President Ponce: “We are proud to have the state’s Administrator of the Year at Temple College”
The Texas Association of Community Colleges (TACC) honored Temple College’s Dr. Susan Guzmán-Treviño with its top award for higher education leadership.
TACC named Guzmán-Treviño, Temple College’s Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Student Services, as the recipient of its 2023 Carl M. “Cheesie” Nelson Award, the most prestigious award presented at the TACC annual conference. This award spotlights a dedicated higher education leader who is innovative, student-focused, and who has helped make major advancements in student success.
The Nelson Award also celebrates exemplary commitment to Texas students, leadership, professional decorum, collaboration and community engagement.
“Dr. Susan Guzmán-Treviño has a special gift and ability to develop perspectives from all those around her,” said Dr. Christy Ponce, Temple College President. “She is able to get broad-based support, collaboration and involvement because of how well she is able to connect with individuals and teams. She rolls up her sleeves and leads by example. She’s a great collaborator and has exceptional communication skills. I have been very impressed with what a transformation leader she is.”
Guzmán-Treviño has served Temple College for more than 30 years as an administrator and faculty member. She has led numerous reform efforts at the College, including, most recently, Texas Pathways, Rural Pathways, Caring Campus, Focus to Finish 8-week Course Design, Achieving the Dream national efforts, and the establishment of a Center for Teaching and Learning.
“This award is a testament to the incredible work of Temple College faculty and staff as well as the tremendous support we receive from our board and community,” Guzmán-Treviño said. “Everyone cares about student success and improving the lives of those in our communities. I’m truly grateful to be surrounded by such a caring community, and I’m honored to receive this award on behalf of Temple College.”
Ponce said the provost provides leadership for both faculty and student services staff and creates enriching experiences for members across the community.
“Dr. Guzmán-Treviño leads, supports and is fully engaged with professional development, leadership and enrichment activities to ensure that faculty, staff and administrators have meaningful growth, development and training throughout the year,” Ponce said. “She gives so much of her dedication, time and passion, and exemplifies what it means to be a true servant leader.”
As a former Aspen Presidential Fellow, and through participation in many other important state and national programs, Guzmán-Treviño has brought back many ideas and innovations and has implemented them at Temple College, setting her apart as a creative and innovative leader across the state.
Ponce said Guzmán-Treviño is loved throughout the community. As a long-time member of the community, she is trusted and is a true community champion who has demonstrated involvement in community-oriented activities in and outside of the college. She actively participates in her church, at K-12 schools, with community-based organizations, and with non-profit organizations volunteering, mentoring, and giving back, the president said.
“Dr. Susan Guzmán-Treviño is an amazing leader. She has helped guide Temple College to many successes. The Nelson Award is a fitting tribute to her dedication to Temple College students and the many communities across the region that we serve,” Ponce said. “Dr. Guzmán-Treviño works hard each day to help make college attainable for students, and she helps see them through to successful careers. Dr. Guzmán-Treviño is so deserving of this special honor and recognition, and we are proud to have the state’s Administrator of the Year at Temple College!”
Guzmán-Treviño earned her Ph.D. and M.Ed. in education from the University of Texas at Austin. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and an Associate of Arts from Temple College.
ABOUT TEMPLE COLLEGE
Temple College is “Your Community’s College,” a dynamic and growing community college that equips thousands of Central Texas students with the knowledge and skills for 21st-century success. Temple College, which has campuses in Temple, Hutto and Taylor, offers more than 75 degree and certificate programs to students who seek to earn credits for transfer, graduate with an associate degree or complete a certificate for fast entry into the workforce.
Founded in 1926, Temple College has enjoyed a reputation for academic excellence for 97 years. It is nationally recognized for its exceptional programs, from visual and performing arts to competitive athletics. The College has become one of the state’s premiere institutions for healthcare providers’ education and training, advanced manufacturing, and workforce development programs. The faculty and staff are committed to providing exceptional quality instruction.