LaredoBuzz.Com

Courtesy Steve Harmon,

(Laredo, Texas)-On Friday, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $1,649,197 in federal funds to Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) to help develop and expand Science Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) learning opportunities for Hispanic and Low-Income students in the region.

Funding was awarded through the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) grant program, established by Congressman Cuellar in 2018.

Congressman Cuellar said the program, dubbed “Building Capacity: An Undergraduate STEM-Enrichment Program in TX,” will help create a new generation of creators, innovators and pioneers.

“Students in South Texas must be career-ready to meet the demands of the our country’s STEM industries,” said Congressman Cuellar, “This federal investment will be used to prepare students to graduate and work in critical STEM sectors such as energy, health care and medicine, cyber and information technologies, and national security. As a senior appropriator, I will continue to fund educational programs that will create a new generation of innovators, creators, and pioneers. I want to thank TAMIU President Pablo Arenaz and the rest of his staff for their dedication to expanding educational opportunities for our students.”

TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz called the program visionary and said it will drive brighter futures for TAMIU students.

“We are deeply appreciative of the leadership and partnership provided by Congressman Cuellar in helping secure this generous NSF grant. We know that our students have tremendous capacity to succeed in STEM fields, and this visionary grant will provide them with ample opportunities to realize their full degree potential and advance their careers. In turn, their success will drive a brighter future for our community, state and country,” Dr. Arenaz said.