Sandy Buendia, an eighth-grade art student at SSG Manuel R. Puentes Middle School, received an exciting opportunity to meet Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott after being selected as one of 13 winners statewide in the 2026 Texas Art Education Association Youth Art Month Exhibition.

At a recognition ceremony at the Governor's Mansion in Austin in July, Buendia received a certificate, toured the residence and celebrated her achievement with her art teacher, Karina Alvarez, and her mother.

Buendia received the award for her 2D crochet artwork depicting a sugar skull. As part of the competition, Buendia’s piece was displayed in the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin this spring. This recognition not only highlighted Buendia's talent but also showcased the exceptional fine arts programs in the Socorro Independent School District.