Vernon Middle School

Four Harlingen CISD students have been awarded scholarships by the Harlingen Concert Association in recognition of their dedication to the performing arts. The recipients were honored during a Shake, Rattle, and Roll concert, celebrating musical talent and community support for arts education.

This year’s scholarship winners include Carolina Kortan, Karla Rivera, Angel Charles, and Adam Hernandez.

Carolina Kortan, a senior at Harlingen School of Health Professions and a Harlingen Performing Arts Conservatory student, is an accomplished theater performer and an active member of speech, drama, and debate. She has used acting to overcome self-doubt and plans to pursue a biology degree at UT Austin while remaining involved in theater.

“I have been in performing arts since I was a child, and it is something I truly love,” Kortan said. “I am beyond excited to receive this award.”

Karla Rivera, a senior at Harlingen High School South and a Harlingen Performing Arts Conservatory student, is an award-winning performer in speech, drama, and debate. She uses storytelling to spotlight important issues and plans to study Radio, Film, and Television at UT Austin.

“I am very grateful that they are recognizing the talent here in the RGV and Harlingen and ensuring we have opportunities to grow,” Rivera said.

Angel Charles, a senior at Harlingen High School, is the section leader of the Harlingen High School Jazz Band and a drum major. His time in band has instilled discipline, and he plans to study music education at the University of North Texas.

“Being awarded this scholarship means so much to me. I am truly honored,” Charles said.

Adam Hernandez, a senior at Harlingen High School South, is South’s lead trombone player and a drum major. Through music, he has discovered a sense of self and plans to pursue a degree in music education at Texas A&M Kingsville, aspiring to mentor future musicians.

“I feel so honored to receive this scholarship,” Hernandez said. “I am very thankful to the Harlingen Concert Association for this opportunity.”

Each student was selected through a rigorous application process that included an essay and a video performance showcasing their artistic abilities.

For decades, HCA has played a key role in fostering a love for the arts within the community. Alongside hosting world-class performances, HCA provides scholarships, master classes, and school assemblies to inspire young artists.

“We have a great partnership with the Harlingen Concert Association,” HCISD Director of Music Programs Kara Hoeflinger said. “They consistently bring in wonderful artists and provide educational experiences for our students, from master classes with top performers to assemblies for younger students.”

Barbara Disbennett, HCA President and Chair of the Scholarship Program, emphasized the impact of community support in making these scholarships possible.

“Providing student scholarships is one of the three pillars of our mission,” Disbennett said. “This wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our supporters. The future of the performing arts is bright with these four deserving students, and we are proud to honor them this evening.”