The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico is administering the awards, with special consideration for students from Santa Teresa, Sunland Park and surrounding communities

Organ Mountain News report

DOÑA ANA COUNTY - Twenty-five Doña Ana County students have received scholarships through a fund established by Oracle and administered by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico.

The scholarships are supporting students attending four-year and community colleges in New Mexico, with special consideration given to applicants from Santa Teresa, Sunland Park and surrounding communities.

Recipients are pursuing degrees in fields including education, nursing and social work.

Among them is Ruben Gutierrez, a Doña Ana County student who plans to attend New Mexico State University.

“This means a lot to me and my family, as it will allow me to attend New Mexico State University with a lot less financial stress,” Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez said he hopes to become a teacher and later a school principal.

Although New Mexico offers tuition-free college programs to eligible students, other costs including housing, transportation, books and food can remain financial barriers.

Terra V. Winter, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, said the scholarships are intended to help students manage those costs and continue toward their degrees.

“By helping reduce financial barriers, these scholarships make it possible for more students to complete their degrees and pursue meaningful careers,” Winter said.

Colleen Cassity, Oracle’s global head of social impact, said the company views scholarships as a way to support students who may later contribute to their communities.

Oracle and the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico said the scholarship program is part of Oracle and Project Jupiter’s ongoing community investments in Doña Ana County and across New Mexico.