Commending Diana Natalicio for her service as president of The University of Texas at El Paso.
The resolution highlights the transformation of UTEP during Dr. Natalicio's presidency. For instance, the university's budget expanded from $65 million to over $500 million, and it increased its doctoral programs from one to twenty-two. These accomplishments have established UTEP as a prominent institution for higher education, making it more responsive to the community's needs. The resolution also underscores Dr. Natalicio's pivotal role in securing considerable research funding, which has supported the growth of academic programs and infrastructure improvements within the university.
Senate Resolution No. 185 commends Dr. Diana Natalicio for her remarkable service as the president of The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). Announced in May 2018, Dr. Natalicio's impending retirement concludes a significant three-decade tenure marked by her dedication to expanding access to higher education, improving academic quality, and fostering significant growth in student enrollment and research funding. Under her leadership, UTEP has seen its enrollment rise from 15,000 to over 25,000 students, with many being first-generation college attendees from predominantly Hispanic backgrounds, reflecting the demographics of the El Paso region.
While the resolution serves to recognize and honor Dr. Natalicio for her contributions to UTEP and the broader community, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced in higher education, including issues of access, funding, and quality. Opponents of her leadership may argue about the systemic issues in public education funding or governance, but this resolution stands as a testament to the positive impact Dr. Natalicio has made throughout her tenure.