³Ô¹Ï±¬ÁÏ

Meet George Mattingly II, a 2009 graduate of Galena Park High School. After graduation, George attended Sam Houston State University where he graduated magna cum laude in 2013 with a degree in Mass Communications.  While there, he worked as the arts and entertainment editor for the campus newspaper, The Houstonian.  He was also awarded “Most Outstanding Senior in Print Journalism” by the SHSU Department of Mass Communication in 2013. Currently, he is pursuing his Master’s Degree in Digital Media Studies from the University of Houston - Clear Lake.

While a student in high school, George was a proud member of the Galena Park High School Band of Gold. He played both the saxophone and clarinet and served as the band’s drum major during the 2008-2009 school year. He says his experiences in the band taught him how to serve as a member of a team and provided him with lifelong friendships while also teaching him discipline and confidence. Many of the lessons he learned during his six years in band have now translated into other aspects of his life beyond high school.

Through his years at GPISD, George learned how to be an independent thinker. He believes the teachers in GPISD guided him and gave him the tools necessary to be in charge of his own success. Ms. Costly served as his counselor throughout middle school, and he shares how she played a large role in his life by always caring for and making strong connections with her students. Two other educators credited for making a significant impact in George’s life at Galena Park High School were Mrs. Turner and Mr. Waggoner. He credits both of them for preparing him for college-level coursework through their many challenges in the classroom, all of which taught him how to think critically and become excited about learning.

Presently, George is serving as the Coordinator of Social Media and Communications at the University of Houston-Clear Lake. He manages the University’s presence on social media and interacts with prospective and current students as well as alumni. After he graduates, he hopes to work in the entertainment industry for a major TV network or production company in public or media relations. 

We wish George continued success and look forward to seeing what the future holds for him.  GPISD is proud of this incredible young man.