La Porte Independent School District is proud to recognize its 2026 Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Staff honorees, celebrating individuals whose accomplishments, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on La Porte ISD and the community it serves.

This year’s honorees represent the best of La Porte’s traditions in education, fine arts, athletics, entrepreneurship, and community service. Through their professional achievements and dedication to others, they exemplify the enduring influence of La Porte ISD and the Bulldog spirit.

“Our Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Staff honorees represent the very best of La Porte ISD,” said Dr. Walter Jackson, superintendent of schools. “Their stories demonstrate how the lessons learned, relationships built, and opportunities developed in our schools can shape lives for generations. We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and the lasting contributions they continue to make to our community.”

Jeff Martin, president of the La Porte ISD Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of recognizing those who have helped shape the district’s history and future.

“Each of these honorees has made a meaningful difference in the lives of others and in the story of La Porte ISD,” Martin said. “Whether through education, the arts, athletics, business, or service to others, they have strengthened our community and created a legacy worth celebrating. We are honored to recognize their contributions and the example they set for our students.”

2026 Distinguished Alumni

 

Steve and Kerry Regan

Steve and Kerry Regan’s story began at La Porte High School, where they fell in love and developed a shared passion for theater. They eventually returned to La Porte as educators, inspiring and influencing thousands of students throughout their careers. Their commitment to the community continues in retirement as they volunteer their time and talents to support La Porte High School’s musical productions. Kerry serves on the La Porte Education Foundation, while Steve serves as a volunteer firefighter for the City of La Porte. Both are also deeply involved with St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Through education, the performing arts, public service, and faith, the Regans have touched countless lives and continue to strengthen the La Porte community.  

J.B. Sauceda

J.B. Sauceda, host of Texas Country Reporter, has built a career celebrating the people, places, and culture that make Texas unique. A native of La Porte, Sauceda is a storyteller, photographer, and entrepreneur whose work showcases the character and spirit of the Lone Star State. In November 2025, he won a Lone Star Emmy Award for La Porte Musicals, a story highlighting La Porte High School’s musical theater program and the lasting influence of his former theater director, Sonja Angelo. He also received a 2025 Lone Star Emmy nomination for Outstanding Host. Previously, Sauceda earned recognition as the founder of @TexasHumor and received the Association for Corporate Growth’s Rockstar Entrepreneur of the Year honor in 2019. His work continues to bring Texas stories to audiences while celebrating the community that helped shape him.

 

2026 Distinguished Staff

Henry Einfeldt

Henry Einfeldt was a pioneering educator whose leadership helped establish the foundation of La Porte ISD’s fine arts programs. Following World War II, he became La Porte High School’s first band director, transforming a small program into an outstanding organization that flourished over subsequent decades. Einfeldt composed the school song, selected the fight song, expanded facilities, recruited private music instructors, and built a talented staff that helped establish the La Porte Band’s tradition of excellence. As the district’s Director of Fine Arts, he also helped develop the orchestra program and recruit choir directors who strengthened the district’s music offerings. Many students he mentored went on to become accomplished musicians and music educators. His vision and dedication shaped generations of students and helped create a lasting legacy in La Porte’s performing arts. His posthumous recognition celebrates an educator whose influence remains deeply rooted in the district’s history.  

Vickie Gentile

Vickie Gentile devoted her career to educating, inspiring, and advocating for children in La Porte ISD. Beginning as a third-grade teacher at Rizzuto Elementary in 1990, she was named Teacher of the Year in 1998 and later served as assistant principal at Lomax Elementary and principal at both Lomax and Bayshore elementary schools before retiring in 2016. Under her leadership, Lomax Elementary earned National Blue Ribbon School recognition in 2011. Known for her integrity, humor, kindness, and high expectations, Gentile encouraged students to excel academically while developing resilience, teamwork, and compassion. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, inspiring former students to become educators and eventually colleagues. As a mother of two La Porte ISD alumni, she also served as a trusted mentor and second mother to many young people. After retirement, she continued advocating for vulnerable children through CASA. Following her passing in November 2024, former students, colleagues, and friends shared countless stories of her profound influence. Her legacy of service, advocacy, and compassion will continue to shape the La Porte community for generations.

Tom Holland

Tom Holland made an indelible mark on La Porte High School athletics as the head basketball coach who led the Bulldogs to the 1987 Class 5A State Basketball Championship. After graduating from Lamar University, Holland began his coaching career at Seabrook Intermediate in 1975 before moving to Baker Junior High and eventually La Porte High School. His commitment to preparation, discipline, teamwork, and accountability helped define his coaching philosophy. During the 1986–87 season, Holland guided the Bulldogs to a perfect 40–0 record, culminating in a state championship that remains one of the defining achievements in La Porte athletics. His accomplishment earned him State Coach of the Year honors. Beyond the historic season, Holland’s greatest legacy lies in the young men he mentored, teaching them perseverance, responsibility, and the value of working together toward a common goal. Nearly four decades later, his influence continues to be celebrated by former players and the La Porte community.

 

La Porte ISD’s Distinguished Alumni and Distinguished Staff recognition program honors individuals whose achievements and service reflect the district’s commitment to excellence and community. The 2026 honorees embody that commitment through their dedication to students, the arts, athletics, professional achievement, and service to others.

Their stories serve as a reminder that the impact of education extends far beyond the classroom. Through their leadership, creativity, compassion, and Bulldog pride, these honorees have helped shape La Porte ISD’s legacy and continue to inspire future generations.

Honorees will be recognized at the November 6 varsity football game, when La Porte hosts Lufkin.