Art Chavez, WHS 1946

Art Chavez is an example of how a first-generation Mexican American could thrive and succeed in the United States in the 20th century.  His family emigrated to the United States from Mexico and settled in the small town of Woodlake.  Art was born in Woodlake in 1926 and attended Woodlake schools and graduated from Woodlake High School in 1946.  By nature, Art was quiet and shy, but he was a talented musician who could play both the piano and sing.  He was artistic and had a talent for drawing.

After graduating from high school, Art entered the United States Air Force and served his country proudly.  After his service to his country, he came home and entered college attending San Jose State University and graduated from college during a time in which few minorities attended college. 

After college Art returned to Woodlake and began teaching at Woodlake High School in 1959.  He was a role model to hundreds of students, particularly Spanish speakers, as a teacher, counselor, tutor, mentor, and club advisor for 24 years. Along with his wife Peggy, they raised three children in Woodlake, Denice, Rebecca and Reuben.  Art is representative of the deep connection of Spanish speaking Latino people to the rich historical tapestry of Woodlake. He achieved what few will.  He is a Hall of Fame inductee in the Woodlake Hall of Fame. 

You did it, Art.  Si se puede.