2007 Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit:
“Portraits of Alumni Achievement”

The Honorable Henry Cuellar ‘82

“Texans prove every day they’re willing to work hard,
make sacrifices for their children, and reach for a better life.”

The Honorable
Henry Cuellar ‘82, MBA
Congressman
District 28
United States
House of Representatives

Congressman Henry Cuellar credits education as the single most important tool in building a productive and successful life. He began his higher education by earning an associate’s degree from Laredo Community College. The skills and confidence he gained there enabled him to take the next step to Washington, D.C. While there, he washed dishes and held down other jobs as he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Foreign Service from Georgetown University where he graduated cum laude.

Soon after graduation, Congressman Cuellar returned to Texas to earn degrees in International Trade at Texas A&M International University, a law degree from the University of Texas-Austin and a Ph.D. in Government from UT-Austin. Today, he is the most degreed Congressman serving in the House with five advanced degrees.

As Laredo’s former State Representative, Congressman Cuellar was a statewide influential legislator who served in leadership positions in the most powerful House committees – the House Appropriations, Higher Education and Calendars committees. Congressman Cuellar’s top priorities continue to include improving education, increasing access to affordable healthcare and prescription drugs, and bringing better jobs and wages to Texas.

The son of migrant workers, Congressman Cuellar has worked tirelessly and dedicated his life to public service to improve the community and state in which he lives. He continues to honor the hard work of Texans with some of his own — fighting to keep the doors of opportunity open for anyone willing to study hard and work hard.