Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Starr County, February 16, 2024 – With a passionate commitment to the revolutionary power of education and a deep-rooted dedication to public service, Rose Benavidez has declared her candidacy for re-election to the District 1 seat on the South Texas College (STC) Board of Trustees. Drawing inspiration from the overwhelming support of students, residents, and fellow colleagues, Benavidez is eager to sustain and further the shared achievements that have significantly benefited the educational landscape and economic prosperity of the community.
“It has truly been a distinct honor and a profound privilege to contribute to the betterment of my community through service,” Benavidez shared. “With continued support, I am excited about the prospect of further fostering our united successes, ensuring that we meet the educational demands of our students and enhance the economic vitality of our region,” she emphasized.
Benavidez’s tenure has been marked by substantial achievements, including transformative and generational changes that have propelled the region’s progression. However, she firmly believes that there is still much to accomplish. Born and raised in Starr County and currently presiding over the Starr County Industrial Foundation (SCIF), Benavidez has first-hand experience with the local challenges of high unemployment and poverty. Her career has been dedicated to economic development and educational accessibility, aiming to create job opportunities and practical educational programs aligned with employment forecasts in the area.
As the Chair of the STC Board and the first Latina to lead the National Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT), Benavidez has effectively prioritized the needs of Starr County and shared its successes on national and international stages. Her leadership has spurred the expansion of the college’s infrastructure, benefiting nearly 34,000 students each semester and saving families over $300 million in tuition costs over the last decade.
“The collective impact we’ve made has not only elevated our region’s competitiveness but also significantly improved the economic prospects of our residents,” Benavidez noted. She remains focused on ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to dream and the resources to turn those dreams into reality.
In Starr County, where economic challenges are intensified by limited federal and state funding, the partnership between STC and local school districts has been crucial in fostering a culture that values higher education. Benavidez is dedicated to expanding free dual enrollment and increasing educational program offerings, recognizing that excellence in education is essential in a global economy where knowledge equates to power.
“As we move forward, it’s imperative to understand that excellence in education is not merely an advantage but a fundamental necessity for our community,” Benavidez concluded. Her re-election campaign demonstrates a firm commitment to ensuring that all residents have access to quality education and the opportunity to contribute to the economic growth of their community.
