Honor Roll Gala Celebrates Educational Leaders in the Rio Grande Valley
A Night of Recognition at the Mission Event Center
The annual Honor Roll Gala hosted by Teach For America Rio Grande Valley (TFA RGV) will take place on April 4, 2025, at the Mission Event Center. This prestigious event aims to highlight the remarkable efforts of individuals and organizations that have significantly advanced educational opportunities within the Rio Grande Valley.
Celebrating Educational Champions
Jonathan Stevens, the Senior Managing Director of TFA RGV, emphasizes the critical importance of this event in honoring those who demonstrate exceptional leadership in education. "This year’s honorees are exemplars of extraordinary commitment, tirelessly working to provide all students with access to quality education," says Stevens. The gala not only recognizes outstanding achievements but also aims to inspire continued efforts towards educational equity.
Honorees for 2025
-
Annabelle Palomo
- Award: 2025 Honor Roll Educational Champion Award
- Background: Palomo is the CEO and founder of Rio Grande Valley College. This award is bestowed upon an individual whose leadership fosters educational excellence for a significant number of students, reflecting a sustained commitment to the community and its schools.
-
Region One Education Service Center
- Award: 2025 Institutional Catalyst Award
- Significance: This award recognizes an entity—whether an institution, nonprofit, governmental body, educational institution, or business—that exemplifies collective leadership aimed at expanding educational initiatives for a large community. Their sustained commitment has profoundly impacted local students and schools.
- Pablo Mejia
- Award: 2025 Alumni Leadership Award
- Profile: A former Teach For America Corps Member from the class of 1999, Mejia is being honored for his decade-long commitment to fostering educational excellence and equity within the Rio Grande Valley. This award is specifically for TFA alumni who actively contribute to their communities while enhancing educational opportunities for students.
The Mission of Teach For America Rio Grande Valley
Founded in 1991, Teach For America Rio Grande Valley works in partnership with local districts and charter schools to expand educational access for children. The organization recruits and trains outstanding leaders who make an initial two-year commitment to teach in high-need schools while nurturing themselves into lifelong advocates for educational equity.
Today, TFA RGV boasts around 400 corps members, alumni, and Ignite fellows who collectively impact over 15,000 students across the region. Their efforts emphasize systemic change, focusing on creating an educational landscape where every child has the tools needed to learn, lead, and succeed. As part of the AmeriCorps national service network, TFA RGV actively promotes the values of community involvement and leadership in education.
More Information and Engagement
For those interested in learning more about Teach For America Rio Grande Valley, further information is available at Teach For America RGV. The organization actively shares updates and initiatives on their Facebook and Instagram pages, encouraging community engagement and support.
Conclusion
The upcoming Honor Roll Gala stands as a testament to the dedication and leadership present within the educational landscape of the Rio Grande Valley. By recognizing the efforts of remarkable individuals and organizations, TFA RGV not only honors past achievements but also sets a vision for the future—a future where every student in the region has the opportunity to thrive. Join us in celebrating educational excellence and inspiring change in our communities.
