Geovanny Montemayor ’25 named Outstanding Islander Graduate for the College of Liberal Arts

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — After serving his country for more than a decade, Geovanny Montemayor ’25 decided it was time to come home. Drawn to the world of diplomacy, his return to South Texas led him to the Island University. Now, as the Spring 2025 Outstanding Islander Graduate for the College of Liberal Arts, he’s ready to turn global ambition into meaningful action. He will earn a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science on Saturday, May 17, during the university’s largest commencement ceremony in history.

“I believe now, more than ever, the world needs professional and educated diplomats to navigate this ever-evolving globe and the complex issues within it,” Montemayor said. “This belief inspired me to pursue a degree in political science, which will serve as a foundation for my future in global affairs.”

A Corpus Christi native, Montemayor transferred to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi from Texas A&M in College Station — a decision driven by a desire to be closer to family, and one he now considers to be one of the best decisions he’s ever made.

“What I found at TAMU-CC made my educational journey truly unforgettable,” Montemayor said. “The smaller class sizes and close-knit faculty created a more intimate, personalized learning experience. Here, I felt a greater sense of connection, support, and belonging, which ultimately enriched my academic growth and personal development.”

Montemayor wasted little time leveraging TAMU-CC’s intimate environment to become an active and involved member of the Islander community. One activity he’s particularly proud of was acting as a poll watcher for the 2024 primary elections, allowing for a first-hand look at the electoral process in action.

“Volunteering as a poll watcher gave me a deeper understanding of the challenges and responsibilities involved in conducting fair and accessible elections,” Montemayor said. “It reinforced my appreciation for civic engagement and the democratic process, strengthening my passion for public service and diplomacy.”

With a budding interest in politics, it should come as no surprise that this U.S. Navy veteran served as a Senator in the Student Government Association, representing the Student Veteran Organization. He’s also held leadership positions within the SVO, currently serving as its vice president, and helped organize events like Valentines for Vets, where students wrote heartfelt notes to veterans overseas. He also volunteered at the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery, cleaning headstones, removing debris, and tidying the grounds to honor those who served. He also worked as a student grader since fall 2023.

“The impact TAMU-CC has had on me is immeasurable, and I am proud to have played a role in giving back to the Islander community,” Montemayor said. “Through SGA and SVO, I helped foster a stronger, more engaged student veteran presence on campus — one that will continue to thrive long after my time here.”

For his capstone project, Montemayor used political science research methods to investigate the link between ideological issue preferences and confidence in Congress. He plans on pursuing a Master of Global Affairs degree at Rice University and eventually wants to become a Foreign Service Officer within the U.S. Department of State. Those who have worked closely with him believe that for Montemayor, anything is possible.

“Geo doesn’t just complete tasks — he approaches them with care, thoughtfulness, and a deep sense of purpose,” said Dr. Sanne Rijkhoff, Associate Professor of Political Science. “His time at TAMU-CC has been marked by resilience, self-reflection, and a drive not just to improve himself, but to lift up those around him.”

Not only has Montemayor made an impression on Rijkhoff, but he’s also impressed the entire political science faculty, who, as a group, unanimously nominated Montemayor as an Outstanding Islander Graduate.

“Geo is a true success story and exemplifies what TAMU-CC is all about,” said the faculty collective. “From humble beginnings to the U.S. Navy to first-generation college student, Geo is an example for all our students and has impressed the political science faculty with his intelligence and maturity.”

Montemayor is grateful for the vote of confidence, especially from Rijkhoff, whom he considers his mentor.

“Dr. Rijkhoff went above and beyond to ensure my success in every endeavor,” Montemayor said. “I am so incredibly grateful to have found such a dedicated mentor who continues to provide me with leadership and guidance.”

Montemayor is a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society. He’s also a recipient of the Loris J. Welhausen Quasi Endowed Scholarship as well as the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Scholarship and has been on the Dean’s List every semester at TAMU-CC.

“I have grown tremendously as a scholar, leader, and individual,” Montemayor said. “TAMU-CC has shaped me into a more engaged and caring leader and has made me more confident, compassionate, and purpose-driven.”