LAREDO -- Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, voiced strong words of encouragement to incoming University of Texas at Austin freshman from the Laredo area, hoping to guide them on the road of academic success. On Wednesday (June 14) Senator Zaffirini addressed the new class of UT freshman hailing from Webb and Zapata Counties at the 2006 UT Student Send-Off reception, which was sponsored by the Laredo Chapter of the Texas Exes Alumni Association.

The celebratory event was held at the Commerce Bank Building in Laredo and attended by more than 30 incoming students, their parents and members of the Laredo Chapter of Texas Exes. Special guests also in attendance included UT President Bill Powers; Representative Richard Raymond, D-Laredo, a Texas-Ex; UT Student Government President Danielle Rugoff; and Texas Exes Executive Director Jim Boon. The annual Send-Off welcomed the new UT students and provided them with information and resources, which will benefit their burgeoning educational careers at UT.

"This event marks the eve of an important and exciting time in the lives of these exceptional young adults and now Longhorns from Laredo," said Senator Zaffirini. "I encourage them to embrace their future at UT with enthusiasm, to work hard and graduate on time so they will be prepared to face the next round of life's challenges.

The UT Send Off is held annually to assist incoming students and parents with matriculation and acclimation into the UT community. UT officials and alumni were on hand to answer questions regarding college life, scholastic concentration, financial aid and student housing.

"Laredo Texas Exes always are delighted to offer guidance and advice for these students who will soon bleed orange!" Senator Zaffirini said.

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