2025 Education by Design Educators’ Awards Gala honors passionate teachers who guide, empower, and transform every student’s journey

Story by Joycelyne Fadojutimi Photos by  Joycelyne Fadojutimi and Michael Cavazos Photography 

Education by Design (EBD) kicked off its inaugural Gala, celebrating the true heroes of our communities—our teachers.  

At La Vista Ranch—spacious, modern, elegant venue, the night unfolded like the first page of a fairy tale. 

Carmen Jimenez, owner of Gyselle Imports, and Victoria Sanchez, owner of Magical Touch Décor, worked their quiet magic, transforming the venue into something that shimmered just beyond reality. 

Guests arrived to a sweeping red carpet that felt fit for royalty, and beyond it, an enchanting chandelier cast a soft, golden glow over meticulously crafted table settings. Every corner whispered wonder. EBD’s inaugural gala, honoring educators, blossomed into a living, breathing wonderland. 

And the guests enjoyed the evening. 

 “The night honored educators who do more than teach,” said EBD Board President Theodore Beard. “They spark curiosity, build confidence, and inspire change.” 

Most important of all, “The event wouldn’t have been possible without generous sponsors, local businesses, Longview ISD, the Kilgore College football team, and EBD’s dedicated events crew,” Beard continued.  “Collectively, they believe in EBD’s vision in reaching our children and investing in their future.” 

And the teacher champions who nabbed the Education by Design 2025 Educators awards are:  

*Gabriella Munoz of WARE ETMPA 

*Bitia Saravia of JL Everhart ES 

*Deanna Kalmus of Hudson Pep 

* Laura Driver of Johnston McQueen ES 

*Jewel Hewitt of Ned E. Williams ES 

Get to know EBD Board of Directors and why they serve on the Board. 

PROSPERITY BANK 

As of September 30, 2025, Prosperity Bancshares, Inc.® is a $38.330 billion Houston, Texas based regional financial holding company providing personal banking services and investments to consumers and businesses throughout Texas and Oklahoma. 

Founded in 1983, Prosperity believes in a community banking philosophy, taking care of customers, businesses, and communities in the areas, it serves by providing financial solutions to simplify everyday financial needs. 

At Prosperity Bank – Longview, we have a special heart for anything in our communities that benefits our under-served youth and families that are in need. When we first heard about Education by Design and their mission, we immediately knew we wanted to get involved and began donating time and resources to the program. Our Banking Center President, Allyson Bailey, became the Treasurer and a member of the Board of Directors  in 2019 and Prosperity Bank became a regular sponsor of the program very shortly thereafter.  

We will continue to be a strong supporter of this program and look forward to seeing it continue to grow, thrive, and provide a solid foundation to our under-served youth so they can succeed in life. 

Catalina Lopez: Leading with purpose 

As the owner of Aroma Cleaning, Ms. Lopez has always believed that true success goes beyond business—it’s about uplifting the community she serves every day. Her work extends past spotless spaces and polished floors; it’s rooted in a commitment to lead, to serve, and to champion those who shape the next generation. 

Hence, joining the Education by Design Board felt like a natural extension of that mission. She has long believed that investing in education is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen a community, and that the educators guiding our children deserve recognition and support. 

“The 2025 Golden Apple Awards Gala represents a meaningful opportunity to recognize excellence in education and to give back to those who dedicate their lives to our students,” Ms. Lopez, EBD Chairwoman of Special Events said. “I am proud to support and be part of such an impactful event.” 

Dr. Amber Daub: Strategic leader invests in futures  

Dr. Amber Daub shares her story with the conviction of someone who has seen what intentional, equity-driven leadership can do for a child’s life. As a former campus principal and now a higher-education leader preparing tomorrow’s school administrators, she knows exactly what systems help students thrive—and what happens when those systems are missing. 

That’s why she serves on the Education by Design Board. Its mission mirrors her own: to expand opportunities, uplift students, and strengthen entire communities. In this work, she pours in her expertise, her heart, and her sense of purpose—because the future of students isn’t abstract to her. It’s personal. That commitment extends beyond her professional life. They are honored to support EBD’s mission of expanding opportunities for every student. 

Daub Realty proudly stands alongside Education by Design as a community sponsor, reflecting the Daub family’s dedication to strong schools and strong families. Based in Hallsville, Texas, Daub Realty led by Broker JP Daub. He serves the community with integrity, care, and a belief in brighter futures. For real estate needs, contact JP Daub at 903-225-8380 or jpdaub@daubrealty.com 

Chadwick Financial Solutions: From credit struggles to keys in hand  

Chadwick Financial Solutions was born from a place of heart—a desire to lift families who felt stuck, overwhelmed, or defeated by their finances. LaRon had seen too many good people lose hope after hearing “you don’t qualify” or “maybe next time.” 

She believes they deserved more. One day, a mother sat across from her, tears in her eyes after being denied for the third time. 

In that moment, LaRon made her a promise—the same promise she now makes to every client: “You’re not doing this alone anymore.” 

With results-driven credit repair, real-world financial education and solutions, plus unwavering support, Chadwick Financial Solutions helps families rise again. And because LaRon is also a licensed Realtor, she walks clients all the way from rebuilding their credit to holding the keys to their new home. 

Every repaired credit score. Every approved loan. Every family celebrating on closing day. That’s the heartbeat of her mission. Whether you’re buying your first home, rebuilding after setbacks, or simply ready for a fresh financial start—LaRon is here to make the journey simple, clear, and achievable. 

Follow for inspiration, resources, and real transformation: 

📌 Facebook: Chadwick Financial Solutions 

📌 Facebook: LaRon Chadwick, Realtor 

📞 Phone: 833-244-7323 

🗓 Book a consultation: https://bit.ly/hirecfsnow 

Why she  joined Education by Design Board of Directors 

LaRon is the board secretary. Her commitment to helping families doesn’t stop with adults—it begins with the next generation. Education by Design gives disadvantaged youth the tutoring, tools, and encouragement they need to believe in their own potential. Becoming a board member wasn’t just a professional decision—it was a personal one. 

LaRon believes every child deserves someone who says, “I see your greatness, and I’m here to help you reach it.” And through this work, LaRon gets to do exactly that—pour into young lives, open doors, and help shape futures filled with possibility.