TAMIU President's Service Award
Student Spotlight
Spring 2026
Raul Santiago Resendez
Raul Santiago Resendez graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Business Administration. Originally from Mexico City, Raul came to Texas A&M International University with the intention of focusing solely on his academics. However, through the encouragement of his peers, he became deeply involved in campus life. He served as a federal work-study student in the Office of Student Affairs, contributed to the Honor Council, held the role of Risk Manager for the Transportation & Logistics Network, and most recently served as the Student Government Association Elections Commissioner. Raul also took on leadership roles as a Team Leader for both Make A Difference Day and The Big Event, supporting large-scale community service initiatives.
Raul’s commitment to service began through his participation in Make A Difference Day and The Big Event, where he developed a strong connection to the Laredo community and discovered a passion for civic engagement. Through these experiences, he strengthened his communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. Raul consistently encouraged fellow students to view service not only as a way to give back, but as a meaningful opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Daniela Vigil
Daniela Vigil graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. A Nuevo Laredo native, Daniela came to TAMIU determined to expand her experiences beyond the classroom and engage with the Laredo community. Through encouragement and her own initiative, she became actively involved in campus life through her leadership roles as Community Service Chair for Sigma Delta Lambda, member of the Campus Activities Board and Freshman Leadership Organization, Student Mentor with ACE, and Service Abroad Ambassador for the South Korea 2026 program.
Daniela’s commitment to service was strengthened through her involvement in the Youth Leadership Program hosted by the Laredo Chamber of Commerce. This experience allowed her to work closely with youth and support educational initiatives aligned with Sigma Delta Lambda’s philanthropic values. Through volunteerism, Daniela developed strong leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills while gaining confidence in taking initiative within her community. She encouraged fellow students to take that chance—to connect, learn from others, and build meaningful relationships.
Brayan Garcia
Brayan Garcia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering. Throughout his time at TAMIU, he was actively involved in campus and community initiatives, including the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers and the University Honors & Undergraduate Research Program. Beyond campus, Brayan participated in outreach efforts at local elementary and middle schools, advocating for the university’s engineering program and inspiring younger students to pursue STEM pathways.
Brayan’s commitment to service was highlighted through his role as a Team Leader for The Big Event 2026, where he supported volunteers in beautifying Dryden Park. This experience allowed him to step into a leadership role and further develop his passion for civic engagement. Through volunteerism, Brayan strengthened his interpersonal and leadership skills while fostering a deeper connection to his field. He encouraged his peers to remain open to learning from others and to view service as a gateway to meaningful connections and professional growth.
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.