Southwest Texas College Celebrates Mental Health Technician Graduates
Hosted by the college's Workforce Training and Development Division, the ceremony brought together graduates, family members, faculty, staff and community partners to celebrate the successful completion of the Mental Health Technician program.
During her welcome remarks, Kristel Sanchez highlighted the importance of the program and recognized the support of community partner Hill Country Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Centers (Hill Country MHDD Centers), which has sponsored 36 students since 2024. She noted that the investment extends beyond workforce development by strengthening families, workplaces and communities through mental health education.
"Our goal is to continue bringing these valuable programs to our community and encourage graduates to continue their educational journeys," Sanchez said.
The ceremony featured keynote speaker Jaclyn J. Gonzales, a licensed professional counselor, educator and community advocate. In her address, Gonzales encouraged graduates to lead with compassion, carefully choose their words and recognize the power of human connection in mental health services.
"As mental health technicians, many of you will become the first face someone sees when they enter an office," Gonzales told graduates. "Never underestimate the power of compassion and the value of simply being present."
Representing the graduating class, Christina Garcia reflected on her personal journey and the impact the program had on her future goals.
"This program opened my eyes to a brighter future and gave me the encouragement to want more for myself," Garcia said. "I realized my purpose is to contribute to the mental health community and help individuals who are lost, misunderstood and struggling with mental illness."
Graduates recognized during the ceremony included Christina Garcia, Fatima Garcia, Yesenia Guerrero, Gracy Gutierrez, Angela Muñoz, Ebrah Sanchez and Santa Villarreal. Additional program completers recognized by the college were Diana Pastrana, Perla I. Perez, Marlene Ramirez and Manuel Roman, who were unable to attend the ceremony.
Instructor Rossina Salas, who has led the program since 2024, congratulated the graduates and emphasized the lasting impact of their training.
"Today we celebrate more than the completion of a course," Salas said. "We celebrate your commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. The knowledge and skills you've gained are valuable, but what will make the greatest impact is the empathy and respect you bring to everyone you encounter."
Salas also praised the strong bonds formed among students throughout the 143-hour program, noting that classmates continuously supported and encouraged one another through personal challenges and professional growth.
The Mental Health Technician program is designed to provide participants with foundational knowledge of mental health conditions, crisis response, communication strategies and community support services, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in behavioral health settings and related fields.
Southwest Texas College continues to expand workforce training opportunities that address regional needs while preparing students for meaningful careers that strengthen communities across Southwest Texas.