Mission, TX. Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019 – Code.org and CSTA (Computer Science Teachers Association) named Cristina Garza, Director of Social Impact of the Mission Economic Development Corporation, a recipient of the 2019 Champions of Computer Science Award in the Organization category. Code.org, a nonprofit focused on providing equitable access to computer science curriculum for K-12 schools, and CSTA, a teacher-led organization dedicated to the development of support for K-12 educators, are both nationally-recognized organizations and leaders in the CS education fields. 

One of only five winners in the nation (out of 300 nominations), Garza was honored with this award for her commitment to computer science education in the Rio Grande Valley through her work within the Mission EDC.

“The Champions of CS were selected for their outstanding work to increase access to computer science for their region in meaningful and sustainable ways,” said Jake Baskin, Executive Director of the CSTA. “All of our applicants are doing amazing work, and the winners are true examples of the impact that individuals and organizations can have in their communities.” 

Award nominator Daniel Schneider, Computer Science Principles Facilitator for Code.org, added, “Cristina is exceptional because her vision and advocacy has created a robust computer science community under the radar of larger, more prominent national efforts.”

Mission EDC’s investment in K-12 education is a nontraditional approach to community economic improvement, but is one that the organization knows will provide sustainable opportunities for the next generation.  

“Having this award means we are being noticed and that other small communities can see these initiatives and can replicate. If we can do it, other communities can do it,” said Garza. “We don’t need to do business the same way. There is a place for creativity and risk.”

For more information about the 2019 Champions of CS Awards: https://csedweek.org/awards