SWISD Seeks Community Nominations for Pillar of the Community and Friend of SWISD Awards
Behind every successful school district are community members who quietly invest their time, talents, resources, and energy into helping students thrive. Southwest Independent School District is once again inviting the community to help recognize those individuals through its annual Pillar of the Community Award and Friend of SWISD Award, with nominations open through Monday, June 8, 2026.
The awards shine a spotlight on the people and organizations whose contributions often happen behind the scenes but leave a lasting impact on students, families, and schools throughout Southwest ISD. Whether through volunteer service, mentorship, donations, advocacy, or other forms of support, these honorees help strengthen the connection between schools and the communities they serve.
Recognizing Those Who Make a Difference
The SWISD Pillar of the Community Award honors a dedicated community member who resides within Southwest ISD boundaries and has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the district, its students, and its mission. The recognition celebrates individuals whose service reflects a deep investment in educational success and community growth.
The Friend of SWISD Award recognizes individuals, businesses, organizations, or supporters who have made meaningful contributions to Southwest ISD students. Unlike the Pillar award, recipients do not have to live within district boundaries, allowing SWISD to honor the many partners who support students from across the region.
Together, the awards highlight the important role community involvement plays in helping students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
Why These Awards Matter
Public education is often strengthened by people who volunteer their time, sponsor programs, mentor students, donate resources, or simply step forward when help is needed. The Pillar of the Community and Friend of SWISD awards provide an opportunity for residents and district stakeholders to formally recognize those efforts.
For families throughout Southwest ISD, the awards serve as a reminder that student success is a community-wide effort. The individuals and organizations honored each year help create opportunities, remove barriers, and support the educational and personal growth of local students.
A Tradition of Community Recognition
Over the years, Southwest ISD has recognized a diverse group of community leaders, educators, volunteers, advocates, and supporters through these awards.
The most recent Pillar of the Community Award recipient was Dr. Lloyd Verstuyft (2025-2026), joining a distinguished list of past honorees that includes John Adams, Dr. Keith and Cheri Byrom, Daniel H. Gonzalez, Tania Eubanks, Dr. James Gates, Maximo Umack, Edith Jaime, Joe Marsh, Lilian Barath, Walter E. Geiger, Helen Smith, Joe Castro, Juan M. Alvarado, and Mike C. Frazier.
The latest Friend of SWISD Award recipients were Assistance League of San Antonio and Dr. Yolanda Hernandez Segura (2025-2026). Previous recipients have included community leaders, nonprofit organizations, business partners, educators, and volunteers whose support has helped enrich opportunities for Southwest ISD students.
How to Submit a Nomination
Residents, parents, staff members, alumni, and community partners are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals or organizations before the deadline.
- Nomination Deadline: Monday, June 8, 2026
- Submit nominations HERE
Community members with questions about the nomination process may contact Jenny Collier in the Southwest ISD Communications Department at 210-622-4300 or by email at jcollier@swisd.net.
What Happens Next
Following the nomination period, Southwest ISD will review submissions and select recipients whose service and dedication have made a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families.
For many nominees, the recognition represents more than an award—it reflects the lasting impact that engaged community members can have on public education. As Southwest ISD continues to grow and serve future generations of students, these honors celebrate the partnerships that help make that success possible.
Residents who know someone making a positive difference in Southwest ISD are encouraged to submit a nomination before the June 8 deadline and help ensure their contributions are recognized.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more Southwest ISD news, student achievements, and community updates.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
