FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Austin, TX
April 17, 2026

Austin, TX – At its meeting in Austin on Friday, April 17, the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) recognized the contributions of retiring Commissioner David C. Garza of Brownsville and Commissioner Bradley S. “Brad” Tegeler of Brenham with commemorative resolutions.

Chair Martha Wong noted the longstanding service of Garza and Tegeler, highlighting “their contribution of their expertise and time in supporting the educational needs of Texans and the overall work of the agency. It was a great pleasure to work with them both in steering the agency’s work preserving Texas history and supporting its statewide library and information services.”

Garza was first appointed to the Commission in June 2018 by Governor Greg Abbott. During his time on the Commission, he served as chair of the Archives and Records Committee and as a member of the Audit Committee. Garza helped guide the agency through its Sunset Review in 2019, budgeting processes and countless contracts.

Tegeler was appointed to the Commission in January 2020 by Governor Greg Abbott. He served as the chair of the agency’s Audit Committee and member of the Libraries and Talking Book Program Committee, which provides oversight over the agency’s work providing reading and library services for millions of Texans.

“I extend my sincere appreciation to the Governor for the opportunity to serve the people of Texas as a Commissioner,” said Tegeler. “It has been a distinct honor to serve in this capacity over the past five years, and I will always look back on this period with deep gratitude. I am especially grateful to Chair Martha Wong and Executive Director Gloria Meraz for their exceptional leadership, mentorship, and unwavering support. Their guidance has been instrumental in strengthening my understanding of the Commission’s critical mission and responsibilities.

“As I reflect on my tenure,” Tegeler noted, “I am proud of the work accomplished and confident that the decisions made by the Chair and my fellow Commissioners have positioned Texas for continued success—enhancing the state’s preparedness for the future while preserving its rich and irreplaceable history.”

TSLAC Director Gloria Meraz stated, “Mr. Tegeler and Mr. Garza provided outstanding leadership to the agency and contributed greatly to the preservation of Texas history and the educational opportunities afforded to Texans by the State Library and Archives. We thank them deeply for their tremendous service to the state.”

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The Texas State Library and Archives Commission provides Texans access to the information they need to be informed, productive citizens by preserving the archival record of Texas; enhancing the service capacity of public, academic and school libraries; assisting public agencies in the maintenance of their records; and meeting the reading needs of Texans with disabilities. For more information, visit www.tsl.texas.gov.