Brownsville, Texas, native Micheal Albert “Mike” Hernandez III heads D & M Leasing in Dallas. In addition to his business accomplishments, Mike Hernandez III supports anti-poverty and education initiatives including the Brownsville Scholars Program.Dedicated to increasing access to higher education for South Texas residents with low incomes, the Brownsville Scholars Program offers comprehensive financial assistance to attend Texas A&M University. In addition to a four-year tuition scholarship, the program provides stipends for internships and enrichment activities, as well as funds for travel costs, a fish camp retreat, and housing in the university’s “Living Learning Communities” dormitory.Identified as a “high impact” practice by the American Association of Colleges and Universities, learning communities like those at Texas A&M encourage students to build connections with people who have shared interests or backgrounds. With a focus on small group interactions and mentorship programs, these communities have demonstrated the capacity to increase student engagement and academic performance.
The chief executive of D & M Leasing, Micheal Albert Hernandez III has run the Dallas-Fort Worth based vehicle leasing company since 1984. Born and raised in Brownsville, Texas, Mike Hernandez III works to reduce poverty in economically depressed Cameron County.Through the political action committee OP 10.33, which aims to dramatically improve economic conditions in Cameron County by October 2033, Mike Hernandez III helped to establish the Cameron County Education Initiative (CCEI). CCEI offers vocational education and training to help residents prepare for in-demand jobs such as construction worker and medical assistant, encouraging economic self-sufficiency. CCEI offers both online training and a classroom facility. Located in Brownsville, the facility features computer and technology labs, tactile learning classrooms, and a student resource center, in addition to traditional classrooms and administrative offices. Ongoing funding for the program comes from workforce investment programs, corporate tuition reimbursement, and charitable donations. Tuition assistance is available for eligible students.
