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UT Permian Basin Blogs

Candid shot of Alex Shock

Alex Shock: Finding Passion, Purpose, and Community at UTPB

Jan 10, 2025 | Alumni

Alex Shock, Class of 2017, discovered his passion and purpose during his time at UTPB. Graduating with a degree in Business Management, Alex now thrives as the Program Director and On-Air Personality for 103.3 KISS FM. From sports and campus activities to forging lifelong friendships, Alex embraced every opportunity UTPB had to offer. His advice? "Push your limits, prioritize mental health, and know that you belong." Alex’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education, community, and determination.

Lesley Bond Graduation Photo

Lesley Bond

Dec 20, 2024 | Alumni

Lesley’s advice to others: “Anything is possible!” Her journey highlights the power of dedication and the supportive community at UTPB.

Cindy Salomon

F.A.N. Friday Highlight: Cindy Salomon

Nov 29, 2024 | General

Cindy’s journey from educator to entrepreneur showcases the lasting impact of her UTPB experience. As co-owner of Stone Tower Grafix, she applies creativity and determination to serve her community. Her advice to Falcons? "Enjoy and give it your best!"

UTPB student on field trip at oil rig

How Landmen Are Needed and Impact the Energy Sector

Nov 19, 2024 | General

Landmen are vital to the energy sector, securing land rights and ensuring compliance while driving growth and fostering sustainability in regions like the Permian Basin.

Ruben Guerra running track

F.A.N. Friday Highlight: Ruben Guerra

Oct 18, 2024 | General

Ruben Guerra, a UTPB Class of 2020 graduate, earned his Bachelor's in Communication and now inspires students as a Social Studies Teacher and Cross Country Coach at Midland ISD.

UTPB students watching employer at Don Nan Lufkin

The Importance of Internships While in College

Sep 11, 2024 | Faculty and Staff



UTPB students sitting at a table at Falcon Day

How do I know what to study: A guide for college-bound students

Sep 5, 2024 | General

A guide for finding a field of study that aligns with your passion, strengths, and long-term goals.

UTPB Student holding pen and paper while counseling another student

5 Reasons Why You Need an MA in Counseling

Aug 28, 2024 | Why UTPB

Choosing to pursue an MA in Counseling is a decision that promises personal growth, professional development, and the chance to make a lasting impact.

UTPB students at annual paint rave

The Importance of Getting Involved on a College Campus

Aug 21, 2024 | General

Getting involved on campus is a crucial aspect of the college experience. It opens doors to new friendships, skill development, networking, and personal growth.

Students walking on UTPB's campus

The Power of a Cost Calculator: Helping Students Afford College

Aug 14, 2024 | General

Navigating the path to higher education is an exciting journey, but it can also be daunting, especially when it comes to finances. Understanding the cost of attending college is crucial for students and their families to make informed decisions. That’s why utilizing a cost calculator can be a game-changer.

Alejandra Molina showcasing her new class ring

F.A.N Friday Highlight: Alejandra Molina

Aug 9, 2024 | General

This week, we’re shining the spotlight on Class of 2024 graduate Alejandra Molina! With a Bachelor's degree in Education, she’s now shaping young minds as a 2nd Grade Monolingual Teacher at ECISD.

UTPB Dorm

Top Items Needed for Dorm Living: Your ultimate checklist

Aug 5, 2024 | General

College is an exciting milestone! Prepare for dorm life with a comprehensive list of essential items to ensure a comfortable and successful transition.

UTPB student, mom, and dad with their arms around each other on campus.

Invest In Your Future: It’s Not Too Late to Pursue a College Degree (and it will be worth it!)

Jul 30, 2024 | General

With the start of school just around the corner, now is the perfect time to apply to schools like UT Permian Basin.

Robert Funderburg posing professionally for in his headshot

F.A.N. Friday Highlight: Robert Funderburg

Jul 26, 2024 | Alumni

Robert Funderburg shares his experience of being a non-traditional in route to becoming an educator for our community in the Permian Basin.

UTPB Mesa Building Entrance

Discover UT Permian Basin from Anywhere: Explore Our 360-Degree Virtual Tour

Jul 22, 2024 | General

Our 360-degree virtual tour is designed to be engaging and interactive. You'll be able to navigate through our campus, peek into our state-of-the-art facilities, and get a feel for student life—all at your own pace.

