CAROL LUTSINGER
STEM SCHOLARSHIP

An elderly woman with short gray hair, smiling, wearing a coral-colored top and star-themed jewelry, standing outdoors with a blurred background of trees and a parking lot.

Carol Lutsinger

About the Scholarship

The South Texas Astronomical Society (STARS) was founded in 1990 by Carol Lutsinger, a dedicated Brownsville educator and passionate advocate for astronomy. During her 40 years at the Brownsville Independent School District as a teacher and Science Curriculum Specialist, Carol became one of the first NASA JPL Solar System Ambassadors, bringing hands-on space science experiences to the community for decades — and continuing to do so today.

In 2022, STARS launched the Carol Lutsinger STEM Scholarship to support students in the Rio Grande Valley pursuing careers in STEM, ensuring her legacy inspires future generations.

APPLY NOW

Application Form

DEADLINE is may 1, 2026

If you have any questions or concerns please email info@starsocietyrgv.org

Group of nine people standing in front of a South Texas Astronomical Society banner, holding a large check for $500 for a STEM scholarship, with a plain wall in the background.

2022-2023 recipients

“Every great scientific breakthrough, every mission to the stars, every cure and innovation began with someone who was given a chance to learn, to ask questions, and to dream. STEM education is not just about equations or experiments—it’s about unlocking the potential inside each student to change the world. When we support future scientists, engineers, and educators, we’re not just investing in their futures—we’re building a better one for all of us.”
— Dr. Sylvia Earle

  • Hector S. - Rivera High School

    Carolina M. - Rivera High School

    Ashly S. - Rivera High School

    Olivia L. - Pace High School

    Dylan L. - Pace High School

    Jaqueline P. - Pace High School

    Mykel D. - Pace High School

  • Alexa L. - Hanna High School

    Alma V. - Hanna High School

    Amanda G. - Rivera High School

    Camila S. - Porter High School

    Delilah V. - IDEA San Benito College Preparatory

    Perla M. - Veterans Memorial High School

    Savannah B. - Idea Brownsville College Prep

Made Possible by Our Sponsors

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The logo of WET Inc., featuring large silver letters 'WET' above the website URL 'www.wet-inc.com'.
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Logo of Greater Brownsville Incentives Corporation with text and red arrow design element.

 FAQs

  • Applicants must submit the following:

    • Intended major/degree

    • FAFSA Student Aid Index

    • 4 short essays

    • Resume

    • Academic transcripts

    • Proof of college acceptance

    • 1 recommender

  • Award amounts vary year to year, depending on available funding and the number of selected recipients.

  • Applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors, based on academic merit, community involvement, essay quality, and alignment with the mission of the STARS program.

  • Recipients will be notified via email. Public announcements may also be made during STARS events or on our website.

  • Yes, homeschooled students who meet all eligibility requirements are welcome to apply.

  • High school seniors in the Rio Grande Valley pursuing space science, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and medical fields are eligible to apply