Champions of Opportunity

As part of the Alamo Colleges District’s 80th Anniversary, we are recognizing 80 Champions of Opportunity—individuals who have significantly advanced access to education, social mobility, workforce development, and community empowerment.

Chosen on the basis of the following:

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Ambassador of Opportunity

Represents the spirit and mission of the District
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Storyteller & Advocate

Opportunities from the District shaped their life or work
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Community Connector

Encourages others to learn more, especially opportunities for students and families
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Active Participator

Participates in legacy-building initiatives, such as student mentorship and advisory panels
 
 
 
 
 

Search by Category

Donor  Alumnus  Community Advocate  Faculty Leader  Employee/Retiree  Strategic Partner  Posthumous

 

Donor

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Mackenzie Scott

 

Mackenzie Scott

For their contribution of $20 million to Palo Alto College

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A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

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Mackenzie Scott

 

Harrison Barnes

For their contribution of $20 million to Palo Alto College

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A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

 

Alumnus

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Harrison Barnes

 

Mike Beldon

Lead partner in AlamoPROMISE

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A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

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Harrison Barnes

 

Judge Edward C. Prado

Former United States Ambassador to Argentina and  Distinguished Federal Jurist
Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

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Harrison Barnes

 

Janie Gonzales

For their contribution to Palo Alto College
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A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

 

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Harrison Barnes

 

Tim Morrow

For their contribution to Palo Alto College
Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

 

 

 

Community Advocate

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PAC
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Mayor Jones, Live Oak

For their contribution to Palo Alto College

Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

SAC
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Robert "Bob" Rivard 

Co-founder of the San Antonio Report

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A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

PAC
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Elaine Ayala

San Antonio Express-News Metro columnist

Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

PAC
Kim_Brown_Headshot.png

 

Senator Menendez

For their contribution to Palo Alto College

Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

SAC
Kim_Brown_Headshot.png

 

Norma Reyes

Alamo Colleges Foundation Board of Directors

Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

SAC
Kim_Brown_Headshot.png

 

Martha Tijerina

Alamo Colleges Foundation Board of Directors, Secretary

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A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

PAC
Kim_Brown_Headshot.png

 

Mayor Nirenberg 

For their contribution to Palo Alto College

Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

SAC
Kim_Brown_Headshot.png

 

Deborah Knapp

Alamo Colleges Foundation Board of Directors, Treasurer

Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

 

Faculty Leader

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Employee/Retiree

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Strategic Partner

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PAC
Kim_Brown_Headshot.png

 

Peter John Holt

Chief Executive Officer, HOLT CAT

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A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

PAC
Kim_Brown_Headshot.png

 

Romanita Matta-Barrera

Chief Workforce Officer, Greater: SATX

Learn More

A 13-year NBA veteran, Barnes played for the Warriors, Mavericks and Kings before joining the Spurs in July of 2024. Barnes captured an NBA Championship in 2015, while playing for Golden State, and won a gold medal as a member of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Team. Barnes has been recognized throughout his career for his consistent scoring, defensive versatility, and leadership on and off the court.

He and his wife, Brittany Barnes, say they were drawn to give to AlamoPROMISE because they believe in the power of education and the importance of providing equitable opportunities for all students to achieve their goals.

"Throughout my career I've had the privilege of experiencing the power of community and support. Now, as part of the San Antonio community, we are honored to give back and help invest in the future of this incredible city. Partnering with AlamoPROMISE and St. Philip’s College is my way of ensuring that young people here have the resources and opportunities to succeed,” said Barnes. “It’s about creating lasting change, building bridges, and supporting the next generation of leaders. My wife and I are both deeply committed to being advocates for this community, and together, we’re excited to make a meaningful impact and help open doors for local college students to chase their dreams."

 

 

 

 

Posthumous

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The list of 80th Anniversary Champions will continue to expand as we recognize additional honorees. Please check back periodically to see new champions.