The People Who Power Us
Our faculty, staff, and partners guide students at every stage of their journey, connecting learning to real-world impact. Their work extends beyond the classroom, helping students stay engaged, navigate challenges, and see how their education applies beyond campus.
Alumna brings career full circle
Long before Samantha Harrell became program director for surgical technology, she was a student walking the same halls, learning the same skills she now teaches.
Harrell is not only a San Jacinto College employee of 15 years but an alumna success
story.
She started her career journey at the College as an adjunct surgical technology instructor
in 2010 at the Central Campus. In 2018, she became full-time faculty and surgical
technology lab coordinator, then clinical coordinator in 2022. She reached a new milestone
in spring 2025 when she accepted the position of surgical technology program director.
Across all these roles, watching students succeed is the heart of the job.
Crafting a career with clay
After more than three decades in education, San Jacinto College fine arts professor Michael Unger retired, leaving behind a legacy of ceramic artistry and community service.
Teaching helps me perfect my craft because you have to break down everything you do
so you can teach it to students. The most rewarding part is seeing those light bulbs
come on when things click for students.
— Michael Unger
Retired San Jac fine arts professor
Unger's teaching career began in 1992 when a colleague recommended him for an adjunct position at San Jacinto College. After a decade in that role, he became a full-time faculty member in 2002. Over the years, he has taught ceramics, drawing, art appreciation, and sculpture.
For nearly two decades, Unger has led San Jacinto College’s participation in the Empty Bowls project, organizing “bowl-a-thons” where students and community members create ceramic bowls to benefit the Houston Food Bank.
purpose and precision
In 2020, Sharon Guerrero enrolled in San Jacinto College’s welding program. The training not only challenged her in unexpected ways but also satisfied her deep curiosity about how things work while combining industrial skill with artistic expression.
“What I enjoy the most is that it’s more than just a job. Welding is also art."
After earning her degree in 2022 and gaining field experience, Guerrero was invited to teach part time. Now, she supports students, especially women, who may feel out of place.
Leading with passion and purpose
For Shelley Rinehart, San Jacinto College became more than a place to earn a degree — it’s where she found purpose and built a career guiding countless others toward success.
Now in her 23rd year at San Jacinto College, Rinehart serves as assistant vice chancellor of instructional and support program efficacy. She builds industry partnerships, aligns workforce programs, and connects technical students with career and professional growth opportunities. Rinehart believes in creating space for innovation and supporting her team through challenges and triumphs.
