SWTX President's Gala Raises $30,000 for Scholarships, Celebrates Community Collaboration and Future Growth
The gala brought together partners from various sectors, including representatives from local government, school districts, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and the business community. Dr. Hector Gonzales, President of SWTX, expressed profound gratitude to all attendees, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in driving success.
Dr. Gonzales opened his speech by thanking the SWTX College Friends and Alumni for their generous support in organizing the gala. He highlighted the critical role of collaboration in rural Texas, quoting Helen Keller: "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much!" He underscored the importance of partnerships with cities, counties, schools, banks, hospitals, chambers, and the business community, stating, "We all need to help and support each other; if we don’t, we perish."
Dr. Gonzales shared several examples of successful partnerships, including the Diesel Heavy Equipment Tech program launched with Kubota and the Behavioral Health Tech program developed in collaboration with MHDD. He also highlighted the new partnership with the Kate Marmion Charitable Foundation, which has committed over $5 million to provide free college to graduates from Uvalde, Zavala, Real, and Frio counties.
The evening also featured the unveiling of SWTX's new logo and branding, which has received overwhelming enthusiasm. Dr. Gonzales proudly announced the expansion of several technical programs and the college's goal to offer bachelor's degrees by fall 2027.
Dr. Gonzales concluded his speech by thanking the board of trustees, faculty, staff, and his leadership team for their unwavering support and dedication to student success. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to his wife, Jaclyn, and daughter, Mia, for their continued support.
The gala ended with a special recognition of Chairman Tracy King, who retired from the State Legislature after serving District 80 for 28 years. Dr. Gonzales praised Chairman King for his unwavering support of SWTX College and presented him with a new El Patron Silver Belly Stetson as a token of appreciation.
The President's Gala was a night to remember, celebrating the power of partnership and the bright future of SWTX College.