Donors and Scholars Toasted at Annual Luncheon
Say the word "scholarship," and most people see green—as in money. For UHD's recent Donor Scholarship Luncheon, Webster's first definition of "scholarship" — "academic study or achievement; learning on a high level" — is much more apropos. After all, the luncheon, held on April 3, was truly a celebration of UHD scholarship recipients' exceptional accomplishments made possible by higher education.
"The purpose of the Donor Scholarship Luncheon, now in its second year, is to bring
scholarship donors together with their beneficiaries," said Javier "Jay" L. Zambrano,
Vice President of Advancement and University Relations. "The conversations that take
place between our donors and students are wonderful to experience. It is so uplifting
for our supporters to witness the impact they are having on the lives of our students,
and, in turn, for our scholarship recipients to get the opportunity to thank them
in person for their generous support."
Hosted by the Division of Advancement and University Relations in A-330, the elegant luncheon featured a tossed salad, steak, and chocolate mousse, with donors seated with their scholarship recipients at large, round tables decorated with hydrangea centerpieces.
The two students who spoke during the luncheon, Antoinette Mosely and San Juana Cortina, both shared their gratitude in being able to focus on learning vs. supporting themselves throughout their higher-ed experience. A committed student who has excelled as a leader, Mosely is the recipient of the Deloitte/Larry Jones Scholarship, Ted Bauer Undergraduate Scholarship, and the Texas CPA Scholarship in the Marilyn Davies College of Business. Cortina recieved the Rockwell Drama Scholarship in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, and that funding has allowed her to pursue her passion in the theater arts.
Ms. Carolyn Babb, who established, along with other generous donors, the Justin Alejandro Ortiz Memorial Scholarship in memory of her son, spoke as well. She shared that the scholarship paid tribute to his life and legacy, and just as her son dreamed of a brighter future, the intent of this scholarship is to provide that hope for others. Ms. Babb's dedication to supporting students in need has made a significant impact on countless lives.
Zambrano concluded the program with the proverb "Blessed are those who plant trees under whose shade they will never sit," thanking the donors and congratulating the student scholars.
