NVC Graduate, Employee on a Mission to Change Lives

For NVC Student Success Team Leader Virginia Mares, life has definitely come full circle. Her decision to enroll at Northwest Vista College (NVC) in 2002 turned out to be the first step on a journey that would not only enhance her life, but the lives of several family members.

Mares, who was an Alamo Colleges Foundation scholarship recipient, graduated from NVC in 2007 with an Associate of Arts in Psychology. Her curious nature prompted her to learn more about human behavior, and in 2010, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A&M University-San Antonio. Shortly after, in 2015, Mares graduated from Our Lady of the Lake University with a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership.

“Over the years, what began as a job became a calling. I’ve been able to use my background in psychology to understand and connect with students on a deeper level, and my degree in organizational leadership has helped me grow as a mentor and leader,” she said. “Every role I’ve held has been an extension of that early inspiration — creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving more than they imagined.”

Mares found success as both a student and employee within the Alamo Colleges District where she has held several positions throughout the years, including work-study, academic advisor, welcome center coordinator, and senior coordinator for advising at NVC. She also worked in Student Recruitment at St. Philip’s College.

She believes each of those positions served as preparation for her current role as Advising Team Leader at NVC. Mares aims to create an environment where students and staff can thrive and gain confidence as they reach their goals. Watching students and her team members grow into their potential, Mares is on a mission to change lives.

“I have the privilege of supporting a talented team and helping shape initiatives that remove barriers and create smoother pathways for students,” she said. “What I love most is that I still get to be connected to the same mission that inspired me as a student — helping others see what’s possible for their future.”

Mares has shared her optimistic outlook for the future with her mother, husband, and daughter. Her success has served as inspiration for them all to further their education at Northwest Vista College. In 2016, the proud daughter watched as her mother, Dolores Montez, fulfilled her lifelong dream of earning an Associate of Arts degree from NVC.

Mares met her husband, Eduardo Mares, at NVC when they were both student workers. He earned an Associate of Arts in 2013, and their daughter, Angel Montez, an AlamoPROMISE student, is set to continue the family legacy by graduating this month with an Associate of Arts degree as well.

“NVC has given each of us the confidence and a sense of accomplishment, but more than that, it’s shown us the ripple effect of education,” said Mares. “It’s changed how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible for our family. Every degree earned represents not just one person’s success, but a legacy of perseverance, faith, and opportunity that continues to grow with each generation.”

Virginia Mares is among the graduates whose stories are being highlighted as part of NVC’s 30th anniversary celebration.