In honoring Class of 2026 graduate soon to begin their first semesters of college, Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) Trina Silva, Director of Education Foundation of Harris County (EFHC) and Partnerships, and Christina Niño, Client Services Manager for Choice Partners, joined other community leaders at the East End Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Annual Mentorship Program Luncheon on July 16. The event brings recent graduates from Houston’s East End with professional mentors who will help guide them through this important transition. Four were also honored this week as EFHC Scholarship recipients.  

Attendees participated in table discussions, exploring topics such as navigating college life, building support systems and preparing for a successful first year. 

Silva serves as board secretary for the East End Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and Niño volunteers as a mentor in the program. Their involvement reflects HCDE and EFHC’s commitment to building strong community partnerships and expanding opportunities for students and families across Harris County.