Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
McAllen Mayor Pro-Tem and City Commissioner, District 6, Pepe Cabeza de Vaca, congratulated 19 scholarship recipients at the 2026 McAllen Housing Commission Scholarship Banquet, praising their commitment to education and encouraging them as they begin the next stage of their academic journeys.
Speaking before students, families, educators, and community leaders gathered at the Verta Hotel on June 18, Cabeza de Vaca said the evening was about recognizing achievement and hard work. “We are very proud of every single one of you guys,” he told the recipients. “You guys went ahead and put the effort, you put the dedication and the passion into what you’re doing, and now you’re being rewarded with it.”
Cabeza de Vaca said the scholarship recipients represent the future of the community and encouraged them to continue pursuing their goals. He noted that education creates opportunities and strengthens families and communities. “As a city, we know that education has a lasting impact,” he said. “It opens doors, creates opportunities, and strengthens families and communities for generations to come.”
The mayor pro-tem also acknowledged the partnership between the City of McAllen and the McAllen Housing Commission, describing it as an investment in local students and the community’s future. He thanked the commission for supporting educational opportunities and recognizing student achievement.
McAllen Housing Commission Board Chair Elva M. Cerda echoed those sentiments during the program. Addressing the scholarship recipients and their families, Cerda said the event reflects the organization’s commitment to student success and educational advancement. “We wish you all the best in your pathway to higher education and your future as well,” Cerda said.
Cerda also encouraged students to continue striving for excellence and to view their accomplishments as the beginning of new opportunities. She told recipients that community leaders want them to understand that “the sky is the limit” if they continue working toward their educational and career goals.
The banquet recognized 19 graduating seniors from McAllen High School, Memorial High School, Nikki Rowe High School, IDEA McAllen, IDEA Los Encinos, and PSJA North High School. Scholarships were awarded through the McAllen Housing Commission’s scholarship program, which is supported by proceeds from the annual Robert “Bobby” Calvillo Home Is Where the Heart Is 5K fundraiser.
The event concluded with the presentation of scholarship certificates and recognition of the students’ future academic plans. Community leaders, educators, and family members joined in celebrating the recipients as they prepare to attend colleges and universities across Texas and beyond.
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