LAREDO, Tex. (KGNS) - The Life Gala is honoring those who help bring attention to the arts in the community.

On Wednesday morning, organizers announced Telissa Lueckenotte Molano as the Arts Advocate of the Year for 2025-26. She was recognized for her work with the Laredo Cultural District, especially in bringing people together through art.

“I really work along in the trenches, behind the scenes, in the dark — helping support the arts, bringing artists together, like we said, educators, students,” Molano said. “Just really activating the arts, and really making it a community effort and a community collaboration.”

Students are encouraged to open their imaginations and create art that speaks to them, leading up to a gala celebrating creativity at the IBC Lago del Rio on Feb. 11 and 12.

See Full Page