b'E d u c a t i o nHIGHER EDUCATIONTEXAS A&M C.C. NAMED BEST U.S. UNIVERSITY BY THE SEA For the fifth year in a row, Texas A&M University Corpus Christi has topped what turns out to be a very prestigious list of American academic institutions, named the Best College by the Sea by Best College Reviews, an independent research agency. TAMUCC beat out some of the best known and most highly regarded universities in the United States, including the University of California Santa Barbara and San Diego, Pepperdine, the University of Miami, and others.The study is based on proximity to the ocean, marine education and research oppor-tunities, access to water recreation, and the communitys connection to the ocean environment and commercial interests. The Island University is the only institute of higher education that is located on its own island, which is considered by many to be one factor that results in making the top of the list year after year.The Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies was established in 2000 at TAMUCC, part of a $46 million gift by former Corpus Christi Caller-Times publisher, Edward H. Harte, who also played a pivotal role in the creation of the Padre Island National Seashore in the late 1960s, working with Lady Bird Johnson. In the two decades since the Harte Research Institute opened, its work in marine studies has made a worldwide impact on ocean conservation and environmentally responsible practices in the fields of energy production, transportation and more.Starting with the universitys outstanding marine research pedigree and degree opportunities, plus the most appealing setting for any saltwater lover, Best College Reviews also considered the communities in which each of the schools is located. The Coastal Bend not only embraces its waterfront geography, it is the basis on which our economy strives. The Port of Corpus Christi, the top port by revenue in the United States and number one exporter of petroleum products in the country, is the most powerful economic engine in the region. TAMUCCs neighbor, Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, is home to the U.S. Navy Air Training Command, as well as the Corpus Christi Army Depot, the largest military helicopter repair facility in the world, located here generations ago due to our proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.With enrollment of over 12,000, 40% of whom are first generation college students, TAMUCC continues to grow year to year as its housing, academic and athletic facili-ties have altered the landscape of the area circling Oso Bay.Rendering of new Del Mar SouthOriginal Del Mar East CampusDEL MAR COLLEGE EXPANDINGprograms that serve the regions most sought-after skilled trades, including welding, TO MEET COMMUNITYS NEEDSauto and aircraft mechanics, electrical, plumbing and HVAC, and many more.For only the second time in its 86-year history, Del Mar College is building a brand new, full-sized campus on Corpus Christis far south side at Yorktown and Airline. Founded in 1935, Del Mar has served as the Coastal Bends largest communityThe colleges mission to bring affordable, advanced educational opportunities to college, today with enrollment of over 11,000 full and part time students. ThousandsSouth Texans will be even more convenient for residents of the citys fastest-grow-of South Texans earned their foundation in higher education at DMC, moving on toing district, as well as those living in Flour Bluff and on the islands. The sparkling TAMUCC, the University of Texas, and other four-year schools. Just as many earnednew campus is set to open in 2022, and news about programs to be offered is yet to their basic nursing certificates at the college, and enjoy prosperous careers in Coastalcome. Undoubtedly, Del Mars close cooperation with area ISDs to provide a jump Bend healthcare. The DMC East Campus, located at Ayers St. and Baldwin Blvd., isstart on college for high school graduates will be provided greater access at the new dedicated to more traditional classroom academics, while the West Campus, locatedsouth side campus. Phase One of the new campus will include a building for STEM on Old Brownsville and Airport Roads, is home to the vast array of vocational trainingprograms and new headquarters for the culinary arts program, including a cafe.104THE COASTAL BEND GUIDE TheCoastalBend.com'