UTPB student working on computer

Top Five Reasons to Kickstart Your Tech Career with a Computer Science Degree at UTPB

Jul 9, 2024 | General

With opportunities to specialize in the hottest fields, explore your passions, gain practical experience, feel at home, and graduate debt-free, UTPB is the ideal place to start your computer science journey.

UTPB students with falcons up at orientation

Unlock Your Career Potential with a Degree from UTPB

Jun 27, 2024 | General

Whether you choose to pursue your degree online or in person, a UTPB education opens doors to better career prospects and higher earning potential.

Falcon Alumni Network - Alumni Shelby Bullock

F.A.N. Friday Highlight!

Jun 21, 2024 | Alumni

Happy Friday Falcons! Today the F.A.N. organization is proud to highlight proud alumna Shelby Bullock! Discover Shelby Bullock’s journey from late-night library sessions at UTPB to a thriving career in education! Her advice to students and alumni: “Cherish your university and it will cherish you back!”

Hannah Gore senior picture on a bridge

Celebrating Hannah Gore

Jun 14, 2024 | General

This F.A.N. Friday, we are excited to highlight the remarkable journey of 2023 graduate Hannah Gore!

Ramiro Andujo picture with SAE plane

F.A.N. Friday Highlight: Ramiro Andujo

Jun 7, 2024 | Alumni

Meet Ramiro Andujo, our featured alumnus who found his time at UTPB to be incredibly rewarding, shaping him both professionally and as a citizen. Ramiro's advice to current students and young alumni is to "be a friend and seize every learning opportunity."

Jayden Gray with Senior 2023 sign in front of the Engineering Building

F.A.N. Friday Highlight

May 31, 2024 | Alumni

We are thrilled to highlight Jayden Gray, a proud University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) alumnus, in our F.A.N. Friday Alumni series.

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Have you met: Monica Tschauner

Feb 7, 2024 | General



Richard Sax headshot

Have you met: Dr. Richard Sax

Sep 25, 2023 | Faculty and Staff



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Diversify Your Talent Pipeline

Jul 11, 2023 | Why UTPB

Leo recently graduated with his Bachelor degree in Business Management and is partnering with Sewell for 1 year under the Optional Training Program to gain industry experience in his field of study.

Graduate holding degree and smiling

How Stackable Certificates Add Value to Your Degree

Oct 20, 2022 | Why UTPB

An examination of how stackable certificates can add value to your degree, with an additional focus on The University of Texas Permian Basin’s certificate programs.

Veteran saluting during Veteran's Day Ceremony

Military Funding Options for Higher Education

Mar 28, 2022 | Why UTPB

We discuss education funding options available to military veterans, with emphasis on the Hazlewood Act’s benefits for Texas vets.

Freddy the Falcon standing in Welcome Center

Admissions Blog: Visiting Campus

Feb 28, 2022 | General



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Burnished Mahogany Between Two Mirrors

Jan 26, 2022 | Faculty and Staff



Head shot of Brian Shedd

Have You Met: Brian Shedd

Dec 15, 2021 | Have You Met..?



two alums smiling for camera putting their Falcons up

Alumni Blog: Carlos and Elaine Cruz Share Memories from time as UTPB Students

Dec 9, 2021 | General

Two UT Permian Basin alums who met on campus and eventually got married, share their experiences attending UTPB

student in electrical engineering classroom

Is Electrical Engineering a good major?

Oct 14, 2021 | General

Electricity has become a basic need in our world—we’re surrounded by it. There is no technology without it. If you enjoy tinkering with circuits or figuring out how something is powered, you may want to study electrical engineering.

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Is Chemical Engineering a good major?

Oct 4, 2021 | General

Imagine applying chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems that impact millions of people. Make your you mark with the chemical engineering program at UT Permian Basin.

Timothy Feerst Head Shot

Have You Met: Timothy Feerst

Sep 30, 2021 | General



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UT Permian Basin in Your Town

Sep 20, 2021 | Why UTPB

UT Permian Basin Admissions Counselors are coming to a town near you!

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UT Permian Basin has a New Welcome Center

Aug 31, 2021 | Why UTPB

The new and improved Welcome Center opened in Fall 2021

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5 Tips for Studying for Finals

Nov 18, 2020 | General



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5 Reasons Why Visiting a College Campus is Important

Nov 17, 2020 | General

We narrowed down the top 5 reasons why a prospective student should make plans for a campus visit

Michael Chavez Headshot

Have You Met: Michael Chavez

Nov 13, 2020 | Have You Met..?



