Over 1,400 Graduates Earn Diplomas at Record-Breaking TAMU-CC Spring 2025 Commencement
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The American Bank Center was filled with joy and Islander pride on May 17, as Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi celebrated its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony. Families packed the arena, waving handmade signs, lifting phones high, and cheering as their loved ones crossed the stage. The ceremony was a major milestone for not just the university, as it was the largest ceremony in its history with 1,409 graduates, but also for each student as they walked across the stage to earn their diploma.
Among them was Leah Saldivar ’25, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences. Saldivar chose TAMU-CC to stay rooted in her hometown. Her time at the university included research with faculty on emergency medicine trends and clinical experience through a biomedical practicum at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital. Saldivar said she is one of many in her family who chose to attend TAMU-CC. Her sister just finished her first year at TAMU-CC and is a member of the Islanders Spirit Dance Team, and her mother, Candace Montoya ’25, also graduated alongside her this spring, earning a Master of Science in Nursing. Salvidar credits her TAMU-CC experience with preparing her for the next step in her academic journey, pharmacy school.
"Without my mom’s guidance, love, and support, none of my successes would have been possible,” Saldivar said. “I owe all my achievements to her, and she continues to be my greatest inspiration. I’m also proud of my city and the opportunities TAMU-CC has given me. This university is more than just a stepping stone, it’s a part of my family’s legacy, my personal resilience, and my journey toward making a meaningful impact in health care.”
For Jesus Romero ’25, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration brought his formative life experience full circle. His parents spent years working in local Mexican restaurants, and their dedication helped shape his education and career aspirations.
“Coming to the Island was life-changing,” Romero said. “I found my voice and discovered who I am. I’ll always be grateful to TAMU-CC for helping me turn my dreams into goals.”
Also receiving her degree was San Antonio native Beverly Jackson ’21, ’25, who received a Master of Science in Nursing. As an online student, Jackson found ways to stay connected with the Islander community, even from a distance. Through virtual group projects, student organizations, and nursing webinars, she built lasting friendships and remained actively involved.
Jackson’s path was shaped by the legacy of her late mother, a nurse for three decades who passed away during Jackson’s second semester of her master’s program.
“Losing my mom was devastating, and I thought about taking a break from my studies,” Jackson said. “But I knew, deep down, she would’ve wanted me to keep going, and I felt her presence every step of the way. Her influence was my guiding light, and every step I took toward my degree was a tribute to the incredible nurse and mentor she was.”
This spring commencement speaker was Dr. D. Scott Elliff ’82, ’86, ’12, Associate Clinical Professor of Educational Administration. Elliff, who is retiring after a four-decades long career in education, told graduates that education alone will not determine their success.
“Your professors and mentors have prepared you well for the challenges you will face in your professional endeavors, and you will excel in those endeavors by correctly applying the knowledge and skills they’ve taught you,” Elliff said. “But knowledge and skills alone will not carry you the distance. Now, more than ever, who you are and how you show up in this life you’ve been given will be the true measure of your success.”
To watch a recording of the Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, visit commencement.tamucc.edu.
