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George McShan went from attending segregated schools in Elgin to earning one of Texas’ top honors for public education leadership.
A 1965 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School, McShan was recently named the 2025 recipient of the Texas Association of School Boards’ James B. Crow Innovation in Governance Award, which recognizes individuals who have positively influenced school districts across the state.
“The McShan family has deep roots in Elgin,” he told the Courier, noting that his cousin, Theresa McShan, continues to carry on this legacy as the city’s mayor.
According to TASB officials, McShan was honored for his sustained commitment to students and community leadership after spending more than three decades at Texas State Technical College in Harlingen and serving on the district’s board in South Texas.
“George McShan sets the standard for what it means to be a lifelong leader and advocate for students,” said TASB Chair Mark Lukert. “We were all inspired by his commitment to service, which has continued since retiring.”
Representatives said they remain impressed with McShan’s energy, passion and ongoing dedication to advancing opportunities for all children—creating a better future for his community.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” McShan said, grateful for the opportunity to have worked with Crow on the TASB Board.
The award includes a $10,000 contribution to the district of the recipient’s choice, which McShan gave to Harlingen CISD, where he served on the board from 1988 to 2018.