Ryan Peckham Head Shot

Have You Met: Ryan Peckham

Oct 28, 2020 | General



Cassie Wilcox at swim meet

Alumni Blog: FAN President

Oct 19, 2020 | General

Cassandra Wilcox reflects on her time spent at UTPB and why it's important for alumni to give back

Zachary Suarez Headshot

Have you Met: Dr. Zachary Suarez

Oct 12, 2020 | General



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Hispanic Heritage Month: My Culture, My Perspective

Oct 6, 2020 | Faculty and Staff

UTPB Staff member reflects on her culture and looks forward to campus celebrations

Richard Ortiz University Headshot

Have You Met: Richard Ortiz

Oct 5, 2020 | Have You Met..?



Dr. Rajalingam Dakshinamurthy headshot

Have you met: Dr. Raj Dakshinamurthy

Aug 3, 2020 | Have You Met..?



Head shot of Scott Lapinski

Have You Met: Dr. Scott Lapinski

Jun 22, 2020 | General

He's the new Director of Financial Aid

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7 growing West Texas industries and the degrees you need to land a fulfilling job

Jun 16, 2020 | Why UTPB

You CAN advance your career in the Permian Basin, find out how:

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7 growing West Texas industries – and the degrees you need to land a fulfilling job

Jun 16, 2020 | General

You CAN advance your career in the Permian Basin: Find out how

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New Emergency Grant Program: CARES Act Funding

May 12, 2020 | General

Award amounts may vary, and the maximum award is $750 per student, pending fund availability

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UTPB Provides Housing to Medical Heroes

Apr 15, 2020 | General

During this crisis it remains a top priority for UT Permian Basin to help the West Texas community and giveback to those who are serving others.

nursing students make calls to help fight COVID-19

UTPB College of Nursing Students Step-Up to Fight COVID-19

Apr 9, 2020 | General

The College of Nursing has teamed up with Ector County to try to stop the spread of Coronavirus in our community.

UTPB professor shows 3-D printing for masks

UTPB Engineers Design Life-Saving Medical Equipment for COVID-19

Apr 6, 2020 | General

UTPB Engineers along with Texas Tech University Health Science Center faculty have designed prototypes for two important medical devices: face shields and splitters used for ventilators.

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Falcon Giving Day

Apr 3, 2020 | General



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UT Permian Basin's Response to Coronavirus

Mar 10, 2020 | General

There are currently no UTPB faculty, staff, or students who have reported symptoms or a diagnosis of coronavirus disease

Water in Energy Conference

3rd Annual Permian Basin Water in Energy Conference

Feb 17, 2020 | General

The 2020 Permian Basin Water in Energy Conference will take place February 18- 21 at the Midland County Horseshoe Arena

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UT Permian Basin and STEM Academy Extend Weather Closure

Feb 5, 2020 | General

The University will be closed on Thursday, February 6

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UT Permian Basin and STEM Academy Closed Due to Weather

Feb 4, 2020 | General

UT Permian Basin and UTPB STEM Academy will also be closed all day on Wednesday, February 5.

Robotics competition

College of Engineering Hosts Robotics Competition

Jan 31, 2020 | General

Come experience the 2020 FIRST Tech Challenge Regional Robotics Championship

Frederick Douglass Live flyer

5th Annual African American Read-In

Jan 30, 2020 | General

This year UT Permian Basin will be paying tribute to Frederick Douglass, 19th century slave turned educated abolitionist

beauty shot of UTPB quad

West Texas Strong: Moving Forward with Resilience

Jan 28, 2020 | General

UT Permian Basin plans to help students, faculty, and staff learn about trauma, its effects on our health, and how to spot the signs of a trauma-response

Dr. Woodley signs partnership agreement with UTHealth

UT Permian Basin Partners with UTHealth to expand MBA Opportunities

Jan 13, 2020 | General

Together, the two UT System Universities will offer students the opportunity to simultaneously earn a Graduate Certificate in Public Health while also earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Dr. Woodley smiles with students at graduation

UT Permian Basin Holiday Break

Dec 18, 2019 | General



Student holding graduation cap in library

More than 530 UT Permian Basin students set to Graduate

Dec 12, 2019 | General

UT Permian Basin President, Dr. Sandra Woodley said she looks forward to seeing everything these graduates will accomplish in the years to come.

