2019-2020 Scholarship Winners
The Valley Automobile Dealers Association (VADA) and its board members are pleased to announce they will reward eighteen scholarships in the amount of $1,250 to local students. The VADA Scholarship Fund, established 2017, rewards employees, dependents of dealership employees and students enrolled in the automotive technology departments in area colleges.
The VADA Scholarship Fund was established in 2017, thanks to the success of the VADA’s annual golf tournament, known as the Jon Buquet Memorial Golf Tournament. The Association has remained dedicated to continued education for students in the Rio Grande Valley community.
"We received a record number of applications this year,” says Austin Payne of Payne Auto Group and President of VADA. "The employees at local dealerships are like family, so we are proud to support them and help further their children’s education."
Recipients of this year’s scholarships are John Shuffler – South Texas College, Noe Barrientos – UTRGV, April Elaine Luna – Texas A&M Kingsville, Samantha Garcia – Texas A&M University, Devian Drae Baez – UTRGV, Karina Munguia – Sam Houston State University, Stephanie Castillo – Texas A&M University, Lane Thomae – Texas A&M University, Kimberly Mata – UTRGV, Deandra Rubio – South Texas College Nursing & Allied Health, Jade Cardoza – Sam Houston State University, Hunter Huddleston – South Texas College, Destiny Janae Gausin – South Texas College, Alondra Rivera – Texas State University, Alissa Sauceda – St. Edwards University, Julia Castillo – Texas Southmost College, Mariah Gomez – UTRGV, Fernanda Lopez – St. Mary’s University.
These recipients have met and exceeded the requirements of this scholarship. The VADA is proud to award them with these scholarships and aid in their journey for higher education.
“For generations, the Texas franchise dealer industry is based on community and family,” said VADA Executive Director Lexi Buquet. “These scholarships are a way for the Valley dealers to unite and share their appreciation for so many hardworking students in the community.”
