Providing Opportunity
Nelson Mandela once observed that
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Richard Schechter believes in the power and importance of education. By funding scholarships at various institutions of higher education, including community colleges, universities, and law schools, Schechter aims to help students from diverse backgrounds pursue their academic and professional dreams. His efforts not only provide financial assistance but also inspire students to pursue their passions and contribute meaningfully to society.
Scholarships Funded by Richard Schechter
The Bruce Austin Endowed Scholarship at Houston Community College
This Schechter funded scholarship named in honor of Bruce Austin, a long-time Houstonian who devoted decades to ensuring educational opportunity for all, is designed to support students in the Fine Arts, Visual Arts, or Performing Arts. By fostering creativity and artistic talent, Schechter hopes to encourage students to explore their artistic potential and help enrich the cultural fabric of the Houston community.
The Mary Ethel Schechter Endowed Scholarship at Houston Community College
Named in honor of his mother, Mary Ethel Schechter, this scholarship fund is primarily for students enrolled in the Coleman College for Health Sciences at Houston Community College. Recognizing the critical role that they play in maintaining and improving public health, Schechter funded this scholarship to support the education and training of future healthcare professionals.
The Robert Schechter Endowed Excellence Fund in Chemical Engineering at the University of Texas Department of Chemical Engineering
Richard Schechter believes that supporting the next generation of engineers is an investment in the young minds who will drive the innovation and technological advancements of the 21st century. With that in mind, he supports this fund to help students pursuing excellence in chemical engineering. This scholarship is established in honor of his father, Dr. Robert Schechter, a distinguished scholar and former professor at the University of Texas.
The Richard Schechter Endowed Scholarship at the University of Texas School of Law
Schechter established and funded this scholarship to provide financial assistance to law students who are interested in plaintiff’s litigation and fighting to ensure that quality legal services are available to all. By easing the financial burden on these students, Schechter hopes to ensure that talented individuals can pursue careers in law in which they advocate for justice and represent those in need.
Helping Fund Facilities
For students to learn, they need quality facilities that will help them hone their skills. Recognizing this, Richard Schechter supports the Simulation Lab at Coleman College, now named in memory of his mother, where students in healthcare programs can practice their skills. Schechter, along with his brother, also have pledged to fund a classroom, to be named in memory of his father, at the new engineering building under construction at the University of Texas at Austin.
Committed to Education
Beyond funding scholarships, Richard Schechter has devoted considerable time to promoting education. For a decade he served as an adjunct professor at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston and for seven years he served as a trustee on the Board of Houston Community College, striving to ensure education and workforce training opportunities were available and affordable for all. Schechter’s efforts underscore his commitment to education and ensuring that students receive the resources and support they need to succeed.
Impacting Lives
Richard Schechter’s dedication to providing opportunities is not just about financial support; it is also about empowering individuals to realize their potential and make meaningful contributions to society. Through his scholarships, teaching, and work as a trustee, Schechter’s goal has been to make a tangible difference in the lives of as many students as possible, to help them build a brighter future.
Creating a Legacy
of Opportunity
Richard Schechter’s commitment to providing opportunities through education reflects his broader dedication to justice and community service. He is helping to build a legacy of opportunity, ensuring that everyone has the support they need to flourish in their academic and professional careers.
​
For more information about Richard Schechter's work and to explore his other notable cases, please visit our Meet Richard and Our Work pages.