The Raiders Rojos Alumni Association proudly celebrated the May 2026 Graduation Convocation at the Texas Tech University Frazier Alumni Pavilion, bringing together more than 500 family members, supporters, alumni, and community guests to honor over 150 graduating students earning undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The event continued the organization’s longstanding tradition of recognizing the achievements, culture, perseverance, and academic excellence of Texas Tech graduates within the Latino community and beyond.
The evening began with a special musical performance by Mariachi de Oro from Lubbock High School under the direction of Kimberly Gonzales, MM ’20, setting a celebratory and cultural tone for the ceremony. Dr. Gilbert Trevino, Jr., EdD ’15, Superintendent of Floydada Collegiate ISD, served as Master of Ceremonies, while Raiders Rojos President Dr. Jarett Lujan, Ph.D. ’22, officially welcomed graduates and families. A highlight of the evening included recognition of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Family, the Longoria/Ramirez Family: Carlos IV, BS ’94; Melba, BS ’89; Lisbeth, BS ’25; and Angelica, BS & MS ’26 — representing multiple generations of Texas Tech excellence and educational achievement.
Graduates and guests were inspired by keynote speaker Dr. Lisa Ramirez, EdD ’09, whose remarks emphasized resilience, leadership, family, and the importance of uplifting future generations through education. Attendees also viewed the powerful video presentation, “Our Serape Stole Story,” featuring Lubbock High School students alongside Dr. Maria Teresa Leos-Duemer, EdD ’14, highlighting the significance and symbolism of the serape stole tradition within the Raiders Rojos community. The ceremony continued with individual graduate recognition, family remarks, and a presentation on graduate opportunities delivered by Raiders Rojos Vice President Kevin Martinez, BA ’05.
The convocation concluded with the traditional “El Grito” celebration — “¡Viva Raiders Rojos! ¡Viva Texas Tech!” — as graduates, families, and supporters came together in pride and celebration. The event was made possible through the leadership and dedication of the 2026 Raiders Rojos Alumni Association Board of Directors. Together, the organization continues its mission of empowering students, celebrating culture, and building lasting community connections through education and alumni engagement.