A&M International Student Selected to Bush School Masters Program

A Texas A&M International University student has become the University's first student to be selected for admission to Texas A&M University's George Bush School of Government and Public Service Masters Program.

Arturo Sanchez III, who will receive his BBA in Marketing in graduation ceremonies this May, has been admitted to the Bush School's third class in its Master of Public Service and Administration degree. His admission includes selection as a recipient of a $5,000 Bush Fellowship to the two-year, full-time degree program beginning this August in College Station.

A&M International president Charles Jennett said Sanchez' selection is appropriate and praised the young Houston native.

"Arturo is well-known and respected in all sectors of our University and the local community. His enthusiasm and dedication to the growth and development of Texas A&M International University and its students are to be commended and admired," Jennett said.

Sanchez' selection was part of a competitive admissions process that included a two day interview conference in College Station, with 40 other candidates selected from across the country. Only 22 students of approximately 100 applicants were selected for acceptance.

Donald Deere, associate director for academic programs at the Bush School, said the School is excited about the prospect of Sanchez joining the growing school.

"We intend that the Bush School will become a major public affairs school and that you will have the opportunity to help build the School's foundation as well as receive a very distinctive education," Deere wrote in Sanchez' acceptance letter.

Sanchez, who spent most holidays and summers in Laredo as a child visiting relatives here, said he is looking forward to being part of the program and eventually returning to South Texas.

"I have no doubt that the completion of the Bush School masters program will equip me to better serve the citizens of Laredo and South Texas. My time here at A&M International provided me with a great education and opportunities for growth in leadership and public service and has further convinced me that I want to return here to help make a difference in the lives of the people of South Texas," Sanchez said.

Sanchez' was president of the University's Student Government Association for the past two years. He also served on both the South Texas Workforce Development Board and The Texas A&M System Chancellor's Student Advisory Board. He was a founding member of the South Texas Leadership Conference.

His campus and System involvement figured prominently in his selection as a recipient of the first Charles C. Butt, Mr. South Texas 1996 Scholarship. Organized by State Senator Dr. Judith Zaffirini, Mr. South Texas 1999 and founder of the awarding Mr. South Texas Foundation, the 'Scholarship To Leadership Program" is dedicated to nurturing great leaders for South Texas by providing financial support for higher education.

Sanchez said he is honored to have been selected for the Bush Fellowship and especially appreciates the financial support he has received from the Laredo community.

"I'm honored to have the opportunity to represent South Texas and A&M International and I am most grateful for the scholarship support that has been provided by groups such as International Bank of Commerce and others. Their support will help make my completion of this program possible," he concluded.

The Master of Public Service and Administration degree program at the George Bush School of Government and Public Service is a demanding two year, intense program of study. Students are expected to pursue their studies on a full-time basis, carrying twelve graduate credit hours per semester, with a summer internship after the completion of the first year.

To this end, the Bush School seeks to minimize the need for students to work outside the program while in school. Financial assistance is available to qualified students. The George H. W. Bush Fellowships are the centerpiece of this scholarship program and were established as a tribute to the 41st President of the United States.

He and Mrs. Bush will interact with the recipients on several special occasions during the academic year acknowledging the Fellows' high achievement.

For additional information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at 956.3256.2180. University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu