Weatherford, OK – A continued partnership between Southwestern Oklahoma State University and the Consulate of Mexico in Oklahoma City is providing $8,000 in scholarship support for SWOSU students of Mexican origin. The funding comes through the Mexican government’s Institute for Mexicans Abroad (IME) Becas program, with $4,000 awarded by the Consulate and matched by the SWOSU Foundation.

SWOSU was selected again this year to participate in the IME Becas program, which is designed to help students of Mexican heritage overcome financial barriers to higher education. The scholarship funds benefit current students working toward degrees in a wide range of academic areas. Dr. Veronica Aguiñaga, who authored this year’s grant application, serves as the university’s scholarship program advisor and helps coordinate student involvement with the program.

The partnership was formally renewed during a signing ceremony on July 16 at the Mexican Consulate in Oklahoma City. SWOSU President Dr. Diana Lovell and Consul Edurne Pineda signed the Memorandum of Understanding, joined by Dr. Ed Klein, SWOSU Dean of the College of Education and Behavioral Science. A check presentation followed the signing, continuing a growing collaboration between the university and the Consulate.

This year’s IME Becas scholarship recipients are Rosa Maria Alanis, Sergio Gustavo Natera Ramirez, Hidekel Torres Solorio, Liliana Diaz, Aline Jordan Camarena, Alondra Itzel Alvarado, Amy Morales, Ameyali Garcia Solano, and Aquetzalli Yamileth Herrera.

Several students said the scholarship has provided meaningful encouragement and made it easier to stay focused on their academic goals. Herrera, who is pursuing a dual degree, said the funding removes a significant financial burden and allows her to concentrate on both her education and future career. “This scholarship will serve as both financial support and motivation to continue working hard and striving for excellence in school,” she said.

Garcia Solano, a student in the university’s Doctor of Pharmacy program, said the award acknowledges her efforts and strengthens her sense of purpose. “Personally, receiving this scholarship validates the dedication and effort I’ve invested in my journey, while also honoring my cultural identity,” she said. “It inspires me to give back to my community and serve as a role model for other students from similar backgrounds.”

Torres Solorio also emphasized the impact of the scholarship. “It will help me pursue a career that serves my community, especially in areas like technology, education and Spanish interpretation,” she said. “It eases the financial stress and helps me stay focused on what I want to achieve.”

The IME Becas program continues to be an important source of financial support for SWOSU students and reflects the university’s broader efforts to expand access to higher education. Support like this strengthens SWOSU’s ability to serve students from all backgrounds and ensure they have the tools to thrive.

For more information on SWOSU’s academic programs and student resources, visit www.swosu.edu.

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) was founded in 1901 and offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon. The university serves over 5,000 scholars and prides itself on affordability, small class sizes, and over 200 faculty and staff committed to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals.