Washington, D.C.— Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced that the U.S. Department of Education has awarded $3,897,125 to the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) under the Talent Search Program, for a five-year period. UTRGV will be receiving $779,425 in the first year.

The Talent Search program provides academic, career, and financial counseling for low-income, first-generation college-bound students across the Rio Grande Valley and encourages them to continue to and complete their post-secondary education. 

“Individuals from low-income families are underrepresented in our education system, impeding pathways to future success. To effectively promote a diverse and strong workforce, we need to eliminate gaps that unfairly discourage disadvantaged individuals from pursuing higher education,” said Congressman Cuellar. “The Talent Search Project motivates and supports students to succeed in their future endeavors by promoting access to higher education and financial aid opportunities. By recognizing structural barriers and disparities, we can bring transformative education to a traditionally underserved population. I commend the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley for their commitment to advance equity in education, and I will continue to highlight achievements that advance opportunities for my constituents in TX-28. Thank you to my colleagues, Congressmen Filemon Vela and Vicente Gonzalez, and UTRGV President, Guy Bailey, for their support.” 

According to UTRGV, these projects will provide participants with academic tutoring and advising, information on financial aid programs, assistance in completing financial aid applications, financial literacy, and support for applying for college enrollment. Moreover, participants will be provided support for their diverse academic and non-cognitive needs to ensure that they persist, succeed and graduate from high school. 

Talent Search Program 

Talent Search began in 1965 as one of the Federal TRIO programs. The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program publicizes the availability of financial aid and helps the participant with the postsecondary application process. Talent Search also encourages persons who have not completed education programs at the secondary or postsecondary level to enter or reenter and complete postsecondary education. 

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