Marilu Garza has been engaged in philanthropy and fundraising in Houston for over 25 years, raising more than $87 million to strengthen and support the community she deeply loves. A proud University of Texas at Austin graduate with a degree in Bilingual Education, Marilu began her career teaching first grade at Wharton Elementary, where she “left a piece of her heart in Room 10.” Although she transitioned out of the classroom, her belief in education, equity, and opportunity continued to guide her purpose.
She went on to build a distinguished career in nonprofit leadership, serving as Chief Development Officer at several respected organizations, including Memorial Assistance Ministries, Houston A+ Challenge, Chinquapin Preparatory School, The Center for Pursuit, and Seven Acres Jewish Care Services. Today, she continues to strengthen Houston’s nonprofit landscape through her fundraising consulting practice, helping organizations grow, thrive and expand their impact.
Marilu’s service extends well beyond her professional roles. She has been an active leader on numerous boards, including Latin Women’s Initiative, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, the American Leadership Forum, and Texas Executive Women. She currently contributes her expertise as a member of TEACH and the American Cancer Society, remaining committed to advancing education, leadership and community well-being.
Her decades of dedication, leadership, and generosity have earned notable honors, including the Comcast Hispanic Hero Award, Houston Business Journal’s Women Who Mean Business Award, Texas 100 Leaders to Watch, the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Outstanding Fundraising Executive Award and the American Cancer Society’s Tickled Pink Award.
Marilu strives to live by a quote from Picasso that her father often shared with her: “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” This philosophy is evident every day in her work, service and devotion to the Houston community, where she continues to uplift others, champion opportunity, and generously give of her talents.