Texas Border Business
By Amanda Sotelo
A longtime advocate of higher education and supporter of the South Texas College Culinary Arts program, Sony Rego has earned a seat on the STC Foundation Board.
Owner of McAllen’s most popular culinary experiences – Santa Fe Steakhouse, Republic of the Rio Grande and University Drafthouse – Rego, through her Santa Fe Foundation has supported hundreds of students through scholarships, internships and career opportunities.
“I’ve always been a huge supporter of STC’s Culinary Arts department and a fan of the college’s mission and vision for the Rio Grande Valley,” said Rego. “So, to be a part of the STC Foundation board is truly an honor that aligns with my values. Education is a powerful tool that everyone should have access to, and I’m excited to contribute to the foundation’s efforts.”
A native of Mexico, Rego began in the restaurant industry in 2000, since then employing many of STC’s Culinary Arts graduates as chefs in her restaurants. Many of her chefs are now also faculty at STC and leaders in the industry.
“The culinary industry in the Rio Grande Valley and across the region has a huge demand for highly- skilled leaders, and they’re being produced right here at STC,” she said. “This is why it’s so important to give these students the scholarships and tools they need to success. We have a large talent pool in our region; it’s our job to foster these dreams.”
Supporting and funding these dreams is only the first step, according to Rego. It is also vital that this newfound talent remains in the RGV.
“Our job is to give students the chance to learn and grow, but often times we do so well, that our talent leaves the region to explore other options in other parts of the state or country,” said Rego. “Success is always the ultimate goal, but we also want to keep some of this talent here also, to level up the culinary experiences we offer in our communities.”
Therefore, Rego works closely with STC and local high schools to offer internships and career opportunities within all her restaurants, even initiating a new initiative called CAFÉ – Culinary Arts for Everyone.
CAFÉ is a McAllen-based, inclusive cafeteria that gives all aspiring culinary students the chance to test their skills through hands-on learning experiences while serving their community.
STC Vice President of Institutional Advancement and External Affairs Rodney Rodriguez, Ph.D., said Rego’s work is impactful and changing the landscape of the Culinary Arts industry in the RGV.
“We are so honored that Sony has accepted her appointment on the STC Foundation Board. She is an exceptional member of our community who has continuously shown up for our students through scholarships and opportunities that make dreams come true,” he said. “Her position on the board will continue to enhance this partnership and will broaden the impact she has on STC and its students. Her knowledge and philanthropic work will play a huge role in our Foundation’s success.”
As a believer in the arts, culinary and beyond, Rego works toward a mission that is near to her heart, not only as the newest member of STC’s Foundation’s board, but also as the board president of the Easter Seals and treasurer of the Valley Symphony Orchestra.
Moving forward as an STC Foundation board member, Rego said she looks forward to making fundraising efforts stronger, expanding scholarship support for students and the college’s student food pantry, introducing new fundraising ideas and forging new partnerships that will allow the foundation to grow.
“I believe that if you’ve found success, it is your responsibility to pay it forward and help others,” said Rego. “That is what I’ve always strived to do through the Santa Fe Foundation, my roles on boards within the community and now on the STC Foundation Board. It’s an honor to be working among a distinguished group of leaders, and I’m happy to play a role in opening doors of opportunity and hope.”
For more information on STC’s Foundation and to learn more about becoming a donor, visit southtexascollege.edu/foundation.
Information source: STC
