Garcia Family

Andrew and Kelly Garcia are a perfect example of an ambitious, career-driven, and family-oriented couple who have built a life in Temple. Andrew is the Assistant Director of a local healthcare system, and Kelly is the co-owner and Principal Architect of the Neal Architectural Group. Personally and professionally, the Garcias have made impactful contributions to the Temple community and continue to showcase exemplary values in their day-to-day lives.

Both Kelly and Andrew grew up in Temple; Kelly moved away for college and then completed her Master’s degree at Texas Tech University. After finishing grad school, the Garcias moved to Dallas so Kelly could pursue the architectural job opportunities that a big city like Dallas had to offer. After about 7 years in Dallas, she realized that career opportunities in architecture existed everywhere — not just large metropolitan areas. The Garcias moved from Dallas to San Antonio, and after spending a few years there, moved back to Temple in 2013. 

In the 8 years since, Kelly has found her place in the Temple architectural community and is a principal architect with the Neal Architectural Group. Kelly enjoys the variety of projects she gets to work on — everything from tiny, local church rehabilitations to major commercial office buildings. In addition to her impressive career, Kelly’s community involvement is vast and includes:

– Current member and past President of the Rotary Club of Temple 

– Cultural Activities Center Board member and facilities committee chair

– City of Temple Historic Preservation Board

– City of Temple Zoning Board of Adjustments

– Thornton Elementary PTO

– Treasurer of Kappa Alpha Theta Alumnae Group of Bell County

– Member of Grace Presbyterian Church

– Past board member and treasurer of the Temple Parks Foundation

– Programming, Events and Publicity Volunteer with Feed My Sheep

Kelly’s husband Andrew serves as Assistant Director of a local healthcare system) where he is responsible for managing Finance, Human Resources Management, Medical Administration, Patient Administration, Logistics, Police and Security, Public Affairs and Finance, and oversees the Office of Information and Technology Service and the Information Security Officers. 

One of Andrew’s favorite parts about living in Temple is the huge growth potential of the city, noting that an explosion of growth has already begun.  Additionally, Andrew enjoys the wide array of opportunities to get involved in the community. 

Andrew currently serves on the board of the Central Texas Housing Consortium, and his involvement with this organization is particularly close to his heart. As someone who grew up living in low-income housing, Andrew is passionate about ensuring that all Temple residents have access to affordable housing. 

Before every board meeting, Andrew drives past where he lived during his childhood, reflecting on the opportunities he was given. This reflection serves as a reminder of the importance of his community involvement and leadership.

For the Garcias, Temple’s Central Texas location offers a small-town feel and closeness with large-city amenities and projects as well as convenient, easy access to Austin and Dallas.  To learn more about what Temple has to offer check out our cost of living calculator, neighborhood map, or even look for your next career move in our local job listings.