Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
EDINBURG, TX — June 11, 2025- In a night filled with inspiration, gratitude, and unbelievable storytelling, the Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) celebrated its 29th Annual Scholarship Banquet at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. This year’s event marked a historic milestone, with VAMOS awarding an astounding $1 million in four-year renewable scholarships to 63 outstanding first-generation college students from across the Rio Grande Valley.
The annual banquet, a cornerstone of the organization’s efforts to uplift local youth through education and mentorship, brought together students, families, educators, sponsors, and community leaders for an evening that celebrated both achievement and opportunity.
Welcoming guests to the banquet was Irma Chapa, marketing director for Lone Star National Bank, who served as the evening’s mistress of ceremonies. In her opening remarks, Chapa acknowledged the enduring impact of VAMOS:
“Tonight, we celebrate a powerful mission—one that has changed lives across the Rio Grande Valley for nearly three decades. These scholars represent the very best of our community: resilient, dedicated, and ready to lead.”
She also recognized special guests in attendance, including Mission Mayor Norie Gonzalez and Hidalgo County District Attorney Terry Palacios, highlighting the widespread support VAMOS has earned throughout the region.
The evening continued with a heartfelt invocation by Dr. Annabelle Palomo, a member of the VAMOS Board. Her prayer offered a spiritual reflection on the importance of guidance, strength, and perseverance as students begin their academic journeys. She reminded scholars that they are never alone in their challenges and encouraged them to lean on faith and community as they move forward.
A key portion of the evening was devoted to recognizing the VAMOS Board of Directors, whose vision and leadership make the program’s impact possible. Board members, including Chairman Emeritus Alonzo Cantu, President Dr. Armando Moncada, Vice President Sonia Falcon, and Treasurer Sergio Contreras, were applauded for their service, along with fellow board members and volunteers who help carry out the organization’s mission year-round.
Special gratitude was also extended to the event’s sponsors, particularly Chick-fil-A of the Rio Grande Valley, the Presenting Sponsor for the fifth consecutive year. DHR Health, H-E-B, McAllen-Stained Glass, and sponsors from the VAMOS Annual Golf Tournament provided additional support.
Speaking on behalf of Chick-fil-A, Luis Magdaleno, Operator of the Chick-fil-A Nolana location in McAllen, delivered a heartfelt message about the power of education.
“What VAMOS does is transformative. They’re planting seeds in students today that will grow into doctors, teachers, entrepreneurs—perhaps even Chick-fil-A operators and leaders of tomorrow,” said Magdaleno.
“Let this scholarship be your launching pad, not your finish line.”
Magdaleno emphasized the alignment between Chick-fil-A’s corporate purpose and VAMOS’s mission, stressing the importance of giving back and uplifting others.
Dr. Lauro Tijerina, a VAMOS alumnus from the class of 2009, delivered the evening’s keynote. Today, he is the owner of Tijerina Family and Cosmetic Dentistry with offices in McAllen and Edinburg. Recently named one of America’s Top 40 Under 40 dentists by Incisal Edge, Dr. Tijerina spoke candidly about how the VAMOS scholarship transformed his life.
“Back in 2009, I didn’t fully grasp just how much that support would mean. That scholarship wasn’t just financial help—it was encouragement. It said, ‘We believe in you.’ And I carried that with me,” he said.
Addressing students directly, he urged them to stay curious and resilient and to find ways to serve others along the way. To donors, he expressed deep gratitude for believing in students before they even knew them, and for shaping futures through their generosity.
The 2025 class of VAMOS Scholars was recognized for more than just academic achievement. Many of these students balanced full- or part-time jobs, cared for siblings or elderly family members, and volunteered in their communities—all while excelling in school.
“They represent the very best of the RGV,” said Chapa. “Resilient, hardworking, and full of promise.”
Counselors, teachers, and family members in attendance were also recognized for the vital support they offer behind the scenes.
Since its founding in 1996, VAMOS has awarded over $25 million in scholarships to more than 1,300 students. The organization provides more than financial support—it builds community, offers mentorship, and creates a lasting ripple effect of opportunity and hope throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
As the ceremony concluded and students received their certificates, the air was filled with a mix of celebration and reflection. For the 63 new scholars, the evening marked the beginning of a promising new chapter. For VAMOS and its supporters, it was another powerful reminder of the difference that belief, generosity, and education can make.
