(HARLINGEN) – Texas State Technical College in Harlingen recently received a $10,000 donation from the Harlingen Cotton Committee during the organization’s scholarship fundraiser at the Casa de Amistad.

This donation was made to support TSTC’s “Make a Texas-Size Difference” campaign. All money raised through this initiative goes to the Texan Success Scholarship, which is awarded to assist new TSTC students with tuition, books and other expenses.

“They (Cotton Committee) have been great supporters of our Agricultural Technology program and students for many years,” said Amy Lynch, TSTC’s South Texas development officer. “So many people have been able to receive an education and continue on to great careers because of this wonderful group of stewards.”

The Harlingen Cotton Committee has given this donation in an effort to support Agricultural Technology students and the program as a whole. In the past, the organization has helped purchase equipment needed for student training.

Sammy Gavito, TSTC’s Agricultural Technology state chair and instructor said this type of assistance helps drive students to begin and finish the program.

“Many times, students come to school with limited finances,” said Gavito. “Students have told me that scholarships like this make a difference in whether they continue or drop out. And our goal is to get them to graduate and into a career. This money helps us do our jobs.”

Brady Taubert, chairman of the cotton committee, said the group is always trying to help their local community and they found no better way than helping TSTC and its students.

“I don’t see how we can get any more local than partnering with TSTC,” said Taubert. “All of the money we’re raising is staying right here in the Valley. Plus, this opens doors of opportunities for those wanting a college education.”

Taubert said he looks forward to many more years of working together with TSTC, and for the college and Agricultural Technology it means continued support.

“This year, all funds, donated and matched, will be used for scholarships focused on new students to the program. In the future, donations will benefit students at any point in the program for tuition and fees,” said Lynch. “This committee has made such an impact at TSTC.”

For more information on the “Make a Texas-Sized Difference” campaign or to donate, call 956-364-4500 or visit tstc.edu/tstcfoundation.