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Who We Are - History of HDAFW

Our association was founded in March 1985 as a response to the high drop-out rate among Hispanic students, and the fact that Hispanic women have the lowest percentage of attendance in accredited colleges, universities, and vocational schools. In 1997, the Hispanic Debutante Association decided to expand and to allow young men to participate in the program.

The Hispanic Debutante Association of Fort Worth is a non-profit organization. Our main goal is to encourage Hispanic students to complete high school and continue their education in an accredited two or four year-college, university or vocational school. We aid in this endeavor by providing social, cultural awareness, exposure to business leaders, and financial support in achieving a higher education. Our association believes that these are areas in which we can have a positive impact on the Hispanic Community in Fort Worth.

Eighty percent of our students have completed high school and are attending or have attended a college or university. Some of the colleges and universities include: Texas Christian University, University of Texas in Austin, Texas A & M, University of Texas at Arlington, University of North Texas, Boston College, St. Edward’s University, Texas Woman’s University, Texas Wesleyan University, Tarrant County College, Baylor University, University of Mississippi, Texas State University, St. Mary’s University, Trinity University, Notre Dame, Stanford University and Oklahoma State.

Our fund raising activities include soliciting donations from the community, business leaders, and corporations. We also sponsor other fund raising events such as raffles, mixers, program advertisements and the annual HDA Scholarship Golf Tournament.

Each year we accept up to 12 Hispanic students between the ages of 16 and 21 who meet our requirements. To date, the association has presented over 250 students and has awarded over $350,000 in scholarships.

In addition to the financial assistance awarded by our association, we have also obtained matching scholarships from Texas Christian University.

Due to continued participation from past students, the Hispanic Debutante Association now continues to financially assist students until they complete their studies as long as they maintain active participation in the association. Students now have the opportunity to continue earning funds and to pursue Masters Degrees or higher.

HDA Founder Sam Garcia

Star-Telegram Man of the Year in 2000

If you have any question or need more information about HDAFW, please e-mail us at hdafw@hotmail.com.

To make a tax-deductible donation, you may mail a check to:

HDAFW, 6060 Azle Ave. Suite 700 #122, Lake Worth, TX 76135

2021-2022 Board Members:

Gaby García

Claudia Jimenez

Rose Mary Alvarez

Raquel García

Alfred del Castillo

Beverly Marquez-González

Horacio González

Flor Diaz

Yamira Lazcano

Maricruz Castrellon

Ricky García