A native from San Antonio, Dr. James L. Burch graduated as Valedictorian from Central Catholic High School. In 1964, he graduated Summa Cum Laude from St. Mary’s University. He received his PhD. In Space Science from Rice University and a Masters in Research and Development Management from George Washington University. After three years in the Army, Dr. Burch worked for NASA as a Space Scientist. Presently, he is the Vice-President of the Space Science and Engineering Division at Southwest Research Institute. Throughout his life, Dr. James L. Burch has served others through science and education. Dr. James L. Burch Elementary was Recognized by the Texas Education Agency. It is our goal that for the school achieve the same level of recognition.