On April 23, 2019, senior Izabella De La Garza was named ILPC Print Newspaper Editor of the Year for the entire State of Texas. She has been an editor of The Fuel for two years and a staff member for three.

“The best word I can think of is ‘shocked,’ De La Garza said. “I am really proud to be representing the staff that I have been a part of for the past three years.”

Mr. Pedro Cabrera, publications adviser, shared the same sentiment of pride for De La Garza and the newspaper staff.

“This is my dream job,” Cabrera said. “Students like Izzy make all the crazy worth it. And now that she is named Editor of the Year for the entire state, I couldn’t be happier. It’s a proud dad moment.”

Not only is she a leader on the newspaper staff, but she has also been a leader of the award-winning Judson Band, leading the pit for the past two of her four years in high school.

“Since it’s coming to a close very soon, this definitely shows that it’s all ending on a good note,” De La Garza said.

She will be heading to the University of Texas at Austin to major in government.

“Personally, I want to grow as a person, pursue a passion, and make myself better,” De La Garza said. “I’ve achieved a lot, but there is more I want to do.”

She will be presented with the award on May 5, 2019, at the ILPC Spring Convention Award Ceremony in Austin, Texas.