Center for Student Engagement | New Team Members Announcement

Introducing the Center for Student Engagement’s New Team Members

On behalf of the Center for Student Engagement, we are excited to welcome Alicia Hernandez and Molly Crespo to the Division of Student Affairs and the Center for Student Engagement.

Alicia Hernandez
Coordinator for Orientation and Connection Programs
Welcome Date: October 26, 2026

Alicia brings several years of experience across K–12 and higher education, including teaching, student recruitment, advising, and college access programming. Most recently, she served as the Academic Coordinator for TRIO Upward Bound at the University of Minnesota, following previous roles supporting dual enrollment and student success at College of the Mainland. As a former TRIO Student Support Services participant and first-generation college student, Alicia brings a personal connection to her work and a strong commitment to helping students navigate their educational journeys and develop a sense of community.

Alicia is also a proud UHCL alumna, holding a Bachelor's degree in Communication and a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology.

Outside of work, Alicia enjoys birdwatching and discovering new species to add to her Merlin Bird ID app. She also enjoys spending time with her family and her young son. A fun fact about Alicia is that she walked across the stage for her master's degree just eight days after giving birth!

Alicia shared, "I am super excited to join the Center for Student Engagement, and I look forward to helping create welcoming experiences for every student. I can tell the team enjoys helping students discover their place at UHCL, and I am thrilled to be a part of that same mission."

Molly Crespo
Program Manager for Student Organization and Leadership
Welcome Date: November 2, 2026

Molly brings nearly eight years of higher education experience, with a background in student leadership development, student engagement, and campus programming. Her experience includes developing student leadership retreats, supporting alternative break experiences, serving as Faculty Director for the Texas Joint Admission Medical Program, and conducting research on leadership development programs in higher education. She has also presented at professional conferences and served on various university committees supporting students, faculty, and staff.

Molly holds a Bachelor's degree in American Sign Language from Lamar University and a Master's degree in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Stephen F. Austin State University. She is currently completing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Lamar University, with an anticipated graduation in December 2026. Her experiences have strengthened her commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for students to develop as leaders, build connections, and contribute to their campus communities.

Outside of work, Molly enjoys thrifting, fashion, live music, Broadway, and watching movies, particularly 1980s science fiction, action, and horror films. She also loves Halloween, hosting themed parties, and trying new dessert recipes.

Molly shared, "I am very excited to join a dynamic team and work with the UHCL community to foster unique experiences of leadership, service, and student organization support. I am very proud to serve students in establishing unique opportunities to support the growth of emerging leaders and contribute to campus traditions, while crafting experiences that result in well-rounded and workforce-ready graduates. Go Hawks!"

Again, please join us in welcoming Alicia Hernandez and Molly Crespo to the UHCL Division of Student Affairs and the Center for Student Engagement!