One of the university’s distinguished alumni has changed the way humans build cities and did it while maintaining a perfect GPA.
Itohaosa Isibor earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering and a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering from Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
During Isibor’s master studies she co-authored a NASA and National Science Foundation backed publication called the “Developing a Map of Floodplain Alterations Across the World’s Major River Basins” (1992–2019).
This publication analyzed over 15 million kilometers of floodplains across 520 major river basins, using high‑resolution and documented over 600,000 kilometers of floodplains that had been altered.
“I worked in partnership with experts in the field, under the tutelage of Dr. Adnan Rajib, to identify patterns and implications of human-driven changes to floodplains across 520 major river basins. Through this work, I recognized the urgent need for adaptive strategies in floodplain management, especially as climate-related disasters escalate in frequency and severity. The findings from this project not only advanced global scientific understanding but have significant implications for U.S. infrastructure planning, environmental protection, and disaster preparedness,” Isibor said.
This project resulted in a first of its kind global quantification of human-driven floodplain alteration. It also equipped communities, planners and scientists with spatial data and interactive tools to make informed decisions around flood risk, restoration and land use policy.
The authors also released a Floodplain Mapping Tool, Land Use Change Tool and Human Alteration Tool which could be used by researchers and decision-makers for their communities.
Isibor’s passion to build a better future didn’t start at TAMUK. Her calling started from a passion to make a difference in the fight against climate change.
“My passion for environmental engineering stems from a deep concern for the growing challenges posed by climate change, environmental degradation, and water resource mismanagement, especially in vulnerable communities,” Isibor said. “Growing up witnessing the environmental consequences of poor infrastructure and rapid urbanization, I felt compelled to be part of the solution. Environmental engineering offered the perfect intersection of science, sustainability and social impact. It’s not just a career, it’s a calling to protect ecosystems, preserve public health, and drive innovation for a more sustainable future.”
Isibor also left a legacy with faculty at TAMUK along with her major accomplishments in her respective field.
“Having the opportunity to teach and mentor a student as exceptional as Itohaosa Isibor has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my academic career. Her unwavering dedication, intellectual brilliance and passion for environmental engineering were evident in every aspect of her journey at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Graduating with a perfect GPA, earning dual minors in Nuclear Engineering and Biology, and completing both her B.S. and M.S. degrees through the Fast-Track program are remarkable achievements on their own… It has been a profound privilege to witness her growth and success, and I am confident she will continue to inspire and lead in the field of environmental engineering,” Professor and Chair of the Department of Environmental Engineering Dr. David Ramirez said.
Ramirez also expressed how Isibor’s success can be a good example of how anyone can commit to a dream, and anything can be achieved within that commitment and dedication.
“For future students, Itohaosa’s story is a reminder that success is not just about grades, but about passion, perseverance and purpose. It encourages students to dream big, seek mentorship and embrace every opportunity to grow both personally and professionally,” Dr. Ramirez said.
Isibor’s example of commitment can also be used to show off how the student body can end up being some of the best alumni in the country and change the world.
“Stories like hers light a fire in the hearts of our students and remind us of all of what’s possible. It brings hope, motivation and a sense of pride not only to the campus but to the entire Javelina family. Her success shows that a TAMUK education can take you anywhere even beyond the bounds of Earth and that message resonates in every classroom, office and alumni gathering,” Alumni Engagement Coordinator Danielle Martinez said.