Historic Donation by the Hector and Gloria López Foundation to Transform Futures at Our Lady of the Lake University
Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU), founded by the Congregation of Divine Providence, has been gifted the largest private donation in its storied history. The Hector and Gloria López Foundation has bestowed a transformative $2.2 million grant aimed at bolstering the educational journey of first-generation students, a demographic that constitutes about 40% of the university’s student body.
The connection between the López family and OLLU runs deep, not only through this monumental donation but also through familial bonds. Hector and Gloria López, the philanthropists behind the foundation, are the aunt and uncle of Sister Elsa E. Garcia, CDP, a revered member of the Congregation of Divine Providence. This relationship underscores a shared commitment to education and community upliftment, principles that OLLU was built upon.
OLLU President Abel A. Chávez, PhD, himself a first-generation graduate, expressed profound gratitude for the donation. “This will be a transformative gift for many of our students,” he stated, emphasizing the significant impact the grant will have on easing the financial burdens faced by first-generation students and setting them on a path to success without the weight of debt.
The unveiling of the grant was a festive affair, marked by the vibrant sounds of mariachis and the colorful spectacle of confetti in the Moye Rotunda, signifying the bright future this donation promises for many students. Starting in fall 2024, the first cohort of López Scholars will benefit from this generous initiative. These scholarships aim to provide more than just tuition assistance; they are designed to equip students with the resources, leadership skills, and support network needed for economic success and personal growth.
López Scholars will enjoy a comprehensive support package covering a wide array of educational expenses, from housing and study abroad opportunities to leadership development and paid internships. The grant also addresses potential barriers to success such as the need for laptops, health insurance, childcare, and tutoring, ensuring that students have all they need to focus on their studies and personal development.
An innovative aspect of this scholarship program is the selection process for López Scholars. Recipients are chosen randomly from the pool of admitted first-generation students who demonstrate financial need and hail from targeted regions within Texas, including El Paso, Austin, San Antonio, and communities in South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley. This method ensures a fair chance for all eligible students, further democratizing access to higher education.
The López Foundation’s grant to OLLU is more than a financial contribution; it is a beacon of hope and an investment in the future leaders of our communities. It reflects a deep belief in the transformative power of education and a commitment to making that power accessible to those who face the greatest barriers to achieving their educational dreams. As López Scholars embark on their academic journeys, they carry not only the legacy of the López family and Sister Elsa E. Garcia, CDP but also the collective aspirations of the Congregation of Divine Providence and the entire OLLU community.
