PASADENA, Texas — Pasadena Independent School District Police Department is proud to announce Liliana Garcia as the 2025 Officer of the Year. A Pasadena ISD graduate and now a dedicated officer within the district, Garcia’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and a deep-rooted commitment to the community that raised her.

Garcia’s journey began in the classrooms and hallways of Pasadena ISD, where she attended school from kindergarten through 12th grade. She spent her high school years at Dr. Kirk Lewis Career and Technical High School (CTHS), where she completed the welding program, and remained active at her home campus, Pasadena High School, as a member of the marching band. She served as a snare drummer before becoming drum major, graduating in 2020 with both a high school diploma and a Structural Welding Certificate.

“Pasadena ISD shaped who I am,” Garcia said. “The educators and mentors I had taught me the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of investing in others. Those lessons have stayed with me and continue to guide me in my career, as I’ve never forgotten the special teachers or guidance I received in my younger years.”

She faced multiple rejections when applying for entry-level positions in law enforcement and began to question her path. “I started to think maybe this wasn’t meant for me,” she recalled. “But I reminded myself that rejection is not the end—it’s just part of the journey.”

Garcia took a detour, working long hours in industrial maintenance at Shell Deer Park refinery. It was during this time that she came across a job posting for the Pasadena ISD Police Department. Though hesitant, she applied—and a few weeks later, received the call that would change her life.

“I thank God every day I answered that phone call,” she said.

Garcia was accepted into the department’s sponsorship program and began training at the Houston Community College Police Academy in May 2023. She graduated in December and officially joined the Pasadena ISD Police Department the next school year in January 2024.

Now serving as a patrol officer in the southern part of the district, Garcia conducts campus walkthroughs, builds relationships with students and staff, and responds to a wide range of calls. Her favorite part of the job, she says, is the unpredictability and the opportunity to make a difference in unexpected ways.

Officer Garcia has been essential to our campus,” said V.W. Miller Intermediate Principal Julie Jernigan. “She truly cares, keeps everyone safe, and is loved by students and staff alike.”

“Some days I’m helping a stranded motorist. Other days I’m listening to a student who just needs someone to talk to,” Garcia said. “Whatever the day brings, I’m ready to help in any way I can.”

Garcia’s impact has already been deeply felt. She was awarded the prestigious Dr. Rod Paige Award after she and another officer responded to a welfare check and intervened in a student mental health crisis, possibly saving a life. Chief Bill McMahan described the incident as one of the most significant calls the department has handled.

“She and another officer responded when a student had expressed deep dark thoughts online,” McMahan said. “They found the student and got EMS on scene. It was a powerful reminder of how critical our officers are—not just in emergencies, but in moments of deep personal crisis.”

“I don’t see myself as a hero,” Garcia said. “I was simply in the right place at the right time. That moment reminded me how important it is to be present, to listen, and to care.”

Earlier this year, Chief McMahan mentioned Officer Garcia also played a pivotal role in the response to a shooting near Pasadena Memorial High School. When Garcia heard shots fired across the street, she immediately sprinted over 780 feet from inside the campus to reach the victims. Arriving at the scene within minutes she began to provide aid until EMS arrived.

“Her actions weren’t ordered—they were instinctive,” McMahan said. “She’s dependable, smart, and has a work ethic that far surpasses her age. If I could have ten more officers like her, I would.”

Garcia was unanimously selected as Officer of the Year by her peers. According to Chief McMahan, she received more nominations than any officer in the department’s history.

“Typically, we see a few nominations per officer,” he said. “But this year, Liliana had six to eight different officers write in about her. That speaks volumes about the respect she’s earned in such a short time.”

Students considering a career in law enforcement, Garcia offers this advice: “Believe that nothing is impossible. Stay disciplined, build strong communication skills, and surround yourself with a positive support system. If you feel that spark inside you—go for it. It’s a long road, but the best things in life are never meant to be rushed.”

Garcia’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of perseverance, mentorship, and community.