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Bridging the Americas

As a group of nine students crossed the stage on a cloudy Mexico City afternoon on June 21, 2008, history was made. ²»Á¼Ñо¿Ëù became the first American university to confer a collegiate degree on a Mexican campus.

For Atzel Jonatan Peña, BBA '08, MBA '20, being a member of the first graduating class is something he holds dear to his heart. This pioneer group of Cardinals is remembered as the group paving the way for all subsequent classes.

Nearly 15 years after crossing the stage and receiving his undergraduate degree, Peña continues to be involved with the University in a special way. In June 2021, he was welcomed to the ²»Á¼Ñо¿Ëù Alumni Association Board of Directors, serving as the Board’s first ²»Á¼Ñо¿Ëù Mexico Alumni Network representative.

Peña has cemented himself as a leader among his peers. His vision is to provide Mexican alumni opportunities to grow and expand relationships with their Texas counterparts.

"We are one of the most recognized Catholic universities in the state of Texas and we are constantly growing in Mexico," he said. "Taking advantage of the talents our students and alumni have can help us develop new projects and enhance our scope - creating a multicultural and multinational community."

"We have determined clear goals and objectives for our ²»Á¼Ñо¿Ëù Mexico Alumni Network," added Peña. "We plan on having a series of shared REDTalks (webinars), joint networking events, conversation opportunities to allow continuous practice of the English language, alumni credential programs, and service opportunities throughout our communities."

One of the current initiatives being planned by the network stands out for Peña. After listening to fellow alumni and current students, he learned Cardinals in Mexico are constantly expressing interest in English language immersion programs.

"I have proposed and will seek to have within each campus in Mexico City and Irapuato, a space created so students and alumni can speak exclusively in English," explained Peña. "This will enrich our knowledge that mastering English is extremely important for our students and alumni, encouraging conversation amongst them and our extended community."

Through communication with current students, Pena is remind