When multiple federal grant programs were unexpectedly canceled or suspended, it left dozens of students at the University of Texas at San Antonio — many of them first-generation college students — without the support needed to complete their education.
Help came recently from The Max and Minnie Tomerlin Voelcker Fund and trustees who stepped in during this time of critical need, committing to a gift of $250,000 to the UTSA College of Sciences.
“In light of federal cutbacks of funds for critical medical research, this Voelcker Fund gift is to help complete the education of these graduate students,” said Voelcker Trustee Banks Smith. “We are confident the funds will promote medical research to save and improve the lives of people in our community for years to come.”
Established in 2001, the Voelcker Fund is dedicated to supporting medical research and healthcare advancements in San Antonio. The fund focuses on providing grants to researchers and organizations striving to improve patient care, enhance medical education and foster breakthroughs in biomedical research.
The generous gift will afford short-term emergency support for doctoral students in the College of Sciences, enabling them to continue their education and research in Fall 2025.
“At UTSA and within the College of Sciences, we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting our students, ensuring they have the resources not only to persist but to thrive,” said Stephanie Santorico, dean of the College of Sciences. “This generous gift creates a powerful ripple effect, enabling us to provide direct student support and maintain momentum in other vital areas.”
With an estimated $30 million needed to close the remaining research and student funding gap in the College of Sciences and across UTSA’s eight other colleges, there remains a significant need to support students and research.
This gift represents the power of philanthropy and partnerships to inspire hope and provide support for students during times of uncertainty, Santorico said.
To help support tomorrow’s scientists, healthcare workers, educators and others pursuing their careers, send an email to Heather Russo, assistant vice president for development at UTSA, or Taylor Bird, chief development officer for the College of Sciences.
