Hispanic Heritage Hall Of Fame
2026 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AWARD RECIPIENTS
Adrian Caravas
Roger “Bo’ Quiroga Leadership of the Year
Adrian Caraves has made significant contributions to the Latino community by advancing representation and leadership across higher education and healthcare. He founded and grew multiple student organizations, including the Latino Student Association at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, earning New Student Organization of the Year and Emerging Leader of the Year in 2025. Through his MHA/MBA program, he completed internships at Houston Methodist, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and UTMB Health. In June, he was appointed by the Governor of Texas as the Student Regent for the University of Houston System, representing 80,000 students and advocating for access, affordability, and opportunity.
Raymond Garivey, Jr.
Dedicated Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
Chief Raymond Garivey Jr. is the dedicated Chief of Police for Kemah, Texas, bringing over 34 years of comprehensive law enforcement experience to the role. His career began as a patrol officer, where he quickly developed a strong commitment to public service and community engagement. Over the years, Chief Garivey has held various positions, including Gang Task Force/Narcotics Detective, Hostage Negotiator, which have equipped him with a deep understanding of the complexities of policing and community dynamics. Chief Garivey is passionate about community policing, believing that strong relationships between law enforcement and the community are essential for safety and trust. He has implemented innovative programs that encourage collaboration with residents, schools, and local organizations, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility for community well-being. His approachable leadership style has made him a trusted figure among citizens, who appreciate his commitment to transparency and proactive communication. Chief Garivey is particularly focused on addressing local issues such as crime prevention, youth outreach, and mental health awareness. He actively promotes training for officers in de-escalation techniques and cultural competency, ensuring that the Kemah Police Department is equipped to serve a diverse community with respect and understanding. As such he has been awarded the 100 Club Officer of the Year, Brazoria County Peace Officer of the Year, The Blues Magazine Lifetime Achievement Award, NYPD Hispanic Society Inspiration Award, Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas Community Builder Award, and a host of other awards and accomplishments. Beyond his professional duties, Chief Garivey is a dedicated family man and enjoys spending time with his loved ones. He believes in the importance of giving back to the community and participates in various charitable initiatives and local events. As he continues to lead the Kemah Police Department, Raymond Garivey Jr. remains steadfast in his mission to doing God’s work, create a safe, inclusive, and thriving community for all residents.
Mario Gonzales
Unsung Hero
Mario Ruben Gonzales was born and raised in Galveston Island on December 4, 1957. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School from first grade through sixth grade. He has many good memories while there. He then attended Stephen F. Austin Middle School from sixth through eighth grade, where he played football and basketball. He also played Little League baseball for the Knights of Columbus. His coaches were Oscar Ochoa and A.J. Rodriguez. He also played on the Pony and Colt Baseball Leagues. While attending Ball High School, he played Basketball from 9th to 12th grade. He attended Alvin Junior College on a baseball scholarship, but states that he regrets not going on to graduate. At age 20, he got married; has a son and three grandchildren who live in Orange County. Mario currently lives at the Oleander Apartments on 53rd and Broadway in Galveston. One year after moving there, a fire erupted on the third floor. He states that he just happened to be at the right place at the right time. The fire alarms went off at 2:00 a.m which had most of the tenants running outside and no one knew why the alarms had gone off. He said that earlier that day he had seen someone in the elevator that did not look as if he belonged there. The man got off on the same floor as Mario, which was the third floor, and he saw which apartment the stranger had entered. Later, when the alarms went off, something told him to check on the stranger to make sure everything was okay. As soon as the door opened, he saw that the apartment was filled with smoke. After he tells the man to get out, Mario goes to find the firemen to let him know where the fire started. When the firemen entered the apartment, they see that the couch is on fire and proceed to put it out. Mario said he gives thanks to God for guiding him to the man’s apartment. He is currently retired. He wakes up every morning and goes to help his good friend Rosa Martinez and her family at their restaurant, El Nopalito. He ends by saying “that has been my life up to date and that’s all I got for now.”
Mary Longoria
Excellence in Social Services of the Year
Bio Forthcoming
Christian Salgado
Outstanding Educator of the Year
Christian Salgado is a first-grade bilingual educator at Burnet Elementary in Galveston ISD, where he has proudly served since 2011. Born in Mexico City and raised in Galveston, he proudly represents both his roots and the community that shaped him, bringing a deep passion for culturally responsive, bilingual education into his classroom. Beyond the classroom, Christian serves as First Grade Team Leader and Chair of the Hospitality Committee, directs a folkloric dance group, serves as a board member of the Galveston Children’s Museum, and has been recognized as a Galveston County Top 40 Under 40 honoree. He is currently completing a Master’s degree in Education at the University of Houston–Clear Lake and is expected to graduate in May 2026. At the heart of his work is a commitment to being a positive, visible leader who inspires students, uplifts colleagues, and represents the Hispanic culture with pride, joy, and a deep sense of purpose.
Mike Varela, Jr.
Exceptional Firefighter of the Year
Fire Chief Mike Varela Jr. began his career with the Galveston Fire Department in 2001. Over the years, he advanced through every rank in the organization before being appointed Fire Chief in September 2024. Varela is a second-generation firefighter and a second-generation Fire Chief. Throughout his career, Chief Varela has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Services Administration and holds a Master Certification from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection. He has received multiple commendation bars, life safety awards, and numerous state certifications in recognition of his dedication and service. “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve and protect the community I grew up in.”
