UIW Class of 2024: Mariana Garza
On Saturday, December 14, UIW’s Fall 2024 graduating class will cross the commencement stage to claim their hard-earned degrees, marking the beginning of a new chapter beyond the Nest. Each graduate is a reflection of UIW’s Mission to support students as they become enlightened citizens that embody the teachings of Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Word. One of these remarkable graduates is Mariana Garza.
Inspired by how small shifts in knowledge and behavior can positively impact the outcomes of a patient, Garza felt encouraged to choose Community Health Education as her major. For her, a career in healthcare would allow her to serve others in underserved communities.
“I became passionate about the idea that health is not just an individual responsibility but a community effort, and how education and empowering people can lead to healthier lifestyles,” said Garza. “I believe that I can be part of creating lasting change that improves the overall health and quality of life for communities.”
Garza particularly enjoyed how UIW’s Community Health Education program offered hands-on experiences and chances to work on community-based initiatives. Through these opportunities, she applied her classroom knowledge to address actual health challenges within diverse populations. In addition to its specific curriculum, she appreciated her program’s emphasis on collaboration between peers, instructors and community partners. These interactions demonstrated to her how collective efforts can drive positive health outcomes for all.
During her time at UIW, Garza served as an intern for Unified In Wellness, a campus organization that helps to provide basic health resources to students. In her role, she ran the UIW Health Hut, where she and her peers shared helpful resources, health information and prevention tips with fellow Cardinals, ultimately fostering a healthier and happier campus environment.
“Mariana Garza demonstrated the spirit of leadership and dedication in her role as our student intern for Unified In Wellness,” shared Dr. Erlinda Lopez-Rodriguez, director of Community Health Education. “She has been committed to creating initiatives that truly embody the mission of our organization of being ‘for students, by students. Mariana’s work not only inspired her peers but also sets a foundation for a healthier, more connected campus community.”
Garza feels that the time spent within her program and her experiences on campus have collectively prepared her to take on her career aspirations. The comprehensive foundation in public health, health promotion and behavioral changes that the Community Health Education program provided will be essential for her goal of becoming a health educator and advocate.
As a first-generation student, Garza views her graduation as a huge milestone, not only for herself but for her family as well. “My time at UIW has been an incredibly positive experience, not just for the academic knowledge I gained, but for the relationships I built, the practical skills I developed and the commitment to service and community impact that the University instilled in me,” explained Garza. “I leave UIW feeling confident, prepared and deeply motivated to contribute to the health and well-being of the communities I serve.”
Congratulations to Mariana Garza and the rest of UIW’s Fall 2024 graduating class!