Texas Border Business
By Amanda Sotelo
South Texas College Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Economic Development Rodney Rodriguez, Ph.D., was honored recently by Dallas philanthropists Beth and Eddie Bull, Jr., with a scholarship donation in his honor to create the Dr. Rodney Rodriguez Scholarship Fund.
The $2,000 donation, made through Communities Foundation of Texas and matched by Texas Instruments Foundation for a total of $4,000 will go toward emergency scholarships for STC students that will be available as early as this spring.
“It truly is an unexpected honor and I’m thrilled, but even better, is that these funds are going to break down barriers for many of our students,” said Rodriguez. “I personally know the sacrifices and challenges a student can face while pursuing higher education because I’ve done it; I’ve been there. So, to be able to help students pursue their dream is my overall goal.”
This fund specifically addresses a critical, but often overlooked aspect of higher education – unexpected expenses.
Unexpected expenses can range from program tools, emergency housing and medical costs to unforeseen academic expenses, which can make it difficult for a student to complete their education; and the Dr. Rodney Rodriguez Scholarship Fund ensures that students are not derailed from their educational journey due to sudden financial burdens.
“This support is crucial in aiding students to successfully complete their college degree, certification or certificate programs,” said Rodriguez. “This enhances their future prospects and contributes to the broader educational and economic development of the community.”
The Bulls and Rodriguez first began their partnership when Rodriguez worked for RGV Focus, a collective impact initiative created in collaboration with Education Texas and Communities Foundation of Texas to transform college readiness, access and success.
And although Rodriguez transitioned to STC, the Bulls have continued to follow his mission of making college accessible for everyone.
“It is our pleasure to provide a gift to the South Texas College Foundation in honor of Dr. Rodney Rodriguez,” said the couple. “Although we live in Dallas, we are long-time friends of Dr. Rodriguez and we have followed his journey and the work he is doing. We are impressed with the foundation and the momentum it has in supporting opportunities for many students in the Rio Grande Valley.”
They added that they had the pleasure of attending the foundation’s inaugural gala in October.
“We were able to attend the first gala the foundation hosted in October, and we were heartened by the strong support of the local community and the caliber of the event,” they said. “We have also met STC President Dr. (Ricardo) Solis on several occasions and admire his leadership and vision, and as donors we want to contribute to STC where we know our donation will make an impact. We believe that Dr. Solis and Dr. Rodriguez are making it possible.”
Within its first year as a fully established foundation, the STC Foundation has brought in more than a $2 million in donations from regional, state and nationwide partners to be able to fund scholarships such as the Mary Killoran Scholarship for nursing students and the college’s newest Promise Program, which will be implemented fall 2024.
“On behalf of our office and our Foundation Board, we pledge to continue raising funds for the students of STC, so that money is not a barrier toward completing their academic goals,” said Rodriguez. “We’re looking forward to a productive and prosperous 2024 and it’s all possible because of the support of our donors; thank you.”
For more information on STC’s Foundation, scholarships or how to donate, call 956-872-2048.
