Marivel Alvarez

What part of your job brings you the most joy?  

The part of my job that brings me the most joy is finding solutions to complex challenges; especially when those solutions help faculty move their research forward and ensure funding is managed effectively and responsibly.  

What makes working in the Division of Research so meaningful to you?  

I find it meaningful to be part of the research success story at TXST and to contribute, in my own way, to making institutional history.  

What’s something about your job that makes you feel proud?  

I take pride in being a trusted collaborator, someone people can count on for problem-solving and to provide meaningful support during strategic planning for future initiatives.  

What inspires you when you come to work each day?  

The ever-changing nature of Research Administration inspires me. Each project presents a new challenge that requires creative thinking, careful compliance, and practical solutions that keep research moving forward. Being part of that process is both motivating and rewarding.  

What’s your favorite part of collaborating with colleagues?  

My favorite part of collaboration is building trust-based partnerships that energize brainstorming, lead to innovative processes, and encourage us to think beyond immediate challenges toward long-term growth.  

I loved being a part of the technical strategic team, collaborating with colleagues to build and execute plans that advance leadership’s goals. Bringing the right people to the table and working through technical considerations to turn ideas into reality has been especially rewarding.  

What accomplishment at TXST has meant the most to you?  

Coming from the private sector as an accountant, transitioning into state government accounting challenged me to grow professionally. One of my most meaningful accomplishments at TXST has been earning my Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) designations. I view this not as an endpoint, but as part of an ongoing commitment to professional development so I can continue providing the high level of expertise our campus community relies on.  

What does it mean to you that the university is breaking records when it comes to research expenditures?  

It reflects the university’s commitment to investing in research that matters to our local and global communities. These investments are generating strong returns through increased support from federal, state, and private partners, demonstrating that TXST is deeply committed to research and has the infrastructure in place to support innovative endeavors. It is an exciting time, I am grateful to contribute, even in a small way, to this impactful work.