TAMIU's Martínez Named Recipient of NACUBO 2005 Rising Star Award

Elizabeth Newman Martínez, Texas A&M International University's associate vice president for administration, was one of two national recipients of the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO) "2005 Rising Star Award" in ceremonies held at the Association's national Conference held last week in Baltimore, Md.

The Award recognizes outstanding professionals at colleges and universities who have high potential to succeed as an executive and officer in higher education.

Joe García, TAMIU vice president for finance and administration, said Martínez'  award recognizes her service to TAMIU and Laredo.

"She's truly a remarkable administrator at TAMIU, bringing a wealth of experiences in a range of settings and a keen understanding of the University's mission, core values and commitment to our service region. We are glad to see her skills and abilities recognized on a national level," García said.

Martínez said the Award moves her, but the honor it accords must be shared.

"Throughout my career here at the University, I have been fortunate to have remarkable mentorship and support from the best. Joe García's guidance has been fundamental to my success as a business officer and the encouragement of the entire TAMIU community continues to challenge and inspire me daily," she said.

Serving as assistant vice president for administration since 2001, Martínez has responsibility for the department of Human Resources, Purchasing and Budget /Payroll /Grants and Contracts.

Part of the TAMIU family for more than 23 years, she received her BA and MPA from TAMIU. She also holds certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) by the Human Resource Certification Institute and in 2004 completed the University of Kentucky's College Business Management Institute's three-year program.

A graduate of Leadership Texas‚ Class of 1998 and a graduate and past Board member of Leadership Laredo, Martínez is a member of the Laredo Association of Human Resource Management and served as president of that organization in 1991 and 1998. She is an elected member of the System Employee Benefits Advisory Committee (SEBAC) for The Texas A&M University System, serving as committee Chair from 1995-97 and 2003-2005.

She is currently an officer on the Board of the United Way of Laredo and also serves as co-chair of the State Employee Charitable Campaign (SECC) for the Laredo area.

Martínez is a life member of the TAMIU Alumni Association, and served as its president in 1991. She is married to Mario E. Martínez and they have twin children, Mario and Rebecca, both TAMIU students.

Over 1500 NACUBO members from across the nation and around the world attended the week-long Conference.

For additional information, contact the TAMIU Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at 326.2180, e-mail pais@tamiu.edu, visit offices in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library room 268 or click on tamiu.edu.

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