Eva Longoria

Eva Jacqueline Longoria was born on March 15, 1975 in Corpus Christi, Texas to Ella 'Eva Longoria' (qv) (née Mireles) & Enrique Longoria Jr. The youngest of four sisters who grew up in a Mexican-American family on a ranch near Corpus Christi, Longoria attended Texas A&M University-Kingsville, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. After graduating from college, she entered a talent contest that brought her to Los Angeles, where she was spotted and subsequently signed by a theatrical agent. After landing roles on _The Bold and the Beautiful (1987)_ (qv), _General Hospital (1963)_ (qv) and co-starring on _Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990)_ (qv), she auditioned for and won the role of "Isabella" on the popular series, _The Young and the Restless (1973)_ (qv). After Y&R, Eva became well known worldwide thanks to _Desperate Housewives (2004)_ (qv), where she played a main character, Gabrielle Solis. She also has a contract with L'Oreal and has been named one of the most beautiful people. A passionate advocate of education she founded The 'Eva Longoria' (qv) Foundation which helps Latinas build better futures for themselves and their families through education and entrepreneurship and earned a Masters in Chicano Studies presenting her thesis on "Success STEMS From Diversity: The Value of Latinas in STEM Careers." Eva has also contributed writing to publications on the subject of education.::acapulqueno