The Migrant Department hosted their Mission Exemplary Migrant Senior Banquet on April 16, 2019. A total of 42 migrant seniors from Mission High School, Veterans Memorial High School, and Mission Collegiate were honored at this event. Mrs. Arminda Ramirez, Migrant Coordinator, welcomed honorees and guests to the ceremony.
Dr. Carol Perez, Superintendent, also provided a welcome to all the students, parents, and district personnel on behalf of the Board of Trustees and the district. She wished them well as they continue their new journey after graduation whether it be in the workforce, military, or college/university.
“Education unlocks all doors and the sky’s the limit for each of you,” said Dr. Perez. “Growing up, my parents instilled in me the value of education and that is why I continued at the university. It makes me happy to see that each of you will soon graduate from high school and you will be making decisions for what is next on your journey. Tonight, we congratulate you on your accomplishments.”
Mrs. Ramirez introduced the guest speaker, Mr. Ernesto Villarreal, who spoke to the audience about his life both in Mexico and in the United States. He was the eldest of three boys and knew the hard work that was involved in having a produce business in Mexico. At times, it would involve working in the agricultural fields with his father and the potential dangers they were exposed to.
He spoke about a particular moment when his father almost died when a swarm of bees attacked them. Moments like these make you realize how working in the fields can be dangerous. His parents imagined a better life for their children and moved to the U.S. when he was 16 years old. The family lived in Mission and when he started attending school he was surprised to see things were different such as classrooms having air conditioning as well students receiving free lunch. These were firsts for Villarreal and he was not accustomed to learning in a comfortable environment.
“We must be able to overcome struggles and obstacles by never giving up,” said Mr. Ernesto Villarreal. “Don’t ever forget what is important to you because for me, it is family. I wanted a better life for my family and I made sure to set the example for my brothers.”
He went on to earn his Bachelor’s in Business Marketing from UTPA, with international coursework from La Universidad de Salamanca in Spain and then in 2007 a Master in Business Administration. Villarreal founded the College 1st Program in partnership with several districts which focuses on developing and implementing college and career success initiatives for students in Texas.
The evening wrapped up with students from the three high schools speaking on their reflections of gratitude. A special thank you to all the students that participated in the program; Alondra Garcia (MHS) and John Cortez (MHS) for the invocation. Anyssa Vidaurri (MCHS), and Carolina Franco (MHS) for reflections of gratitude. Josue Silva (MHS) and Lesly Garza (MHS) for conducting the benediction.