Lone Star College Foundation funds students’ dreams at StarGala

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- “Imagine the Possibilities” was more than the theme at Lone Star College Foundation’s annual StarGala held April 13 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center. It painted a picture of how LSC students achieve bigger and brighter futures, thanks to the generous supporters who regularly donate to the foundation.

“I am truly grateful to everyone who attended this life-changing event that supports our students,” said Mario K. Castillo, J.D., LSC chancellor. “Fundraising opportunities like StarGala help students access a quality education without the heavy financial burden.”

LSC Foundation raised over $624,000 during StarGala. Supporters included The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center as Visionary sponsor, Diane & Seth Sharr as Commemorative sponsor and Comcast, Entergy, Ogletree Deakins and PBK as Dream Maker Sponsors. Additionally, LSC staff and volunteers donated their time and efforts to help make this year’s event a success.

Visit LoneStar.edu/Giving/StarGala2024 for a complete list of sponsors and underwriters.

“I am a Lone Star College graduate and a strong advocate for quality education, and I believe the opportunity for all people to access affordable education is critical to a vibrant community,” said Paula Mendoza, LSC Foundation board member and StarGala chair. “Lone Star College ensured my path to entrepreneurship and made career paths for others possible.”

Nicola Merritt, LSC-Kingwood student and LSC Foundation scholarship recipient, credits LSC for instilling in her and fellow students the belief that anything is achievable, thanks to the unwavering support of counselors, professors, directors and selfless donors.

“It's my mission to pay it forward, urging young adults to embrace education and encouraging peers of my age that it's never too late,” said Merritt. “Education transcends age and circumstance; it's a journey open to all, irrespective of background or timeline.”

Merritt will graduate and receive her pin from the LSC-Kingwood Respiratory Care program in May. Her plans include pursuing a degree in Health and Behavioral Sciences, focusing on health care administration.

At the StarGala, LSC Foundation also announced the new Food Scholarship program that will use donations to provide students with meals on campus.

Lone Star College Foundation has raised over $2.6 million and provided $2,140,857 in scholarships to 2,053 students and nearly $1 million in program and emergency support to Lone Star College in 2022-23. Learn more at LoneStar.edu/Giving.