2023 Scholarship Recipients
Committed to South Texas Youth
Since its inception in 2003, the South Texas Agricultural Roundup (STAR) has awarded more than $600,000 in scholarships to 4-H and FFA members across Hidalgo County.
Beginning in 2022, applications are now open to graduating seniors seeking enrollment in post-secondary education including technical school and/or vocational school programs, in addition to college or university.
2023 Shining STAR Court
Princess: Makayla Sanchez; Queen: Lily Ford; Duchess: Lorissa Guerra
Academic Verification
All students applying for a STAR or Shining STAR Scholarship MUST complete academic verification prior to submitting their online application.
STAR Scholarship
Open to all graduating seniors who are residents of Hidalgo County, currently enrolled in 4-H or FFA and have participated in the STAR show for at least three years. Download the full list of eligibility requirements below.
Online applications are due Nov. 23, 2025 by 11:59 PM.
Interviews will be held on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 at 1 PM at the Greater State Bank – 3300 N 10th St, McAllen, TX 78501.
Interviews are MANDATORY to receive a STAR Scholarship, therefore, please make the necessary arrangements to attend.
Shining STAR Scholarship
The Shining STAR court, consisting of Queen, Princess and Duchess, are responsible for organizing and distributing awards throughout the duration of the show. Candidates complete an essay application, scrapbook and an in-person interview.
Shining STAR scrap books are due Dec. 2, 2025 by 5 PM at the Hidalgo County Extension Office.
**NOTE: You must have submitted your STAR scholarship by the deadline (11/23/25) to be eligible**
Interviews will be held on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025 at 1 PM at the Greater State Bank – 3300 N 10th St, McAllen, TX 78501 in conjunction with the the STAR interviews.
Apply Now!
Both the STAR and Shining STAR applications are on one form. Apply at the link below.
Thank you to our generous scholarship donors.
With your support, we have helped more than 550 students in Hidalgo County further their education.
Memorial Scholarships
Alyssa Marie Torres
Arcadio Guerra
Carmen Guerra
Luis Flores, Jr.
Rafael A. Guerra
Victor Guerra
Hidalgo County 4-H Foundation
Shining STAR
STAR Gala
Whataburger, Inc.
Congratulations, 2024 Scholars!
Don’t forget! In order to receive your award, we must receive your high school transcript showing you graduated (via email: ramcgurk@yahoo.com), as well as a thank you note to the S.T.A.R. Scholarship Committee (mailed to: S.T.A.R. Scholarship Committee, PO Box 1939, Edinburg, TX. 78540). All of the above info needs to be received no later than March 1, 2026. Scholarships will be forfeited if not received by that date.