Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
PSJA Memorial Early College High School hosted a formal recognition ceremony on May 7, 2025, in honor of senior student Valerie Serrano. The event celebrated her selection as the Chancellor’s Endowed Scholarship recipient from Texas Woman’s University (TWU), one of the institution’s most prestigious academic honors. Valued at approximately $60,000, the full-ride scholarship is awarded annually to one Texas high school graduate who exemplifies academic excellence, leadership, and community service.
Held at Gym “A” on the PSJA Memorial campus in Alamo, Texas, the event drew a large audience, including PSJA ISD leaders, faculty, family, friends, and representatives from South Texas College (STC) and Texas Woman’s University. Among the notable attendees were PSJA Memorial Principal Dr. Raquel Garcia, College Transition Director Carlos Garcia, Early College Director Rene Garcia, Dean of Instruction Mr. Treviño, Counselor Dominique Caro, and instructors including Clarisa Gonzalez and Aaron Lozano.
The program opened with appreciation for the school’s cheerleaders, band, mariachi, and other contributors who helped create a memorable and celebratory atmosphere. Special guests from STC, a key partner in the district’s dual credit programs, also participated in the ceremony. Representing STC were President Dr. Ricardo Solis, Vice President Dr. Rodney Rodriguez, and Associate Vice President Dr. Rebecca De Leon. Valerie was recognized for earning an Associate of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in Math and Science from STC in December 2024, graduating with Collegiate Honors and a Distinguished Level of Achievement.
Texas Woman’s University Vice President of Enrollment Management Dr. Javier Flores presented the Chancellor’s Endowed Scholarship on behalf of TWU Chancellor and President Dr. Carine M. Feyten. Dr. Flores introduced TWU admissions and outreach team members and emphasized the university’s mission to empower students through access, leadership, and educational opportunity. He noted that TWU is the largest university system in the nation with a woman-focused mission and praised Valerie as a perfect match for the institution’s legacy and future.
“This scholarship is what many call a full-ride,” said Dr. Flores. “It will cover your tuition, fees, housing, and board—and perhaps some other expenses. You are the only student receiving this award this year.”
Dr. Flores highlighted Valerie’s academic record and community involvement, adding that TWU looks forward to supporting her goal of earning a Master of Business Administration and eventually a doctorate in international business. He also announced that Chancellor Feyten will mentor Valerie throughout her academic journey.
Valerie’s accomplishments include serving as class president, regional president of the South Texas Association of Student Councils, and president of the National Honor Society. She founded a student tutoring business, led the school yearbook as editor-in-chief, participated in UIL journalism and speech, and has accumulated over 183 community service hours. She currently ranks 12th in a graduating class of 488.
In an emotional speech, Valerie shared the personal significance of this milestone. “First, I want to thank everyone for coming out today. This is such an incredible moment—truly surreal. I want to give a special thank you to PSJA Memorial for giving me all the opportunities that have led me to where I am today, and to South Texas College as well for guiding me through my associate degree journey. Because of these opportunities, I became a first-generation college student,” she said.
“Now, I will be the first in my family to continue my academic journey at Texas Woman’s University in Denton. I will also be the first in my family to leave the Rio Grande Valley to pursue my education, and that means so much to me,” she continued. “This senior year has been a very challenging one. Being a first-generation college student means having to figure a lot of things out on your own. My biggest motivation has been my younger brother and sister. I want to show them what’s possible—that they don’t have to settle for what’s close or easy and can dream big and chase their goals beyond our hometown.”
“Thank you again to Texas Woman’s University for helping me realize this dream. This is an amazing opportunity, and I am truly grateful,” Valerie finalized.
