Edinburg North High School

🎓 ENHS Alumni Spotlight: Jennifer E. Olmeda (Torres), Class of 2001

📍 History & Civics Virtual Specialist, Region One Education Service Center
🎓 Florida State University | UTRGV | Abilene Christian University (Doctoral Candidate)

Jennifer E. Olmeda has spent her career helping students understand the world—and their power to shape it. As a History and Civics Virtual Specialist at Region One ESC, she works across the region to support civic education and student leadership.

But her proudest professional achievement? Teaching at Edinburg North High School for 13 years.

“Being blessed to give back to the community that nurtured my academic growth and to share my love of learning to impact and aid the leaders of the future has been the gift of a lifetime.”

Jennifer’s academic journey began at ENHS, where she took full advantage of AP and Dual Enrollment courses and immersed herself in extracurriculars—from UIL Literary Criticism and Ready Writing to Theater, Choir, Flamenco, and NHS.

“My activities taught me collaboration, compassion, and how to learn from setbacks. My teachers made sure I was challenged and prepared for college-level expectations.”

Three educators left a lasting mark on her life:

• Mr. Milligan, her Mock Trial coach, who led with quiet strength and helped guide the team to a third-place finish at state.
• Mr. Albert Garza, her theater director, who pushed students to challenge their limits and deliver performances that were “nuanced, cerebral, and heartfelt.”
• And Mrs. Torres, her UIL coach—and her mother.

“She emphasized academics first, but she never missed a performance. She created a culture of collaboration and made complex ideas relevant. She’s my inspiration in everything I do.”

Jennifer’s favorite memories center around UIL meets and theater productions—where competition, creativity, and camaraderie came together.

“Live performances are always a leap of faith. You trust your cast, you trust the moment, and you give it everything.”

The lesson she carries with her?

“Positivity. That mindset was instilled in me at ENHS. Negativity attracts negativity. I choose to stay positive and encourage others to do the same.”

Her advice to current Cougars?

“Keep a schedule. Freedom after high school is exciting, but structure is key. It makes the transition to college—and life—so much smoother.”

Though she now works at the regional level, Jennifer remains connected to Cougar Nation—attending events, volunteering, and staying rooted in the community that shaped her.

“Cougar Nation has produced so many success stories. It’s an honor to be part of that legacy—and to know my children will one day continue it.”

What’s next?

“I’m still not sure what I want to be when I grow up—but I know I’ll keep serving. Education is the great equalizer, and I want to keep opening doors for others the way they were opened for me.”

Her message to fellow alumni?

“Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, ‘Let us develop a kind of dangerous unselfishness.’ Help others. Speak truth. Break cycles. We have the power to change the world—and the responsibility to try.”

💙🐾
Once a Cougar, always a Cougar.

Edinburg North FFA had the amazing opportunity to attend the 97th Annual Texas FFA State Convention held in Fort Worth, Tx.

They spent the week attending many convention sessions, leadership workshops, and served as voting delegates to important business matters. All the late nights, long days, and early morning were truly worth it. Edinburg North FFA created lasting memories, grew as individuals, and fortified friendships.

The true highlight of the week was watching our very own Carlos “Pops” Guerra walk across the convention stage and be installed as a Texas FFA State Officer. The first in Edinburg North FFA history.

It truly was a week like no other!

Cougar Nation stands with Texas.
In the wake of the devastating floods, our hearts are with every family, every student, and every community facing loss and uncertainty.

We may be miles apart, but we are united in spirit.
At ENHS, we believe in showing up for one another—with compassion, with strength, and with purpose.

💙 From our halls to yours,
You are not alone.

We stand together with all of our Texas families and communities as they face the challenges brought by the devastating floods. Our hearts are with you.

🎓 ENHS Alumni Spotlight: Stephnie Champion-Alfaro, Class of 1996

📍 Head Choir Director, South Middle School – Edinburg CISD
🎓 University of North Texas, Bachelor of Music Education, 2002

Stephnie Champion-Alfaro has spent her career building voices—and confidence. As Head Choir Director at South Middle School, she’s grown the program into one of the largest fine arts organizations in ECISD, earning Sweepstakes honors every year since she began eight years ago.

Her journey started at ENHS, where she found her voice—literally and figuratively—under the direction of Mr. David Custer.

“He didn’t just teach us how to sing. He taught us how to lead. He gave me a place to belong and to thrive.”

Stephnie and her brother both became choir directors because of Mr. Custer’s influence. She still remembers the moment she earned a spot in the Texas All-State Choir—a turning point that shaped her future.

“I knew I wanted to build confidence in my students the way he did with me.”

Choir wasn’t just an activity—it was her foundation. Through leadership roles and performance, she discovered her capacity to lead and inspire.

“It taught me that I was capable of so much more than being a good voice in the choir.”

Her favorite memory?

“Piling onto a flatbed trailer lined with haystacks and Christmas caroling through our neighborhoods during our Choir Christmas Parties… seeing everyone stand outside their houses to hear us sing traditional carols in four-part harmonies.”

Stephnie’s advice to current Cougars is full of heart and perspective:

“Be kind. Don’t let high school drama get in the way of friendships. Although your academics are VERY important, the memories you make in high school aren’t the report cards or the projects—it’s the friendships and the experiences. Keep your electives. Make room in your schedule for JOY.”

She still keeps in touch with classmates through Facebook and music conventions—and she’s proud to be part of the generation that helped shape ENHS from the ground up.

“We were the start of the tradition. My family literally sold our house to move across town so my brother and I could attend ENHS and be part of the choir program. We knew ENHS was the place to succeed.”

Today, Stephnie continues to lead with passion and purpose, keeping the culture of excellence alive in her program.

“I’m happy where I am. It’s where I started my middle school journey, and I’m proud to keep this culture alive in our schools.”

And her message to fellow alumni?

“I love seeing all my classmates make their marks in our world. We are the leaders of TODAY—and I’m proud of us.”

💙🐾
Once a Cougar, always a Cougar.

🎓 ENHS Alumni Spotlight: Omar Rios, Class of 2016

Current Role: Principal Research Analyst at S&P Global Commodity Insights
Alma Mater: The University of Texas at Austin

Omar Rios, Class of 2016, is making waves in the world of global energy. As a Principal Research Analyst at S&P Global Commodity Insights, he provides expert opinion to members of the press on geopolitical and energy matters impacting countries across North and South America.

But long before he was advising on international markets, Omar was walking the halls of ENHS—pushing himself academically and competing at the highest levels.

“I always took the hardest classes at ENHS, which were often AP classes. They challenged me the most, but I also learned the most. The same has been true when trying to learn new things after high school.”

Omar was deeply involved in campus life, participating in UIL Math, Mock Trial, Student Council, Yearbook Club, soccer, and cross country. But it was UIL and Mock Trial that left the biggest mark.

“Being able to compete against students from the wealthiest school districts across Texas (and win!) showed me that with enough hard work and belief in oneself, great things are possible. We worked well with the resources we had and still came out on top. Lots of life lessons there.”

He credits two educators in particular—Mr. Heberto Garza and Mr. Milligan—for shaping his mindset and work ethic.

“Mr. Garza taught math and was my UIL coach, while Mr. Milligan taught Government and was my mock trial coach. Both teachers were great and worked extremely hard. They also loved what they did and showed it. As I reflect on my career, I realize I have a lot in common with my former coaches. I’m very lucky and fortunate to have learned from them through long hours for several years preparing for competitions.”

One of his favorite memories?

“Going to the state mock trial competition in Dallas and beating our rival team, Edinburg High School, in one of the rounds. We lost to them at the Regional meet just a few months before, so it felt good to end my senior year with a win over them!”

Omar stays connected to Cougar Nation through lifelong friendships and alumni networks, and he’s already thinking about giving back.

“Paying it forward to the current and future generation of Cougars!”

His advice to current students is practical, powerful, and pure ENHS:

“Listen to your teachers/coaches, do your homework (ON TIME!), and work hard. Being literate, communicating effectively, and understanding basic math are skills that never go out of style. Build these skills now when your responsibilities are small. Outside of school, learn foundational skills like cooking, cleaning, how to change a tire, doing your own laundry, and respecting others (and yourself). Make sure to also stay active and move your body. You will thank yourself in later years.”

As he continues to climb the corporate ladder, Omar is also preparing to help plan his 10-year reunion. His journey is far from over—but his roots are clear.

“Once a Cougar, always a Cougar.”

💙🐾

🛠️🐾 COUGAR DADS ON DECK 🐾🛠️
Before the lights, before the music, before the first step hits the field—they’re already there.

Our Mighty Cougar Band Dads are rolling up their sleeves and getting to work, preparing for the season ahead. Whether it’s building props, hauling gear, or lending a steady hand, these men are the quiet strength behind the sound.

They don’t ask for the spotlight—but they help us shine.

Thank you for showing up, standing tall, and helping shape what Cougar Nation is all about: commitment, pride, and heart.

🏀 New Floor. Same Standard.

Cougar Gym just got a fresh coat of varnish ✨—and we’re keeping it clean, sharp, and game-ready.

Until it’s fully set, the gym is off-limits.
No boots. No scuffs. No shortcuts.

🔒 No heavy shoes or gear
🚫 Respect all closure signs
🛡️ Tarp will be down anytime non-athletic shoes are expected—assemblies, events, or walkthroughs.

This is more than a court.
It’s our home.
And at ENHS, we protect what we’ve earned.

💙🐾

🕰️ A Legacy from the Early Years

This marquee—donated by the Junior Class of 1992–1993—may no longer light up, but its presence still shines in Cougar history. 💙🐾

Just two years after ENHS opened its doors in 1991, this class stepped up to leave a lasting mark. Their gift once displayed our biggest moments and proudest announcements—and today, it stands as a symbol of the early Cougar spirit that helped build the foundation we stand on.

To the Junior Class of ‘92–‘93: thank you for believing in your school and giving back when Cougar Nation was just getting started. 🏫✨