27 LC-TAMIU STEM CONNECTOR PROJECT BROADENS ACCESS WITH SCHOLARSHIPS During a joint announcement in June, Laredo College (LC) and TAMIU unveiled new scholarship opportunities as part of their ongoing LC-TAMIU STEM Connector Project. This two-year federally funded initiative is designed to streamline the transfer process for STEM students and expand access to high-impact learning experiences. Launched in 2023, the project represents a pivotal advancement in STEM education for the region. It was initially funded through $963,000 in congressionally directed support secured by Congressman Dr. Henry Cuellar. Led by Principal Investigator Dr. Kenneth Tobin of TAMIU in collaboration with LC’s Director of Engineering, Design and Construction Management Technology Dr. Alfonso Hinojosa, the initiative has focused on aligning engineering curricula between LC and TAMIU, enhancing instruction in foundational computer science courses and implementing a vertically integrated academic framework to reduce time-to-degree. A key highlight of the project is the introduction of scholarships specifically designed to support economically disadvantaged and first-generation students pursuing STEM fields aligned with NASA’s mission. A total of $124,000 has been allocated to fund these scholarships, with each eligible student receiving $1,000 per semester. The program aims to award at least 31 scholarships each term. Read More at go.tamiu.edu/stem-connector25. LEDC STRENGTHENS LEADERSHIP WITH SANCHEZ SCHOOL APPOINTMENTS This year, the Laredo Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) appointed two leaders from TAMIU’s A. R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business to its Board of Directors. LEDC Chairman Ignacio Urrabazo, Jr., president and CEO of Commerce Bank, appointed Dr. Luis Perez-Batres, dean, and Radcliffe Killam Distinguished Professor of the Sanchez School of Business, as a voting member. Dr. Daniel Covarrubias, director of the Texas Center for Border Economic and Enterprise Development, was named special advisor to the Board. These appointments come at a pivotal time as Laredo solidifies its position as the largest port of entry in the Americas while reflecting TAMIU’s expanding role in economic development, Dr. Perez noted. “At the Sanchez School, we believe business education should be a catalyst for regional economic development,” said Dr. Perez, “These appointments enable us to translate academic expertise into realworld impact, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth for Laredo and beyond,” he continued. Established in 1966, the LEDC serves as Laredo’s primary privatesector liaison for new and expanding businesses. It is one of only 74 organizations nationwide accredited by the International Economic Development Council. UNIVERSITY OUTREACH Dr. Daniel Covarrubias Dr. Luis Perez-Batres
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