Dr. Antonio Castillo works
a math problem for his students.
Photos by Anna Martinez.
Professor Maria Antonieta Galvan shares the nuances of Spanish with her students.
Maria Antonieta Galvan, Associate Professor of Foreign Languages, was named Palo Alto College’s Piper nominee, and Dr. Antonio Castillo, Chair of the Math Department, was chosen to receive the Starfish Award.
The awards are presented each year for outstanding teaching and superior student/teacher interaction. Students select the Starfish recipient, and faculty select the Piper nominee.
Dr. Antonio Castillo has been teaching at Palo Alto College for eight years. He arrived in San Antonio in 1963, and he started teaching at the elementary level.
Jason Garza, a sophomore Math major, said, “Dr. Castillo has inspired me with the amount of support he shows me and other students.”
Nichole Barrios, an Education major, said, “He keeps the class involved and has made a huge impact on me. As a future teacher, I hope to follow in his footsteps.”
“The hard work and dedication has paid off winning this award, especially being selected by the students. I feel grateful and honored to be nominated for this prestigious award,” said Castillo.
Galvan, a native of Mexico who also began teaching at the elementary level, has been at Palo Alto for 15 years. When she received the Piper nominee, she said, “I accept this award on behalf of every faculty member who has made a strong contribution to this community.”
Joey Salas, a sophomore Communication major, said, “I speak very highly about her teaching style, and I also appreciate the devotion and cooperation she has given me. There is no better person to pick for this award.”
Anthony Uriegas, a sophomore Spanish major, said, “In the classroom, she has interested many students by her dynamic contributions and patience she has with the students here at Palo Alto.”
Congratulations Dr. Castillo and Ms. Galvan!