WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) Foundation announced that Julian Valencia, MBA student at the University of Iowa, has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship sponsored by Group O. This is the second of five scholarships to be awarded as part of the company's $50,000 commitment to funding business education. Valencia's award was announced at the USHCC National Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah, the largest gathering of Hispanic business leaders in America.
"The USHCC applauds Group O for expanding access to higher education for our nation's youth by providing these substantial scholarships, an investment that illustrates their commitment to cultivating America's next generation of leaders. Group O has opened doors to these students, empowering them to reach their highest potential," said USHCC President & CEO Javier Palomarez. "I have no doubt our students will accomplish great things, and look forward to seeing how their achievements contribute to our nation's progress."
Group O is a diversified company that specializes in marketing services, business analytics, supply chain operations and strategic packaging solutions. Founded in 1974, the company is now among the Top 5 Latino-owned business in the United States. Group O, with the USHCC Foundation, has made a $50,000 commitment to award five graduate-level students with scholarships over the course of five years. Each year, the scholarship recipient will come from a different university, with the 2014 scholarship being for the University of Iowa.
"Our philosophy is that everyone wins when people are given an opportunity to show what they can do," said Gregg Ontiveros, Group O CEO. "The next generation of Hispanic business leaders will need to be prepared to lead and compete on a global level — and we're excited to partner with USHCC to help make that happen."
Valencia is a young entrepreneur and a leader for the community. After graduating from Ohio State University, Valencia joined Teach for America and served as a middle school teacher for the Miami-Dade County Public Schools. In addition, Valencia has founded three companies, co-founded a non-profit organization, worked as an inner city teacher, and organized multiple community events in Ohio, Florida, and Colorado. After graduation, he plans to focus on his latest venture- Career Karma- to continue his passion for education and create systems that empower students.
About Group O
Group O is a diversified business process outsourcing provider specializing in marketing services, business analytics, supply chain operations and strategic packaging solutions. A Corporate Plus member of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (nmsdc.org), Group O is an NMSDC National Minority Supplier of the Year honoree and is recognized as a Top 5 Latino-owned Business by the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Headquartered in Milan, IL, Group O is one of the largest Hispanic-owned companies in the United States and employs more than 1,500. To learn more, visit www.GroupO.com .
The USHCC Foundation
The USHCC Foundation is the philanthropic and educational arm of the USHCC. The mission of the USHCC Foundation is to enrich experiences of current and future leaders in the world of business through life-long learning and support. The Foundation's initiatives awaken and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit, support business growth, strengthen local chambers and foster leaders. For more information, visit www.ushccfoundation.org .
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Ammar Campa-Najjar Associate Director of Communications 619-721-5148
