Jennifer Porras
Harlingen
Summary
Motivated professional with a strong work ethic and adaptability, experienced in managing administrative operations in higher education. Proven track record in developing strategic initiatives that enhance registration processes and ensure compliance with academic policies. Demonstrated leadership in staff development and team building, with a focus on leveraging technology for process optimization.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Registrar – Vital Statistics
City of Harlingen
Harlingen
2025 - Current
- Recorded and issued certified copies of birth and death certificates, including amendments and burial transit permits.
- Maintained records and reports to ensure compliance with Texas Vital Statistics laws.
- Balanced daily accounting of fees collected from certificate transactions.
- Collaborated with staff to uphold local regulatory compliance.
- Coordinated information-sharing initiatives across city departments.
- Entered and audited data in state electronic systems for accuracy.
- Assisted in staff training and supported Local Registrar in departmental operations by remaining updated on regulations.
Program Advisor – Retention Services
Texas State Technical College
Harlingen
09.2024 - 05.2025
- Advised students on academic and career pathways through virtual meetings via Google Meet.
- Implemented online workshops to enhance student engagement and promote success.
- Collaborated with instructors to identify and assist students struggling with coursework.
- Provided strategic outreach and resource referrals to support at-risk students.
- Monitored academic progress, tracked financial aid status, and verified eligibility requirements.
Pre-Technical Advisor – Office of Student Success
Texas State Technical College
Harlingen
10.2011 - 08.2024
- Facilitated collaboration among internal departments to support students and monitor academic progress.
- Managed mentoring program, enhancing student engagement and development.
- Acted as statewide contact for program initiatives and coordination efforts.
- Conducted outreach initiatives to ensure student success, partnering with faculty and departments.
- Advised students on educational planning, scholarships, and goal-setting strategies.
- Developed academic plans and tracked student progress toward degree completion.
Academic Advisor – College Bound Program
Texas State Technical College
Harlingen
08.2009 - 10.2011
- Conducted interviews and hired instructional staff for summer programs to optimize student learning outcomes.
- Evaluated student needs and created tailored educational plans to promote academic progress.
- Advised students on academic programs and course selection, ensuring alignment with goals.
- Monitored student attendance and grades in database to assess retention and progression.
- Guided students in goal-setting to facilitate achievement of educational objectives.
- Evaluated transfer credits from other institutions, determining applicability toward degree completion.
Education
Master of Arts - Higher Education Administration
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas06-2025
Organizational Leadership
South Texas College
McAllen, Texas05-2024
Associate of Applied Science - Business Management
Texas State Technical College
Harlingen, Texas12-2005
Skills
- Workshop facilitation
- Data analysis
- Program development
- Outreach initiatives
- Leadership skills
- Higher education administration
- Process improvement
- Interdepartmental collaboration
- Project management
- Employee development
Affiliations
• Academic Advising Network Association of Texas (TEXAAN)
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Program Advisor – Retention Services
Texas State Technical College
09.2024 - 05.2025
Pre-Technical Advisor – Office of Student Success
Texas State Technical College
10.2011 - 08.2024
Academic Advisor – College Bound Program
Texas State Technical College
08.2009 - 10.2011
Deputy Registrar – Vital Statistics
City of Harlingen
2025 - Current
Master of Arts - Higher Education Administration
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Organizational Leadership
South Texas College
Associate of Applied Science - Business Management
Texas State Technical College