TxGAP Award Recipients

Philip's journey with TxGAP began at its inception in 2010, where he played a pivotal role in founding the chapter. His visionary leadership and dedication were instrumental in establishing a solid foundation for the organization. From 2012 to 2014, Philip served as TxGAP President, steering the chapter through crucial formative years and setting a high standard for his successors. His presidency was marked by innovative initiatives and a collaborative spirit that significantly strengthened the chapter's impact and reach.

Beyond his contributions to TxGAP, Philip Guerrero has been a prominent figure in the broader Graduate Enrollment Management community. His extensive experience and expertise have made him a sought-after leader within NAGAP. Philip's involvement with NAGAP's leadership has been characterized by his proactive approach to addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities in graduate enrollment. He has consistently advocated for best practices, professional development, and the advancement of the field.

Philip's enduring dedication to both TxGAP and NAGAP underscores his commitment to fostering a vibrant and supportive community for professionals in Graduate Enrollment Management. His advocacy efforts have ensured that the voices of those in the field are heard and that their contributions are recognized and valued.

The TxGAP Lifetime Service Award is a testament to Philip Guerrero's exceptional service, leadership, and advocacy. His legacy within TxGAP and NAGAP will continue to inspire and guide future generations of leaders in Graduate Enrollment Management. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Philip for this well-deserved honor and express our deepest gratitude for his unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions.

Erica Casillas is currently the Administrative Director of Accounting Programs at the C. T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston. She has been with the C.T. Bauer College of Business for over 13 years.

In her current role, she oversees recruitment for the MS Accountancy, Certificate in Accountancy Program (CAP), and BBA Accounting programs, updates the Department of Accountancy & Taxation webpages, develops the department’s semi-annual eNewsletter, puts together the department class schedule, works with faculty on curriculum changes, and various other duties. In her previous role, she was the Director of Accounting Advising and Recruitment.

Erica is a member of professional organizations such as NAGAP, TxGAP, and the Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education (TACHE). During the course of the year, Erica served on TxGAP’s Professional Development & Strategic Initiatives committee as well as the Conference’s Communications sub-committee. She has also volunteered to serve as a co-chair for the 2025 TxGAP Summer Institute.

Donnella M. Dillon, is from Indianapolis, Indiana, and currently serves as the Graduate Advisor II for the Cyber Security, Supply Chain & Logistics Technology, and Human Development and Consumer Sciences Master's Programs in the Cullen College of Engineering-Technology Division at the University of Houston. Donnella began her college education at Alcorn State University in Lorman, Mississippi and her degrees at Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis (IUPUI). Twenty-Seven years ago, she began her professional career in Higher Education with Indiana University-Purdue University (IUPUI) in the Career Center and later with the School of Education as the Graduate Admissions Coordinator, performing graduate admissions, recruiting and academic advising to graduate and doctoral students. Donnella has served on various committees such as the Black Faculty Staff Council, Young Gifted and Black, a founder of the Ceremony of Black Graduates at IUPUI, and many more in her Indianapolis community. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Prairie View Alumnae Chapter, the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., Tau Chapter, member of the National Alumni Association at Alcorn State University, member of the Neal Marshall IU Association, and the current Chair of the TxGap Professional Development & Strategic Initiatives committee. Donnella moved to Houston and joined the staff and faculty in the CCE-Technology Division in the spring of 2017. Donnella is the proud mother to her beautiful daughter, Dallas McKenzie, who is an amazing track star and a future pediatric nurse. A few of her favorite hobbies are reading, traveling with family and friends, and shopping. One of her favorite scriptures is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me”. Donnella’s greatest motivator is her mom, Mrs. Dorothy M. Dillon, who is a retired school teacher, and currently the Curriculum Director for the Indiana Council on Educating Students of Color. Donnella’s favorite saying is, “In order to lead, you must learn how to serve”.