Honoring a Legacy of Service: Earl Wall Receives the E.L. Galyean Award
The Texas Retired Teachers Association proudly recognizes Earl Wall as the 2026 recipient of the distinguished E.L. Galyean Award—an honor reserved for those who demonstrate outstanding and uncommon service at the state level to TRTA and its members. Named in memory of TRTA’s first Executive Director, E.L. Galyean (1980–1992), this award reflects a legacy of […]
Just Show Up: The Story of Richard Roberts
Richard Roberts was born and raised in Red River County, Texas, where he attended a small school in Annona and graduated in 1957. He was the youngest of four siblings, two of whom also worked in Texas schools. He attended East Texas State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree and met his wife, Linda. […]
A Lesson in Kindness: Alvin ISD Students Bring Joy Across Generations
The culture of giving is alive and thriving in Alvin ISD, where students and staff continue to find meaningful ways to serve others and strengthen their community. One shining example comes from Meridiana Elementary, with kindness, creativity, and connection taking center stage during a recent service initiative. As part of Alvin ISD Serves—an effort that […]
“A Labor of Love”: Cathy Duvall’s Continued Commitment to Education and Community
For many retired educators, retirement marks the closing of a chapter. For Cathy Duvall, our Local Chapter President of Fort Bend-Harris Retired Educators (FBHRE), it opened the door to a new season of purpose, leadership, and connection, one that continues to strengthen communities and inspire fellow educators across Texas. Joining TRTA after retirement was a […]
Celebrating Sandra Barber: A Black History Month Spotlight on Education and Advocacy
Black History Month offers an opportunity to celebrate leaders whose lives reflect purpose and perseverance. TRTA is proud to share the story of Sandra Barber, whose dedication to education and continued advocacy for retired educators have made a lasting impact. Sandra currently serves as Chair of the TRTA Organizational Affairs Committee, bringing decades of experience, […]
Ella Gauthier, TRTA President – Honoring a Lifetime of Service to Students and Retired Educators
During Black History Month, the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) is proud to spotlight Ella Gauthier, a longstanding member whose life and leadership exemplify the enduring power of education and advocacy. Serving as President of the Board of Directors, Ella holds the historic distinction of being the first and only African American woman to serve […]
A Different Path, Perfectly Timed
For Marla Chavez, retirement was never supposed to come early. Her plan was clear and steady: continue working well into her seventies, just like the remarkable women she admired in her Katy book club and at Katy ISD—educators and professionals in their eighties who showed her that passion doesn’t have an expiration date. Marla loved […]
Building Community One Book at a Time: How Patricia Veale Brings Purpose to Retirement Through TRTA’s Children’s Book Project
For Patricia Veale, retirement has never meant stepping away, it has meant stepping forward. As Local Chapter Second Vice-President for Communications with the Harlandale–S Bexar County Educational Retirees Association, Patricia continues to live out her lifelong commitment to education, service, and connection through her volunteer work with the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA), especially the […]
TRTA Members Find Art, Connection, and Purpose at the Sistine Chapel Experience
On December 11, 2025, Rome came to Austin—along with an unforgettable reminder of the power of connection in retirement. Thanks to a special invitation from the Sistine Chapel Immersive Art Experience organizers, TRTA members were offered 100 complimentary tickets for a private visit at Barton Creek Mall. Led by District 13 President Joe Ramirez, nearly […]
TRTA’s Board Sets the Tone for 2026 With Vision, Growth, and Engagement
As the calendar turns to 2026, the Texas Retired Teachers Association’s (TRTA) Board of Directors is embracing the new year with a shared sense of purpose, optimism, and resolve. Their New Year’s resolutions reflect a strong commitment to membership growth, community engagement, and strengthening TRTA’s role as the leading voice for public school retirees across […]