Students studying

UT Permian Basin Master's in Bilingual Education Nationally Recognized

Dec 3, 2019 | General

Recently, UT Permian Basin was ranked in the top 50 Master’s in English Language Learning Degrees by intelligent.com

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UT Permian Basin Closing for Thanksgiving Holiday

Nov 26, 2019 | General

The University will be closed for Thanksgiving from November 27-29

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UT Permian Basin Engineering Building Grand Opening Ceremony

Oct 22, 2019 | General

The state-of-the-art UTPB Engineering Building has officially opened

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UT Permian Basin Engineering Graduates Achieve 100% Pass Rate on FE Exam

Sep 24, 2019 | General

The 100% pass rate is 21% higher than the national average

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Number of UT Permian Basin Graduates and First Time College Students Increases

Sep 20, 2019 | General

Fall enrollment for 2019 at UT Permian Basin shows more freshman and first time college students enrolled

Kindergarten students coloring around table

UT Permian Basin Helps Prepare Students for Kindergarten

Sep 13, 2019 | General

UTPB is working to combat the problem with a program called HIPPY

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Surviving Finals Week

May 6, 2019 | General



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Have You Met: Amy Kim

Apr 3, 2019 | General



D. Kirk Edwards Human Performance Center Starts to Take Shape

Mar 29, 2019 | General

Progress is being made on the D. Kirk Edwards Human Performance Center. Crews have been working to lay the foundation since breaking ground in September and just this week, the first steel beams went up.

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3 Alumni Honored for their Leadership

Mar 28, 2019 | General

Three University of Texas Permian Basin alum were recently honored for their leadership and contributions to the West Texas community. Sara Kate Billingsly, Kristi Edwards and Lynda James were recognized by the Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest at their annual Women of Distinction event.

Corey Benson Headshot

Have You Met: Corey Benson

Mar 25, 2019 | General

Benson joined the UT Permian Basin family as the Associate Dean of Students and Deputy Title IX Coordinator. His role on campus is to ensure all students get the most out of their college experience and walk away with great memories.

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Wayland Joins UTPB Team to Help Grow Campuses

Mar 19, 2019 | General

The University of Texas Permian Basin has appointed David Wayland as its Associate Vice President of Facilities Management. This addition to the UT Permian Basin team comes at a critical time – with several major construction projects underway and big plans for campus growth and development.

More than 50 Companies to Attend Spring Job Fair

Mar 18, 2019 | General

UT Permian Basin is helping West Texans land their dream job. More than 50 employers across all industries will be on campus waiting to interview and hire new workers on Thursday, March 28th at the UT Permian Basin Spring Job Fair.

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Have you Met: Dr. Sophia Kaane?

Mar 14, 2019 | General

Read the following Q&A to get to know Dr. Kaane and learn more about her plans for the library

Dr Woodley State of Ed

Dr. Woodley: Innovation and Risk-Taking is Future of Higher Ed

Mar 13, 2019 | General

UT Permian Basin President Dr. Sandra Woodley was on a panel with the presidents of both Midland and Odessa Colleges for a discussion on the State of Education last week.

No Classes Week of Spring Break

Mar 5, 2019 | General

There are no classes the week of March 11th through March 15th.

Men's Basketball Headed to Lone Star Conference Championship

Mar 4, 2019 | General

UTPB takes on the Lions in the first round of the Lone Star Conference Championship Tournament Thursday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. at Comerica Center in Frisco, Texas.

Kites flying over UTPB

Nearly 200 Student-Athletes Earn 3.0 GPA

Feb 19, 2019 | General

In the 2018 Fall semester, 197 student-athletes (52%) earned a 3.0 or higher Grade Point Average (GPA). Of these student-athletes, 35 (9%) had a perfect 4.0 GPA last semester.

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Scholars Program Opens New Doors for ECHS Students

Feb 19, 2019 | General

Early College High School students are eligible to apply for the Greater Texas Foundation Scholars Program through Friday, February 22nd.

Kites flying over UTPB

Career Services Helping Students Land their Dream Job

Feb 19, 2019 | General

College students commit years of hard work to earn their degree, but what happens after graduation? The Career Services team invites students to a day of learning how to build their resume, nail the interview and land the job.

Dr. Larry Daniel

Dr. Larry Daniel Named College of Education Dean

Feb 15, 2019 | General

Dr. Daniel comes to UT Permian Basin after serving as dean and professor in the Zucker Family School of Education at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. He is an educational leader focused on building excellence in faculty and academic programs.

