Lozano: Leaving UTRGV is bittersweet in every sense

After 25 transformative years at UTRGV, with my heart in my hand, I am deeply honored to announce that I will be returning to my alma mater, Rice University as the chair of the Materials Science and NanoEngineering – Rice University  Department (MSNE)—a department that changed the trajectory of my life.

Rice gave me the tools, opportunities, and dreams to make an impact through engineering. Now, I have the incredible privilege to come full circle, returning to the place where it all began, to magnify that impact and help shape a lasting legacy for MSNE. God has His plans. Interestingly, I never applied for a job at UTPA, nor did I apply to Rice, a story for another time.

Leaving UTRGV is bittersweet in every sense. Together, we achieved what many once thought was impossible. We proved the value of an engineering program, ignited a thriving research enterprise, designed and launched the first PhD program in engineering, and mentored dozens of colleagues and hundreds of students. Among all, what I’m most proud is achieving 100 percent retention and graduation of hundreds of UG that worked in the NanoTeam!!! We provided a community with dreams and examples of the transformative power of education. The journey has been extraordinary. I leave with full confidence that the programs I started are in excellent hands and will continue to flourish under the leadership of my successors, who I trust completely to carry the vision forward.

To my UTPA/UTRGV wonderful family: thank you for trusting me, supporting me, and being an essential part of this incredible journey.

To my future colleagues, students, and collaborators at #Rice: I am excited to work with you, learn from you, and create something extraordinary together. 

As I take on this new challenge, please keep me in your prayers and thoughts, together we can lead a meaningful impact—not just at Rice, but far beyond.

As one of my students advised me, ‘Take the offer, show us that it is possible,’ and so, I go forward with the hope of clearing the path for others to follow. 

Editor’s Note: The above commentary was first provided by UT-Rio Grande Valley Professor Karen Lozano on social media in late December, 2024.

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