From Staff Reports Fitzpatrick wins TxA Community Service Award Steve Fitzpatrick, of Tyler, was awarded the Texas Society of Architects (TxA) Award for Community Service in Honor of James D. Pfluger, FAIA on July 17. The TxA Honor Awards program recognizes exceptional members, firms, individuals and organizations for their outstanding achievements in supporting the profession of architecture, the built environment, and the quality of life in Texas.
The 18 recipients will be featured in the upcoming issue of Texas Architect magazine and recognized at the TxA 85th Annual Conference and Design Expo, which will be held Oct. 3-5 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.
Fitzpatrick, AIA, founder of Fitzpatrick Architects, embodies the “citizen architect.” For the past 30 years, he has advocated for improved quality of life in his hometown of Tyler, using his talents, training and experience as an architect to help the city evolve positively. Fitzpatrick has led numerous local efforts, including Reset the Center, which envisioned a revitalized downtown; the Rose Rudman Trail System, a hike-and-bike trail on a former neighborhood drainage path; and a campaign to promote public transportation by designing and constructing bus stop prototypes.
He has also served on the boards of various community organizations and demonstrated a commitment to mentoring the next generation of architects. Founded in 1939, the Texas Society of Architects is the state component of the American Institute of Architects. As a 501©(6) professional membership organization, it represents approximately 7,500 architects.
TxA advocates for Texas architecture, promoting safe, beautiful and sustainable environments. It advances the profession through advocacy, knowledge and communication, ensuring architects are recognized as leaders in the built environment. Headquartered in Austin, TxA is the third largest regional component of the AIA and hosts 18 local AIA components.
TJC’s Dr. Mejia joins Workforce Solutions East Texas Board Dr. Juan E.
Mejia, President and CEO of Tyler Junior College, has been appointed to the board of Workforce Solutions East Texas. Operated by the East Texas Council of Governments, Workforce Solutions East Texas is a collaborative initiative spanning a 14-county region, serving nearly 900,000 residents, over 33,000 businesses, and a labor force exceeding 413,000. This partnership encompasses 12 public and private institutions of higher education.
“Workforce Solutions East Texas is honored to welcome Dr. Mejia to our board,” said Doug Shryock, Workforce Solutions East Texas executive director. “He has always been a proactive partner in developing the next generation of skilled workers for our businesses and industries and tomorrow’s leaders across our 14 counties.
He is a friend, and I personally look forward to the ever-greater results Dr. Mejia will bring to the region through his seat on the board.” Board chair Claude Figueroa added, “Dr.
Mejia’s professional background, along with his well-known involvement in our community, are qualities we admire, and I am most confident that he will be a valuable member of our team.” As one of 28 local Workforce Solutions boards in Texas, the 19-member board of Workforce Solutions East Texas works closely with regional elected officials to shape local workforce policies. Their primary objective is to foster economic development by cultivating a robust workforce that supports the growth of businesses and industries across the region.
“I am truly honored by this opportunity, and I look forward to being a part of the work toward a stronger East Texas,” Mejia said. “This is significantly more special because I have had the privilege of working with many of the board members and organization staff for some time already and consider them strong partners in our work and good friends.” Additionally, Mejia serves on the Board for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools/Commission on Colleges, the Presidents’ Advisory to the Association for Community College Trustees, the Texas Association of Community Colleges, the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Tyler Economic Development Council.
He began his career in higher education in 1988, joined TJC in 2013 and has served as TJC president and CEO since 2019. Bragg named Interim Communications & Tourism Manager JACKSONVILLE — On Monday, Amanda Bragg took over as the City of Jacksonville’s interim communications and tourism manager. She will carry out this responsibility while maintaining her role as a Jacksonville Police Department corporal responsible for community engagement.
City administration will work closely with Bragg over the next 90 days to evaluate the effectiveness of this joint-role with the goal of making it permanent before the end of the year. “Bragg has a proven track record of building relationships and effective communication,” said City Manager James Hubbard. “This role provides Amanda with an expanded platform to serve and promote our wonderful town.
” Bragg has served as the Jacksonville Police Department public information and community engagement officer since 2018. She is a lifelong resident of East Texas and has worked for the City of Jacksonville since 2008. She is responsible for organizing Jacksonville’s National Night Out (NNO) event, which received recognition as the best NNO in the nation for cities with a population between 5,000 to 15,000 in 2023.
In 2024, Corporal Bragg was one of six peace officers in the state to receive the Public Service award from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. “I am very excited to take on this new role,” Bragg said. “I look forward to forming new collaborations to showcase our community.
There is such a great story to tell.” Bragg is now responsible for citywide communication efforts including press releases, media inquiries, newsletters, website content, and social media. She will also serve as the liaison to the wonderful group of volunteers at the Love’s Lookout safety rest area.
This announcement follows the departure of the city’s previous communications department head, Daniel Seguin. UT Health welcomes Shivanandan Reddy to Tyler UT Health East Texas is expanding pediatric services in Tyler with the addition of board-certified pediatrician Shivanandan Reddy, MD. “My care philosophy emphasizes building strong relationships, providing education and ensuring the right plan of care for each patient.
By fostering trustworthy relationships with families, we can work together to ensure a healthy future for their children,” Dr. Reddy said. “Building long-term relationships and ‘growing up’ with my patients is something I genuinely cherish.
” Dr. Reddy said he pursued a career in healthcare because it combines his love for science with his passion for teaching. “While I enjoy all aspects of general pediatrics, I have a particular passion for adolescent medicine.
The teenage years are crucial for development, and I find fulfillment in being a positive influence during this challenging time,” he said. “Families should know that I always prioritize their child’s best interests, clearly explain treatment plans and provide information on what to expect. I am committed to making well-founded medical decisions using all available resources.
” He said he was drawn to pediatrics because of the warmth and soul treating younger patients provides. “It’s hard to be upset when surrounded by the laughter, awe, silliness and curiosity of children,” Dr. Reddy said.
“I love making a positive impact from a young age and instilling good habits in my patients and their families that will benefit them throughout their lives.” Dr. Shivanandan Reddy is welcoming patients at 1000 E.
Fifth St., Ste. 100 in Tyler.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 903-590-5000. UT Health East Texas provides care to thousands of patients each year through an extensive regional network that includes 9 hospitals, more than 80 clinics, the Olympic Plaza Tower, 13 regional rehabilitation facilities, two freestanding emergency centers, regional home health services covering 41 counties, an EMS fleet of more than 50 ambulances and four helicopters, and a comprehensive seven-trauma center care network, including the region’s only Level 1 trauma facility..
