Historic UIW Gift Welcomes First Recipients

First Carlos and Malú Alvarez Endowed Student Scholarship Cardinals take Flight

San Antonio, Sept. 17, 2019 – On Friday Aug. 23, Mr. Carlos Alvarez, president and CEO of The Gambrinus Company, helped to congratulate the first group of Alvarez Scholars during the Honors Convocation at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW). His $1 million gift to establish the Carlos and Malú Alvarez Endowed Student Scholarship is the largest in the history of UIW and is designed to provide high-performing, under-resourced students with the financial support and mentoring needed to participate with their peers.

“This is such an impactful gift from Mr. and Mrs. Alvarez and it is a testament to their dedication to the leaders of tomorrow,” says UIW President Dr. Thomas M. Evans, PhD. “The Alvarez Scholars are a select group of exceptional students. Now, with the support of this scholarship, they have access to what we call ‘keys to excellence’ opportunities, such as study abroad, research and internship opportunities and service-learning projects. To see this first group taking their first steps to achieve those dreams is a gift to us all and it is thanks to the Alvarez family.”

“Higher education will always be the most important spark for change,” says Carlos Alvarez. “Adding the opportunity for students, through this scholarship program, to shoot even higher makes it transformational. We, as a family, are blessed to be given the opportunity to start these UIW students down a path that has proven to be successful in supporting them to not only being leaders in their chosen fields, but to possibly leaving a generational legacy that can help change our communities.”

The Carlos and Malú Alvarez Endowed Student Scholarship also provides guidance in applying for fellowships and scholarships. These high-impact opportunities are a critical part of the UIW strategic priorities and the overall vision for the future of the University.

UIW students from all disciplines are eligible, but particular emphasis is placed on math and science majors, as well as students planning careers in public service.