History

History of the Hidalgo ISD Scholarship Foundation

     During the mid-1980s, Hidalgo Independent School District faced challenges in competing for scholarship opportunities for its students. In response, the Superintendent sought and received approval from the Board of Trustees to establish the legal framework for a nonprofit corporation. This organization was created to accept charitable donations and to manage a permanent foundation fund, with scholarships awarded exclusively from the interest earned on the principal.

 

     The Hidalgo ISD Scholarship Foundation was officially chartered by the State of Texas in April 1988. Dr. Alejo Salinas Jr., Superintendent of Hidalgo ISD, served as the Executive Director of the Scholarship Foundation.

    

     At the time, confidence in the foundation’s potential success was limited. Undeterred, Dr. Salinas established an ambitious initial goal: to raise $100,000 within five years. Thanks to the overwhelming support of district employees, local businesses, and community members, this milestone was achieved in just four years. Creative fundraising efforts contributed to this success, including the donation and raffle of a used vehicle. In addition, Dr. Salinas reached out to Lee Lacoca, then CEO of Ford Motor Company, who generously responded with a donation. Several other organizations also joined in support of the foundation’s mission.

 

     Encouraged by this early success, Dr. Salinas presented a second goal to the Board of Trustees—to grow the foundation’s principal to $500,000. With strong belief from both the School Board and the Foundation Board, a 10-year timeline was established. Once again, the community rose to the challenge, and the half-million-dollar goal was reached in just eight years.

 

     Building on this momentum, Dr. Salinas led an ambitious campaign to reach $1 million in foundation assets. This third goal was achieved, marking a significant milestone in the foundation’s history. The district celebrated the extraordinary generosity of its supporters, including one donor who contributed all of her real estate assets to the foundation. Upon their future sale, these assets will further strengthen the foundation’s principal.

 

     Dr. Salinas fostered a culture rooted in the belief that all things are possible. His leadership inspired support from notable individuals, including a retired Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives, who contributed funds from his political campaign upon retirement. Additional contributions were made by Border Texans through proceeds raised during Borderfest.

 

     The Hidalgo ISD Scholarship Foundation continues to grow through the generosity of donors who believe in investing in students’ futures. With no limits on its vision, the foundation remains committed to expanding educational opportunities and moving forward in service to Hidalgo ISD students.