nationally recognized Legal Psychology Program, Jolly discovered how to connect numbers to real people. Read more here
Embracing Growth: Abril Smart’s Story of Transformation
For alumna Abril Smart ’12, ’20, UTEP became a place of transformation where grief, healing, and mentorship helped her learn to trust her voice and embrace her purpose. Read more here
Elizabeth Trow’s Journey of Creativity and Inspiration
First-generation UTEP grad and longtime art teacher Elizabeth “Liz” Trow ’08, ’13 turned her passion for sewing into an award-winning boutique — proudly representing El Paso and garnering the 2025 Designer of the Year Award at New York Fashion Week. Read more here
From El Paso to Alaska: UTEP’s Diane Doser Leaves a Lasting Mark on Earthquake Science
Seismologist Dr. Diane Doser reflects on her global career in earthquake research—from El Paso faults to seismic studies in Alaska and beyond. Read more here
From UTEP to World Champion: Stephanie Han Defends Women’s Boxing Title After Signing with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions
UTEP alumna Stephanie Han, ’13, defends WBA title in first fight under Jake Paul’s MVP, balancing boxing, police work and motherhood. Read more here
From Parasites to Protein: A Scientist’s Journey from UTEP to Feeding the World
From parasites to protein, Dr. Reg Blaylock’s ‘89 journey from UTEP to global aquaculture shows the power of curiosity, mentorship, and impact. Read more here
Royal Run for Hope: A Tribute in Every Step
El Paso shows up strong for the 2025 Royal Run for Hope: A community united for childhood cancer awareness. Read more here
UTEP Social Work Program Expands Mental Health Care Access While Empowering the Next Generation of Clinical Social Workers
Discover how UTEP’s Social Work Program is improving access to mental health care and shaping tomorrow’s clinical social workers. Read more here
Ekhi Muniategui Alumnus and owner of Direct Kinetic Solutions
Miner-made innovation: UTEP alum Ekhi Muniategui ‘04 is changing the energy game with penny-sized “power plants” for space and remote missions. Read more here
UTEP Alumnus Abiel Macias of Abe Mac Band
UTEP alumnus Abiel Macias, aka Abe Mac, turned his football journey into a rising country music career. Discover how UTEP helped shape the Sad Cowboys Club artist. Read more here
Mirador Enterprises: Owner Yolie Diaz
UTEP alumna Yolie Diaz ’92 grew her accounting degree into Mirador Enterprises, a thriving facilities maintenance and management company. She reflects on her journey, lessons, and insights. Read more here
UTEP Alumnus and Arizona State University Professor Dr. Angel Molina
From Riverside High in El Paso to a tenured professorship at Arizona State, Dr. Angel Molina’s journey began at UTEP. Guided by mentors and research opportunities, he built a strong foundation and now pays it forward through teaching and mentoring. Read more here
UTEP Football is Back! Game Day Tailgating Tips
UTEP Football is back—are you tailgate ready? Here’s everything you need to know to keep the Miner spirit alive! Read more here
Q&A with Chancellor Centurion Linda Medina-Lopez, Chancellor Centurion
Leadership insights from Chancellor Centurion Linda Medina-Lopez. Read more here
Beyond the Bullseye: Sisters, Shooters, Scholars
Sisters Kameron and Kennedy Wells reunite at UTEP on the rifle range, bringing focus, heart, and ambition to the team. Read more here
Miners Around the World: UTEP Alumnus Embraces Life as a Digital Nomad
UTEP alumnus Omar Khalik ‘17 took remote work to another level – 41 countries and counting. He’s traveling across Europe while holding down his tech job and loving every minute. Find out how his time at UTEP helped kickstart his digital nomad journey. Read more here
“Anything for Selena”: UTEP Alumna’s Critically Acclaimed Podcast Captures the Heart of a Cultural Icon
UTEP graduate Maria Garcia ’08, makes waves with Anything for Selena, a critically acclaimed podcast that explores identity, culture and the enduring impact of the Tejano music icon. Read more here
A Sweet Journey: UTEP Alum Brings Sabores de Mexico to Life Online and In-Store
After turning a side project into a full-time venture, UTEP alum Tony Esparza is now the proud owner of Sabores de Mexico—a growing business selling Mexican candy and snacks both online and in-store. Learn how he used his marketing skills from UTEP and the power of TikTok to build his brand from the ground up. Read more here
Matthew Gardea ’24: A UTEP Alum Driving Change in Horizon City, Texas
UTEP alumnus Matthew Gardea ’24 has built a leadership legacy grounded in action. At age 18, he stepped into public service. Now he’s driving change, forging partnerships, and ensuring the community in Horizon City, Texas, thrives. Read more here
From Behind the Plate to a New Purpose: Kenna Carranza’s Journey Beyond the Diamond
After a surprise diagnosis followed by surgeries and setbacks, UTEP’s Kenna Carranza ’25 is powering forward with determination and a dream to help others. Read more here
From UTEP to Intel: A Journey of Growth, Community, and Resilience
From student to Intel engineer, discover how UTEP shaped two-time UTEP grad David Ramirez’s path. David’s journey shows how Miner drive and self-advocacy lead to success. Read more here.
