East Aldine Management District donates $100,000 to LSC-East Aldine Center to support student success

“Supporting education has been a core priority of the East Aldine Management District, and this $100,000 grant reflects our commitment to creating real pathways to opportunity for our community,” stated Veronica Sanches, EAD Deputy Executive Director.

On Wednesday, May 13, Sanches, along with EAD board chairman Carlos Silva, and Flor Zarzoza and Rocio Witte, EAD board members, gathered to present the check to Dr. Melissa Gonzalez, LSC-Kingwood President, and Reyna Tippetts, LSC-East Aldine Center Dean. Additional attendees included Mario K. Castillo, J.D., LSCS chancellor; Dr. Seelpa Keshvala, LSCS executive vice chancellor, Academics; Mike Sullivan, LSCS Board of Trustees chair; Miriam Saldívar, LSCS Board of Trustees vice chair; Iesheia Wilson, LSCS Board of Trustees secretary and Art Murillo, LSCS Board of Trustees member.

Chair Sullivan shared his story as an LSC-Kingwood alumnus and spoke about the rich history of both the Lone Star College System and the Aldine community.

“East Aldine District and Lone Star College System both have deep roots in this community,” Chair Sullivan remarked. “The district’s generous contribution ensures that students can focus on their education instead of financial challenges.”

The donation to the Student Success Support Fund will directly support student tuition, certification costs, workforce materials, and other needs for the following programs at LSC-East Aldine Center: GED, ESOL, EKG, CNA, CMA, and AA-AS-AAS certificates. The support fund was originally funded in 2025 with $20,000 from EAMD. As a result, 51 students enrolled in high-demand programs and foundational pathways — expanding access to education and economic mobility, supporting multilingual communities, and strengthening the local workforce.

David Ancira, a MacArthur High School student, said he had to drop out of high school to help support his family. Because of this funding, he’s been able to once again pursue an education.

“My parents are proud that I started my GED classes,” he said. “My goal is to apply for financial aid and begin my welding degree at the LSC-East Aldine Center.”

“As our students grow, complete programs, and obtain better careers, the entire East Aldine community grows and flourishes with them,” shared Tippetts. “This investment is not only changing individual lives, but also helping build a stronger, more resilient community for generations to come.”

The grant also builds on the district’s broader history of investing in education — including scholarships for local high school graduates, partnerships with P‑Tech programs, and the endowed fund at Lone Star College–East Aldine Center that ensures no student is turned away due to financial hardship.

“We extend our sincere gratitude for this support and for the valued partnership of The East Aldine Management District,” said Dr. Gonzalez.