10 years of UTRGV

The tower stands atop the Main Building on the Brownsville campus.
THE RIDER FILE PHOTO

UTRGV marks its 10th anniversary with a year of celebrations, record-breaking growth and national recognition. From rankings to expanding programs, the university reflects on its first decade while looking ahead to what’s next.
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As UTRGV approaches its 10-year milestone, leaders and students reflect on the decisions that shaped its growth, from expanding scholarships to increasing access and enrollment.
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A student shoots a basketball, attempting to win a prize, during the 10 Year Celebration Thursday in Lot E-16 on the Edinburg campus.
Samantha Cantu/THE RIDER

SM6 members perform on stage during the 10 Year Celebration Thursday in Lot E-16 on the Edinburg campus.
Mariah Escobar/THE RIDER

SM6 performs during the 10 Year Celebration Thursday Thursday in Lot E-16 on the Edinburg campus.
Mariah Escobar/THE RIDER

Students enjoy a carnival ride during the 10 Year Celebration Tuesday on the Main Building lawn on the Brownsville campus. Carnival rides were available to students during the event.
Mariajose Garza/THE RIDER

The UTRGV community came together to celebrate a decade of history and achievement. These images and videos capture the energy, pride and moments from the anniversary event.
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Steven Hughes, former Pulse editor; Victor G. Ramirez, former Rider editor-in-chief; Jackie Peraza, former The Rider copy editor; and Fernando Ramirez, former Rider photographer, pose for a photo during an event.
PHOTO COURTESY UTRGV STUDENT MEDIA

From its roots in legacy institutions to a unified multimedia program, UTRGV Student Media has spent a decade telling the stories of its campus and community.
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Shown is the Bronc statue, legacy institution the University of Texas–Pan American’s mascot, outside the Visitors Center on the Edinburg campus. “We have slowly but surely developed the reputation for being a high-quality university but, at the same time, one of the most affordable universities in the state and the country,” said Patrick Gonzales, vice president for University Marketing and Communications.
Aarykah Navarro/ THE RIDER

UTRGV continues to earn national recognition, ranking No. 1 in Texas for best value and social mobility.
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UTRGV’s research funding has grown from $60.7 million in 2022 to $103 million in 2025, marking a 71% increase in three years.
Valeria Tokun Haga/THE RIDER GRAPHIC

UTRGV surpassed $100 million in research funding, marking a major milestone as it works toward Carnegie R1 status.
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UTRGV President Guy Bailey was named 2025 Educational Champion by Teach for America RGV for his leadership and dedication to expand educational opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley.
THE RIDER FILE PHOTO

UTRGV President Guy Bailey earned Educational Champion honors for advancing access to education in the Rio Grande Valley. Leaders say the recognition reflects the university’s decade of progress.
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Broncs, Ocelots and Vaqueros all tell part of UTRGV’s story. This word search brings together key names and milestones that reflect the university’s evolution over the past 10 years.

Made by Mykel Del Angel with the online word puzzle creator from Amuse Labs

The Rider staff curated this playlist to capture the sounds that defined their time at UTRGV. From throwbacks to recent hits, it reflects a decade of student experiences.

About The Author

Mykel Del Angel

Mykel Del Angel serves as the Online Editor for The Rider. He is majoring in Music Technology and minors in Computer Science, with aspirations in game audio and design.

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