Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
When Jaden Daniel Gutierrez crowned his younger brother, Jeshua Davian Gutierrez, as Mr. Weslaco 2026, the moment marked more than a pageant first, but highlighted a family tradition built on leadership, community service and the opportunities created through South Texas College (STC).
The brothers made Weslaco history as the first siblings to consecutively hold the title of Mr. Weslaco, an initiative and community wide event that supports youth personal growth and leadership development. Particfipants are selected to represent Weslaco Royal titles, be a part of the Weslaco Royal Court and the Weslaco Chamber and city of Weslaco.
However, the brothers also share another distinction. Both have chosen STC’s Dual Credit Programs to jump-start their college education while still in high school, demonstrating how the program is helping prepare the next generation of leaders in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV).
“It’s an incredible feeling to be part of Weslaco history,” Jaden said. “For the first time ever, one sibling had the honor of crowning another sibling, and I’m so proud that it was my brother. I truly can’t think of anyone more deserving or more capable of carrying the title of Mr. Weslaco.”
A 2026 graduate of Weslaco High School, Jaden also graduated from STC with an Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice. By earning his degree before receiving his high school diploma, he entered the next chapter of his education with confidence and a clear career path.
“Thanks to STC, I not only earned an associate degree, but I also gained a strong foundation for college life and moved one step closer to achieving my career goals,” he said.
Now, continuing his education at the University of Texas Riog Grande Valley (UTRGV), Jaden plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice before pursuing a career as a Texas State Trooper.
Inspired by his older brother’s experience, Jeshua is now following a similar path as an Early College student at Weslaco High School and current STC Dual Credit student.
“I enrolled in the STC Dual Credit program because I wanted to challenge myself academically and get a head start on my college education,” Jeshua said. “The opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school allows me to prepare for my future and develop valuable skills early on.”
While both brothers have worn the Mr. Weslaco crown, they say one of their strongest connections has been encouraging one another both inside and outside the classroom.
“My brother is my biggest supporter and my greatest competitor,” Jaden said. “We’ve been competing with each other our whole lives, but whenever one of us is knocked down, the other is always there to help lift him back up.”
Jeshua agreed.
“My brother and I motivate each other to be our best, but we also push each other through healthy competition,” he said. “That balance encourages us to work harder, set higher goals and continue growing as individuals.”
Jaden said the lessons he learned through STC and his year as Mr. Weslaco helped prepare him for college, leadership and adulthood.
“My experience as Mr. Weslaco taught me the importance of time management, organization and leadership,” he said. “STC challenged me academically while helping me build the confidence to step outside my comfort zone.”
Now beginning his own year of service, Jeshua hopes to continue building on that legacy.
“Having my brother hold the title before me makes this experience even more special because it shows our shared commitment to serving our community,” he said. “I feel inspired to continue the positive example he set while creating my own legacy as Mr. Weslaco.”
As one brother begins his journey beyond STC and the other continues earning college credit, the Gutierrez brothers are proving that education, leadership and service go hand in hand.
For more information on STC Dual Credit Programs, visit: southtexascollege.edu/dual/.
Information source: STC
