The publication is reproduced in full below:
CELEBRATING TEXAS SOUTHMOST COLLEGE'S 95TH ANNIVERSARY
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HON. FILEMON VELA
of texas
in the house of representatives
Friday, October 22, 2021
Mr. VELA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Texas Southmost College (TSC) as they celebrate their 95th anniversary, making it the oldest institution of higher learning in the Rio Grande Valley.
Texas Southmost College is the first accredited community college in the State of Texas. Originally named The Junior College of the Rio Grande Valley, TSC was established on August 9, 1926, with 84 students attending classes. In 1931 it was renamed the Brownsville Junior College, before its final renaming to Texas Southmost College in 1949. After a 20-year partnership with University of Texas at Brownsville, TSC's Board of Trustees voted to reestablish the college as an independent institution in 2011 and it was operating independently by 2013. The campus, spanning over 48 acres, is located in Brownsville, Texas on the historic site of Fort Brown, the first United States military post in Texas.
TSC was selected as a ``Bright Spot'' by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics in 2015 for its efforts to bridge the achievement gap and expand access to quality higher education. In addition to offering high-quality programs that lead to careers that are in demand, TSC is the most affordable institution of higher learning in the Rio Grande Valley, thanks to TSC's Board of Trustees decision in 2013 to reduce tuition by 40 percent. TSC currently offers two-year academic credential progression in over 50 programs of study for students pursuing bachelor's degrees, and career and technical education leading to industry certifications and associate degrees. They also offer dual-credit academic, career, and technical courses at no cost to students, saving families in the Lower Grande Valley $28 million in tuition and related fees since 2017.
With a growth rate of 72 percent in the past four years, TSC is the fastest-growing community college in the state of Texas, and their graduation rate outpaces the Texas state average by more than three percent. The Board of Trustees, along with TSC President Jesus Roberto Rodriguez, Ph.D., continue to set goals to ensure the long-term viability of the institution with a focus on fostering student success, leading regional workforce development, enriching student experiences, enhancing community connections, and investing in each other.
Texas Southmost College prides itself on fostering a welcoming environment and a sense of belonging for all. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating TSC on 95 years of invaluable service to the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Through education, community outreach and the promotion of individual success, Texas Southmost College continues to strengthen the state of Texas' prosperity and talent.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 186
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