by Lily Harvey
In 1996, the Fifth Circuit Court ruled to end the consideration of race in university admissions and later to stop awarding financial aid and scholarships to students. Shortly after this decision, a group of Latino alumni from Rice came together and founded the nonprofit organization SOLAR (Society for Latino Alumni at Rice). SOLAR was originally created to provide financial aid to Latino students at Rice, as well as broader support to students and alumni. In 2003, the use of race in admissions was again allowed, but SOLAR continued to exist. Its mission has since shifted from serving as a source of funding to creating a network for Latinx Rice alumni and students to connect, give back to the community, receive professional development and celebrate Latinx culture and achievements.
EVENTS
Much like HACER, SOLAR organizes events to connect members and benefit the larger community. SOLAR creates community for Rice alumni through informal get-togethers like class reunions, study breaks, alumni picnics and salsa nights. It has also provided opportunities for professional development, collaborating with various local, state and national groups like the Hispanic Forum, National Society of Hispanic MBAs and Houston Hispanic Professional Social Organization and attending events including the Hispanic Studies Conference on Bilingualism, Alumni Leadership Conference and Dorothy Caram’s panel “Immigration: Truths & Myths.”
Since SOLAR began as a source of funding for students, it has maintained its focus on supporting undergraduates. Shortly after it began, it created undergraduate scholarships and leadership awards, hosting alumni events like tequila tastings to raise funds. Under past leadership, it also developed a mentorship program connecting Rice alumni with undergraduates.
More recently, SOLAR has collaborated with HACER for Freshman Welcome Receptions, Loteria Nights, Alumni Weekend events, Staff Appreciation events and career panels for undergraduates.
SOLAR has also partnered with community organizations including the Latino Book and Family Festival, Houston Women’s Center and BARC Animal Shelter. SOLAR has encouraged youth across Houston to pursue higher education, speaking at college fairs and panels at Spring Branch, Rio Grande Valley and Brownsville ISD, among other schools.
Currently, the organization’s recurring traditions include hosting its annual Homecoming Reception, which began in 2001, and collaborating with HACER for annual Sarape Ceremonies honoring graduating students.
RAÍCES A RAMAS CINCUENTA AÑOS GALA
In 2022, SOLAR presented the “Raíces a Ramas: Cincuenta Años Gala,” honoring Dr. Richard Tapia and celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Rice Association of Mexican American Students (RAMAS). The event’s honorary co-chairs included David D. Medina, Sofia Adrogué and Fernanda Pierre. Oscar-nominated composer and Rice alumna Germaine Franco ’84 gave the keynote address at the event.
Proceeds from the gala helped establish the Raíces a Ramas Endowment to support cultural programming, student enrichment and Latinx and Hispanic student organizations at Rice.
DONATIONS / DONACIÓNES
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