Luis Alaniz is an experienced educator with over a decade of experience in K-12 and higher education. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at UTRGV, he holds a Master’s in Communication Studies and a Graduate Certificate in Media Relations. Alaniz has taught at the high school, community college, and university levels. He has a strong track record of organizing community outreach initiatives that promote student engagement while strengthening partnerships with parents, community stakeholders, and leaders. His organizational communication and leadership expertise have consistently fostered collaboration and lasting connections.
Education
Doctorate – Educational Leadership
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Fall 2020 – Present
Graduate Certificate – Media Relations and Strategic Communication
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Dec. 2015
Master of Arts – Communication Studies
The University of Texas-Pan American, May 2015
Bachelor of Arts – Mass Communication – Advertising & Public Relations
The University of Texas-Pan American, Summer 2013, Magna Cum Laude
Associate of Applied Science – Business Administration – Marketing
South Texas College, Summer 2011
K-12 Teaching Experience
La Joya ISD – La Joya Early College High School
Teacher: 2018 – Present
Professional Communication, Speech 1311: Introduction to Communication, Speech 1315: Public Speaking, Speech 1318: Interpersonal Communication
La Joya ISD – Juarez-Lincoln High School
Teacher: 2015 – 2018
Journalism, Speech 1311: Introduction to Communication
South Texas College – Department of Communication
Adjunct Lecturer: Summer I 2017 – Present
Speech 1311: Introduction to Communication, Speech 1315: Public Speaking, Speech 1318: Interpersonal Communication, Speech 1321: Business and Professional Speaking, COMM 2327: Advertising
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley – Department of Communication
Adjunct Lecturer I: 2016 – 2021
Speech 1311: Introduction to Communication, Comm 1307: Intro to Mass Comm, Comm 3303: Writing for Mass Media, Comm 3349: Multimedia Storytelling
Department of Continuing Education at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Lecturer: 2015 – 2016
Digital Media Certification; Introduction to Digital Media
Department of Communication, The University of Texas-Pan American
Graduate Teaching Assistant: Fall 2014 – Spring 2015
- Crafted weekly lectures and lab activities tailored to student interests, ensuring engagement and relevance.
- Collaborated with course instructors on grading, content delivery, and assessments.
- Held office hours to assist students with assignments, ensuring positive learning outcomes.
- Supported the instructor of record in teaching film analysis and assisting students in completing course objectives.
Professional Experience
Hauser Communication Research Lab at The University of Texas-Pan American
Assistant Director: January 2014 – June 2015
- Led lab operations, overseeing lab promotion and utilization, significantly increasing student participation and lab visibility across campus.
- Provided over 200 hours of personalized speech and interview coaching, enhancing students’ communication skills and boosting their confidence for academic and professional presentations.
- Represented the Hauser Lab at campus-wide events, delivering presentations that raised awareness of lab resources and increased student engagement with lab services.
Recruitment and Retention, The University of Texas-Pan American Office of Graduate Studies
Graduate Assistant, May 2014 – August 2014 / October 2013 – May 2014
- Advised potential graduate students, offering personalized guidance on graduate school applications, resulting in higher applicant success rates.
- Led promotional efforts for UTPA Graduate School Workshops and Teaching Academy Bootcamp, resulting in increased workshop attendance and engagement.
- Advised graduate students on academic and career challenges, helping to reduce attrition rates through personalized support and mentorship.
- Achieved a 120% increase in Teaching Academy Bootcamp attendance through strategic promotion and outreach efforts.
Marketing and Design, The University of Texas-Pan American Office of Graduate Studies
Undergraduate Assistant: October 2012 – September 2013
- Developed and managed advertising campaigns across social media, print, and digital platforms, improving graduate program visibility and engagement with prospective students.
- Directed visual content creation and coordinated successful information sessions, facilitating clear communication between graduate directors, faculty, and prospective students.
Awards & Recognition
· 2021: Teacher of the Year.
· 2018, 2022, 2023, 2024: UIL Advancing Coach Award.
· 2018: UIL Advancing Coordinator Award for outstanding coordination of UIL events.
· 2016-2017: Perfect Attendance for consistent dedication to teaching and student support throughout the school year.
· 2013: Outstanding Graduate Assistant for providing exemplary academic support to students and contributing to effective research activities.
Educational Skills:
- Public Speaking
- Interpersonal Communication Coaching
- Curriculum Development, Instructional Design, Quantitative & Qualitative Research
- Social Media Campaign Development & Management
- Technology Integration in Classrooms, Event Planning & Coordination
- Strategic Planning & Leadership, Mentorship & Student Support
- Team Building & Collaboration, Training & Professional Development
- Problem-Solving, Time Management
Technical Skills:
- Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut Pro, IBM SPSS
- Blackboard Learn (QM Certified), Apple Classroom, Google Classroom, Flipgrid, Quizizz
Teacher Certification Areas
- Speech (7-12)
- Journalism (7-12)
- Business and Finance (6-12)
- Technology Education (6-12)
Technology and Distance Learning Credentials
- Google Level 1 and Level 2 Teacher
- Apple Teacher
- Quality Matter (QM) – Independent Applying the QM Rubric (APPQMR)