Laredo College’s core values emphasize providing students with all available resources to ensure their success. Many in the community share these values and work to help students start their college journey on solid ground.
Laredo College is proud to continue its partnership with longtime supporter South Texas Advancement Resource (STAR), whose mission focuses on research, education and training in sustainable farming, ranching and land management. Thanks to a generous $40,000 donation from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation, STAR was able to once again make a difference in the lives of Laredo College workforce students.
This week, over 60 Electrical Technology and Welding program students received specialized toolkits for their courses. The kits will help them complete their work in the lab and ease the financial burden of purchasing necessary equipment.
Electrical technology students received a complete electrician’s kit, including pliers, screwdrivers, cutters, and all the essential tools for the trade. Welding students received a welding kit with a welding hood, goggles, gloves, grinder and other equipment needed for the profession.
STAR President and Treasurer William F. Raney said both electrical technology and welding are vital to the ranching industry, and the skills learned at LC are often used in the field. In addition, 12 students received scholarships to get them started in their program.
“These are all skills that really fit into what we do for a living, and I’m proud to be here to help you all out,” Raney said.
“Don’t let anything deter you from completing your education,” CenterPoint Energy Vice President of Community Relations June Deadrick added. “We’re excited to celebrate what we hope will be a long and productive partnership with the South Texas Advancement Resource. This grant is our first partnership to support Laredo College, and we certainly hope it won’t be our last.”
Whether providing tools or assisting with tuition for struggling students, Laredo College is grateful for its valuable partners and their shared goals in strengthening and supporting the students who will be invaluable in the industry they enter.
“CenterPoint Energy is definitely one of those employers that we want to continue to partner with, and we thank you all for your incredible partnership,” LC President Dr. Minita Ramírez said. “I’d also like to thank the Raney family for all their work as they have been quietly helping our programs for many years.”
