American writer Joseph Campbell once said, “A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.”
That is exactly what Francisco San Miguel and Lili Vasquez did in their lives, and that is why North East ISD leaders recently inducted them to the NEISD Wall of Heroes.
It was the first cool, fall evening we’ve had in a while, when friends and families gathered for the unveiling of their plaques at Heroes Stadium on Oct. 6 before the Churchill and Brandeis high school football game.
Francisco San Miguel, also known as “Officer Frank,” is a retired San Antonio Police Department officer who has volunteered daily at Encino Park Elementary School for more than 30 years. In recent years, he added Regency Place and Longs Creek elementary schools to his volunteer duties. Whether it was before or after a shift, or now on his free time, he regularly monitors doors, helps with traffic, conducts campus safety checks and more.
A commitment to serve that long has left a lasting impact on students, teachers and administrators that we are forever grateful for.
Lili Vasquez was a beloved NEISD employee who also gave more than three decades to our District. During this time, she was the administrative assistant at Bradley Middle School. But ask anyone there and they will say she was much more. Her warmth and kindness were apparent from the first moment you met her. Lili’s selfless service and unconditional commitment to her Bradley Bears will forever be a part of her lasting impact.
Sadly, she passed away in 2022, but will always be remembered and honored by those who knew and loved her.
North East Heroes Stadium received its name to honor and praise members of the District and community who made a positive impact in the lives of current and future generations. The Wall of Heroes provides the opportunity to enshrine noteworthy individuals with ties to NEISD with the hope of inspiring others.
With our Wall of Heroes qualifications and nomination form, the next nomination period opens March 1, 2025.
