Monica Castillo (Thomas) ’09: Amplifying Joy in El Paso 

March 2025
By Alexandra Sanchez ’17 

Monica Castillo (Thomas) ’09 is a force of energy and positivity in El Paso, and you may have seen her at events or remember her voice on the radio. A proud UTEP alumna and community leader, Monica has built a vibrant career as an emcee, Membership Manager at La Nube STEAM Discovery Center, and radio personality, in addition to being a mom. Her journey is nothing short of inspiring, from being one of the first female "Paydirt Pete" mascots to launching a business that amplifies her voice throughout the city. 

From Paydirt Pete to an El Paso Icon 

Raised in El Paso, Monica graduated from Loretto Academy before earning her degree in organizational and corporate communications with a minor in marketing from UTEP in 2009. She credits Paydirt Pete for helping her jumpstart her career. Monica’s brother encouraged her to figure out what she wanted to do when she was entering college, and this led her to the conclusion that she wanted to be a mascot. Monica spent her entire college career being Paydirt Pete, which helped her build confidence and kick off her career in radio. 

Her enthusiasm for community engagement and entertainment led her to work the grand openings of three major El Paso establishments—the El Paso Chihuahuas stadium, Topgolf, and La Nube. These opportunities have allowed her to bring joy and excitement to her hometown in unique ways.  

Monica’s business, Her Voice Castillo, embodies her passion for public speaking. She serves as a PA announcer for UTEP Athletics, including football, basketball, volleyball, softball, and soccer. She also collaborates with Alamo Drafthouse and some of El Paso’s largest races, lending her dynamic voice to major events. With nearly two decades of experience in radio, including 15 years in the El Paso market and five in Alamogordo, she continues to thrive in the industry and the community that she loves.  

The Coolest Part of the Job 

“Every morning, I get to wake up and realize that I get to make somebody smile,” Monica shared. “Whether it’s through my role at La Nube, where I introduce families to an amazing space El Paso has long deserved, or through my emceeing gigs, where I get to pump up a crowd, I know I’m making a positive impact.” 

Her deep connection to UTEP and El Paso drives her. “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here. I get to live the life I always dreamed of.” 

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Monica’s proudest title is mother. “Being a mom beats everything else,” she said. Her one-and-a-half-year-old son has already attended numerous sporting games and community events. Balancing motherhood with a demanding schedule can get hectic and take time management, but she credits her husband, family, and friends for their support. 

Challenges and Lessons Learned 

Despite her success, Monica acknowledges that time management remains one of her biggest challenges. “I rely on my calendar, even if I don’t always follow it,” she joked. “But my husband is my rock. He’s the one who pushed me to start our business and continues to support me in everything I do.” 

“Monica Castillo is a character,” she explained. “When I’m emceeing, I bring this high-energy personality to life, but when I’m home, I switch back to being Monica Thomas, the mom and wife.” 

Having experienced so many career highs and some lows, including being laid off from radio during industry cuts, Monica has learned the importance of resilience. “I had to rediscover who I was outside of my job title. Now, I make sure to separate my work persona from my personal life.” 

Advice for UTEP Grads and Aspiring Professionals 

When Monica was asked to share her advice for UTEP grads and aspiring professionals, her response was simple and straight to the point: “Find what you’re passionate about and stick with it. Be a good human, because good things happen to good people.” 

She advised, “If you treat people with kindness and gratitude, life will return the favor.” For recent UTEP graduates, she encourages persistence and authenticity. “You don’t have to love every job you have, but don’t settle for a life you don’t enjoy. Chase what makes you happy.” 

A Lasting Legacy 

Reflecting on how El Paso and UTEP shaped her, Monica expressed deep gratitude, “This community embraced me. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of the people here.” 

Whether it’s through her voice, her work, or her enthusiasm, Monica Castillo is making El Paso a more joyful place - one announcement, one event, and one connection at a time.