University Plans Homecoming Observance Nov. 15-21

Texas A&M International University and its Alumni Association will celebrate the role that its 6000-plus graduates have had in the life of the institution Nov. 15-21 with a Homecoming Celebration.

The week-long affair will include the running of the Dusty Fun Run, a scholarship benefit on Nov. 15, the presentation of a University Forum on accountability in education featuring faculty and community members, the proclamation of Texas A&M International University Day and a salute to teachers who have earned degrees at the University.

Dr. Charles Jennett, University president, said the Homecoming Celebration offers the University an opportunity to recognize the continuing role of University graduates in the life of the University and the community.

"Each Fall, our University celebrates the important role of its alumni and former students in the continued life of the University. We especially like to showcase those individuals who continue to play an influential role in the communities we proudly serve," he explained.

Sue Nichols, Alumni Association president, said that this year's Homecoming Celebration focus is on the many teaching professionals who have earned degrees from the University.

"At each Homecoming, we try to recognize the efforts of our alumni. This year we chose to honor the teaching professionals in our local and private schools who have earned their degrees from Texas A&I University at Laredo, Laredo State University or Texas A&M International University," Nichols said.

'We encourage all members of the community and former students and alumni to join us for our week of Homecoming Celebration activities and honor a growing alumni group whose education has helped prepare them for important roles in the life of this community and communities throughout the world," she added.

"This is also a wonderful opportunity for former students and graduates to rekindle friendships and re-establish links with the University that has figured so prominently in their career success," she noted.

The Homecoming Celebration week begins with the running and walking of the Third Annual Dusty Fun Run and Walk on Saturday, Nov. 15 at the University's northeast Laredo campus. There will be a competitive 5K run, 10K run and non-competitive 5K run and 1 mile Children's Walk.

Registration is at 7:30 a.m. at the north side of the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library and the event begins at 8:30 a.m. Call 326. 2170 for more information.

On November 18 at 7 p.m. in the Great Room, the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and the University's Faculty Senate will present "A University Forum on Accountability in Education." The forum will feature a panel of University faculty and community members who will offer perspectives on the topic. A question and answer period for audience members will follow.

A proclamation signed by Laredo Mayor Saul Ramirez will recognize November 19 as "Texas A&M International University Day" in the community.

On November 21, the Homecoming Celebration will come to an end with a special "Salute to Teachers" reception which will be co-hosted by the Texas A&M International University Alumni Association and the University's College of Education. The reception, which starts at 7 p.m. In the Great Room, will recognize the University's graduates who are leading local education in classrooms throughout the city.

For more information on Texas A&M International University's Homecoming Week Celebration, please contact the Office of Advancement and External Affairs at 326.2175, Nichols at 326.2565 or the Alumni Office at 326.2169.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu