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Posted: 5/20/20

Dustdevil Diversity Spotlight: Dr. Marivic Torregosa

 

Dr. Marivic Torregosa
Dr. Marivic Torregosa, Dean, College of Nursing and Health Sciences  

This is part of a series of interviews highlighting diversity at TAMIU. On the occasion of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, this interview features Dr. Marivic Torregosa, TAMIU College of Nursing and Health Sciences dean.

 

Improving the Quality of Lives for Citizens of the Border

 

Tell us about yourself, where you are from and what you do here at TAMIU?

I came from one of the islands in the Philippines called Bohol. I am one of the nursing faculty at the College of Nursing and presently serving as Dean.

Tell us about your experience living here and integrating into the Laredo community.

A nursing job offer at Laredo Medical Center, formerly known as Mercy Hospital, brought me to Laredo in 1994. I worked in a medical-surgical unit for about seven years then I moved to TAMIU as a clinical instructor. I have lived in Laredo all these years. I find the easy commute of this town as an advantage. Over the years, I have learned to speak the local language a bit, as it is imperative if you are a healthcare provider in this part of the Texas region.  

How do you feel your contributions impact TAMIU, the community and the world around you?

My research agenda seems to be aligned with TAMIU’s mission to “Improve the quality of lives for citizens of the border region, the State of Texas, and national and international communities.” My research has guided me in implementing best practices in teaching and learning to enhance academic success among my students from underserved backgrounds as well as conduct intervention studies to address the health disparities.  

Can you share what some of your hobbies are?

Reading, listening to music, fitness and yoga.

Who has been your greatest inspiration and why?

My inspiration are my compatriots who are excelling in the field of medicine, nursing, science, and research.

Please share with us your proudest accomplishment to date.    

My proudest accomplishment was probably completing a research-focused doctorate degree in this country and winning tenure.

Tell us what you’re doing today academically, career or life-wise and what your future plans are?

I plan to continue teaching, pursue my research agenda, and mentor junior faculty and students who want to pursue undergraduate research.

What aspect of Asian Pacific American culture or tradition do you celebrate or appreciate and how meaningful is Asian American Heritage Month for you?

I think our culture puts great emphasis on education. Completing a college education is seen as the greatest inheritance parents can provide to their children in this culture. This is meaningful as education is a pathway in which our future generations continue to become contributing members of society.

In your opinion, what are some of the notable contributions by Asian Pacific Americans in the U.S.?

I am by no means an expert in American Pacific American history.  History books point out that Asian Pacific Americans did their share in building this nation. Despite tremendous hardships, they laid the tracks of the first intercontinental railroad of this country. They overcame prejudice and discrimination and committed themselves to innovation and free enterprise, which has helped strengthen the U.S. economy.  

How do you think people of Asian descent or Asian communities can continue to increase their visibility and impact here and in the world?

I think we just need to continue to embrace, celebrate and practice our values, culture and traditions as these have made us strong and remain united throughout the decades to overcome struggles and challenges, and brought us to where we are today.

Is diversity important at university campuses, at work and overall? Why?

Absolutely, diversity in perspectives is important in the continuous growth and evolution of our University.

 

 

MORE ON DR. TORREGOSA:

TAMIU Expands Public Health Focus with New BS Degree   

TAMIU Nurses Post 100% Passing Rate on Licensure Exam   

Pivotal TAMIU Nurse Training Program Certifies 8 Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners  

Three TAMIU Faculty Receive Outstanding Awards             

New $1.177 Million Federal Grant to TAMIU Addresses Critical Shortage of Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners