Trailblazers 2014
Laurie Gallardo is a host on KUTX 98.9FM, Austin’s all- music NPR affiliate. Laurie is one of the station’s first personalities, having been present when it spun off from the current all-news and talk KUT 90.5FM. She has been at the station for more than 10 years, developing a loyal following of Austin listeners. Several nights a week, Laurie hosts a three-hour block of indie and classic rock. She also produces Austin Music Minute, which profiles local music acts. Laurie is a UTEP graduate.-
JJ Plasencio is an Emmy and Dove Award-winning and Grammy-nominated bassist, cellist, guitarist, and singer-songwriter, formerly of Sixpence None the Richer and Plumb, as well as other national acts. He is the owner of Hot Pepper Studios, a full production studio in Austin. He also serves as music director of First Evangelical Free Church, where he oversees the worship ministry. He has two very hip kids, Joel and Jasmine.
JJ Plasencio performing at the
2014 Trailblazers Reception
Dr. Pauline Dow is currently Associate Superintendent for Instruction at North East Independent School District in San Antonio. She previously served as Chief Academic Officer for Austin ISD, as well as served as Associate Superintendent for Academics and Chief Academic Officer for Ysleta ISD in El Paso. Dr. Dow has worked in public education for nearly 30 years in various capacities, including bilingual education program director, math and science programs specialist, and bilingual teacher. She is a recipient of the University of Texas at El Paso Gold Nugget Award for the College of Education. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history, and an M.Ed. and Ed.D., all from UTEP.