SEGUIN — When Mark Weber, a teacher at Seguin High School, completed his master’s degree in Educational Leadership at WGU Texas, he was excited and proud, but he had no idea that he would be Western Governors University’s 100,000th graduate. In celebration of this milestone for both Mark and WGU, WGU Texas will present Mark’s school with a check for $2,000.

Like most students at WGU Texas, WGU’s state-based affiliate, Mark balanced a demanding job and a family while he earned his degree. Before earning his bachelor’s degree and starting his teaching career, he served in the U.S. Navy. At Seguin High, he is known for his innovation and creativity. For example, Mark uses virtual reality goggles and software to take his students on “virtual field trips.”

WGU Texas Chancellor Dr. Steven Johnson will present WGU’s check to Weber and Seguin High School.

“We are so thrilled to have WGU’s 100,000th graduate right here in Texas,” Chancellor Johnson said. “Mark embodies the traits that are common among WGU students and graduates—dedication to community and profession, a drive for innovation, and real grit and determination.”

Seguin High School Principal Hector Esquivel said, “Mark’s diligence and creativity is an inspiration to all of our students, and we hope his story motivates other teachers across the state to pursue additional learning opportunities. We could not be more grateful to WGU for this generous donation to serve our students.”

Online, and nonprofit, WGU was established 21 years ago by 19 U.S. governors to expand access to quality higher education, and today it is one of the nation’s largest universities. Since its launch in 2011, WGU Texas has been helping increase the number of college graduates in the Lone Star State. Today, WGU Texas has nearly 10,000 students and 7,700 graduates.