First Recipient of Dr. Henry Cuellar Endowed Scholarship Named

Texas A&M International University student Gilbert Cardenas has been named the first recipient of the Dr. Henry Cuellar Endowed Scholarship in Political Science. The prestigious scholarship includes a paid summer internship with State Representative Cuellar.

Cardenas, a junior majoring in political science, holds a 3.541 grade point average and is actively involved with a number of student organizations. He is president of the A&M International Student Ambassadors, a service organization; is a justice at-large in the University's Student Government Association; and is a member of the The Texas A&M University System Chancellor's Student Advisory Board. Upon graduation, he plans to attend the George Bush School of Public Policy in College Station, Texas. A 1997 Alexander High School graduate, he is the son of Humberto and Agustina Cardenas.

The Dr. Henry Cuellar Endowed Scholarship was established by community leaders, colleagues and friends of Dr. Cuellar. When fully funded, it will support a $1000 annual scholarship.

Dr. Cuellar said he was moved by such a powerful expression by friends, colleagues and associates.

"I am truly honored by this tremendous expression from so many kind people. I have been fortunate to have benefitted from the power of higher education and I feel very lucky that others have banded together to honor me and provide other students with similar opportunities to advance themselves and secure their dreams. I am overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity that this scholarship represents," Cuellar said.

Dr. Charles Jennett, University president, said the University is honored to be home to the Dr. Henry Cuellar Endowed Scholarship and admires Cuellar for his personal educational initiative and for his vision in wanting to helping others similarly.

"We admire his initiative and drive and know that his support of higher education has made a crucial difference in increasing State-wide access to higher education. We also consider him an inspiration to our students, all students and the people of Texas, " Jennett said.

Cuellar earned a Doctorate of Philosophy in Government at the University of Texas at Austin, a Masters degree in International Trade from A&M International, Bachelors degree from Washington, D.C.'s Georgetown University, and a law degree from the University of Texas School of Law.

For additional information, please contact the A&M International Office for Institutional Advancement at 326-2175

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