Outstanding Political Science Alum Honored at Berkeley
By Violeta Garza
While attending Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, Monique Morales
(‘99) worked hard at a full-time job and as a full-time student studying
political science. Now, with a law degree from the University of California
at Berkeley, Morales is quick to attribute much of her success to her undergraduate
experiences at A&M-Corpus Christi. At graduation ceremonies in California
in May 2003, Morales’ family looked on with pride as she was honored
with the Francine Diaz Memorial Award. The award is given annually to one
woman of color in each graduating class whose schoolwork and career plans
best demonstrate a commitment to social justice.“ The environment at A&M-Corpus Christi made it easier for me to do all the things I needed to do to get into law school,” Morales said. “I was able to work closely with professors like Dr. Bob Bezdek and Dr. Carlos Huerta because of the ‘open-door’ policy that does not always exist at larger universities. The professors were always there for me. They really made me feel like I mattered.”
Bezdek, now a Regents Professor at A&M-Corpus Christi, remembers Morales as one of the brightest political science students he has ever taught. Because of her excellent grades, Morales was accepted to attend a political science program at Texas A&M University at College Station one summer as a special, designated student from A&M-Corpus Christi.
“A&M-College Station was so impressed with Monique after that summer that they offered her a full scholarship to complete her Ph.D. there, but she decided to go to law school instead,” Bezdek said.
Morales was awarded a grant to complete her studies at the University of California at Berkeley Law School, one of the top 10 law schools in the nation, and hopes one day to work with underprivileged individuals in areas such as employment discrimination.
“One thing Dr. Bezdek taught me was that it is important to give back to my community, and I will take that with me as I begin my career.”
Morales also credits her success to the constant support and guidance of her family, especially during a time when she thought she could go no further. Shortly before starting law school she was involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. Morales’ mother remembers this trying period in her daughter’s life.
“Monique just kept going despite her injuries,” Toffie Morales said. “Ever since she was a baby, we knew she was going to go to school. We always made sure to let her know that she could do anything she wanted if she set her mind to it, and she has continued to strive for what she wants throughout her life. She really got where she is today on her own but with our complete support. We are all very proud of Monique.”
Morales plans to practice law in California.
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