Laredo College Faculty Spotlight: Alejandro Casillas

Laredo College Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Rafael Romo

Dr. Rafael Romo has been part of Laredo College for 10 years, but his journey started much earlier. He began coaching at just 17 years old while he was a student at Laredo College himself. Today, he brings that same passion into the classroom, teaching kinesiology along with courses in health awareness and drug use and abuse, which he calls an eye-opener for students. His philosophy is simple and powerful: when you become his student, you become his student for life.

Laredo College Faculty Spotlight: Alejandro Casillas

In this episode of Faculty Spotlight, we visit the kitchen at Laredo College’s South Campus to meet Alejandro Casillas, a Culinary Arts instructor whose journey came full circle. After earning a bachelor’s degree in dance from UTRGV, Alejandro followed his passion for cooking and enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at Laredo College. He later returned as an instructor and has now been teaching at the college for the past four years.

Laredo College Faculty Spotlight: Blanca Magaña-Shehab

Blanca Magaña-Shehab, a Vocational Nursing instructor and lab assistant, has been part of Laredo College for 14 years. After working as a floor nurse, she was encouraged by an LC professor to apply when her natural connection with students stood out. She takes pride in making a difference not only in patients’ lives, but in their families’ lives as well. Currently pursuing her master’s degree, she finds her greatest reward in hearing students say they feel fully prepared after completing the program.

Laredo College Faculty Spotlight: Brenda Garcia

Professor Brenda Garcia, Chair of the Cosmetology Department, moved to Laredo in 1996 without knowing English and began learning the language in high school. A Cigarroa High School graduate, she discovered her passion for cosmetology when a friend signed her up for classes. Licensed since 2000, Garcia has spent the last decade teaching future cosmetologists, including seven years at Laredo College, where she continues to share her love for the craft and her story of perseverance.

Laredo College Faculty Spotlight: Gloria Castillo

Professor Gloria Castillo, Chair of the Child Development Department, began her journey at Laredo College as a student. One of her professors, who had also been her kindergarten teacher, helped inspire her career path. Since joining LC in 2004, Castillo has dedicated herself to shaping future educators and helping students build strong foundations, just as she once did with children in her own classroom.