UTEP Alumna Balances Corporate Success and Small Business Dreams
From project managing at Disney to designing children’s fashion, UTEP alumna Anjelika Chavez ’11 is turning passion into purpose. Learn how her time at UTEP prepared her for corporate success and helped her launch her dream business. Read more here.
Empowered to Rise: A First-Generation Student’s Path to Medicine and Advocacy
Meet Alexa Hildary Gonzalez, a first-generation UTEP student whose passion for medicine and leadership is made possible through scholarships. From advocacy to studying abroad, she’s making meaningful contributions to the UTEP community and beyond. Read more here.
A Dream in Every Cup: Erika Knoch ’12 Turned Her Passion into Global Coffee
From a dream at 16 to owning a thriving coffee business, UTEP alumna Erika Knoch '12 turned her passion for coffee and community into Global Coffee. Read more here.
From the Field to the Lab: How DNA Research is Protecting Wild Ducks
Curious about ducks? UTEP professor Philip Lavretsky, Ph.D., is delving into waterfowl genetics, revealing their ancient history, and pioneering conservation research. Discover how his findings are revolutionizing duck conservation! Read more here.
From UTEP to the World Stage – A Journey of Creativity, Innovation, and Puppetry Mastery
Anthony Michael Stokes ’08, ’22 has taken his passion for music, theatre, and puppetry to new heights—earning national recognition and prestigious awards along the way. Read about his journey from ambitious UTEP student to award-winning educator and nationally recognized puppeteer. Read more here.
Monica Castillo (Thomas) ’09: Amplifying Joy in El Paso
Get to know Monica Castillo (Thomas) ’09, a dynamic UTEP alumna and community leader who's lighting up El Paso with her energy and positivity! From being one of the first female Paydirt Pete mascots to launching her own business, Monica's journey is nothing short of inspiring. She’s an emcee, membership manager at La Nube STEAM Discovery Center, radio personality, and mom—all while making a lasting impact. Discover how she spreads joy through her work and community engagement! Read more here.
Unveiling the Magic Behind the Curtain: A Q&A with Jamie Barba, Interim Director of UTEP Dinner Theatre
Step behind the scenes with UTEP Dinner Theatre's Interim Director, Jamie Barba. In this exclusive Q&A, Barba shares his journey from performer to leader, insights into the creative process, and what audiences can expect in the upcoming season. Read more here.
UTEP Alumna Turns Family Dream into Ke Flauta
For many alumni, UTEP is a stepping stone to career success, but for one alumna, it became the foundation for realizing a long-standing family dream. Karen Aguilar, BBA ’17, turned her family’s vision into Ke Flauta, a beloved fast-casual eatery in El Paso. Read more about her inspiring journey from UTEP to entrepreneurship. Read more here.
Picked the Right Miner: From College Sweethearts to Proud Parents - Catherine and Claudio Ibarra’s UTEP Love Story
Discover how Catherine and Claudio Ibarra’s love story blossomed at UTEP, from late-night study sessions to spirited tailgates. Their journey from college sweethearts to proud parents is a testament to the power of campus connections and lifelong bonds. Read more about their inspiring Miners love story! Read more here.
Relaxation and Mental Health: Expert Insights from UTEP Professor and Psychologist Emre Umucu, Ph.D
Dr. Emre Umucu from UTEP shares tips on managing stress and improving mental well-being. Discover the benefits of gratitude practice, muscle relaxation, and the “Three Good Things” exercise. Learn how small, consistent habits, coupled with regular exercise, can significantly enhance both your physical and mental health. Read more here.
Practical Tips and Expert Advice from UTEP Alumni in Nursing
Discover how to prioritize your well-being. From comprehensive wellness screenings to expert self-care advice, we provide you with the tools and tips to become your own healthcare advocate. Don’t miss out on this essential guide to a healthier you! Read more here.
From Student to Professor: Dr. William Campillo Terraza's Journey and Impact on Borderplex Pharmacy
William Campillo Terrazas, PharmD, MPH, an alumnus and clinical assistant professor at UTEP, is making a significant impact in the Borderplex region. His journey from student to professor highlights the success of UTEP School of Pharmacy in fostering top talent and addressing the pharmacist shortage. Discover how Dr. Campillo Terrazas is inspiring future pharmacists, integrating public health into the curriculum, and enhancing patient care in the El Paso community. Read more here.
Interview with Juan Espino, UTEP Student Recreation Center Instructor
Begin the New Year on a healthy note with insights from Juan Espino, a UTEP Rec Center Instructor. He shares valuable tips for starting the year fit and healthy. Make the most of his practical advice to boost your fitness journey. Read more here.
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| Alexandra Sanchez '17 | Sandra Ramirez '08, '21 | Tanya Torres '21 |