CAROL LUTSINGER
STEM SCHOLCARSHIP

An elderly woman with short gray hair, smiling, wearing a coral-colored top and star-themed jewelry, standing outdoors with a blurred background of trees and a parking lot.

Carol Lutsinger

About the Scholarship

The South Texas Astronomical Society (STARS) was founded in 1990 by Carol Lutsinger, a dedicated Brownsville educator and passionate advocate for astronomy. During her 40 years at the Brownsville Independent School District as a teacher and Science Curriculum Specialist, Carol became one of the first NASA JPL Solar System Ambassadors, bringing hands-on space science experiences to the community for decades — and continuing to do so today.

In 2022, STARS launched the Carol Lutsinger STEM Scholarship to support students in the Rio Grande Valley pursuing careers in STEM, ensuring her legacy inspires future generations.

Who's Eligible?

High school seniors in the Rio Grande Valley are eligible to apply. While our focus is on space science and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), we welcome students from all fields — curiosity and passion matter most!

Important Dates

The application for 2024-2025 academic year is now closed. Applications for 2025-2026 will open soon. Stay tuned for more updates! For more information, please email contact@starsocietyrgv.org.

Rio Progress logo with a purple palm leaf and a blue graduation cap.

The Carol Lutsinger STEM Scholarship is awarded in coordination with Rio Progress, a nonprofit organization helping RGV students achieve their educational and career goals with mentorship and counseling.

To learn more about Rio Progress, visit rioprogress.org

Group of nine people standing in front of a South Texas Astronomical Society banner, holding a large check for $500 for a STEM scholarship, with a plain wall in the background.

2022-2023 recipients

“Every great scientific breakthrough, every mission to the stars, every cure and innovation began with someone who was given a chance to learn, to ask questions, and to dream. STEM education is not just about equations or experiments—it’s about unlocking the potential inside each student to change the world. When we support future scientists, engineers, and educators, we’re not just investing in their futures—we’re building a better one for all of us.”
— Dr. Sylvia Earle

  • Hector S. - Rivera High School

    Carolina M. - Rivera High School

    Ashly S. - Rivera High School

    Olivia L. - Pace High School

    Dylan L. - Pace High School

    Jaqueline P. - Pace High School

    Mykel D. - Pace High School

  • Alexa L. - Hanna High School

    Alma V. -

    Amanda G. - Rivera High School

    Camila S. - Porter High School

    Delilah V. - IDEA San Benito College Preparatory

    Perla M. - Veterans Memorial High School

    Savannah B. - Idea Brownsville College Prep

Heart Institute of Brownsville logo

Made Possible by Our Sponsors

Gomez, Fragozo & Associates logo in red and black text, law firm specializing as Certified Public Accountants.
The logo of WET Inc., featuring large silver letters 'WET' above the website URL 'www.wet-inc.com'.
Logo for Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers with red and black text and yellow accents.
Gold's Gym logo featuring a muscular man holding dumbbells inside a circle with the words 'GOLD'S GYM' around it.
Logo of the Blountsville Public Utilities Board featuring blue waves, a circular dotted border, and text
Logo of Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation with text and red arrow design element.
Logo of Valley Baptist Physician Network with Dr. Carlos R. Ponce, MD, Gastroenterology & Hepatology

 FAQs

  • Applicants must submit the following:

    • A completed application form

    • A personal statement

    • One letter of recommendation

    • A current high school transcript

    • Proof of college acceptance (e.g., acceptance letter or email)

    • Income range or financial information (for need-based consideration)

  • The essay should highlight your passion for space, science, or education and your goals.

  • Award amounts vary year to year, depending on available funding and the number of selected recipients.

  • Applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors, based on academic merit, community involvement, essay quality, and alignment with the mission of the STARS program.

  • Recipients will be notified via email. Public announcements may also be made during STARS events or on our website.

  • Yes, homeschooled students who meet all eligibility requirements are welcome to apply.