TAMIU President's Service Award
Student Spotlight
Fall 2025

Christelle Audiffred
Christelle Audiffred graduated with a degree in Education and a concentration in Bilingual Teaching. During her time at TAMIU, she demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, service, and campus engagement. She served as Sisterhood Chair for Sigma Delta Lambda and was actively involved with the Campus Activities Board and the Student Philanthropy Council. Christelle also contributed to campus life through her role as a federal work-study student with the Office of Student Affairs.
One of Christelle’s most impactful volunteer experiences took place at an Immigrant Center in McAllen, where she supported kitchen and pharmacy operations while representing Monterrey, Mexico. This experience broadened her perspective and strengthened her commitment to serving others with empathy and compassion. Through her service involvement, Christelle developed leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills that continue to shape her personal and professional growth. She encouraged fellow students to embrace volunteer service, emphasizing the importance of mutual support and uplifting others within the community.

Uvaldo Leon
Uvaldo Leon graduated with a degree in Accounting and a strong record of leadership and service. Throughout his academic career, he was actively involved in several campus organizations, including the Freshman Leadership Organization, Sigma Lambda Beta, the SGA L.O.V.E. Committee, the Student Philanthropy Council, Alpha Banking, Betas, Star Club—where he served as Vice President—and the National Society of Leadership and Success, where he held the role of Treasurer. He also supported campus operations through his work with Print Services as a federal work-study student.
Uvaldo demonstrated a deep commitment to community engagement by serving as a team leader three times for both Make a Difference Day and The Big Event. One of his most meaningful service experiences was collaborating with Laredo College students to beautify the Haynes Recreation Center during The Big Event 2025. Through these service opportunities, Uvaldo strengthened his leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills while contributing to the growth and well-being of the Laredo community. He encouraged his peers to get involved in service, noting that volunteerism beautifies the city and supports its continued growth.

Zoe Garza
Zoe Garza graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology. Throughout her time at TAMIU, she displayed dedication to leadership, service, and environmental responsibility. Zoe held several leadership roles, including Academic Chair for Sigma Lambda Gamma, Secretary for Star Club, and Public Representative for L.O.V.E. She also served as a team leader for both Make a Difference Day and The Big Event, supporting volunteer coordination and community service efforts.
Zoe’s commitment to service extended beyond campus through her volunteer work with the Laredo Animal Protective Society, where she assisted with animal enrichment and enclosure upkeep. This experience allowed her to combine her passion for animals with her dedication to community and environmental care. Through volunteerism, Zoe developed strong communication, leadership, and initiative-taking skills. She encouraged students to view service as both an opportunity for personal growth and a responsibility to the community and the environment.