Gunn Auto Group Celebrates Student Artists Honoring Military Service Honoring Service Through Student Art
Gunn Auto Group, in partnership with Soldiers' Angels, proudly hosted its first-ever Art of Valor Reception at Gunn Nissan, recognizing exceptional student artists from O’Connor High School and Seguin High School for their heartfelt military-themed artwork.
These student-created pieces are featured on greeting cards sold to benefit Soldiers' Angels, a San Antonio-based nonprofit that supports active-duty military, veterans, and their families. The artwork, in poster size, is on display as a permanent part of the Soldiers’ Angels office décor.
“At Gunn, supporting our military is part of who we are,” said Tony Ciarvino, Gunn Training Manager and U.S. military veteran. “Our founder, Pop Gunn, served under General Patton in WWII. Today, we’re proud to employ more than 30 veterans and reservists.”
About the Art of Valor Program
Earlier this year, Gunn invited students to submit original art celebrating patriotism, military sacrifice, and gratitude. Finalists were selected through a partnership between participating schools and Gunn leadership. Each winning design will be:
- Professionally printed on greeting cards (sold in packs of 5)
- Distributed by Soldiers' Angels to deployed troops and veterans
- Accompanied by a student bio on the card’s reverse
- Sent 50 sets to each artist as a personal thank-you
Featured Artists from O’Connor High School
Ariana (Age 15) – We Thank You
Inspired by her grandfather, a Vietnam veteran, Ariana created her piece using alcohol markers and colored pencils. Her dream is to become an art teacher after attending UTSA.
Lily (Age 14) – United We Stand
Lily’s colored pencil artwork was inspired by her great-grandfather, a decorated U.S. Army veteran of World War II and the Korean War. She hopes to pursue art, architecture, and maybe even open a bakery.
Isaac (Age 16) – We Salute Your Service
Isaac honored his grandfather, a Navy veteran, and his great-grandfather, a World War II servicemember. His artwork reflects a deep appreciation for military history and storytelling.
Featured Artists from Seguin High School
Ja’nya Williams (Age 18) – Echoes of Bravery
An active military member, Ja’nya painted a child’s reflection in a mirror, revealing a parent in uniform. She plans to study medicine at Texas State University to serve veterans and underserved communities.
Kiana Duenas (Age 17) – A Nation’s Pride
Inspired by graffiti art on passing trains and her family’s military service, Kiana’s piece merges creativity with patriotism. Her future goals include military medicine—and eventually owning her own salon.
Each of the students received $1,000 scholarships, and both school art departments received a $1,000 donation from Gunn Auto Group.
Special Remarks
Amy Palmer
Executive Director of Soldiers’ Angels, applauded the students: “These cards are more than art. They’re heartfelt reminders that our servicemembers are appreciated and not forgotten.”Operation Inspiration
To continue the spirit of giving, Gunn launched Operation Inspiration, inviting the community to stop by any dealership and write a special note to our troops and veterans. These cards will be included in future shipments of Soldier’ Angels care packages.