Everything VIDA leader Felida Villarreal said at her group's recent gala

MCALLEN, Texas - Rio Grande Valley students that sign up for VIDA’s programs secure employment opportunities with an average starting salary of more than $48,000 upon graduation.This information was unveiled by Felida Villarreal, executive director of VIDA, at a recent gala held by the group. Villarreal spoke about the accomplishments of VIDA at the Double Tree Inn & Suites in McAllen.“I’m very proud to say that this year VIDA has served 534 students Valleywide with an average persistence rate of 94 percent,” said Villarreal, in her remarks from the podium.“In this same year, we have helped our students achieve over 170 credentials combined and secured employment opportunities with an average starting salary of over $48,755 upon graduation.”Villarreal continued: "Eighty one percent of our students this year identified as first generation college student in their families, which further illustrates the importance of our case management model and student support services to give our students the opportunity to not only enroll but successfully complete training career programs.”Editor's Note: To read the full story, go to the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service website.Go to www.riograndeguardian.com to read the latest border news stories and watch the latest news videos.