Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Texas Border Business
The 3rd Annual South Texas College (STC) Foundation Gala, held at the Mission Event Center and catered by Santa Fe Steakhouse, brought together college leadership, students, faculty, alumni, sponsors, and community partners for an evening dedicated to education, philanthropy, and partnership.
The event marked a milestone for the STC Foundation as Laura Warren was formally introduced as the newly elected president of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. Warren expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve and reflected on the legacy of those who have built the Foundation’s impact over the years.
“Every life is a book,” Warren said. “When a helping hand appears, magic occurs—and you are part of that magic here tonight. As I grow older, I start thinking about what legacy really means. It’s not the awards or the accolades, but the difference we make when we care, give, contribute, and volunteer. That’s the story that lasts.”
Warren thanked Bonny Gonzalez, the Foundation’s outgoing president, for her “generous leadership and entire dedication,” adding that Gonzalez’s commitment to student success “has left a mark, and we are all better for it.”
She also acknowledged the Foundation’s Board members, describing them as a team united by a shared purpose to transform lives through education. “I am deeply humbled by the community leaders I’m surrounded by,” Warren said. “Each of you brings something powerful to the table, and together we form a team that is truly committed to making dreams happen.”
Among those recognized were Vice President Gary Gurwitz, Treasurer Sam Vale, Board Director Alonzo Cantu, and Board Director Jim Collins, along with other members who contribute to the Foundation’s growing influence.
In her remarks, Warren emphasized that the Foundation’s mission extends beyond providing scholarships. “The South Texas College Foundation exists to open doors, create pathways, and remove barriers for students who dare to dream big,” she said. “Our work ensures that higher education is not a privilege for a few but a promise for everyone.”
Warren noted that the Foundation supports students in multiple ways, including addressing basic needs such as food, transportation, and housing. “There is hunger in our Valley,” she said. “The Foundation will continue to help parents return to school, pursue education, and build a better future for their families.”
She extended her appreciation to the South Texas College Board of Trustees for their “unwavering dedication to our students, our college, and our community,” adding that their partnership strengthens every initiative the Foundation undertakes.
Looking ahead, Warren expressed optimism about the Foundation’s future. “Together, we will continue to grow the Foundation’s impact,” she said. “Every student deserves the chance to achieve their dreams. Thank you for being here tonight, for being part of our mission, and for continuing to make a difference.”
The gala reflected the institution’s bigger commitment to its “Campus of Care” initiative, which focuses on removing barriers to education and ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.
As the evening concluded, attendees celebrated not only Warren’s leadership but also the shared spirit of generosity and partnership that has defined South Texas College’s mission for nearly three decades.
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