For Helen Torres, a desire and commitment to supporting others is a daily driving force. Previously at South San Antonio ISD, she launched her career at Texas A&M University-San Antonio in 2024 as a human resources benefits coordinator.
Whether coordinating timecards and payroll, guiding staff through open enrollment, or managing employee benefits, retirements and leave programs, Torres strives to make HR processes seamless and stress-free. Her approach recently inspired her team to host a specialized benefits presentation for campus library staff, spotlighting lesser-known wellness resources.
"The more you know, the easier it is to help others," said Torres, who recently earned her Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from the Human Resources Certification Institute, further expanding her skillset.
Pursuing the PHR certification was no small feat. Torres spent a year studying online through a Ready to Work program provided in partnership with the University of Texas at San Antonio. At the same time, she balanced a full-time career, her responsibilities as a mother of four, celebrated her son's graduation, and earned a bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration in human resources.
True to her dedication to growth, Torres didn't stop there. Inspired by a lifelong dream of becoming an Aggie since age 11, she recently enrolled in Texas A&M University’s Master’s Program in Human Resource Management. She also plans to pursue her Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional credential this winter.
While balancing work, family, and higher education requires hard work and careful time management, Torres remains a dedicated advocate for pushing forward.
"If an employee is fulfilled, then that means you fulfilled your goal as a human resources professional," she said. "Because at the end of the day, who we hire is what benefits the students."
Torres, who credits Associate Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Martha Olivos-Gonzalez as a mentor, said she has grown to deeply appreciate the campus culture during her two years at the University.
"I love it. I really do," Torres said. "It feels like such a family. Everybody is connected."
Through her drive for professional development, her compassionate approach to employee support, and her unwavering dedication to the campus community, Torres exemplifies the Jaguar spirit every day.