Mega Doctor News
By Selene Rodriguez
When Jessica Mungia graduated from South Texas College’s first Radiologic Technology class more than 25 years ago, she never imagined she would become a driving force in the Mission community.
Now a mammography technologist at South Texas Health System (STHS), she has dedicated her career to advancing breast cancer awareness, promoting early detection, and advocating for preventive care, leaving a lasting impact on those she serves.
“I will never forget the excitement and the incredible gratitude I felt when STC launched its Radiologic Technology program in 1996. It gave me the opportunity to build a career close to home and, ever since, has given me everything I have,” she said. “At that time, the nearest program was three hours away, so when STC brought it to our region, it opened doors for me and so many other medical professionals in the area. I’m forever grateful and proud to be one of its first alumni.”
After graduating in 1998, Mungia’s journey as a radiologic technologist led her to specialize in mammography, turning her expertise into a lifesaving mission.
A decade ago, when STHS opened an ER clinic in her hometown of Mission, she saw the perfect opportunity to give back to the community that shaped her.
“I am a proud Mission native, born and raised. I’m a graduate of Mission High School,” she said. “When I heard about the new clinic, I immediately requested a transfer. I saw it as a great opportunity to return to my hometown and provide a vital service to the community, especially for women -mammograms.”
Among the first professionals to join the clinic, she played a key role in establishing its imaging services and extended her efforts beyond its walls attending health fairs and school district events to advocate for breast cancer awareness and early detection.
“STHS provided everything we needed to build a strong imaging department, including mammograms and comprehensive outpatient services,” she explained. “We actively reached out to the community to inform them about the great services we offered, speaking to parents at school meetings and engaging with local events. Over time, we started seeing more people come in, more appointments being made and a growing awareness of the importance of prevention.”
For her significant contributions, Mungia has also been recognized for her by STHS.
However, she shared that serving her patients, many of whom she has built lasting relationships with over the years, has been the most rewarding part of her career.
“Some of them (patients) even followed me from STHS’ McAllen facility to our clinic here in Mission. We catch up, we laugh, all while I’m performing their mammogram, which could potentially save their lives,” she said. “It’s a huge responsibility that I take very seriously. I know how much courage it takes for some women to come in for a mammogram, often fearing the unknown. I’m so grateful when they choose to return to me every year, that means I’m doing something right.”
With STHS as her forever home, Mungia is deeply committed to spreading the word about prevention and breast cancer awareness, firmly believing in the power of community care and supporting one another.
“In a close-knit community such as Mission, I always tell my patients to keep spreading the word,” she added. “Tell your moms, grandmothers, sisters, everyone. Mammography is important, and at STHS, the community has a facility nearby offering everything you need. Take advantage of what’s right here to stay healthy, stay safe and take steps to prevent anything from happening.”
She takes great pride in her role serving the community and is eager to help shape the future of health care in diagnostic imaging.
“Throughout my career, I’ve seen many STC students come in, and I always tell them they’ve chosen a marvelous, rewarding path in health care,” she said. “I’m still amazed at all the opportunities STC offers, not only in radiology but also in professions such as nursing or respiratory therapy. It’s amazing that STC offers aspiring medical professionals the chance to build a successful career without having to leave home.”
For more information on Radiologic Technology or other Nursing and Allied Health programs offered at STC, visit nah.southtexascollege.edu/ or call 956-872-3100.
