February 1, 2021
COVID-19 UPDATE
For the most up to date information from West Texas A&M University and the Texas A&M University System about COVID-19, visit the University's COVID-19 Information Page.
February Marks 56th Consecutive
American Heart Month
Presenting Pre-Healthcare Club Officers—
the future of healthcare!
TJ Ortiz, SR. Biology, with a minor in Music, is the President. His goal is to get into medical school and become a physician. “Being a part of PHCC has given me the opportunity to learn more about the healthcare field as well as give me insight on what to expect with the application and interview process. The variety of different healthcare professions we see at our meetings also helps to guide me to the right field!”

James Pacheco, SOPH. Biology, is the Vice President. His goal is to find a program in the healthcare field that will allow him to achieve the goals he wants to achieve in life. “My membership with PHCC has given me insight on the numerous amounts of fields in the healthcare industry, helping me narrow down my options for the future. Through the PHCC meetings I have gained a sense of appreciation for all of the difficult work that different professionals accomplish.”

Jennifer Martinez, SR. Psychology, is the Director of Outreach and Recruitment. Her goal is to get into medical school to one day become a psychiatrist. “My membership with PHCC gives me the ability to connect with others of similar interests, and allows me access to medical professionals who want to help pre-healthcare students by sharing their individual experiences.”

Noir Hawash, SR. Biochemistry, is the Treasurer. “I am looking to find a program in the healthcare field that will align well with my future goals of researching and treating diseases. My membership with PHCC allows me to gain insight on a variety of healthcare programs that will ultimately help in my decision to apply to a program that fits well with my interests. The diversity of options out there in the healthcare field can be overwhelming. These meetings introduce options that are unique to not only medical school aspirers but to other healthcare
professions.”

Ana Zepeda Aguilar, SOPH. Biology is the Social Media Director. One of her main goals is to get into PA School. “The Pre-Healthcare Club allows me to gain more knowledge about the range of careers in the healthcare field and to obtain mentorship from the speakers.”

Dr. Carolyn Bouma, is the faculty advisor. "I teach Microbiology, Histology and Medical Microbiology, and I advise PMED, POPT and students preparing for PA schools. I also recruit and advise for JAMP, a competitive scholarship program for PMED students. Being the advisor to this Club allows me to help students in a way that surpasses 'regular' advising. Also, the Club meetings are a great venue for some of our graduates to come and discuss their experiences in professional school!"
Renovation begins on
Natural Sciences building
The $3.5 million project, which begins February 9th will upgrade teaching laboratories and research spaces for geology, biology and environmental science programs in the Life, Earth and Environmental Sciences Department. A collaborative teaching classroom for chemistry and biology majors also will be built.
Parkhill Smith and Cooper is the architectural design team for the project; general contractor is Page and Associates.
“These changes are overdue and will transform the existing facilities into state-of-the-art spaces that will provide our students with the background they need to go out into the work force,” said Dr. Kevin Pond, Dean of the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences. “Not only will we provide a better education for our existing student population, but we also will be able to better attract future students for the program.”
Brian Garcia, JR Biology Major and Student Senator for the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences shares his excitement for the renovations; "I'm glad the NSB renovations are underway now. I am especially excited for the renovations for the labs! It will be great to have fume hoods, seating space, and a new look to the classrooms. All the updates will make a remarkable impression on WT's campus!"
Dr. Lal Almas Recognized
as Community Leader

Dr. Almas, Regents Professor of Agricultural Business & Economics and Associate Dean, Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, was honored as Paul Harris Fellow plus 4 status in the Canyon Rotary Club. He was recognized for his community leadership and service for many years in the Canyon/Amarillo Area. Dr. Almas serves as Assistant Governor for rotary area 6 ( Canyon, Dimmitt, Herford, and Muleshoe) in the Rotary District 5730. Well done, Dr. Almas!
Mr. Joel Babitzke Retires
Mr. Joel Babitzke joined the Department of Life, Earth and Environmental Sciences in 1993. He received his B.S. in Wildlife Management in 1988 from West Texas State University and a M.S. in Wildlife Management in 1992. During his time here, Mr. Babitzke taught: General Biology, Non-Majors Biology, Comparative Anatomy and Limnology. He has also taught Zoology, Animal Behavior and Biology for Elementary Teachers. Mr. Babitzke says "In retirement, I will miss the interaction with my friends, they were more than just colleagues." In his retirement, Mr. Babitzke plans on farming and ranching in Follett, TX. With thanks for all the hard work over the years, you are already missed!
WTAMU Livestock Judging Team Finishes 8th overall at Cattlemen's Congress
Spring Palooza 2021 Recap!
On January 20, 2021 we kicked off the new semester with the 2nd annual Spring Palooza! Bingo, Cornhole and Walking-Tacos were a big hit!
"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it."
~ Aristotle