Solomon Ortiz, Jr.

May 26, 2009

~Ortiz, Jr., Herrero Praise Successful Community Effort ~

AUSTIN- State Representatives Abel Herrero and Solomon Ortiz, Jr. announced today that the 2010-11 budget for the state of Texas includes $4 million for a new engineering program at Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi. This marks the culmination of a multi-year community-wide effort to establish the program.

"Today, we were successful in advancing the educational opportunities for South Texas students," said Rep. Herrero. "Through cooperative efforts with local leaders and businesses, who have shown overwhelming support for the engineering program, we have made a valuable investment in the growth of our state, community and future of our students."

Since the 2007 legislative session, Ortiz and Herrero, along with Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, have rallied business and community leaders to partner with the state to expand educational opportunities in Corpus Christi. The program has already won unanimous approval from the A&M System Board of Regents and the Texas Higher Education Board of Regents.

"Support from the community has been absolutely tremendous," said Rep. Ortiz. "State funding along with $3 million in pledged funding from the community will get the program off to a strong start educating the next generation of engineers."

The first 25 to 30 students in the program will begin their studies this fall and TAMUCC officials expect that number to grow to 150 within five years. The initial curriculum will focus on issues including coastal observation systems, ships, offshore platforms, offshore wind turbines and sea floor mapping.

"I've been working on this for three years now and I'm glad it has finally become a reality," Ortiz said. "It would not have been possible without the support of the community. This is an example of the good things that can happen when all of Corpus Christi comes together, works toward a goal, and speaks with one voice."

Ortiz represents District 33, which includes part of Nueces County and the City of Corpus Christi. Rep. Ortiz encourages constituents to contact his office on this or any issue of interest at (512) 463-0484, email him at district33.ortizjr@house.state.tx.us or visit the State of Texas House website at www.house.state.tx.us.