Celebrating Educational Excellence in the Rio Grande Valley: Honor Roll Gala Set for March 28, 2026
The Rio Grande Valley will come alive with celebration on March 28, 2026, as Teach For America Rio Grande Valley hosts its highly anticipated annual Honor Roll Gala. This year’s event signifies a monumental milestone: 35 years of dedicated impact in transforming education across the Valley. The Honor Roll Gala has grown to become a pivotal moment for recognizing innovative leadership and partnership in education.
Honoring Visionary Leaders in Education
This year’s gala will pay tribute to remarkable individuals and institutions that have exemplified outstanding commitment to educational excellence. Dr. Guy Bailey, the founding president of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), will receive the prestigious Educational Champion Award. His focused efforts to improve educational access and quality throughout South Texas have made a remarkable difference in the lives of students. Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD) will be recognized with the Institutional Catalyst Award, acknowledging its collective leadership in advancing educational opportunities.
Notable Recognition: 2025 Educational Champion – Dr. Guy Bailey
Dr. Bailey’s dedication to education is evident in his transformative leadership at UTRGV, which has achieved national acclaim for both excellence and affordability. Under his guidance, UTRGV has seen enrollment figures soar, alongside a significant rise in research and philanthropic contributions.
"While I am deeply honored to receive this recognition, it truly reflects the shared commitment of our students, faculty, and staff at UTRGV," Bailey stated. His initiatives, such as the Tuition Advantage program, have paved the way for students to obtain world-class degrees without financial burdens.
Spotlight on the 2025 Institutional Catalyst: Harlingen CISD
The Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD), serving around 16,000 students across 31 campuses, has long been a cornerstone in the community’s educational landscape. Its mission emphasizes educational excellence while catering to diverse student pathways for success. Dr. Veronica Kortan, Superintendent of HCISD, remarked on the importance of their partnership with Teach For America in empowering educators and improving classroom experiences.
HCISD has also made strides in community engagement through its local cable television station, KHGN-TV, which showcases student productions and events, fostering a strong connection with families and community members.
Impactful Initiatives Driving Change
The Honor Roll Gala is not just an event; it is a celebration of proactive measures that drive educational progress. Teach For America is committed to equipping teachers and educational leaders with essential resources to nurture outstanding instruction. The proceeds from this gala will directly support local initiatives focused on recruitment, training, and development of educational leaders, which includes college Ignite tutors and incoming corps members.
Gala Details
The celebration will take place at the Mission Event Center, featuring a cocktail reception, followed by a delightful dinner, music, and festivities. Teach For America Regional Board Chair Deborah Cordova remarked, "We’re proud to celebrate the changemakers shaping education in the Rio Grande Valley and to reaffirm our shared vision of a future where every student has access to an excellent education."
For more details about the honorees and the event, including ticket purchases, visit Teach For America Honor Roll Gala.
Summary
The Honor Roll Gala is a testament to the passion, resilience, and dedication displayed by educators and leaders in the Rio Grande Valley. As the region reflects on 35 years of influential impact, it envisions a future where every child has access to quality education, ultimately fostering community growth and transformation. Through collaboration and shared vision, the Rio Grande Valley continues to redefine what is possible for both students and community. Join in the celebration this March and witness the positive changes being cultivated in education across the region.
