Hispanic Leadership Institute offers College Recruitment Fair

Dr. Juan Andrade Jr.

Approximately 400 students representing over 20 school districts are expected to attend the third annual Central Texas Career Day and College Recruitment Fair set Friday at First Baptist Church, 208 Austin Ave., in Brownwood from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The event, sponsored by the U.S. Hispanic Leadership Institute, offers free admission and lunch.

The event will feature a nationally prominent keynote speaker, recruiters representing colleges and universities in the Central Texas area, and financial aid advisers. Ten scholarships will be awarded.

Dr. Juan Andrade Jr., a graduate of Brownwood High School and Howard Payne University, is the co-founder and president of the institute. One of the most educated leaders in America, Andrade has earned five degrees, including a doctorate, and received five honorary degrees. He is the only Brownwood High School and Howard Payne graduate in history to receive a medal from the president for "performance of exemplary deeds of service for the nation" and "for excellence in promoting leadership and civic participation."

Said Andrade of the upcoming college recruitment fair: "Events like this are a great way to encourage students to stay in school, do their best, graduate and pursue some kind of post-secondary education or training. It's one of the best ways I know to help lower the drop-out rate, improve student performance, raise the high school completion rate and increase the number of Hispanic students who are preparing themselves for a better future."

USHLI is a Chicago-based national non-profit organization, established in 1982 to promote civic participation, education, Hispanic unity and leadership development. Visit www.ushli.org for more information.