Pillar & Friend of SWISD
The SWISD Pillar of the Community Award is an annual recognition given to a dedicated community member residing within Southwest ISD's boundaries. This award honors individuals who have provided significant service to the SWISD community and its students and exemplifies commitment and dedication.
The Friend of SWISD award celebrates anyone (does not have to be a SWISD resident) who has made notable contributions to SWISD students. Both awards highlight the importance of community service, donations, volunteer work, and other meaningful contributions that positively impact the district and its students. These recognitions celebrate and encourage ongoing community involvement and support for the educational and personal growth of SWISD students.
The deadline to submit nominations is Monday, June 8, 2026
For questions, please contact Jenny Collier in the Communications Department at 210-622-4300 or by email at [email protected]
Past Pillar of the Community Winners:
2011-2012 - Mike C. Frazier
2012-2013 - Juan M. Alvarado
2013-2014 - Joe Castro
2014-2015 - Helen Smith
2015-2016 - Walter E. Geiger
2016-2017 - Lilian Barath
2017-2018 - Joe Marsh
2018-2019 - Edith Jaime
2019-2020 - Maximo Umack
2020-2021 - Dr. James Gates
2021-2022 - Tania Eubanks
2022-2023 - Daniel H. Gonzalez
2023-2024 - Dr. Keith & Cheri Byrom
2024-2025 - John Adams
2025-2026 - Dr. Lloyd Verstuyft
Past Friend of Southwest Winners:
2012-2013 - Merle Gothard
2013-2014 - Eulla Krueger
2014-2015 - Rachel Snider
2015-2016 - Robert Franz, Rudy Molleda, James Davis, Larry Hurtado, Julio Mata, Jo Cox, Jesus Rodriguez, Maximo Umack, Laurine Van Hecke, Esiquio “Zeke” Prado
2016-2017 - Councilman Rey A. Saldana, Altrusa International of San Antonio, Texas, Inc. District 9
2017-2018 - Gary L. Joeris, Kate Rogers
2018-2019 - Dr. Ricardo Gonzalez, Dr. Mike Flores, Pamela Toman
2019-2020 - Jon B. King. Jane Kellogg, Darren Medlin, Ronald O’Dea, Frank Covington
2020-2021 - No Award Given
2021-2022 - Katt Slagle
2022-2023 - No Award Given
2023-2024 - Carr Hornbuckle, Robert & Cindy Hall
2024-2025 - Marti Smith
2025-2026 - Assistance League of San Antonio, Dr. Yolanda Hernandez Segura