Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in San Antonio
San Antonio is a city bursting with vibrant culture, and there’s no better time to celebrate it than during Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15. This special period is dedicated to honoring the immense contributions of Hispanic and Latino individuals in our community and beyond. With a rich tapestry of history, culture, and accomplishments, it’s a time for all of us to come together and appreciate the diverse influences that shape our daily lives.
Embracing Our Community’s Legacy
This month is not just about recognition; it’s an opportunity to unite as a community. From entertainment to education, finance, and technology, the impact of Hispanic individuals is felt across multiple sectors. We have countless innovators, creators, business owners, and advocates who work tirelessly to make our city a better place. Here are just a few remarkable leaders from our community exemplifying what it means to embrace our shared legacy.
Ray Garza: Elevating Youth Through Golf
Meet Ray Garza, a shining example of how one person’s passion can change lives. The owner of On Par Golf and founder of the Flamingo Club, a nonprofit that provides golf equipment to underprivileged youth, Ray grew up on San Antonio’s South Side. His journey in golf began at Harlandale High School, which eventually earned him a scholarship to Texas Lutheran University. During his time there, Ray claimed the American Southwest Conference Championship and was named Co-Athlete of the Year.
After exploring a professional golf career, he pivoted into education and coaching. Since 2011, he has significantly contributed to middle school golf programs, even leading Harlandale to its first-ever district championships in 2015. Thanks to Ray, many young athletes are now swinging clubs and discovering their potential.
Stacy Ybarra Evans: A Champion for Education
Another role model is Stacy Ybarra Evans, Ed.D., who has made it her mission to empower community members through education. A proud Southside native, Stacy began her academic journey at Palo Alto College and continued at Texas A&M University in San Antonio. She focuses on creating supportive learning environments, and her dedication to advancing education has led her to participate in vital initiatives like HEB’s Narrative Storytelling Cohort.
Oscar Castillo: Fishing for Change
Then we have Oscar Castillo, the founder of the Fin Addict Angler Foundation. Oscar is reconnecting communities with nature by introducing the joy of fishing to local schools. He’s not only providing fishing programs for students but also organizes therapeutic fishing trips for veterans and individuals with special needs, ensuring everyone has a chance to connect with the great outdoors.
Danielle Espinoza: A Voice for Diversity
Danielle Espinoza is making waves in public relations. As the CEO of Lustrous PR, she’s known for her expertise in marketing and event production. A graduate with an MBA from Our Lady of the Lake University, Danielle is passionate about advocating for diversity and inclusion, balancing her professional life as a dedicated mother and supportive partner.
Marcus Alvarado: Inspiring the Next Generation
Coaching is more than just a job for Marcus Alvarado; it’s a calling. After dedicating 18 years to education, he’s currently the head boys basketball coach at McCollum High School. He emphasizes the importance of personal growth in his athletes, demonstrating that success goes beyond just the scoreboard.
Juanita Sepulveda: Service with Heart
Lastly, meet Juanita Sepulveda, a proud Marine Corps veteran who exemplifies resilience. Juanita founded Wee Ones Childcare while balancing her family life as a mother of seven. Her continued education led her to create The Brain Coach, where she supports active-duty military and veterans through neuroscience-based strategies.
Join the Celebration
As we navigate through this month of celebration, let’s take a moment to reflect on the rich cultural contributions of our Hispanic neighbors and friends. Their spirit of innovation and excellence is evident everywhere, from local businesses to community programs. Together, let’s embrace our diversity, celebrate our heritage, and commit to uplifting one another. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month, San Antonio!
