Academic Affairs Staff

Jessica Martinez-Palacios

Jessica Martinez-Palacios

Associate Director for Online Teaching and Learning

Office: SACHS/EAP 7
E-mail: jemarti1@uiwtx.edu
Phone: (210) 832-2146

Jessica Martinez-Palacios has over 20 years’ experience in Adult Education, Online Learning and Instructional Design. She graduated with her Master's degree in Higher Education Leadership and Administration and in E-Learning Technology and Design from Jones International University. She is skilled in Curriculum Development, Course Design, Quality Matters, Quality Assurance Standards, Accessibility, Adult Learning Theories, Educational Technology Programs and Assessment Standards. She is excited to be part of the School of Professional Studies to support Faculty and Students.

Associate Director for Online Teaching and Learning

Academic Development:

  • Lead the development, implementation, and assessment of online courses and programs.
  • Develop and implement training programs for faculty in effective online teaching strategies.
  • Ensure that online courses and programs meet quality assurance standards.

Departmental Support:

  • Evaluate and make recommendations regarding new tools and technologies to support and enhance the development and delivery of online and hybrid courses.
  • Ensure that faculty and student online support functions are aligned to promote student success.

Professional Development:

  • Develop and lead training programs designed with best practices for online learning.
  • Promote educational technologies that enhance teaching and learning.

Cari Dobledo

Cari Robledo

Academic Affairs Support Specialist

Office: SACHS/EAP 23
E-mail: crobledo@uiwtx.edu
Phone: (210) 832-5674

Cari was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX. She graduated from the University of Texas-Pan American with a BA in Psychology. Mrs. Robledo has 9 years’ experience working in higher education. She also holds certifications in leadership, which she obtained from South Texas College. Her knowledge is highlighted in assisting the School of Professional Studies - Academic Affairs, with tasks to focus on the success of students and faculty.

Academic Affairs Support Specialist

  • Assist the Director of Academic Affairs with projects related to faculty support, Canvas, Banner, course scheduling and faculty orientations.
  • Maintains booklists and spreadsheets to order books and facilitate eBook processes.
  • Assists students and faculty with books and syllabi information.
  • Manages and prioritizes multiple tasks within scheduled terms.
  • Creates and maintains course schedules in Banner.

Dr. Dawn Liguez headshot

Dawn R. Liguez, Ph.D

Assistant Professor, Director of Program Assessment, DBA Program Chair

E-mail: dplatt@uiwtx.edu
Phone: (210) 829-2709

Dr. Dawn Liguez is an academic leader with over 20 years of experience in organizational leadership, teaching, research and academic administration. She holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and Business and currently serves as Assistant Professor in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program. As a national speaker and consultant, Dr. Liguez partners with senior executives and educational institutions to develop data-driven strategies for organizational growth and improved student outcomes. She is an active member of the Association for the Assessment of Learning in Higher Education (AALHE) and the Society for Research on Educational Effectiveness, and is recognized for her contributions to leadership development, teaching excellence and organizational effectiveness.