UHV honors four students for commitment to university, community

University of Houston-Victoria student Eliseo Olvera learned a lifelong lesson from volunteering weekly at Patti Welder Middle School last school year.

Olvera was one of four UHV sophomores who recently received the second annual Spirit of the Jaguar Award. The winners received a plaque and a $500 scholarship. They were honored during UHV’s Convocation.

The awards went to:

·         Laura Caldwell, New Braunfels, School of Education & Human Development

·         Taylor Henderson, San Antonio, School of Arts & Sciences

·         Eliseo Olvera, Houston, School of Education & Human Development

·         Alba Sanchez, Equatorial Guinea, School of Arts & Sciences

The Spirit of the Jaguar Award recognizes students for their integrity, respect and citizenship.

Lindsey Koch, director of UHV Student Life and Services, said it’s important for the university to recognize success and reward students who go above and beyond.

Students with a 3.25 or higher grade-point average were eligible to apply for the award. Applicants were asked to write a letter about their level of commitment to the university, community and self improvement in learning as well as their appreciation of diversity. A panel of university officials sorted through the applicants and selected the winners.