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Permian Basin Water in Energy Conference Kicks Off This Week

Feb 13, 2019 | General

The success of our region hinges on one vital resource: water. Industry leaders will talk all things H20 at the upcoming Permian Basin Water in Energy Conference.

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World Renown Biographer Visits Campus

Feb 7, 2019 | General

The John Ben Shepperd Leadership Institute kicked off its 2019 Distinguished Lecture Series by taking a look at the life and leadership of the famed British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

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Partnership with Education Foundation to Grow Teacher Workforce

Feb 6, 2019 | General

It’s no secret that there is a shortage of teachers in the Permian Basin. Local school districts report having hundreds of unfilled teacher positions. To help meet that critical need, The University of Texas Permian Basin is partnering with The Education Foundation to award scholarships to College of Education students.

UTPB Campus with Fog

First of Distinguished Lecture Series to Feature Praised Churchill Biographer

Jan 30, 2019 | General

The John Ben Shepperd Leadership Institute is kicking off its 2019 Distinguished Lecture Series by taking a look at the life and leadership of the famed British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

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UT Permian Basin Receives Gift from John Jacob Taylor Charitable Trust

Jan 28, 2019 | General

UT Permian Basin, along with four other area non-profit organizations were officially announced as beneficiaries of the John Jacob Taylor Charitable Trust at a ceremony Monday morning.

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Evan Gattis Event Raises Over $130K for Baseball Program

Jan 25, 2019 | General

Nearly a decade after his historic season at UT Permian Basin, Gattis returned to West Texas to help raise money for the program that gave him a second chance at baseball.

Kites flying over UTPB

Champions Fund Pushes Student Athletes to Success

Jan 23, 2019 | General

UT Permian Basin is committed to helping student athletes succeed on and off the field. Reality is, we cannot do it without the support of our community – that’s why Athletic Director Scott Farmer helped create the Champions Fund.

robotics competition

College of Engineering to Host Robotics Competition this Weekend

Jan 22, 2019 | General

The College of Engineering is hosting the 2019 FIRST Tech Challenge Regional Robotics Championship on Saturday, January 26th.

tim leach standing up

Alumnus and Concho Resources CEO: Success Starts with Higher Ed

Jan 9, 2019 | General

To “make it” in the Permian Basin, some might argue that it takes grit mixed with vision. If you need an example of what that looks like, get to know Concho Resources CEO and UT Permian Basin alumnus Tim Leach.

New Semester Begins Monday

Jan 9, 2019 | General

It is the dawn of a new semester at The University of Texas Permian Basin. Before you head to your first class on Monday, January 14th, we want to make sure you’re ready for a great spring 2019.

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First Toy Toss Game a Success

Dec 19, 2018 | General



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Tips to Surviving Finals Week

Dec 10, 2018 | General



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Alum: "Your Class is Worth it"

Nov 20, 2018 | General



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Friel Ends Season on High Note

Nov 13, 2018 | General



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Zubiate Ready to Make His Mark

Oct 29, 2018 | General



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Meet the 2018 Homecoming Court

Oct 10, 2018 | General



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It's Homecoming Week!

Oct 9, 2018 | General



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Thames Leads Team by Example

Aug 30, 2018 | General



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Have You Met: Dr. George Nnanna

Aug 14, 2018 | General



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Have You Met: Dr. Steve Wilson

Aug 9, 2018 | General



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Have You Met... Jacob Patrick?

Jul 16, 2018 | General



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UTPB Hosts Kinder College

Jun 27, 2018 | General



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PBWIEC donates scholarship

Jun 15, 2018 | General



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UTPB student wins 1st place

May 30, 2018 | General



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New Dean of College of Business

May 29, 2018 | General



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UTPB alumni receives Daisy Award

May 24, 2018 | General



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Spring Commencement

May 3, 2018 | General



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Join Us for FalconPalooza

Apr 16, 2018 | General



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Have You Met… Adrian Lodge?

Apr 11, 2018 | General



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Have You Met…Keely Fernandez?

Mar 28, 2018 | General



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Have You Met…Lupe Sudano?

Feb 19, 2018 | General



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UTPB Receives $100,000 NSF Grant

Feb 15, 2018 | General



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Topping Out Ceremony

Jan 30, 2018 | General