Canutillo High School seniors earn highest number of UTEP Excellence Scholarships in the county

Nearly four dozen golden tickets, stamped in blue and orange, are sending Canutillo High School seniors straight into their futures as prospective Miners.

In a milestone moment for Canutillo High School, 39 seniors have earned Presidential/Excellence scholarships from The University of Texas at El Paso — the highest number awarded to any high school in El Paso County this year. Scholarship awards for CHS totaled $91,000.

The merit-based scholarships, which can cover full tuition or provide stipends of up to $5,000 per year, are renewable for as long as four years. Recipients must remain in good academic standing, meet enrollment and credit-hour requirements and rank among the top students in their graduating class to qualify. 

For many families, the award means the dream of a bachelor’s degree comes without the heavy burden of tuition costs.

UTEP, one of the largest Hispanic-Serving Institutions in the nation, has long been a gateway to higher education for Borderland students. This year, Canutillo seniors are walking through that gateway in record numbers.

“We continue to redouble our efforts to help students secure funding for higher education,” said Principal Candice Marrufo. “Given the support we provide to our students and families, it is not surprising that we have the most UTEP Presidential and Excellence scholarships in El Paso. Our students have earned this distinction through their academic focus and diligence in pursuing scholarship opportunities.”

Behind the scenes, the achievement reflects months, and in many cases years, of intentional preparation. From early college planning sessions to FAFSA workshops and scholarship application drives, school leaders say the culture at Canutillo High School centers on access and opportunity.

“This is what happens when preparation meets opportunity,” said Canutillo High School College Readiness Coordinator Gabriel Canchola. “Our students have worked tirelessly to position themselves at the top of their class, and we’ve made it a priority to walk alongside them and their families every step of the way. These scholarships are life-changing.”

District leadership echoed that sentiment, framing the milestone as part of a broader commitment to expanding college access across the community.

“Our mission is to ensure every student graduates with a clear path to success,” said Canutillo ISD Superintendent Dr. Josue Borrego. “Seeing 39 of our students earn Presidential scholarships from UTEP affirms the strength of our academic programs and the unwavering dedication of our educators.”

For the 39 seniors, the recognition is more than a line on a college application, it is a launchpad. The renewable awards will support students pursuing a range of majors and career goals, all beginning just miles from home at UTEP.

Congratulations, Eagles!