It is an honor to be here tonight to celebrate STEM Nation, 2025 and to help the Rio Grande Valley Philanthropic Foundation give away $50,000.
We recognize the vital role that science, technology, engineering and mathematics play in our world today. STEM fields are the future of our entire planet.
Our commitment to our region led us to recognize the gaps here. It is said that there are approximately 20% Latinos in the general population, yet less than 2% of Latinos hold careers in STEM fields. This is not acceptable, especially not in our region.
So we are striving to get the message of STEM opportunities out to our students and to encourage innovation and academic excellence.
STEM Nation is dedicated to supporting local students as they look for their way and to help our local universities and colleges provide paths for these students to hear and receive the STEM message and then to be able to pursue a path forward.
STEM disciplines are the backbone of progress in our society, including groundbreaking medical research. Knowledge gained from STEM studies helps equip students to solve real world challenges, drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for people everywhere.
By investing in STEM education, we invest in a brighter, more innovative future for all.
So thank you all for working with us and for joining us here tonight.
Editor's Note: The above guest column was provided by Diane Milliken Garza, CEO of the RGV Philanthropic Foundation. It is based on comments she made at an RGVPF event held recently at Lone Star National Bank HQ in McAllen. At the event, RGVPF presented checks to Texas Southmost College, Texas State Technical College-Harlingen, South Texas College, Texas A&M University, and UT-Rio Grande Valley. Here is a video recording of the event:
