Mega Doctor News
PHARR, Texas – Rio Grande Valley College proudly celebrated a historic milestone in nursing education and workforce development today with the graduation of its first-ever Registered Nurse Apprenticeship cohort. The special ceremony took place this morning at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance.
A total of 12 students completed the groundbreaking program, which uniquely combines rigorous academic instruction with paid, hands-on clinical experience at DHR Health. Endorsed by the Texas Board of Nursing, this innovative apprenticeship model was designed to directly address the region’s critical nursing shortage while offering students real-time clinical training and mentorship.
“Today, we don’t just celebrate graduates — we honor a movement: where perseverance meets purpose, where community meets opportunity, and where the future of healthcare is being built right here, by us, for us,” said Dr. Annabelle Palomo, chief executive officer and president of Rio Grande Valley College.
The ceremony featured remarks from distinguished guest speakers, including City of Pharr Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, DHR Health Chairman of the Board Dr. Carlos Cardenas, and DHR Health Chief Executive Officer Dr. Manish Singh. Each speaker emphasized the urgent demand for registered nurses and the importance of continuing to invest in workforce training through programs like this one.
“This graduating class reflects DHR Health’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce through education and hands-on training that meets the staffing needs of our region,” said Dr. Singh, who expressed enthusiasm for hosting future cohorts of RN apprentices.
As the program’s official employer partner, DHR Health played a vital role in its development and implementation, providing valuable training opportunities and mentorship to the students.
“We are celebrating a momentous occasion honoring the efforts and commitment of our registered nurse apprentices,” said Nori Zapata, DHR Health senior vice president of education and career development. “The dedication, compassion, and resilience of these students have brought them to this proud moment. Congratulations to each of you — your healing hands and caring hearts will change lives.”
During the ceremony, graduates received their white coats from City of Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza and enjoyed photos and refreshments with their family and friends.
The inaugural graduating class of the Rio Grande Valley College Registered Nursing Apprenticeship Program includes:
Brenda Cantu, Ebony Fields, Javier Larraga, Jose Martinez, Arturo Moreno, Kimberly Puente, Luzellyn Rodriguez, Radames Rodriguez, Anita Saenz, Wendy Schell, Ryan Serna, and Enrique Servin.
“This event not only celebrated their achievements—it marked the beginning of their careers as skilled, compassionate nurses ready to make a difference in the lives of others,” added Zapata.
