STC English Professor Wins Award, Inspires Through Storytelling
In an auspicious recognition of his creative work and contributions to the literary world, South Texas College English Professor Thomas Ray Garcia recently received a prestigious Bronze Award at the 26th International Latino Book Awards. His celebrated collection of short stories, titled “The River Runs,” masterfully captures and uplifts the narratives of the Rio Grande Valley, highlighting the rich cultural fabric of South Texas.
A Journey Rooted in the Valley
Raised in the border town region of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), Garcia’s personal journey from a high school student at Pharr-San Juan-Alamo (PSJA) North to a faculty member at South Texas College is one of resilience and determination. Growing up in a low-income household with a single mother, Garcia’s early years were devoid of the academic mentorship that often aids young minds. Yet, his drive to pursue higher education led him to Princeton University and later to further academic accolades at UCLA and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
Speaking upon his recent accolade, Garcia shared, “Winning this award is an incredible honor. More than that, it’s a testament to the stories of the Rio Grande Valley. These are the stories that deserve to be shared and celebrated. As an educator, my goal is to show students that their experiences and stories have meaning and worth, both in literature and in life.”
Empowering First-Generation Students
Beyond his literary achievements, Garcia’s commitment to education is evident through his establishment of the College Scholarship Leadership Access Program (CSLAP). This nonprofit organization is dedicated to guiding first-generation students in their pursuit of college admissions—a process Garcia himself navigated as a first-generation college student.
“Our region is full of potential, and about helping these students seize opportunities they might not have imagined for themselves,” Garcia stated. Reflecting on the success stories witnessed over a decade with CSLAP, he emphasized the sense of fulfillment awarded him through his educational endeavors. “I feel very fortunate that I am now at the receiving end of a pathway we’ve worked hard to open up for students.”
Local Impact and Cultural Representation
For Valley residents, Garcia’s achievements are a source of pride and inspiration, particularly reflecting the growing emphasis on representation in literature and academia. As an instructor, Garcia deliberately includes works by Mexican-American authors within his curriculum, ensuring students witness their cultural heritage mirrored in the content they engage with daily.
“It’s essential for students to see themselves in what they read and feel proud about where they come from,” Garcia elaborated. “The Texas-Mexico border, just like any and all borders around the world, is often portrayed negatively in the media, but through storytelling and education, we can show the beauty, resilience, and value of our cultures.”
Jose Herrera, a local educator familiar with Garcia’s work, expressed the importance of this representation: “Garcia’s success as both an author and mentor underscores the significance of storytelling—showing our youths that their lives and voices are important and worthy of exploration.”
Future Implications for the Valley and Beyond
The significance of Garcia’s contribution extends beyond immediate educational circles, potentially influence how the Valley—and similar regions—are perceived and appreciated on larger stages. “A story well-told can reshape narratives, challenging existing stereotypes and introducing new perspectives,” says cultural analyst Rosa Villalobos.
Facilitating such engagement through storytelling enables a deeper understanding of the socioeconomic and cultural realities within the RGV, paving the way for nuanced conversations about community identity and collective aspirations.
For those interested in learning more about the English program at South Texas College, information is accessible via their academic website: [South Texas College English Program](https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/english/).
Through storytelling, dedication to education, and unwavering support for students, Thomas Ray Garcia continues to illuminate the narratives of the Rio Grande Valley, fostering a culture of empowerment and reflection. Such efforts echo beyond literary acclaim, contributing to an evolving understanding and celebration of Valley community interests and the intrinsic worth found within their shared heritage.
