Kristi Garza-Pena’s self-poised character shines through in any adverse situation. She attributes her calm, strong minded, positive attitude towards the two most influential women in her life: her mother and grandmother. “Both displayed great strength through disparities in their lives,” she says. The two people who keep her grounded and focused are her children Donovon, 17, and Christian, 5.

Garza-Pena began her career in the medical field with the goal of educating the community on a healthier lifestyle and improved care. In dedicating much time to various non-profit organizations over the last eight years she found that her mission would be more attainable through her experience in event planning, marketing and public relations by putting the expectation back in the hands of the non-profit and medical groups.

She continues to dedicate time and resources to various organizations within the community which include the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber, Southwest Texas International Boat Show, Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce and several others. Most recently she was named vice-president of Beautify Corpus Christi and spokesperson for the Texas International Boat Show. She is now in her sixth year as public relations chairman for Bayfest.