01
October
2021
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16:48 PM
Europe/Amsterdam

Board of Regents Grants Distinguished Title of “Professor Emeritus” to Two Long-time DMC Educators

Now retired, Political Science Professor Renato Ramirez and Sociology Professor Dr. Russell Long both taught in College’s Social Sciences Department

Article by Melinda Eddleman

During the Board of Regents’ regular September meeting, two retired professors were bestowed the title of “Professor Emeritus.” Renato Ramirez, Professor of Political Science, and Russell Long, Ph.D., Professor of Sociology, both retired from Del Mar College’s (DMC) Department of Social Sciences in 2020; and after almost a year-long process, both educators were recognized with the prestigious title for their exemplary teaching and dedication to DMC students and the institution.

Renato Ramirez_Professor Emeritus of Political Science_cropped

Ramirez’s 29-year tenure included not only teaching but also serving as the Social Sciences Department Chair from 2014 until his retirement. In 1997, he demonstrated his initiative and creativity as one of the first faculty members to deliver online instruction when that teaching method was in its infancy. Ramirez demonstrated commitment to enhancing his instructional methodology and his students’ success by maintaining a high retention rate of 90 percent or better as well as serving as an invaluable faculty advisor to numerous student organizations such as the Circle K Club Kiwanis Social Service Student Group, Native American Club, Student LULAC Organization and the Student Democrat Club.

Among Ramirez’s other credits, he served on various academic program search committees, the Faculty Council, the former Strategic Planning Committee and the subcommittee for the College’s reaccreditation processes through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. He was also a member of several notable professional organizations, including the Texas Community College Teachers Association, the Texas Faculty Association and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).

Dr. Russell Long_Professor Emeritus of Sociology_cropped

Dr. Long’s 22-year tenure included serving as the Assessment Coordinator for the Sociology Program for nearly 10 years. Additionally, he provided dedicated service as a member of multiple academic program search committees, numerous instructional program review committees and on College standing committees, including Faculty Council, Dual Credit Advisory, eLearning Advisory and Faculty Advising Committees. As an invaluable student mentor, he served as a faculty advisor to several student organizations and their leaders, including the Social Justice Club, Safe Space Club and Student Government Association.

He shared his expertise by authoring professional publications and giving academic presentations at notable events hosted by the Southwest Social Science Association, South Texas Studies Journal, Southwestern Sociological Association and Texas Junior College Student Government Association. Dr. Long was also a member of distinguished professional organizations, including the Population Reference Bureau, the American Association of University Professors and the Southwestern Sociological Association.

While both retirees may not teach anymore, former colleagues, students and peers can now say, “Hello, Professor Emeritus,” the next time they see either of these former DMC faculty members.

 

 

About Del Mar College

Del Mar College empowers students to achieve their dreams. We offer quality programs, individual attention, outstanding instruction through faculty with real-world experience and affordable costs to credit and noncredit students in Corpus Christi and the South Texas Coastal Bend area. Nationally recognized while locally focused, we’re ranked in the top two percent of community colleges in the country granting associate degrees to Hispanic students (Community College Week). Del Mar College focuses on offering our students programs that match current or emerging career opportunities. Whether students are interested in the fine arts, sciences, business, occupational or technical areas, students get the education they need for the future they want at Del Mar College.