Texas Border Business
By Amanda Sotelo
Laura Nassri Warren, president, principal at The Warren Group Architects, Inc. in McAllen, is no stranger to South Texas College – more than half of her staff are STC graduates; but now, she is serving the college in a different capacity as a newly appointed member of STC’s Foundation Board.
“When I was asked about serving on the STC Foundation Board, there was no hesitation,” she said. “I join a group of incredible, smart, talented and selfless people who I look forward to learning from. I welcome this position with great pride.”
With more than three decades as an award-winning architect and entrepreneur, Warren said she draws much of her energy from serving others.
“I hire STC graduates because I know their value,” said Warren. “Now, as a member of STC’s Foundation I can expand my service to STC through fundraising and scholarships, helping even more students complete their education and get the career of their dreams.”
As a member of the STC Foundation Board, Warren will support fundraising efforts for STC’s Valley Promise Program, a last-dollar initiative that covers tuition for incoming students from partnering high schools, after all other financial aid and scholarships have been applied.
The Foundation’s fundraising efforts also go to supporting numerous student scholarships, among other student initiatives.
Most recently, the board approved a $10,000 donation to support the STC student food pantries at its Pecan, Mid-Valley and Starr County campuses.
“To be able to do this kind of work, helps me fulfill a dream,” said Warren. “I’ve built buildings for a long time, but this helps me build up lives, change lives. It’s not an easy task, but it’s a rewarding one.”
Warren also currently serves her community and state as the vice chair of the Finance Commission of Texas, appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, is a member of the Driscoll Children’s Hospital Development Foundation Board of Directors, the American Institute of Architects, Texas A&M International Advisory Board and the McAllen South Rotary.
“My job is to help create success for our region, and my goal is always to give others the opportunity to fly,” she said.
For more information on STC’s Foundation or how to become a donor, visit southtexascollege.edu/foundation.