The annual Beto Cruz Award serves as an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate individuals who work tirelessly to support the TCU campus and keep it beautiful.
This year’s recipients are Conrado (Coco) Mayorga and Hector Rodriguez, both grounds supervisors.
“Hector and Coco are both incredible leaders for the grounds team,” said Erik Trevino, director of landscaping and grounds. “It is impossible to overstate the impact they have on the success of our team, and I am thrilled that their work has been recognized with this award.”
Each year, nominations are solicited from TCU faculty and staff, and a committee of faculty and staff review each one. Nominations for both Mayorga and Rodriguez mentioned the smiles and passion with which they complete their jobs.
“Beyond his responsiveness, Hector takes immense pride in maintaining the beauty of the (Dee J. Kelly Alumni & Visitor’s Center),” reads a portion of his nomination. “Thanks to his efforts, I am fortunate to work in such a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment every day. He truly makes a difference in the atmosphere of our workspace.”
The nomination for Mayorga was similarly glowing.
“Beyond his technical expertise, Coco is a leader to those around him,” reads the letter. “His work with the TCU Tree Campus initiative and events like the annual tulip planting with President (Daniel W.) Pullin showcases his ability to bring people together in appreciation of our campus environment.”
Recipients receive a monetary award of $1,000 and will have their names engraved in a permanent plaque.
The Beto Cruz Award was created by the Faculty Senate in the fall of 2020 as part of its effort to commemorate the passing of two TCU community members who died of COVID complications during the pandemic: Rob Rhodes from the Neeley School and Beto Cruz from Facilities. The Faculty Senate recognized Rob Rhodes by recommending him for a posthumous honorary doctorate, which he received. To commemorate Beto Cruz, the Faculty Senate created a permanent award in his name.