Michele Bobadilla has traveled a long way from her early days as a participant in the Pan American Student Forum while at Woodrow Wilson High School (Class of 1973).
Today, Bobadilla has blazed a path in higher education and works to ensure students have access to college and the tools they need to succeed. AlumNow, a Hub feature that checks in with district alumni for an update on what they’ve been doing, connected with Bobadilla to catch up with her latest endeavors and seek sound advice for students.
What are you doing now?
I am the Senior Associate VP for Outreach Services & Community Engagement and Assistant Provost for Hispanic Student Success, University of Texas at Arlington.
Briefly list a few of your career and/or personal highlights.
My professional career began as a Dallas ISD teacher.
Other highlights/honors:
- Woman of Distinction Award, Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas
- Mentor & Allies Award, Girls Inc.
- Latina Living Legend Award, Hispanic 100
- Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, National Advisory Council
- The White House’s College Opportunity Agenda “Reach Higher Initiative” Dallas Team
- Each Moment Matters Honoree – Presbyterian Foundation & Community Services
- Inspiring Woman Honoree – University General Hospital
- Education Catalyst – Dallas Regional Chamber’s Blueprint Awards
- Heroe en la Comunidad – Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation
- Outstanding Woman in Texas Government – State Agency Council
- Director of Admissions, Recruitment & Orientation, UT-Arlington
- Executive Director, Development Division, Dallas ISD
- Director, University Outreach, UT-Austin
What was your favorite subject or activity/involvement in high school?
My favorite subjects were my senior English class with Ms. Graham; all of my Spanish classes with Ms. Betty Parrett; and my chemistry class with Mr. Houchins. These educators challenged us, engaged us, and empowered us. My favorite activities included the Sweethearts Drill Team; the Pan American Student Forum; and The Pub.
Who was your favorite teacher?
Although I have fond memories of many of my teachers, Miss Betty Parrett is a standout. She passed on her love of foreign language, culture, art, and literature. She brought the written word to life. We loved taking an active role in the Pan American Student Forum held annually in San Antonio – riding the bus, stopping in Salado for lunch, and performing in the talent show at the convention center. Cherished memories!
What lesson did you learn in high school or beyond that has served you well through the years?
To thine oneself be true…
What advice, if any, would you offer to high school students today?
Dream…Strive…Achieve!
College/University and degree earned:
B.A., Stephen F. Austin State University
Master’s, East Texas State University
MBA, University of Texas at Austin
D.Litt., Texas A&M University-Commerce
If you are a Dallas ISD alum and would like to be considered for an AlumNow spotlight, please complete the questionnaire and submit along with a recent high-resolution headshot. We look forward to catching up with you and sharing your accomplishments.
