Steve Harmon, APR
Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services
Steve has been creating and executing award-winning public relations campaigns in higher education for over 20 years. He's well versed in maintaining the TAMIU brand through compelling storytelling, powerful digital and print publications, and momentum-building strategic community partnerships. Along with the dedicated PRMIS team, he leads integrated communication and marketing plans focused on sharing our multi-faceted and dynamic story with a global audience. Since 2013, PRMIS has earned 80+ state, national and international awards. Steve is powerless in the kitchen, but can “assemble” a PBJ in a pinch.
Warning: Do not request yours with bananas.
956.326.2180
Mika Akikuni
Associate Director, Marketing
Mika leads TAMIU's marketing initiatives through data-based strategies and powerful partnerships with media, the community, business, government and non-profit organizations. With over 20 years of experience in the communications and marketing fields, she was previously assistant vice president of marketing at IBC Bank. She was also associate director of public relations and communications specialist at TAMIU. Prior to TAMIU, she was an education and courts reporter for The Laredo Morning Times and covered news stories for various newspapers in the Phoenix metro area. She holds a master's degree in Public Administration from TAMIU and a bachelor's in Journalism from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University. Born in Argentina and raised in Paraguay, she is an avid world traveler. She looks forward to working in dynamic teams to advance the University's mission.
956.326.2184
Ana Clamont
Creative Director and Brand Manager
Ana is responsible for ensuring the TAMIU brand reflects the University’s excellence. In addition to designing the distinctive TAMIU “look” and University-wide campaigns, she helps clients understand the process of creating and maintaining the best image for their campaigns or projects. Ana also shares her knowledge with students as an adjunct instructor in the College of Arts and Sciences. As an adjunct instructor, Ana became involved in Reading the Globe and has traveled with students to Chile and Bosnia and hopes to continue to participate in upcoming journeys. She holds a BFA in visual arts with specialization in graphic design from the University of Nuevo León, México and two MBAs, in International Trade and Marketing—from TAMIU. Prior to TAMIU, Ana worked in the marketing department at IBC.
956.326.2182
Ana María Vargas
Director, Digital Media
Ana María provides support to all TAMIU web content managers and is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the University’s web pages. She is passionate about helping everyone create and update their webpages and happy to answer any questions or concerns that arise. Contact her regarding Cascade CMS or to schedule Cascade training. Born, raised, and educated in Laredo, Ana María received her BBA in Management Information Systems and her MS in Information Systems from TAMIU. She enjoys collaborating and serving with others on various campus initiatives and has previously served on TAMIU’s Staff Senate Board as Vice President (Marketing and Communication), President-Elect, President, and Past President.
956.326.2015
Rolando Santos
Videographer/Photographer
With almost five years experience in television production, Rolando brings his creativity and enthusiasm in film and photography back to his alma mater. He previously worked as a Public Relations Specialist at Laredo Community College, where he developed promotional materials and carried out photographic assignments. A passionate film enthusiast and self-described “music explorer,” he holds a bachelor’s degree from TAMIU in Communications with a minor in Marketing.
956.326.2181
Christine Rojas
Social Media and Communications Manager
An award-winning social media professional, Christine primarily handles the social media efforts for the University. Contact her if you need help setting up your university-affiliated social media profile or if you’re developing a robust social media campaign. Together, Christine works with members of the Social Media Advisory Committee to help tell the University’s story through social and interactive media. When she's not creating social media content, her go-to weekend activities include reading her latest #BookTok find or curating yet another Spotify playlist. A proud TAMIU alumna, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications and is currently pursuing a master’s degree.
956.326.2183
Georgina Zamudio
Graphic Designer III
A budding professional in graphic design, Georgina joins our team after recently completing a master’s degree in Graphic Design from the Academy of Arts University in San Francisco. Previously, Georgina worked in the University’s Print Services Department, where she learned optimal printing techniques to enhance printed projects. A TAMIU alumna, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art and Psychology.
956.326.2185
Joshua R. Gonzalez
Communications Specialist I
Joshua provides all forms of necessary support for all things web-related. He is dedicated to improving not only the overall function of tamiu.edu, but to making sure that each page presents the University’s image in an elegant and professional manner. With six years of experience in backend programming, he is well versed in understanding the ins and outs of programming and website design. A proud TAMIU alum, Joshua first received his BBA in Management Information Systems back in 2012, followed by an MS in Information Systems.
956.326.2188
Alejandra D. Covarrubias
Administrative Associate IV
As a dedicated administrative associate, Alejandra thrives on managing all administrative aspects for our Public Relations office. With 10 years of experience in customer service and office administration, Alejandra is a problem solver, she relishes challenges and approaches them with a strategic mindset. She believes in the power of teamwork and actively contributes to the team’s success.
956.326.2180
Michael E. Gutierrez
Coordinator of Web Initiatives
Michael is responsible for coordinating TAMIU’s ever-dynamic web presence. He ensures the adherence of the web content to accessibility, branding, copyright laws, polices, style guides, and ways to create delightful, engaging web experiences. He thrives on turning ideas into functional code. A proud TAMIU alum, he holds a BS in Systems Engineering and an MS in Information Science.
956.326.2186
Marco E. Villarreal
Graphic Design Specialist
With seven years of experience as a graphic designer/illustrator and a TAMIU Bachelor's degree in Multidisciplinary Studies focusing on Art, Studio Art, and Liberal Arts, Marco brings a diverse skill set to the PRMIS team. His background includes work in both large-scale print shops and freelance projects, and he is dedicated to enhancing the visual identity of all TAMIU departments in his portfolio. Leveraging creativity and technical expertise, he strives to develop new and exciting visual solutions. Outside his professional pursuits, he enjoys spending time with friends and family, particularly outdoor activities and occasional karaoke sessions. Have mic? Will sing.
956.326.4981
Jose “Joey” G. Hernandez III
Communications Specialist I
Jose “Joey” G. Hernandez III, is a proud Laredo native and graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a Bachelor's in Communication, with a concentration in Digital Communication. With 10 years of personal experience in web and graphic design, Joey combines his professional expertise with a passion for navigating the digital landscape and connecting people. His diverse interests and skills range from crafting sleek experiences in the world of social media and nurturing big green gardens, to music production and competing from time to time in semi-professional esports. These experiences have helped shape him into a dynamic and versatile individual ready to tackle new challenges with creativity and enthusiasm to further elevate TAMIU across social media platforms. Joey can often be found debating the virtues of best fonts…while tending to his banana plants.
956.326.2927