TAMIU's Elizabeth Martinez Receives Prestigious SPHR

Elizabeth Newman Martínez, associate vice president for administration at Texas A&M International University, recently earned certification as Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).

The prestigious certification, awarded by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), is conferred to those who possess the theoretical knowledge and practical experience in human resource management necessary to pass a rigorous examination, demonstrating a mastery of the body of knowledge in the field.

José García, TAMIU vice president for finance, said Martínez' career path at TAMIU has been stellar.

"Elizabeth is a remarkable professional and her career path here has been stellar. We are honored to have an individual of her caliber and commitment working for our hometown University. We congratulate and commend her on her SPHR achievement," Garcia said.

Susan Meisinger, president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM,) explained the value of SPHR certification.

"Certification as a human resource professional clearly demonstrates a commitment to personal excellence and to the human resource profession," Meisinger said.

HRCI awards two levels of certification: Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).

To become certified, an applicant must pass a comprehensive examination and demonstrate a strong background of professional human resource experience.

Martínez holds a master of public administration degree from TAMIU and a bachelor's degree in psychology from the former Laredo State University (LSU).

She first joined then-LSU in 1980 as a purchaser. One year into her position, Martínez was promoted to assistant business manager and steadily rose in the ranks of TAMIU administration by subsequently becoming a director of human resources and in 2001, associate vice president for administration. She served as director of human resources for 14 years.

Active in her community, Martínez is a graduate of Leadership Laredo and Leadership Texas. She is currently a member of United Way of Laredo, Leadership Laredo, American Association of University Women, Leadership Texas Alumni Association and TAMIU's Alumni Association.

HRCI is the credentialing body for human resource professionals and is affiliated with the SHRM, the world's largest organization dedicated exclusively to the human resource profession.

The Institute's purpose is to promote the establishment of professional standards and to recognize professionals who meet those standards.

For further information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at 326-2180, e-mail prmis@tamiu.edu or visit offices located in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 268.

University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.