Cintia Vera always believed education could change her life. As the first in her family to graduate from college and the oldest of several siblings, she made it a point to lead by example. So, when she learned she had received a full-tuition MBA scholarship, the moment brought her to tears.
Cintia is one of the first recipients of the United Way of Tarrant County (UWTC) and TCU Neeley MBA scholarships. Launched earlier this year, the program is a collaborative effort designed to foster the next wave of leadership talent in Tarrant County. The program offers two scholarship opportunities: a full-tuition award for the Full-Time MBA and up to $20,000 for the Professional MBA.
Cintia, chief operating officer at FEMCA Properties, received the full-time MBA scholarship valued at more than $120,000. She earned undergraduate degrees in political science and comparative race and ethnic studies from TCU and initially planned to attend law school. But her work in property management led her to discover a passion for business operations and organizational leadership, particularly in roles that create positive social outcomes.
“Being selected for this scholarship felt like validation that my dreams and hard work are recognized by such prestigious organizations. It was particularly meaningful knowing that both UWTC and TCU Neeley saw potential in me and my vision for using business as a force for community impact,” said Cintia. “The moment represented personal achievement and hope for my entire family's future.”
Shanin Marshall, a senior grant accountant at UWTC, was awarded a $20,000 scholarship to pursue a Professional MBA at TCU Neeley. He holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, and brings more than 14 years of experience in nonprofit finance. In his role, he helps ensure community resources are managed with transparency and care.
A father of seven and a lifelong learner, Shanin described the scholarship as an answered prayer — a chance to continue growing professionally while applying his education in real time at UWTC.
“Professionally, it’s another step toward becoming the leader God called me to be. It means I’m one step closer to creating meaningful change and being a stronger resource for the community,” said Shanin. “Personally, it means I can model for my children that learning never stops.”
The UWTC/TCU Neeley MBA Scholarships go beyond financial assistance. They are long-term investments in people who are helping to shape the future of Tarrant County. By supporting local professionals, these scholarships help build strong leadership and deepen the impact of work being done across the region.
Together, UWTC and TCU are creating new opportunities for emerging leaders to grow, apply their skills and help build a stronger Tarrant County where talent is supported and opportunity is within reach.
There is still time this year to apply for the Professional MBA scholarship for the spring 2026 semester. This scholarship is valued at $20,000 plus fees. Your application for admission doubles as your scholarship application. Be sure to indicate "United Way of Tarrant County" as your affiliation. Once admitted to the program, your admission file will automatically be reviewed for scholarship eligibility. The application fee is waived for UWTC scholarship applicants.