On Friday, the Strategic Alliance for Leadership and Social Action (SALSA) announced the 2022 class of Mexicano Trailblazers of Brownwood. SALSA spokesperson, Susie Flores, said “This year’s recipients of our Trailblazers award are truly exceptional and top of the class. With 16 earned college degrees, six honorary doctorates, and scholarly endeavors between them, they have taken the word “achievement” to a much higher level. Some are not only ‘the first’ Mexicanos to accomplish what they have, they’re also the first Brownwood residents in history to reach their level of success in their respective fields.” They are:

Dr. Zenaido Camacho, Jr. – first Mexicano to earn a Ph.D. in Chemistry in the nation; held administrative and faculty positions at six major universities and medical schools; administered 46 grants, directed 10 research projects, authored 21 publications, received over 60 awards, delivered over 150 lectures and speeches

Frank Costilla, Jr. Juris Doctor – first Fulbright Scholar from Brownwood; first to be listed 5-times among Super Lawyers of Texas; U.S. Army honorable discharge E-5

Joel Andrade – first Mexicano professional entertainer from Brownwood; played with eight groups over 41-year career, lead singer, played sax, bass guitar, piano, and drums

Dr. Ernestine Balderrama Kubicek – first Mexicana from Brownwood to earn a Ph.D.; first woman to be accepted into Toastmaster membership using her own name; author

Andrade Brothers – Daniel, Bennie, Johnny (aka Juan) first three brothers to win Regional Golden Gloves Boxing Championships in the same year and same tournament, Brownwood 1965; they earned a combined eight college degrees, six honorary doctorates, three distinguished alumnus awards, a Presidential medal of service for the nation; Daniel was a healthcare administrator. Bennie was a teacher. Juan is a servant leader.

The Mexicano Trailblazers of Brownwood awards will be presented at a private dinner for SALSA members and invited guests only. The dinner will be held at 5pm, Saturday, October 15, 2022, at Adams Street Community Center.