Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
At the McAllen Housing Commission’s scholarship awards ceremony, Hidalgo County Commissioner Ellie Torres took the stage to speak directly to the students, parents, and community members gathered to celebrate academic achievement. Her words were grounded in experience, not just as a public official, but as a lifelong educator who spent over 23 years as a teacher and counselor.
Commissioner Torres began by thanking Elva Cerda, Chair of the McAllen Housing Commission, and Rudy Ramirez, Executive Director, for inviting her to speak. She acknowledged the 15 students receiving scholarships and gave a special round of applause to the parents in the audience. “If you’re a parent, please wave so we can recognize you,” she said, reminding everyone that it’s not just the students who work hard —the families who support them, too.
Speaking to the students, Torres shared advice that was simple, honest, and easy to relate to. “Find your passion,” she said. “If you go into a career doing something you love, it won’t feel like work.” She encouraged them to look beyond just making money and instead focus on building a meaningful future.
Torres also talked about the transition from high school to college, especially the challenges of new freedoms. She explained that college students don’t always have daily classes or constant teacher reminders. That means students need to take more responsibility for their time. “What do you do in between classes? You study. That is your number one job,” she said. At the same time, she encouraged students to enjoy their social lives — but to find balance and not let one side take over the other.
She shared a memory from her college years — feeling the pressure to succeed and the weight of her responsibilities. “I remember thinking, ‘I just want this semester to be over,’” she said. “But once it ended, I felt so free. And when I finally graduated, I looked back and realized it was all temporary. The rewards are for a lifetime.”
Her message was clear: even when school feels overwhelming, students should stay focused and committed and remember that the effort pays off in the end. She told students not to lose sight of the bigger picture and not to forget their roots. “Never forget where you come from; someday, pay it forward,” she said.
Commissioner Torres also recognized Alonzo Cantu, the evening’s keynote speaker, praising his generosity and dedication to the community. She encouraged students to follow his example by giving back once they succeed.
Before ending her speech, Torres offered continued support to the students, saying they are always welcome to reach out. Whether it’s a letter of recommendation, help finding an internship, or someone to talk to about college and careers, she clarified that Precinct 4 is a place they can turn to.
“Stay the course,” she told them. “And congratulations — you’ve already made us proud.”
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