Southwestern Oklahoma State University

15/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 16/08/2024 20:44

SWOSU and Consulate of Mexico Partner to Support Mexican-Origin Students

Consul Edurne Pineda (left) and SWOSU President Diana Lovell have officially established a partnership between the Consulate of Mexico in Oklahoma City and SWOSU, resulting in a grant of $4,000 aimed at supporting students of Mexican descent.

The Consulate of Mexico in Oklahoma City has awarded $4,000 to Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) through the Institute for Mexicans Abroad (IME) Becas program. The SWOSU Foundation matched this amount, providing financial support to students of Mexican heritage.

The IME Becas program, established by the Government of Mexico, is designed to expand educational opportunities for individuals of Mexican descent. This funding will assist continuing students in reaching their academic goals and progressing toward graduation. Dr. Veronica Aguiñaga, the grant writer and scholarship program advisor, expressed appreciation for the partnership with the Consulate of Mexico in Oklahoma City, emphasizing its impact on the academic development of students of Mexican origin.

On Tuesday, Aug. 6, Consul Edurne Pineda and SWOSU President Diana Lovell formalized this partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding at the Consulate. Attendees included Aguiñaga, scholarship recipients Liliana Diaz, Michelle Chavez, and Uriel Luna, as well as Dr. Joel Kendall, Dr. Adam Johnson, and Dr. Ed Klein.

(Left to right): Dr. Kendall, Uriel Luna, Michelle Chavez, Consul Edurne Pineda, Dr. Lovell, Dr. Aguinaga, Liliana Chavez, Dr. Johnson, and Dr. Klein proudly display the check for $4,000.

Additional 2024 IME Becas Scholarship recipients include Alondra Alvarado, Amy Morales, Britny Chavira, Cielo Barrera, Erika Chavez, Karina Rodrigues, Kenya Chavez, Cristal Hernandez, Maritza Hernandez, Nayeli Valencia, Perla Ramirez, Rosa Maria Soto Alanis, and Valeria Garcia.

"This scholarship will allow me to pursue my academic and professional objectives without limitations," said Liliana Diaz. "My goal is to become involved in my community and serve as an inspiration to those from similar backgrounds by proving that hard work and education are achievable.

Michelle Chavez said, "This scholarship will support me financially in hopes that I become a first-gen graduate in my family!"

"This scholarship gives me another reason as to why I should continue to strive the best I can be," said Uriel Luna.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Since 1901, Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has proudly stood on the hilltop in Weatherford, Oklahoma. Offering over 100 affordable undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon, SWOSU provides a diverse range of academic opportunities with high-quality education to its students. The university boasts a vibrant community of nearly 5,000 scholars and over 200 dedicated faculty and staff. With strong academic programs and a commitment to excellence, SWOSU continues to be a top choice for students seeking a quality education.