Rodriguez: STC Foundation’s second annual gala was a big success

RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas – The South Texas College Foundation recently hosted a highly successful second annual Foundation Gala. 

The sold-out event raised nearly $200,000, with all proceeds going to student scholarships, creating opportunities and resources needed to make college accessible to every student in the Rio Grande Valley.

In a video interview with the Rio Grande Guardian, STC Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Economic Development Dr. Rodney H. Rodriguez said the foundation is working to boost a college-going culture in the Rio Grande Valley. He said the gala is the foundation’s top revenue generating vehicle.

“Everything we do, is so our students walk across that stage in a cap and gown, debt-free. And you, our donors, make this mission possible,” Rodriguez said. “As we look ahead, I am filled with excitement for what is to come. Together, we are establishing and creating opportunities throughout the Rio Grande Valley, and I can’t wait to see how all our efforts positively impact our students.”

The event was held at the McAllen Convention Center and brought together hundreds of STC donors and supporters, including elected officials, community leaders and philanthropists. However, such was the level of support, Rodriguez said a big venue will likely be necessary next year.

In the coming months, Rodriguez said STC will introduce an Adult Promise Program, which is being crafted to help stop-out students return to the classroom at no cost to them. 

Meanwhile, the Valley Promise Program, developed with the help of the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement (VIDA), the Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) and Texas A&M University, has helped more than 1,100 students get a free education, Rodriguez said proudly.

In thanking the donors who generously made a financial commitment at the gala, STC President Dr. Ricardo J. Solis made a promise.

“As a college, we have not been short of successes this past year. We continue to enhance partnerships to create innovative programming, we celebrate the national recognition and success our apprenticeship, bachelor’s and dual credit programs have seen and we applaud the achievements we have been able to make during the first year of our Valley Promise Program,” said Solis. “I promise you, that before I retire, I will ensure that our Valley Promise Program, our Promesa Del Valle, will provide a free college education for all students.”

Here is the video interview with Dr. Rodriguez:

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