Texas A&M International Universitystudents crowned their first Mr. and Ms. TAMIU on Thursday, January 27, 2011. The coronation was held during halftime of the Women’s basketball game at the Kinesiology-Convocation Building among administration, students and alumni.
The six finalists, who were present at coronation, were chosen after an extensive application and interview process. Mayra Hernandez, Associate Director of the Office of Students Affairs expressed, “We have candidates that surpassed the minimum qualifications, we are excited to have this particular team set the tone for the next generation and so on.”
Days leading to the coronation, the candidates had the opportunity to inform students about their campaign across campus. Approximately, 1,223 students voted online at TAMIU One Card Servicesfrom January 24 through the 26th.
At the coronation, a table displaying four crowns, since each female runner up was crowned as well as Mr. and Ms. TAMIU, was set up. Dr. Ray Keck, President of the University and Dr. Minita Ramirez, Vice President of University Success congratulated and crowned the candidates. The second runner ups, Diana Galindoand Erik Villa, were announced followed by the first runner ups, Andrea Beattieand Juan Ortiz. This led to the announcement of the first Mr. and Mrs. TAMIU winners, Triana Gonzalezand Alvaro Aguirre.
Gonzalez and Aguirre will be awarded with an alumni ring compliments of the TAMIU Office of Institutional Advancement as well as having the opportunity to attend a special fitness class. The responsibilities and duties of Mr. and Ms. TAMIU include representing the university in academic as well as community functions.