Distinguished Alumni 2024 Inductee

Heather Herrera

Heather Herrera, a proud first-generation graduate and Servant Leader, has over ten years of professional experience in student affairs and higher education, encompassing a variety of experiences and responsibilities, including academic advising, TRIO programs, student support, student retention and success, and student affairs administration. Heather has devoted her life to creating brighter futures for college students. She is dedicated to removing barriers to student success and is passionate about assisting first-generation, underrepresented, and all college students.

As Director of TRIO Student Support Services STEM (SSS-STEM) at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMUCC), Heather oversees an exemplary program that provides opportunities for academic development, assists students with college requirements, and motivates students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary education. SSS-STEM aims to increase its student participants' college retention and graduation rates. Heather oversees an outstanding staff whose vision is to lead a dynamic student experience and provide a holistic approach to advising so that all SSS-STEM participants can thrive as they obtain a higher education. Heather has been at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi since 2015 and previously served as the Assistant Director of SSS-STEM. Before TAMUCC, Heather was a Senior Academic Advisor at the STEM Advising Center, advising Science and Health Profession majors. Palo Alto College is where Heather learned the importance of always putting Students First.

As Heather pursued her higher education, she held numerous internships such as the City of San Antonio Ambassador Program Intern for the TRIO Upward Bound Program at Palo Alto College, City of San Antonio Ambassador Program Intern for the Office of the Vice-President of Student Success at Palo Alto College, Graduate Intern for the Office of Student Success and Northern Virginia Community College, and Graduate Intern for the Early Identification Program at George Mason University.

A few of her recent recognitions and awards include the 2022-2023 Excellence in Student-Focus Award, a service award for the Office of Student Success at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Heather was also selected for the NASPA Institute for Aspiring Vice Presidents for Student Affairs, an intensive program designed for professionals considering a move to the vice president position in student affairs.

During her free time, she engages in her local community, where she mentors students who have graduated from TAMUCC. She also serves as a Youth Developer for Youth Unlimited nights at her local church. Heather earned her Associate of Arts in Radio, TV, and Film from Palo Alto College, her Bachelor of Arts in Electronic Media from the University of Northern Iowa, her Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Higher Education from George Mason University, and is a doctoral candidate as she pursues a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.