This month, we’re excited to feature Patricia Rich, a proud member of the Thorndale High School Class of 2006, whose journey is a shining example of resilience, leadership, and the power of staying connected to your roots.

During her time at Thorndale High School, Patricia was a true standout—both in the classroom and in extracurriculars. She earned the title of Softball MVP her senior year, went to state in Cross Country three years in a row, and held the school record in the 100-meter hurdles for over a decade! She also brought her competitive spirit and leadership to Volleyball, Track, One Act Play, and Student Council, where she served as an officer.

After graduating from Thorndale, Patricia continued her education at Texas Tech University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2011. While in Lubbock, she began working at Raising Cane’s in 2010—and it was there she met her future husband, Bryant Rich. The couple married in December 2012 and have now been happily married for 12 years.

Patricia’s professional journey took her to several cities across Texas—including Euless, San Antonio, and Leander—as she helped manage and support Raising Cane’s locations in need of strong leadership. She rose through the ranks to become General Manager, a role she held for more than 12 years.

In July 2022, Patricia accepted a new challenge and joined Starbucks as the Store Manager of the Taylor location, officially opening the store in December 2022. The opening day held special meaning, coinciding with the funeral of her beloved mother. Patricia began her new role just a few days later and has been serving the community with heart and purpose ever since.

Now back in Thorndale, Patricia and her husband are raising their two sons—Zachary (10) and Oliver (4)—both of whom attend Thorndale Elementary. Being home has been a full-circle moment for Patricia. “I absolutely love being back in my local community after spending 10 years away,” she shared. “One of my favorite things is getting to see my kids grow up alongside my friends’ kids. I graduated high school with many of the kids I started kindergarten with, and now to still have those same friends and watch our kids grow up together is amazing!”

Patricia continues to give back in countless ways. She is the Worship Leader at San Gabriel Evangelic Christian Church and an officer of the church’s women’s group, which just hosted its third annual conference with over 375 women in attendance. She also dedicates her time to community causes like Thorndale Cares, the Bill Pickett Foundation, and serves as an officer of the Thorndale Boosters.

When asked about her favorite high school memories, Patricia doesn’t hesitate: “Definitely playing sports—always so much fun! It helps explain why I’m still so competitive to this day!”

Patricia Rich is a true Bulldog through and through, and we’re proud to celebrate her as an alum who continues to lead, inspire, and uplift the Thorndale community.

Nominate a TISD alumni for an upcoming highlight by scanning the QR code or visiting https://forms.gle/fxupqaC6yLNd1M6n8.

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