McALLEN — Yesterday, Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa was presented with the Extension in the City Award from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service by Chancellor John Sharp. The presentation was made during an event at the Texas A&M Higher Education Center in McAllen in recognition of Senator Hinojosa's leadership and support to Texas A&M's Urban Programs, especially the Healthy South Texas program. Texas A&M AgriLife Vice Chancellor and Dean Patrick Stover was also on hand for the award presentation.

As Vice-Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Hinojosa has been instrumental in securing funding for Texas A&M AgriLife, including nearly $30 million for the Healthy South Texas program.

Launched as a pilot program in 2015 after Senator Hinojosa secured $10 million in funding during the 84th Texas Legislature, Healthy South Texas has served thousands of Texans and saved millions of dollars in direct and long-term medical costs.

Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa issued the following statement:

"Under the leadership of Chancellor Sharp and Dean Stover, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service has made significant investments in improving Texans' lives. I am honored to be recognized for my support of their vision. Together, we are creating solutions that improve the health and well-being of our families," said Senator Hinojosa. "In particular, establishing and expanding the Healthy South Texas program has been a priority of mine over the last three legislative sessions. The pilot program has shown tremendous results in terms of improving health outcomes and reducing medical costs in South Texas."

Chancellor John Sharp issued the following statement:

“I have known Sen. Hinojosa for a long time, and his dedication to his district and to Texas is legendary,” Chancellor Sharp said. “His leadership and support have been vital to the success of Texas A&M AgriLife programs and other efforts of The Texas A&M University System.”

###