Dr. Hinojosa to Become First Professor Emeritus for A&M International College of Education
A retired Texas A&M International University professor of Education will become the College of Education's first Professor Emeritus in ceremonies at Saturday morning's Spring 2001 Commencement Exercises at the Kinesiology-Convocation Building.
Dr. Eduardo Hinojosa, who served the former Laredo State University and now A&M International for over 29 years, will receive the highest of academic honors.
Dr. Rosa Maria Vida, dean of the College of Education, said many of the area's finest teaching professionals can trace some aspect of their preparation to Dr. Hinojosa's teaching career.
"He has touched the lives of countless students, and many have become some of the city's and region's top teachers. He has been a true force in the preparation of teaching professionals and it is our honor to accord him this most deserved recognition," Dr. Vida said.
Vida noted that in addition to preparing young teachers, Dr. Hinojosa also helped to open the world of reading to young children.
"Through his groundbreaking work with the University's Reading Clinic, he helped hundreds of children to learn to read. Without his involvement in our reading program, many of these youngsters might not have been able to continue their education," she noted.
Born in Encinal, Hinojosa grew up herding cattle to support his grandmother and had to drop out of school in the 8th grade. Drafted into the military in 1953, the GI Bill afforded him an opportunity to pursue an education after he completed his service. He did so by commuting to the then-Texas A&I University at Kingsville, earning B.S. and M. S. degrees in Education.
Students first welcomed him to their classrooms in Encinal in 1959. After a number of public school experiences, he joined then-Laredo State University as a supervisor of student teaching in 1971. He later attended the University of Texas, earning his Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction in 1976. He became a full professor in 1987.
Dr. Hinojosa, who has published several childrens' books, will now turn his attention to completing a new book series entitled "Mi Jardin de Conocimientos."
Although now retired, he is enjoying traveling and spending time with his wife Cidelia, three adult children,and three grandchildren.
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