University of Houston Law Center alumnus Ernest Aliseda (J.D. ’91) COO and associate VP of the Texas A&M Higher Education Center at McAllen.
July 24, 2025 – University of Houston Law Center alumnus Ernest Aliseda (J.D. ’91) has been appointed chief operating officer and associate vice president of the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen, effective August 15. In this role, he will oversee the academic programming, administrative operations and community engagement efforts of the university, along with strategic planning and institutional investment.
“This is a full-circle moment for me,” said Aliseda, who earned his undergraduate degree in history from Texas A&M University. “Returning to the institution that helped shape me and now serving in a leadership capacity to help others achieve their dreams. This role allows me to blend my experience in law, healthcare, military service, and education into something that feels deeply personal and impactful.”
Aliseda is especially excited about the opportunity to expand access to higher education in the Rio Grande Valley. “I want to open doors for students in all our communities, support programs like the Colonias Program, and help build a strong academic and professional pipeline across South Texas,” he said.
To focus fully on his new appointment, Aliseda will step down from his role as general counsel at DHR Health in McAllen, where he has served for more than six years. He will continue part-time as a municipal court judge and state magistrate for the City of McAllen, a position he has held for 24 years.
He was also recently appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott to the OneStar National Service Commission, which promotes volunteerism and oversees AmeriCorps programs across Texas. His term runs through March 15, 2028.
Aliseda’s public service record spans decades. He is a former U.S. Army trial judge, state district judge, regent for the University of Texas System and retired lieutenant colonel and military judge in the Army Reserve. His family’s military legacy runs deep: both his father and brother served after the family immigrated to the United States.
“Public service is part of my family’s DNA, and I feel our way of saying ‘thank you’ to this great nation,” Aliseda said. “[It is] also how I honor my deceased father’s legacy. I have always felt a calling to contribute to something greater than myself. It is not about titles—it is about impact.”
Aliseda earned a J.D. from the UH Law Center and a Master of Laws degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Law. He is board-certified in personal injury trial law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and is certified as a mediator and an arbitrator. Additionally, he serves on the advisory board for Chrion Financial LLC and as an assistant professor at the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine.
Ernest Aliseda is proud of his family’s military legacy and considers service to be a way to give back and create impact.
How did your time at UHLC shape your career and public service?
EA: UHLC gave me the legal foundation to navigate complex issues with confidence and clarity. The school’s strong emphasis on public service and international legal education shaped my professional interests. It gave me tools I have relied on throughout my career — in trial law, on the bench, international business and health law — and empowered me to lead in sectors that demand both legal acumen and public-mindedness.
Why did you choose UHLC?
EA: I chose UHLC for its academic reputation, especially in health and international law, and because it was a dynamic institution with deep ties to the Houston legal and business community. I wanted a place that would challenge me intellectually while offering practical opportunities for growth and that’s exactly what UHLC provided, and I will forever be grateful.
Do you have a favorite UHLC memory or a professor or course that made a distinct impression on you?
EA: One of my most meaningful experiences was participating in the Mexican Legal Studies Program. It gave me a valuable international perspective and deepened my understanding of cross-border issues, something that continues to influence my work in the Valley today. My favorite professor was the late Dean Stephen Zamora, who led that program and left an indelible impact on me. He was a brilliant scholar, a kind mentor and an incredible ambassador for international legal education.
How has the UHLC alumni network contributed to your life and career?
EA: The UHLC alumni network is a powerful community — built not just on shared experience, but on shared values. Over the years, I’ve reconnected with classmates in both legal and public service circles, and we’ve supported one another through career transitions, judicial nominations and more.
What advice do you have for current UHLC students?
EA: Take every opportunity seriously—especially those outside the classroom. Pursue internships, pro bono work, and leadership roles. Learn from people who do not look like you or think like you. Most importantly, never forget that a legal education is a privilege —and with that privilege comes the responsibility to serve. Be humble. Stay curious. And give back.
The Aliseda family (L to R) – daughter Alexandra Crane, wife Debbie Crane Aliseda, Aliseda, and daughter Cristina Aliseda – at the 43rd annual UH Law Gala where he received the Pro Bono/Community Service & Leadership Award.
