Silva to ‘pay it forward’ as VP for enrollment, student affairs

Alumnus returns to university

After having walked the halls of Javelina Nation as a student, alumnus Dr. Rito Silva returns to Texas A&M University-Kingsville to serve as the Vice President of Enrollment Services and Student Affairs.

            Silva will be responsible for promoting a “positive” experience for all students from the time they apply to Texas A&M-Kingsville until they graduate.  

“I can tell you without a shadow of doubt, if it wasn’t for that institution and the mentors who took an interest in me, I would never have finished college. Now, I get to come back and pay it forward. This is an incredible opportunity for me; me and family are thrilled. We are very honored and blessed to be in this position,” Silva said.

Silva graduated from Texas A&I as a first-generation student with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. After graduation, Silva was able to land his first job in Javelina Nation as an advisor for College I in 1990.

Serving as an advisor was an eye-opener for Silva, and he felt a great satisfaction knowing he was able to make a difference in students’ lives especially those who shared a similar background.  His first job encouraged him to pursue a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

Silva lateer earned his PhD in Human Resources Development from A&M College Station in 2007.

Interacting with students and being able to guide them through their college journey served as a motivation that would lead to up to three decades in education.

Silva has worn different hats in the education system ranging from Director of the Alice Center for Coastal Bend College to Dean of Students at Lone Star College in Cyfair. He currently serves as the Vice President of Student Affairs at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi. Silva is now eager to begin working at his alma mater, and administration is happy to have him join the team.

“I am excited to announce that Dr. Rito Silva has accepted our offer to become the Vice President for Enrollment Services and Student Affairs. Rito brings more than 30 years of experience working with all aspects of student services and student affairs. I am confident that his familiarity with our campus and South Texas will allow him to hit the ground running and bring new ideas which will enhance the overall student experience on our campus,” University President Dr. Mark A. Hussey said.

            Silva is anxious to begin working in his new position. Although his official starting day is not until June 1, he plans to visit campus many times before then to interact with students, faculty and staff.

“On day one I want to begin establishing or enhancing relationships with school districts, community colleges and the general community. I also want to focus on the needs of the employees of the division as well.  I always tell employees wherever I am, ‘you are our most precious resources,’ and we need to take care of our employees to take care of our students… I’m anxious to get in there and meet the team,” Silva said.

Silva said he has several areas on which he wants to focus – the university’s culture, improving student services and enrollment all while enhancing the college experience for students.