Gov. Rick Perry recently issued proclamations in honor of UHD's Scholars Academy and program manager Rene Garcia.

Scholars Academy Director Mary Jo Parker said, "It is truly an honor both for Rene and the Scholars Academy who richly deserve this honor for serving in an assistive and unselfish manner those STEM students who decide to attend UHD and take on the challenge of entering the Scholars Academy program."

Garcia's proclamation reads:

"I would like to commend you for the assistance you provide to students as program manager of the University of Houston-Downtown Scholars Academy. Since its inception 13 years ago, you have been involved with this program as a teacher, a mentor and a role model to countless students. You have been with them every step of the way, helping them to obtain funding for their education, providing them with the resources necessary for academic success, and preparing them for graduate school and the workforce.

You are giving Texans the means to pursue their dreams. Keep up the good work!"

The Scholars Academy proclamation reads:

"I commend you for your dedicated service to Texans pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Your efforts are ensuring that our next generation of leaders in the STEM fields is prepared for success in the classroom and in the workforce."

Congratulations on this great honor!