Thanks to employee donations and strong corporate and educational partnerships, the Stars on the Rise scholarship program raised $2.39 million to distribute to deserving area high school graduates.
Rick Ortiz, president/CEO of the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GDHCC), said that in the 34 years of the program, 4,100 students have benefited from $34.5 million in scholarships.
“Most of the scholars come from here. This has been a longstanding partnership that we’re very proud of,” Ortiz said of Dallas ISD. “We couldn’t have done it without our sponsors and donors.”
Don Pérez. chairman of the GDHCC board, said that the numbers speak for themselves, showing a commitment to the community and future students.
The Ford Motor Company Fund is the title sponsor of the Stars on the Rise Scholarships, through its Ford Driving Dreams program. The foundation contributed $440,000 to support 220 students this year, part of a $3 million effort benefiting 35,000 students in north Texas alone.
“We’re happy to make it another successful year with Stars on the Rise,” said Jennifer Cortez of the Ford Motor Company Fund.
