The Division of Institutional Advancement at Texas A&M University-Kingsville recently announced Ralph Leal, SPHR as Director of Career Services.
“We searched for a career services leader who could envision how alumni can impact career services while bringing best practices to our campus, and someone who could relate to our students and alumni. We believe Mr. Leal is that person,” said Brad Walker, vice president for Advancement and External Relations & CEO of the TAMUK Foundation.
Leal joined Javelina Nation on Nov. 1, 2020 and has been working diligently to provide students with the support mechanism needed to get the most out of their degree.
Leal has been a human resources professional for more than 20 years with his last role serving as Associate Director of Career Services at Texas State University. His experience in different industries made him the right candidate to lead graduating Javelinas into the workforce.
“Texas A & M University-Kingsville has a great reputation of graduating hard-working and dedicated students and I look forward to how Career Services will help grow our reputation. I also want to hear from students on what support and assistance they would like to see in their Career Services office,” Leal said.
“Career Services will continue to be aware and mindful of the workplace that our students are entering today.
“We have already seen shifts in how employers engage with students, but the pandemic has expedited these new connections. Our office will be a key contributor collaborating with staff and faculty on how we can connect with students and prepare them for life after graduation.”
Leal is currently working on ensuring that virtual interfaces such as Javelina Careers and Quinncia, are functioning properly for students to use.
He has also began contacting employers on how they can engage with Javelina Nation while supporting academic programs.
“Working with Mr. Leal has been a great experience. He brings a fresh perspective to Career Services. He has extensive experience in the field and a great personality that allows him to work well across campus departments, alumni, employers and students,” said Director of Academic Success Christina Rodriguez-Gonzalez.
Leal’s goal is to continue preparing students for the workforce while simultaneously keeping in touch with alumni.
“Having Career Services under the Institutional Advancement umbrella was also an attractive feature. The University desires to maintain a lifelong relationship with our students and alumni with Career Services being a key component of that success,” Leal said.
Although Career Services continues to restructure its program, Leal is ready to tackle any challenge in efforts to provide students with better preparation before entering the job market.
