Biography of Our School's Legacy

Biography of Our School's Legacy ~ Trini Garza

Trinidad “Trini” Garza is a well-known Dallas civic leader and businessman. He joined the U. S. Navy in 1953 and served for two-and-a-half years as an aviation electronics technician and radio operator, and in 1961 received his a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Texas A & M University. Mr. Garza is the father of four children, including former District 7 Dallas ISD Board Trustee Jerome Garza. The elder Garza became known as an advocate for progress for the Hispanic community as early as 1969 when he helped organize the city’s first Mexican American Leadership Conference. He has continued to speak out and work for progressive causes over succeeding decades.

Mr. Garza has also been a strong advocate and supporter of education. Elected as the first Hispanic member of the board of trustees in 1969, Mr. Garza served on the board again from 1991 to 1994, and was then appointed Deputy Regional Director of the U. S. Department of Education in President Clinton’s Administration. Throughout his life, Mr. Garza has served the community in his professional life and through involvement in numerous civic organizations.

In 2010, the Early College High School at Mountain View College was named for Mr. Garza. His legacy with students and education continues as he reaches out to the community of learners at Garza ECHS.

Trini Garza Bio (High Points)

· Chair, Dallas Senior Affairs Commission

· Member, Texas Silver Hair Legislatures

· Member, Dallas Mexican American Historic League (DMAHL) Chair of Education Committee

· Member, of League of United Latin American Citizen (LULAC)

· Member, West Dallas Community Center

· Former DISD School Board Member

· Founding Member of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)

· Former President Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

· Graduate of Texas A&M University with Degree in Electrical Engineering

· Retired as Deputy Regional Director of U.S. Department of Education in President Clinton Administration

· Blessed with 4 Children, 12 Grandchildren, and 15 Great Grandchildren and a deceased wife, Benilde Mendoza Garza.