Rina Castillo Announces Candidacy for South Texas College Board of Trustees, District 7

Committed to Expanding Access, Empowering Students, and Strengthening Communities

Edcouch, TX — Rina Castillo, a longtime community advocate and leader in education and economic development, has officially announced her candidacy for the South Texas College Board of Trustees, District 7. With over 20 years of experience in education, workforce development, and community outreach, Castillo is running to ensure students across the Rio Grande Valley have equitable access to opportunity and clear pathways to success.

“I believe education is the foundation for economic growth and community empowerment,” said Castillo. “South Texas College plays a vital role in transforming lives, and I want to help strengthen that mission by expanding access, promoting innovation, and preparing students for the workforce of the future.”

Castillo currently serves as a Community and Economic Development Agent with Prairie View A&M University Extension, where she leads initiatives that support small businesses, promote homeownership literacy, and advance financial empowerment across Hidalgo and Starr Counties. She also serves on the Edcouch Economic Development Corporation Board, the New Life Alliance board and the Hidalgo County Cotillion Board.

Her public service includes leadership as a former President of the Edcouch-Elsa Rotary Club, Alderman for the City of Edcouch, and board member of the Edcouch Housing Authority Board. Castillo holds a bachelor’s degree in business, a master’s in Public Affairs with a concentration in Public Administration from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi.

Guided by her faith and deep-rooted community values, Castillo is an active member of St. Theresa Catholic Church and a longtime champion of educational access and family empowerment in the Rio Grande Valley.

“I’m running because I believe every individual deserves access to affordable education, relevant training, and the support needed to achieve their goals,” Castillo added. “Together, we can strengthen South Texas College and continue building a brighter, more equitable future for our region.”

About South Texas College District 7

District 7 covers communities in the Mid-Valley region, including Mercedes, North of Weslaco, Edcouch, Elsa, La Villa, Monte Alto, Hargil, La Blaca, San Carlos and northeast Alamo. Trustees play a vital role as advocates for higher education, shaping policies that impact student success, workforce readiness, and the college’s strategic growth.