By Brent Lyday
Commerce – Texas A&M University-Commerce has partnered with the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and area universities to provide $1.9 million in scholarships for graduating Dallas ISD seniors.
"At A&M-Commerce, we believe no student who desires a higher education should be turned away, especially for financial reasons," said Dr. Dan R. Jones, A&M-Commerce president. "Partnering with organizations like the GDHCC to provide scholarships is our way of fulfilling our obligation to provide access and opportunity for deserving students to achieve at the highest level."
The scholarship awards will be presented at the annual "Stars on the Rise" awards banquet on June 11 at the Fairmont Hotel, 1717 N. Akard St.
The 174 scholarship recipients were selected from a group of more than 600 applicants, based on their academic achievement, grade point average, leadership, community service/work experience, and personal essay. The 2010 recipients include eight valedictorians, six salutatorians, one National Merit Finalist, and seven National Merit Semi-Finalists.
Since the creation of the Stars on the Rise program more than 20 years ago, the GDHCC has collaborated with community, corporate donors and educational institutions to assist more than 1,000 Dallas area students with their dream of pursuing a higher education.
The Stars on the Rise program has been supported by many businesses and organizations. A&M-Commerce served as a sponsor for this year's event alongside Aetna, Kroger, Verizon, University Crossroads, and Navy Recruiting District Dallas.
About Texas A&M University-Commerce:
Founded in 1889, Texas A&M University-Commerce is a member of The Texas A&M University System. Located in Northeast Texas, A&M-Commerce is home to more than 9,000 students, three academic colleges, a thriving graduate school, and more than 100 degree programs. As the region's focal point of higher education, A&M-Commerce offers students facilities ranging from a world-class science building and new student center, to a fully equipped recreational facility and the soon-to-be completed music hall. The university also has convenient facilities in Corsicana, downtown Dallas, Mesquite, and Midlothian.