Giving Back

I remember a day I spent with my grandfather in the summer of 1988. He wanted to stop by a local bookstore just north of downtown San Antonio, and I, eager to add to my Green Lantern collection, immediately headed for the comic book racks when we arrived at Half Price Books at 3207 Broadway. As I flipped through the rotating shelves, I heard my grandfather calling me from the other side of the cramped store—he was in the architecture section.

He told me how much he loved my sketches and my endless doodling, and how he always noticed my fascination with the colored wooden blocks at his house whenever I visited. Then, as we flipped through a book together, he asked, “What do you know about architecture?” That simple question sparked a lifelong passion in me, and from that moment, I knew I wanted to become an architect.

My grandfather was not only one of my greatest mentors but also an incredibly important figure in the city we both called home. Dr. Herbert Calderon, who grew up on the west side of San Antonio, graduated from the University of Texas Dental School in 1950. After serving two years in the Air Force, he opened a private dental practice in the downtown community, where he worked for 49 years. Along the way, he became president of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), and in 1965, he was elected to the San Antonio City Council, where he served for six years, even becoming Mayor Pro Tempore.

Dr. Calderon passed away in the summer of 2014, but before he did, he left me with these words: “No matter where you are in life, you can always give back to others.” He explained that it was this principle that drove him to serve on numerous committees, boards, and councils. Those words have shaped many of the decisions I’ve made in my own life, inspiring me to always look for ways to help others. Whether it was assisting new members in becoming registered, encouraging Fellows to mentor young architects, or coaching youth hockey, I’ve always believed in the power of service.

As I begin my presidential year in 2025, I’m committed to continuing that legacy of giving back. This year is about advancing the Texas Society of Architects’ mission and being the voice for Texas architecture. With the support of an incredible executive committee, board, and staff, I’m confident we’re poised for success in the year ahead. I encourage everyone to find ways to give back and promote our wonderful profession. Now more than ever, we need to mentor the next generation of architects—at all levels, from K-12 to college, and in our offices every day.

I often replay the story of my grandfather in my mind, especially when I drive by the old bookstore. Sadly, in 2024, that Half Price Books location I remember visiting in my youth closed after 53 years. While both the store and my grandfather are gone, his reminder to always give back will live on forever.