Dr. Garcia provides strong leadership, strategic direction, and oversight for all staff and activities within the Office of Sponsored Projects at UTSA. She ensures that all contractual and financial obligations are managed and compliant with federal, state, system, and institutional regulations. My research experience spans over 26 years in higher education, including compliance, providing strategic and operational leadership, and assisting with sizeable cross-disciplinary research opportunities for faculty and professional staff. I foster an inclusive work environment that supports managing high-performing, customer-focused teams inclusive of the grants and contracts office. As a Certified Research Administrator (CRA) for over 17 years, I possess extensive knowledge of federal regulations, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance with federal, state, system, and institutional policies at a growing complex university. I assist in securing funding opportunities for faculty and staff and oversee all proposal submissions. Dr. Garcia earned her Doctor of Educational Leadership, Master of Science, and Bachelor of Science degrees from Texas A&M University-Kingsville and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Her certifications include Certified Research Administrator and Society of Research Administrator Certification.Professional ExperienceDr. Garcia has extensive knowledge of federal, state, system, and institutional compliance regulations, policies, processes, and procedures. In addition, she has more than 26 years of grant and contract administration experience. She is responsible for the overall strategic planning and effective management of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, including hiring, training, supporting, developing, and supervising customer-focused personnel. She has a wealth of experience overseeing all areas of the Research and Sponsored Programs office, including pre-and post-award, grant and contract administration, and research compliance. She has also built and maintained research infrastructure and fostered strong collaborative relationships with public and private organizations.